Léon Foucault
French physicist known for pendulum experiment
Contributed significantly to experimental physics and is recognized for the invention of the Foucault pendulum, demonstrating the Earth's rotation. Conducted experiments in optics, notably measuring the speed of light with an accuracy that improved upon previous efforts. Served as a professor at the Collège de France, influencing the academic landscape of physics in the 19th century.
Invention of the Foucault pendulum
Measurement of the speed of light
Contributions to gyroscopy
Other People Born on September 18th
Mário Jardel
Footballer and top goalscorer
Born
September 18th, 1973 52 years ago
Played as a forward, primarily in the 1990s and 2000s. Achieved significant success in European football, having notable spells at clubs such as Grêmio, Porto, and Sporting CP. Won multiple league titles and was the top scorer in various competitions. Contributed to several teams' domestic and international successes, leveraging exceptional finishing skills and aerial ability. Also played for the Brazilian national team, earning caps in major tournaments.
Continue ReadingMickey Higham
Rugby League Player, Super League Champion
Born
September 18th, 1980 45 years ago
Played as a hooker in rugby league, participating in English competitions and earning recognition in the Super League. Represented notable clubs including Wigan Warriors, St Helens, and Warrington Wolves. Contributed to St Helens' achievements during the 2006 season, securing the Super League title. Played for the England national rugby league team in international competitions, showcasing skills in key matches.
Continue ReadingBilly Eichner
American actor and comedian from 'Billy on the Street'
Born
September 18th, 1978 47 years ago
A prominent actor and comedian, this individual gained recognition through the comedic series 'Billy on the Street', where humorous interviews took place with celebrities and unsuspecting pedestrians. The individual also starred in the romantic comedy film 'Bros', which highlighted LGBTQ+ relationships. Contributions to comedy have included vibrant performances and satirical commentary in various television appearances and live shows, including the series 'Parks and Recreation', in which a recurring role was played.
Continue ReadingJames Marsden
American actor from X-Men series
Born
September 18th, 1973 52 years ago
Born in 1973, this American actor gained prominence for roles in film and television, especially in the 'X-Men' series where a prominent character was portrayed. Additionally, appeared in the romantic comedy 'The Notebook' and starred in the television series 'Westworld'. With a career spanning over two decades, showcased ability in both dramatic and comedic roles, earning recognition in the industry.
Continue ReadingXzibit
Rapper and 'Pimp My Ride' host
Born
September 18th, 1974 51 years ago
Born in 1974, this American rapper, actor, and television host gained prominence in the late 1990s with the release of the album 'Restless'. The project featured collaborations with prominent artists and showcased rap styles that resonated with audiences. The transition to television occurred with the hosting of 'Pimp My Ride', a popular reality show that customized cars for deserving individuals. Acting roles included appearances in films like 'Gridiron Gang' and series such as 'Empire'. His contributions to music and television have established a multifaceted career that integrates artistry with entertainment.
Continue ReadingIain Lees-Galloway
New Zealand politician and minister
Born
September 18th, 1978 47 years ago
A politician from New Zealand, served as a member of Parliament representing the Labour Party. Held the position of Minister for Workplace Relations and Safety, and also served as Minister of Immigration. Engaged in issues related to workers' rights and immigration policies, contributing to significant legislative reforms during tenure.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on February 11th
John Buchan
Governor General of Canada, historian
Born
August 26th, 1875 150 years ago
Died
February 11th, 1940 85 years ago — 64 years old
A Scottish-Canadian historian and politician served as the Governor General of Canada from 1935 until death in 1940. Buchan authored several historical and adventure novels, with a notable work being 'The Thirty-Nine Steps,' which contributed to the spy fiction genre. His career in public service included roles in the British Parliament, emphasizing loyalty to the British Empire. His tenure as Governor General was marked by his efforts to promote national unity and support for wartime contributions during World War II.
Continue ReadingPaul Feyerabend
Philosopher and academic with Against Method
Born
January 13th, 1924 102 years ago
Died
February 11th, 1994 31 years ago — 70 years old
Born in Austria, contributed significantly to the philosophy of science. Advocated for a pluralistic approach to scientific practices, challenging the idea of a universal scientific method. Gained prominence through the publication of 'Against Method,' which critiqued the rigidity of traditional scientific methodologies. Worked at various academic institutions across Europe and the United States, influencing debates on scientific epistemology and the relationship between science and society.
Continue ReadingAllen J. Bard
American chemist and electrochemist
Born
1933 93 years ago
Died
February 11th, 2024 1 years ago — 91 years old
A prominent American chemist, contributions primarily focused on the field of electrochemistry and development of innovative techniques in chemical analysis. Held a position as a professor at the University of Texas at Austin, significantly advancing the understanding of electrochemical processes and properties of materials. Authored numerous scientific papers and was instrumental in the founding of the journal 'Analytical Chemistry'. Renowned for the invention of various electrochemical methodologies that have applications in energy storage, sensors, and nanotechnology. Received multiple awards and honors throughout a distinguished career.
Continue ReadingJ. Hans D. Jensen
German physicist, Nobel Prize winner
Born
June 25th, 1907 118 years ago
Died
February 11th, 1973 52 years ago — 65 years old
Contributed significantly to the field of nuclear physics. Developed the shell model of the nucleus, which describes the structure and behavior of atomic nuclei. Received the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1963 for work on the nuclear shell model in collaboration with Maria Goeppert Mayer. Held academic positions and influenced many students in the realm of physics.
Continue ReadingElizabeth of York
Duchess of Suffolk, English royal
Born
April 22nd, 1444 581 years ago
Died
February 11th, 1503 522 years ago — 58 years old
Born in 1444, a key figure in the Wars of the Roses, played a significant role in the political landscape of England. Married Henry VII, uniting the warring houses of Lancaster and York. This marriage marked the beginning of the Tudor dynasty. Elizabeth's lineage included several notable monarchs, and her daughters, notably, influenced royal alliances through their marriages.
Continue ReadingBob Simon
Journalist and 60 Minutes correspondent
Born
May 29th, 1941 84 years ago
Died
February 11th, 2015 10 years ago — 73 years old
A prominent journalist who worked for CBS News, recognized for reporting on major events and conflicts. Covered the Vietnam War, the Gulf War, and the Iraq War. Served as a foreign correspondent for decades, providing in-depth interviews and reports from various global hotspots. Received multiple awards for journalistic excellence, including the prestigious Edward R. Murrow Award. Featured prominently on the news program 60 Minutes, contributing to its reputation as a leading investigative journalism platform.
Continue Reading