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
Grey Owl
Environmentalist and author
Born
September 18th, 1888 137 years ago
Died
April 13th, 1938 87 years ago — 49 years old
An English-Canadian environmentalist and author played a significant role in promoting conservation and wildlife protection. Residing in Canada, wrote extensively about the importance of natural landscapes and the impact of industrialization. Authored notable works such as 'The Men of the Last Frontier' and 'Pilgrims of the Wild', which raised awareness about ecological issues. Became a key figure in advocating for the preservation of Canada's wilderness and Indigenous cultures.
Continue ReadingJames Scullin
Australian Prime Minister, economic leader
Born
September 18th, 1876 149 years ago
Died
January 28th, 1953 72 years ago — 76 years old
Served as the 9th Prime Minister of Australia from 1929 to 1931. Led the Labor Party during a challenging period marked by the Great Depression. Implemented several key social and economic reforms aimed at addressing unemployment and housing issues. Worked on establishing a national economy that supported the working class and families. Additionally, served as a member of the House of Representatives for a significant period and was involved in various party leadership roles.
Continue ReadingZhang Xianzhong
Chinese rebel leader during the Ming dynasty
Born
September 18th, 1606 419 years ago
Died
1647 378 years ago — 41 years old
A prominent rebel leader during the late Ming dynasty, native to China. Led significant uprisings against the ruling dynasty in the 17th century. Established a short-lived kingdom in Sichuan, proclaiming himself as the emperor. His rebellion was part of a larger series of conflicts that characterized the tumultuous period leading to the fall of the Ming dynasty and the rise of the Qing dynasty.
Continue ReadingEddie Rochester Anderson
American actor and comedian
Born
September 18th, 1905 120 years ago
Died
1977 48 years ago — 72 years old
An actor and comedian achieved acclaim through performance in the Jack Benny Program, portraying a comedic character named Rochester. Worked in early Hollywood films, including the 1943 feature 'The Gang's All Here'. Anderson appeared on stage and in films during the mid-20th century, gaining popularity for his humor and timing. His career spanned several decades, contributing to the entertainment industry with memorable performances.
Continue ReadingBilly Robinson
Professional wrestler and trainer
Born
September 18th, 1938 87 years ago
Died
2014 11 years ago — 76 years old
A prominent figure in the world of professional wrestling and training, this individual had a significant impact on the sport in both England and the United States. His career began in the late 1950s, gaining recognition for technical wrestling skills and captivating performances. He became well-known for his time in promotions such as World Championship Wrestling and All Star Wrestling. After retiring from in-ring competition, he transitioned to training, shaping the careers of numerous wrestlers. A strong advocate for catch wrestling, this individual preserved and promoted its techniques through various training camps and seminars.
Continue ReadingClark Wissler
American anthropologist and author
Born
September 18th, 1870 155 years ago
Died
1947 78 years ago — 77 years old
An anthropologist and educator focused on North American indigenous cultures. Contributed significantly to the understanding of cultural areas and the social organization of Native American tribes. Published influential works including 'The American Indian' and 'The Relation of Culture to Personality'. Worked at the American Museum of Natural History and was involved in various educational and research activities.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on February 11th
Martin Klein
Estonian wrestler and Olympic coach
Born
September 12th, 1884 141 years ago
Died
February 11th, 1947 78 years ago — 62 years old
Accomplished wrestler and coach from Estonia. Competed in Freestyle wrestling and achieved notable success at the Olympics. Actively involved in coaching young wrestlers after retirement from competitive sports. Contributed to the development of wrestling as a sport in Estonia through training programs and mentorship.
Continue ReadingFrancesco Scipione
Italian archaeologist and playwright
Born
June 1st, 1675 350 years ago
Died
February 11th, 1755 270 years ago — 79 years old
Contributed significantly to archaeology and literature in the 18th century. Authored several works, combining elements of criticism and drama. Engaged in the study of ancient artifacts and their historical contexts. Played a pivotal role in the development of Italian theatre through innovative plays that explored classical themes. Advocated for the appreciation of Italy's rich archaeological heritage.
Continue ReadingOswaldo Cruz
Epidemiologist and disease researcher
Born
August 5th, 1872 153 years ago
Died
February 11th, 1917 108 years ago — 44 years old
A prominent Brazilian physician and epidemiologist, contributions included interventions against yellow fever, smallpox, and bubonic plague in Brazil. Engagement in public health campaigns significantly reduced the incidence of these diseases. Instrumental in the establishment of the Oswaldo Cruz Institute, dedicated to research and the development of vaccines and treatments for infectious diseases. His work laid the foundation for modern epidemiology in Brazil and influenced public health strategies globally.
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 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 ReadingA. J. Muste
Pastor and peace activist
Born
January 8th, 1885 140 years ago
Died
February 11th, 1967 58 years ago — 82 years old
Born in the Netherlands, later became a prominent figure in the American peace movement. Played a significant role in the anti-war efforts during World War I and World War II. Advocated for civil rights and was involved in labor movements, focusing on social justice and pacifism. Established organizations that supported nonviolent resistance and worked towards disarmament. Contributed to the founding of the Fellowship of Reconciliation and participated in campaigns against the Vietnam War.
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