Leó Szilárd

Physicist and engineer, Manhattan Project

Leó Szilárd - Physicist and engineer, Manhattan Project
Born

1898
127 years ago

Died

May 30th, 1964
61 years ago — 66 years old

Category

Scientists & Innovators

Country

United States

Links & References

A Hungarian-American physicist and engineer who contributed significantly to nuclear physics. Played a crucial role in the development of the atomic bomb as part of the Manhattan Project during World War II. Developed the concept of a nuclear chain reaction and patented the idea of a nuclear reactor. Later advocated for the peaceful use of atomic energy and warned against nuclear proliferation.

Conceived the idea of nuclear chain reactions

Contributed to the Manhattan Project

Advocated for nuclear arms control

Other People Who Died on May 30th

Alexander Pope

English poet and essayist
Born
May 21st, 1688 337 years ago
Died
May 30th, 1744 281 years ago — 56 years old

A prominent English poet and essayist, recognized for the use of heroic couplets in his writings. Key works include the satirical poem 'The Rape of the Lock' and the philosophical poem 'An Essay on Man'. Engaged with themes of human nature, morality, and the role of poetry in society. Pope's translation of Homer's 'Iliad' and 'Odyssey' elevated him in literary circles, establishing him as a leading literary figure of the early 18th century.

Continue Reading

Guru Arjan Dev

Fifth Sikh Guru and spiritual leader
Born
April 15th, 1563 462 years ago
Died
May 30th, 1606 419 years ago — 43 years old

Born in 1563, served as the fifth Guru of Sikhism from 1581 until 1606. Compiled the Adi Granth, the holy scripture of Sikhism, which included hymns by several Sikh Gurus and other saints. Focused on community service, established the city of Amritsar, and oversaw the construction of the Golden Temple. Promoted the principles of equality, compassion, and devotion.

Continue Reading

Louis Hjelmslev

Linguist and creator of Glossematics
Born
1899 126 years ago
Died
May 30th, 1965 60 years ago — 66 years old

A linguist and academic advanced the study of language through the development of Glossematics, a theory that emphasized the structural relations within a language. Served as a professor at the University of Copenhagen, where significant contributions to the field of linguistics were made. The work focused on the formal properties of language, influencing structuralism and semiotics. Established the Linguistic Circle of Copenhagen, facilitating scholarly collaboration and research. Authored several key texts that outlined theoretical frameworks still studied in linguistic and philosophical contexts.

Continue Reading

Jean Deslauriers

Canadian violinist and conductor
Born
June 24th, 1909 115 years ago
Died
May 30th, 1978 47 years ago — 68 years old

Born in 1909 in Canada, significant contributions were made to the fields of music as a violinist, composer, and conductor. Completion of formal studies led to a successful career in classical music. Conducted numerous orchestras and performed as a soloist in various prestigious venues. Composed original works that enriched the Canadian music scene and played a vital role in the promotion of classical music in Canada.

Continue Reading

Robert Sterling

American actor from 'Topper' series
Born
November 13th, 1917 107 years ago
Died
May 30th, 2006 19 years ago — 88 years old

Achieved prominence in the 1950s as a television actor, particularly recognized for starring in the series 'Topper' which aired from 1953 to 1955. Appeared in numerous films during the 1940s and 1950s, including roles in 'The Ghost and Mrs. Muir' and 'The Bride Goes Wild'. Sterling’s career spanned over four decades, with appearances in various television shows and movies. His contributions to the television landscape paved the way for future actors in comedy and family-oriented programming. Continued working into the 1970s, demonstrating versatility across genres and performances.

Continue Reading

Ted Drake

English Footballer and Manager
Born
August 16th, 1912 112 years ago
Died
May 30th, 1995 30 years ago — 82 years old

A professional footballer and manager began his career at Arsenal, where he achieved notable success. Drake became one of the leading goal-scorers for Arsenal, contributing significantly to their victories in the 1940s. Following his playing career, he transitioned into management, leading teams in various leagues. His contributions to English football have been recognized for decades.

Continue Reading