Michel Chasles
French mathematician and academic
Contributed significantly to geometry and projective geometry. Developed Chasles' theorem, which relates to the properties of motion and the geometry of rigid bodies. Held a professorship at the Collège de France and published various works in mathematics. Participated actively in the mathematical community of the 19th century, influencing future generations of mathematicians.
Developed Chasles' theorem
Contributed to projective geometry
Other People Born on November 15th
Stewie Dempster
Cricketer and coach from New Zealand
Born
November 15th, 1903 122 years ago
Died
February 14th, 1974 52 years ago — 70 years old
A cricketer and coach made significant contributions to New Zealand cricket. Made his first-class debut in 1910 and played for the national team in the 1930s. Dempster was a key figure in the development of cricket in New Zealand. Transitioned to coaching after retirement from playing, influencing many players in the sport. His leadership in the game remains recognized in New Zealand cricketing history.
Continue ReadingFausto Brizzi
Italian director and screenwriter of comedies
Born
November 15th, 1968 57 years ago
Director, producer, and screenwriter primarily focused on comedic films. Directed 'Notte prima degli esami' and its sequel, which became significant successes in Italian cinema. Additionally, worked on several popular romantic comedies. Acclaimed for providing relatable stories and a humorous perspective on contemporary Italian life.
Continue ReadingBilly Twelvetrees
Rugby player and Gloucester captain
Born
November 15th, 1988 37 years ago
Played as a center in rugby union, representing England at the international level. Had a notable club career with Gloucester Rugby, contributing to multiple seasons in the Aviva Premiership. Participated in the 2013 Six Nations Championship, where England secured the title, and was part of the squad for the 2015 Rugby World Cup. Played a pivotal role in the backline for both club and country.
Continue ReadingJohn Earle
Australian politician, 22nd Premier of Tasmania
Born
November 15th, 1865 160 years ago
Died
February 6th, 1932 94 years ago — 66 years old
Served as the 22nd Premier of Tasmania from 1909 to 1912. Held various ministerial positions in the Tasmanian government prior to premiership, including Minister for Lands and Works. Played a significant role in the development of rural infrastructure and social policies. Influenced land reform initiatives in Tasmania and was associated with the Labor Party during his political career.
Continue ReadingJoseph Wapner
Television Judge on The People's Court
Born
November 15th, 1919 106 years ago
Died
February 26th, 2017 9 years ago — 97 years old
Served as a judge in the Los Angeles County Superior Court and later became a television personality. Gained recognition as the presiding judge on the reality courtroom series 'The People's Court', which premiered in 1981 and popularized the genre of court shows. Wapner's rigorous but fair adjudication style contributed to the show's success and longevity. His contributions to the legal and television fields made him a well-recognized figure in American popular culture.
Continue ReadingGrand Duchess Olga Nikolaevna of Russia
Grand Duchess and First Daughter of Tsar
Born
November 15th, 1895 130 years ago
Died
1918 108 years ago — 23 years old
Born into the Russian imperial family, one of the grand duchess sisters of Tsar Nicholas II, held the title of Grand Duchess from birth. Participated in charitable activities and served as a nurse during World War I. Suffered the trials of the Russian Revolution alongside her family, ultimately facing execution in 1918. The life journey reflected royal obligations intertwined with the significant upheaval of early 20th-century Russia.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on December 18th
Edith of Wessex
Queen consort of England
Born
1025 1001 years ago
Died
December 18th, 1075 950 years ago — 50 years old
Served as queen consort of England from 1066 until death in 1075. Married to King Edward the Confessor, contributed to the political landscape of early medieval England. The reign included significant events such as the Norman Conquest. Played a role in the governance alongside Edward, influencing decisions in the court. Buried in Westminster Abbey.
Continue ReadingHans-Ulrich Rudel
German colonel and notable pilot
Born
July 2nd, 1916 109 years ago
Died
December 18th, 1982 43 years ago — 66 years old
Served in the Luftwaffe during World War II, distinguished as a skilled dive bomber pilot. Participated in the Eastern Front and conducted numerous ground attack missions. Recognized for flying over 2,500 combat missions and reportedly destroying more tanks than any other pilot in history. Awarded the Knight's Cross of the Iron Cross with Oak Leaves, Swords, and Diamonds for exceptional bravery and leadership. Post-war, involved in various controversies regarding his views and affiliations.
Continue ReadingJacqueline de Romilly
Franco-Greek philologist and scholar
Born
March 26th, 1913 113 years ago
Died
December 18th, 2010 15 years ago — 97 years old
An influential philologist and scholar contributed significantly to the understanding of classical literature and philosophy. Focused on the works of ancient Greek writers, particularly Sophocles and Thucydides. Wrote extensively on the importance of the French language and Greek heritage. Held various academic positions, including a professorship at the Collège de France, and was a member of the Académie française.
Continue ReadingThomas Graham
Scottish chemist and diffusion theory pioneer
Born
December 21st, 1805 220 years ago
Died
December 18th, 1843 182 years ago — 37 years old
Contributed significantly to the field of chemistry, particularly in the study of gas diffusion. Developed Graham's Law of Effusion, which describes the rates at which gases diffuse through different mediums. Conducted important experiments on the diffusion of gases, leading to a deeper understanding of molecular movement. Also served as a professor at University College London, influencing future generations of chemists through academic leadership.
Continue ReadingIrving Caesar
American songwriter and composer
Born
July 4th, 1895 130 years ago
Died
December 18th, 1996 29 years ago — 101 years old
A prominent songwriter and composer, significant contributions to the music industry were made throughout a lengthy career. Collaborations with various artists produced numerous memorable songs. Works include timeless pieces that have resonated in popular culture. The ability to craft lyrics and melodies led to enduring popularity in the early 20th century.
Continue ReadingVirna Lisi
Italian actress in film and television
Born
November 8th, 1936 89 years ago
Died
December 18th, 2014 11 years ago — 78 years old
Born in Italy, an actress gained recognition for performances in several acclaimed films and television series. Started a career in the 1950s and became notable for roles in Italian cinema and international productions. Received numerous accolades throughout the career, including a David di Donatello award for Best Actress. Achieved great success in both drama and comedy, establishing a reputation for versatility and depth in character portrayal.
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