Josiah Willard Gibbs

American physicist and thermodynamics pioneer

Josiah Willard Gibbs - American physicist and thermodynamics pioneer
Born

February 11th, 1839
186 years ago

Died

April 28th, 1903
122 years ago — 64 years old

Category

Scientists & Innovators

Country

United States

Links & References

Contributions to the field of physics and chemistry included the development of the phase rule and the concept of chemical potential. Developed the Gibbs distribution in statistical mechanics. Played a crucial role in thermodynamics by formulating principles that describe the relationships between temperature, pressure, and volume. Authored 'Elementary Principles in Statistical Mechanics' which laid foundational aspects of statistical mechanics. Held a professorship at Yale University with significant influence on the education of future scientists.

Developed the phase rule in thermodynamics

Formulated Gibbs free energy concept

Contributed to statistical mechanics principles

Other People Born on February 11th

Roberto Moreno

Brazilian race car driver with notable wins
Born
February 11th, 1959 66 years ago

A Brazilian race car driver began a professional racing career in the 1980s. Competed in Formula One, participating in 41 Grand Prix races and earning points with the AGS, Minardi, and Forti teams. Achieved significant success in other racing series, including winning the 1990 and 1992 editions of the Formula 3000 Championship. Also competed in CART, eventually transitioning to a successful career in sportscars and endurance racing, featuring participation in notable events like the 24 Hours of Le Mans. The career spanned several decades with various accolades in multiple racing disciplines.

Continue Reading

Emil Leon Post

Mathematician and logician
Born
February 11th, 1897 128 years ago
Died
April 21st, 1954 71 years ago — 57 years old

Contributions included work on recursive functions and mathematical logic. Served as a professor at New York University and made significant advancements in the foundations of mathematics. Published numerous papers which helped to shape the field of logic. Developed the theory of generative grammars, influencing linguistics and computer science. His work on decision problems and formal systems was pivotal in the understanding of computation and algorithmic processes.

Continue Reading

Luca Antonelli

Italian footballer with Genoa contributions
Born
February 11th, 1987 38 years ago

Born in Italy in 1987, played as a left-back. Developed in the youth ranks of AC Milan. Made professional debut with the senior team and later transferred to several clubs, most notably Genoa and Parma. Notable for consistent performances in Serie A and contributions to both defensive and offensive plays. Achieved recognition for solid defending and ability to support attacks from the back. Retired from international duties after representing Italy at various youth levels.

Continue Reading

Ian Gow

British politician and MP
Born
February 11th, 1937 88 years ago
Died
July 30th, 1990 35 years ago — 53 years old

A politician served as the Member of Parliament for Eastbourne from 1974 until 1990. Associated with the Conservative Party, held various government positions, including Parliamentary Private Secretary to the Minister of Defence. In 1987, appointed as Minister of State for Northern Ireland and focused on issues related to that region. Respected for contributions to debates on national security and economic policy. Tragically, life was cut short by an assassination in 1990.

Continue Reading

Marco Marcato

Italian professional road cyclist
Born
February 11th, 1984 41 years ago

Beginning a professional cycling career in 2005, a cyclist specialized in one-day races and stage events. Competed in prestigious races including the Giro d'Italia, Paris-Roubaix, and the Tour of Flanders. Notable for strong performances in the Italian racing circuit and securing several national titles throughout career. Transitioned to roles in team management after retirement from competitive cycling.

Continue Reading

John Warren Davis

Civil Rights Leader and Educator
Born
February 11th, 1888 137 years ago
Died
July 12th, 1980 45 years ago — 92 years old

An American educator and college administrator, focused on advancing civil rights and educational opportunities for African Americans. Served as the president of the South Carolina State College and worked to promote higher education within the African American community. Contributed to the founding of several organizations aimed at improving civil rights and education. Engaged in public speaking and advocacy for social justice throughout the mid-20th century.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on April 28th

Mohammed Alim Khan

Manghud ruler and political leader
Born
1880 145 years ago
Died
April 28th, 1944 81 years ago — 64 years old

Ruled the Emirate of Bukhara during the early 20th century. Held the position of Emir from 1910 until 1920. Led the state through significant political upheaval and faced challenges from both Bolshevik forces and internal dissent. After losing power, lived in exile and remained a symbolic figure for anti-Soviet sentiments among many Uzbeks.

Continue Reading

Percy Heath

American jazz bassist of the Modern Jazz Quartet
Born
April 30th, 1923 102 years ago
Died
April 28th, 2005 20 years ago — 81 years old

A prominent jazz bassist contributed significantly to the Modern Jazz Quartet. The quartet formed in 1952 and became well-known for blending classical music with jazz. Participated in numerous recordings and performances, influencing the jazz genre. Collaborated with various jazz legends, showcasing versatility and artistry. Continued to perform and record until later in life, maintaining a strong presence in the jazz community.

Continue Reading

Rory Calhoun

American actor in western films
Born
August 8th, 1922 103 years ago
Died
April 28th, 1999 26 years ago — 76 years old

A prominent figure in American cinema, this actor's career spanned several decades. He starred in numerous western films during the 1950s and 1960s, establishing a reputation as a leading man. Collaborated with noted directors and appeared in several popular television series. His work extended to producing and writing, contributing to the creative landscape of the film industry.

Continue Reading

Maurice Moore

Executed member of the Irish Republican Army
Born
1894 131 years ago
Died
April 28th, 1921 104 years ago — 27 years old

A member of the Irish Republican Army, involved in the struggle for Irish independence. Engaged in significant military operations during the Irish War of Independence. Captured by British forces, faced a military tribunal, and was executed in April 1921. Contributed to the efforts of the IRA in aiming to establish an independent Irish Republic.

Continue Reading

Cyprien Tanguay

Canadian priest and historian
Born
September 15th, 1819 206 years ago
Died
April 28th, 1902 123 years ago — 82 years old

Served as a prominent priest within the Canadian Catholic Church while contributing to the field of history. Published significant historical works that focused on Canadian history, particularly concerning Catholicism's role in the development of Canada. Engaged in various educational roles and was instrumental in preserving historical documents and narratives. His research and writings provided insights into the cultural and religious fabric of Canada during his lifetime.

Continue Reading

Rhys ap Gruffydd

Prince of Deheubarth
Born
1132 893 years ago
Died
April 28th, 1197 828 years ago — 65 years old

Ruled as the prince of Deheubarth, a region in Wales, during the 12th century. Engaged in battles against Henry II of England to maintain Welsh independence. Strengthened the power of Deheubarth through military and political means. Played a key role in fostering a sense of Welsh identity during a time of conflict. His leadership contributed to the establishment of a brief period of consolidation of Welsh principalities.

Continue Reading