Kristian Birkeland

Norwegian physicist and author

Kristian Birkeland - Norwegian physicist and author
Born

December 13th, 1867
157 years ago

Died

June 15th, 1917
107 years ago — 49 years old

Category

Scientists & Innovators

Country

Norway

Links & References

A physicist and author, contributed significantly to the understanding of auroras and cosmic rays. Developed the Birkeland currents theory to explain how charged particles from the sun interact with the Earth's magnetosphere. This work laid foundational insights for both space physics and atmospheric science. Engaged in various research activities, including studies in magnetism and electric fields, resulting in advancements in both theoretical and practical applications in physics. Published several works that influenced both scientific thought and future research in electromagnetism.

Developed the theory of Birkeland currents

Conducted pioneering research on auroras

Contributed to the study of cosmic rays

Other People Born on December 13th

Dick Van Dyke

Actor in Mary Poppins and The Dick Van Dyke Show
Born
December 13th, 1925 99 years ago

An American actor, singer, and dancer, this individual achieved significant recognition for contributions to film and television. Gained acclaim for performances in the classic musical film 'Mary Poppins' alongside Julie Andrews and starred in the popular television series 'The Dick Van Dyke Show.' His career spans several decades, showcasing versatility in various entertainment forms, including stage productions and voice acting. Received multiple accolades, including several Emmy Awards and a Grammy Award.

Continue Reading

Herman Bavinck

Dutch theologian and philosopher
Born
December 13th, 1854 170 years ago
Died
1921 104 years ago — 67 years old

A prominent figure in the Reformed theological tradition, contributed significantly to systematic theology and philosophy. Bavinck's work emphasized the relationship between faith and reason. Authored the influential four-volume work, 'Reformed Dogmatics,' which serves as a critical resource for Reformed theology. Engaged in education as a professor in several institutions, including the Free University of Amsterdam, and participated in the public discourse on various theological issues, shaping the landscape of Protestant thought during the early 20th century.

Continue Reading

Lucien Guitry

French actor and playwright
Born
December 13th, 1860 164 years ago
Died
1925 100 years ago — 65 years old

Lucien Guitry was a prominent French actor and playwright active in the early 20th century. Guitry gained recognition for his work in theater, particularly for his classic French plays, which often featured a blend of humor and drama. His career spanned several decades, and he was known for mastering the art of the one-man show. Guitry also contributed to the development of French cinema and worked as a screenwriter and director. He became a significant figure in Parisian theatrical culture, influencing other artists and generations of performers.

Continue Reading

Pope Sixtus V

Pope and ecclesiastical reformer
Born
December 13th, 1521 503 years ago
Died
August 27th, 1590 434 years ago — 68 years old

Ascended to the papacy in 1585, serving until 1590. Implemented significant administrative reforms within the Catholic Church. Consolidated papal power through centralization and the establishment of a more efficient governance structure. Driven by a vision of reform, fostered construction and urban development, emphasizing the importance of Rome as the heart of Christendom. Championed the promotion of the Catholic faith and worked to counter the Protestant Reformation.

Continue Reading

Carlos Montoya

Spanish guitarist and composer
Born
December 13th, 1903 121 years ago
Died
March 3rd, 1993 32 years ago — 89 years old

A prominent figure in flamenco music, contributed to its global recognition. Gained acclaim for virtuosic guitar playing and innovative compositions that blended traditional flamenco with classical influences. Performed in prestigious venues worldwide and recorded numerous albums showcasing his artistry. Inspired generations of guitarists and musicians through performances and teachings.

Continue Reading

James Wright

American poet and Pulitzer Prize winner
Born
December 13th, 1927 97 years ago
Died
1980 45 years ago — 53 years old

Born in 1927, a prominent American poet and academic, contributed extensively to contemporary poetry. Worked as a professor at various institutions, shaping the next generation of poets and writers. Notable for the ability to convey deep emotion and personal experience through succinct verses. Received the Pulitzer Prize for Poetry in 1976 for the collection 'Halfway Through.' His works often explore themes of loss, memory, and redemption.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on June 15th

Romanos I Lekapenos

Byzantine Emperor during the 10th century
Died
June 15th, 948 1076 years ago — None years old

Ascended to power as a co-emperor in the 920s and later became the sole Byzantine Emperor. Established a period of stability and significant military successes against external threats. Promoted a strong administration and cultural development within the empire, notably through the encouragement of learning and the arts. His reign included successful military campaigns against the Bulgarians and expansion of Byzantine influence.

Continue Reading

Glenda Jackson

Actress and British politician
Born
May 9th, 1936 88 years ago
Died
June 15th, 2023 1 years ago — 87 years old

Acclaimed for a career in both acting and politics. Achieved significant recognition as an actress, winning two Academy Awards for Best Actress for performances in 'Women in Love' and 'A Touch of Class'. Transitioned to a career in politics, serving as a Member of Parliament for Hampstead and Highgate from 1992 to 2015. Returned to acting after her parliamentary career, receiving accolades and awards for stage performances.

Continue Reading

Andronikos III Palaiologos

Byzantine emperor during the 14th century
Born
March 25th, 1297 728 years ago
Died
June 15th, 1341 683 years ago — 44 years old

Ruled as Byzantine emperor from 1328 until 1341. Ascended to the throne after a civil war against additional claims to power. His reign saw the struggle against the rise of Ottoman power, which increasingly threatened Byzantine territories. Strengthened the military and expanded diplomatic relations with Western Europe. Sponsored cultural and architectural projects, contributing to the legacy of Byzantine art and literature. His untimely death led to a power struggle, impacting the future of the Byzantine Empire.

Continue Reading

Count Albert von Mensdorff-Pouilly-Dietrichstein

Austrian diplomat and statesman
Died
June 15th, 1945 79 years ago — None years old

Served as Austria-Hungary's ambassador to the United Kingdom and played a role in diplomatic relations during critical periods. Held numerous important diplomatic posts and was influential in shaping Austria-Hungary's foreign policy prior to and during World War I. Actively engaged in efforts to negotiate peace and navigate complex international relations. After the war, continued to represent Austria in various diplomatic capacities until the end of life.

Continue Reading

Miloš Obilić

Serbian knight and hero of Kosovo
Died
June 15th, 1389 635 years ago — None years old

A Serbian knight, renowned for participation in the Battle of Kosovo in 1389, played a significant role in Serbian history. Credited with the legendary act of slaying the Ottoman Sultan Murad I during the battle, he became a symbol of resistance against Ottoman expansion. This event significantly influenced Serbian culture and folklore, establishing a legacy that persisted through centuries. The battle marked a pivotal moment in Serbian history, reflecting the struggles against external domination. Miloš Obilić's valor is memorialized in Serbian epic poetry and folklore, securing a lasting place in the national identity.

Continue Reading

Jacques Bergerac

French actor and businessman
Born
May 26th, 1927 97 years ago
Died
June 15th, 2014 10 years ago — 87 years old

Began a career in acting in the 1950s, appearing in numerous films and television shows. Gained recognition for roles in films such as 'The Man Who Knew Too Much' and 'The Beast of Yucca Flats'. Transitioned into a successful business career after retiring from acting. Also worked as a television producer.

Continue Reading