Joseph Weizenbaum

Computer Scientist and Author of ELIZA

Joseph Weizenbaum - Computer Scientist and Author of ELIZA
Born

January 8th, 1923
102 years ago

Died

March 5th, 2008
17 years ago — 85 years old

Category

Scientists & Innovators

Country

United States

Links & References

Born in Germany, contributed significantly to computer science and artificial intelligence. Developed ELIZA, an early natural language processing program which simulated conversation. This work explored the relationship between human and machine communication. In addition to his programming work, authored several influential texts on the ethical implications of artificial intelligence and technology's impact on society. Immigrated to the United States in the early 1930s, where he continued his research at various academic institutions.

Developed the ELIZA program

Authored 'Computer Power and Human Reason'

Other People Born on January 8th

John Bigler

American politician, 3rd Governor of California
Born
January 8th, 1805 220 years ago
Died
1871 154 years ago — 66 years old

Served as the 3rd Governor of California from 1852 to 1856. Played a significant role in the state during its early years and advocated for the development of the state's infrastructure and education system. Worked as a lawyer and later became a diplomat. Participated in various political activities and held several local governmental positions prior to the governorship.

Continue Reading

Bronislava Nijinska

Choreographer of The Firebird ballet
Born
January 8th, 1891 134 years ago
Died
February 21st, 1972 53 years ago — 81 years old

A prominent dancer and choreographer, contributions significantly influenced ballet in the 20th century. Worked with the Ballets Russes, creating innovative choreography that showcased her unique vision. The Firebird, created in collaboration with Stravinsky, remains one of the most celebrated works. Emigrated to the United States and continued to develop her artistic style, teaching and choreographing for various companies, influencing future generations of dancers and choreographers. Notably was one of the few female choreographers of her time, establishing a legacy that emphasized originality and creativity in ballet.

Continue Reading

Amber Benson

Actress and director, Buffy the Vampire Slayer
Born
January 8th, 1977 48 years ago

An American actress, writer, director, and producer gained recognition for her role as Tara Maclay on the television series 'Buffy the Vampire Slayer'. In addition to acting, directed films and authored several novels, showcasing a multifaceted career in the entertainment industry. Participated in various projects that combined storytelling and visual arts, further establishing a presence in both film and literature. Work in independent film production also highlighted the ability to navigate and contribute to different aspects of cinematic creation.

Continue Reading

Mohan Rakesh

Indian author and acclaimed playwright
Born
January 8th, 1925 100 years ago
Died
January 3rd, 1972 53 years ago — 46 years old

A prominent figure in Indian literature, significant contributions included plays and novels that explored societal themes and human emotions. The author became an influential member of the modern Hindi literary movement. Several works received critical acclaim for their incisive portrayal of contemporary issues. Major literary achievements included the play 'Ashadh ka Ek Din', which is celebrated for its innovative narrative style and character development. Rakesh's literary prowess extended to fiction, where novels reflected the complexities of human relationships and societal structures.

Continue Reading

Saeed Jaffrey

Indian-British actor in film and TV
Born
January 8th, 1929 96 years ago
Died
November 15th, 2015 9 years ago — 86 years old

Born in 1929, this actor gained recognition for roles in film and television, showcasing a range of characters reflective of different cultures. Breakthrough performances included starring in the film 'The Man Who Knew Too Much' and the series 'Tandoori Nights'. Jaffrey also lent his voice to various projects and appeared in numerous British television productions, establishing a notable presence in the industry. His contributions spanned several decades, reflecting a commitment to both creative performance and cultural representation.

Continue Reading

David Bowie

English Singer-Songwriter and Actor
Born
January 8th, 1947 78 years ago
Died
January 10th, 2016 9 years ago — 69 years old

One of the most influential figures in music, produced a wide range of work spanning multiple genres. Released iconic albums, including 'The Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders from Mars' and 'Heroes'. Created memorable characters such as Ziggy Stardust and the Thin White Duke. Also pursued acting, appearing in films like 'The Man Who Fell to Earth' and 'Labyrinth'. Throughout a career marked by reinvention, explored themes of identity, space, and society.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on March 5th

Antonio da Correggio

Italian painter and educator, notable for frescoes
Born
1489 536 years ago
Died
March 5th, 1534 491 years ago — 45 years old

An influential painter of the Renaissance, significant for contributions to the development of chiaroscuro and foreshortening techniques. Worked primarily in Northern Italy, creating artworks that showcased a mastery of movement and light. Many pieces were commissioned for churches and palaces, demonstrating a unique style that combined emotional depth with dynamic composition. Notable works include 'The Assumption of the Virgin', which exemplified the grandeur of his frescoes, and the 'Lamentation of Christ'. His innovative approach influenced the direction of baroque painting.

Continue Reading

Alfredo Casella

Italian composer and conductor
Born
July 25th, 1883 141 years ago
Died
March 5th, 1947 78 years ago — 63 years old

A prominent Italian composer and conductor, contributed significantly to 20th-century music. Studied in Italy and France, influenced by modernist trends. Founded the 'Giacomo Puccini' music school and played a vital role in promoting Italian music through conducting and composition. Composed orchestral works, chamber music, and operas. Notable for integrating traditional Italian elements with contemporary styles.

Continue Reading

Richard Stapley

British actor and writer
Born
1923 102 years ago
Died
March 5th, 2010 15 years ago — 87 years old

An actor and writer, contributions spanned film and television. Gained recognition for performances in productions during the mid-20th century. Achieved significant roles in shows such as 'The Forsyte Saga' and appeared in films including 'The Kidnappers'. Active in the entertainment industry both in the UK and abroad for several decades, showcasing a range of talents from dramatic performances to screenwriting.

Continue Reading

Hugo Chávez

Venezuelan politician and president
Born
July 28th, 1954 70 years ago
Died
March 5th, 2013 12 years ago — 58 years old

A Venezuelan colonel and politician served as President of Venezuela from 1999 until death in 2013. Chávez founded the United Socialist Party of Venezuela and promoted a political movement called 'Bolivarianism', which sought to establish a socialist state. His presidency was characterized by significant social programs aimed at reducing poverty and increasing literacy, funded by the country's oil revenues. Chávez was a prominent figure in Latin American politics and developed close relationships with countries such as Cuba and Bolivia. He implemented numerous reforms in health care, education, and housing, which drew both support and criticism domestically and internationally.

Continue Reading

Alberto Olmedo

Argentine comedian and television actor
Born
1933 92 years ago
Died
March 5th, 1988 37 years ago — 55 years old

One of Argentina's most beloved comedians and actors, achieved fame through his work in television and film during the 1970s and 1980s. Primarily featured in comedies, he built a significant following with a unique comedic style. His performances on television programs such as 'El Chiste' and 'Los Bañeros' showcased his talent for humor, making audiences laugh for years. Olmedo's contributions to Argentine cinema included roles in films like 'Los Tercos' and 'La Pícara Soñadora'. His legacy continues to influence comedians in Argentina and beyond.

Continue Reading

Patsy Cline

American country music singer
Born
September 8th, 1932 92 years ago
Died
March 5th, 1963 62 years ago — 30 years old

An influential figure in country music, this artist rose to fame in the early 1960s. With a rich and emotive voice, the artist gained popularity with hits like 'Crazy' and 'I Fall to Pieces.' The artist's career was marked by a unique ability to blend traditional country with pop influences, leading to widespread acclaim and commercial success. Though the career was tragically cut short by an untimely death in a plane crash, the artist's music continues to resonate with audiences today.

Continue Reading