Laura Bassi
Italian physicist and scholar
Born
October 29th, 1711
313 years ago
Died
February 20th, 1778
247 years ago — 66 years old
Category
Scientists & Innovators
Country
Italy
Links & References
Contributed to the development of physics and experimental science in the 18th century. Became the first woman to earn a degree in physics in Italy. Held a position at the University of Bologna, where taught for decades. Conducted experiments and published findings on topics such as hydraulics and mechanics, influencing future generations of scientists.
First woman to earn a university degree in physics in Italy
Served as a professor at the University of Bologna
Conducted significant research in hydraulics and mechanics
Other People Born on October 29th
Galen Weston
Born in 1940, a businessman and philanthropist, founded George Weston Limited, a leading Canadian food processing and distribution company. Under leadership, the company expanded significantly, acquiring several grocery chains, including Loblaw Companies Limited, which enhanced its market presence in Canada. Active in philanthropy, supported various initiatives related to health and education. Contributed to community development and public institutions through charitable donations.
Continue ReadingJohn Magufuli
Served as the fifth president of Tanzania from 2015 until death in 2021. Magufuli was a member of the Chama Cha Mapinduzi party and previously held the position of Minister of Works. Focused on infrastructure development and anti-corruption measures, his administration initiated various public projects, including roads and hospitals. Implemented policies aimed at reducing government spending and increasing revenue through tax collection. His leadership style received mixed reactions, characterized by a crackdown on dissent and media freedom.
Continue ReadingBenedetto Accolti the Younger
Born in 1497, Accolti held significant positions within the Catholic Church, including the role of cardinal. His contributions to the ecclesiastical hierarchy during the Renaissance period were notable. Accolti participated in theological debates and church councils, influencing religious thought and policy in his time. He served in various administrative roles, contributing to the governance of the Church and liaising with other religious leaders.
Continue ReadingMieczysław Halka-Ledóchowski
Ordained as a priest in 1845, served in various parishes in Poland and Russia, and held significant ecclesiastical positions. Appointed as the archbishop of Gniezno, He was involved in church administration and missionary work. Participated in the First Vatican Council, contributing to discussions on church doctrine. Later elevated to cardinal in 1893, significant for leadership within the Catholic Church in Eastern Europe. His tenure emphasized the promotion of education and social welfare within the church.
Continue ReadingFabiola Gianotti
An Italian physicist and academic, played a significant role in the discovery of the Higgs boson while serving as a project leader at CERN's Large Hadron Collider. Became the first female Director-General of CERN in 2016, overseeing the laboratory's scientific research operations and strategic initiatives. Contributed extensively to the development of particle physics and guided numerous international collaborations. Published numerous scientific papers and played a key role in advancing knowledge in the field.
Continue ReadingRobert Hardy
Born in 1925 in England, an actor starred in the BBC television series All Creatures Great and Small, which was based on the books by James Herriot. The portrayal of Siegfried Farnon, a veterinary surgeon, showcased well-honed skills in drama and comedy. A distinguished career spanned several decades and included both stage performances and film roles. Achievements extended beyond television, with notable work in Shakespearean plays and movies such as 1984's The Return of the Soldier. His contributions to theatre were recognized with various awards. In addition to acting, interest in history led to a successful career as a writer and a frequent presence on television documentaries.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on February 20th
Anthony Asquith
A significant figure in British cinema, contributed to the film industry as a director and screenwriter. Worked on various notable films during the 20th century, including adaptations of classic literature. Pioneered techniques in storytelling through film, focusing on emotional depth and character development. Received critical acclaim for a number of works, cementing a legacy in British film history.
Continue ReadingWalter Winchell
Pioneered the gossip column for newspapers and radio with a fast-paced, colorful style. Winchell's influential column was featured in many newspapers, earning a wide readership. In addition to journalism, ventured into acting and appeared in films such as 'The Great Ziegfeld' and on radio shows that popularized his unique commentary. Played a crucial role in shaping the modern gossip column.
Continue ReadingWilliam Wallace Lincoln
Born as the second son of the 16th President of the United States, a deeply loved figure within the Lincoln family. Suffered from poor health throughout childhood and faced significant challenges during the period of the Civil War. Died at a young age, leaving a profound sense of loss within the family amidst the tumultuous events of the time.
Continue ReadingJoseph II
Ruled as Holy Roman Emperor from 1765 until death in 1790. Engaged in numerous administrative and social reforms aimed at modernizing the empire. Advocated for religious tolerance and the reduction of the power of the Catholic Church. Implemented policies that centralized governance and promoted education. His reign was characterized by conflicts with various territories and resistance to reforms from traditional structures.
Continue ReadingKathryn Kuhlman
A prominent healing evangelist, dedicated her ministry to promoting faith healing and the work of the Holy Spirit. Established a significant following through evangelistic meetings and services that emphasized miracles and personal testimonies. Founded the Kathryn Kuhlman Foundation and promoted her beliefs through television broadcasts and literature, expanding her influence beyond live events. Conducted numerous healing services, which attracted thousands across the United States, particularly in the mid-20th century. Her legacy continues through the foundation and in various religious circles.
Continue ReadingRobert Peary
An American admiral and explorer, played a significant role in Arctic exploration, leading multiple expeditions to the North Pole. In 1909, claimed to have reached the North Pole, although the validity of the claim has been debated. Conducted expeditions that contributed to the mapping and scientific understanding of the Arctic region. Also explored Greenland, gathering valuable data on its geography and culture.
Continue Reading