Kristen Nygaard
Norwegian computer scientist, Turing Award
Contributed to the development of computer science, particularly in programming languages and software engineering. Developed the programming language Simula, which introduced the concept of object-oriented programming. Held academic positions at various institutions and influenced the field through both teaching and research. Published numerous papers addressing theoretical aspects of computer science and programming.
Developed the programming language Simula
Introduced concepts of object-oriented programming
Received the Turing Award in 2001
Other People Born on August 27th
Kay Walsh
English actress, singer, dancer
Born
August 27th, 1911 114 years ago
Died
April 16th, 2005 20 years ago — 93 years old
An English actress, singer, and dancer, this performer gained recognition for her work in film and theater during the mid-20th century. She starred in various productions, both on stage and in film, showcasing a range of talents. Notable appearances include roles in films such as 'The Man in the White Suit' and 'The Belles of St. Trinian's'. The involvement in theatrical productions displayed her versatility in performance arts. Alongside acting, her singing and dancing contributed to her popularity within the entertainment industry.
Continue ReadingGiuseppe Peano
Italian mathematician and philosopher
Born
August 27th, 1858 167 years ago
Died
April 20th, 1932 93 years ago — 73 years old
Contributed significantly to mathematical logic and foundational studies in mathematics. Developed the Peano axioms, which define the properties of natural numbers. Worked on the formalization of mathematical reasoning, making substantial contributions to the fields of set theory and mathematical analysis. Also engaged in the development of a logical language aimed at eliminating ambiguities in mathematical expression. Collaborated with other mathematicians on projects that advanced the understanding of mathematical structures.
Continue ReadingJessie Mei Li
English actress in Shadow and Bone
Born
August 27th, 1995 30 years ago
An English actress gained recognition for the role of Alina Starkov in the Netflix series 'Shadow and Bone'. Began acting career in theater, with notable performances in productions such as 'All About Eve' at the Noel Coward Theatre. Training included studies at the Royal Central School of Speech and Drama. Expanded filmography to include roles in projects like 'The Eternals'.
Continue ReadingKatharine McCormick
Biologist, philanthropist, women's rights advocate
Born
August 27th, 1875 150 years ago
Died
December 28th, 1967 57 years ago — 92 years old
Born in 1875, a prominent biologist and philanthropist contributed significantly to women's reproductive rights. Played a vital role in funding research for the development of the birth control pill. Actively participated in the women's suffrage movement and improved access to education for women in science. Co-founded several organizations focused on women's rights and health.
Continue ReadingNat Lofthouse
English footballer and manager
Born
August 27th, 1925 100 years ago
Died
January 15th, 2011 14 years ago — 85 years old
Played as a forward for Bolton Wanderers, contributing significantly to the club's success in the 1950s. Lofthouse made 33 appearances for the England national team, scoring 30 goals. Managed Bolton Wanderers after his playing career, focusing on youth development and team success. Celebrated for his powerful playing style and goal-scoring ability, he remains a legendary figure in English football history.
Continue ReadingKoxinga
Ming loyalist and military leader
Born
August 27th, 1624 401 years ago
Died
1662 363 years ago — 38 years old
Born in 1624, Koxinga was a military leader known for his efforts to restore the Ming dynasty. He launched military campaigns against the Qing dynasty and established a base on Taiwan, which served as a center for Ming loyalism. Koxinga aimed to defeat the Qing and reinstate the Ming emperor, becoming a significant figure in Chinese history. His legacy includes the establishment of a short-lived kingdom in Taiwan, which marked a pivotal moment in Taiwanese history.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on August 10th
Estes Kefauver
American politician and senator
Born
July 26th, 1903 122 years ago
Died
August 10th, 1963 62 years ago — 60 years old
Served as a U.S. Senator from Tennessee from 1949 to 1963. Gained national attention during the 1950s as the chair of the Senate Antitrust and Monopoly Subcommittee, leading high-profile investigations into organized crime. Ran for the Democratic presidential nomination in 1956 but was unsuccessful. Advocated for civil rights and health care reform during his political career, contributing to various legislative efforts.
Continue ReadingKan'ichi Asakawa
Historian and author of Japanese history
Born
December 20th, 1873 152 years ago
Died
August 10th, 1948 77 years ago — 74 years old
Contributed significantly to the study of Japanese history, focusing on the Meiji period and its implications for modern Japan. Engaged in extensive research and published several books, elevating understanding of Japan's socio-political transformations during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Worked as a professor, influencing generations of historians and scholars through teaching and mentoring. Played a pivotal role in making historical research accessible and rigorous, underpinning academic standards in the field.
Continue ReadingJeffrey Epstein
Financier and convicted sex offender
Born
January 20th, 1953 72 years ago
Died
August 10th, 2019 6 years ago — 66 years old
Engaged in financial consulting and investment management during the 1980s and 1990s. Managed a hedge fund and developed a network of high-profile connections. Faced legal issues related to sexual offenses, including a conviction in 2008 for soliciting a minor for prostitution. Arrested again in 2019 on federal charges of sex trafficking minors. Died in custody in 2019.
Continue ReadingHenry Moseley
Physicist known for Moseley's law
Born
November 23rd, 1887 138 years ago
Died
August 10th, 1915 110 years ago — 27 years old
An English physicist and chemist, contributed significantly to atomic theory. Developed Moseley's law, which established the relationship between a material's atomic number and its X-ray wavelengths. This work provided evidence for the modern periodic table and refined the concept of atomic number. Conducted research on the properties of X-rays and the structure of atoms, influencing later developments in quantum mechanics and chemistry. Tragically, a brief career ended with service in World War I.
Continue ReadingRuth Pfau
German-Pakistani doctor and humanitarian
Born
1929 96 years ago
Died
August 10th, 2017 8 years ago — 88 years old
Born in Germany, pursued a medical degree and joined a religious order. Moved to Pakistan in 1960, where focused on treating leprosy and worked tirelessly for the welfare of those affected by the disease. Established several leprosy treatment centers and advocated for the rights and dignity of marginalized populations. Played a significant role in raising awareness and improving healthcare responses to leprosy and other health issues in Pakistan. Received recognition for medical contributions and social activism.
Continue ReadingWilliam W. Momyer
American general and pilot
Born
1916 109 years ago
Died
August 10th, 2012 13 years ago — 96 years old
Served as a United States Air Force general, focusing on air operations during the Vietnam War. Held various leadership positions, demonstrating strategic planning in military tactics. Commanded the 7th Air Force, coordinating aerial missions in Southeast Asia. Recognized for contributions to air mobility and support, fostering advancements in air power.
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