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
Billy 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 ReadingKim Min-jae
Professional footballer, Serie A defender
Born
November 15th, 1996 29 years ago
A professional footballer recognized for contributions in defense, primarily played for Frosinone and later joined Napoli in Serie A. Achieved acclaim for strong defensive skills and tactical awareness on the field. Represented the South Korean national team and participated in international competitions, including the 2022 FIFA World Cup.
Continue ReadingSofia Goggia
Italian Alpine skier, Olympic gold medalist
Born
November 15th, 1992 33 years ago
An accomplished Alpine skier, achieved significant success on the World Cup circuit and international competitions. Gained recognition by winning a gold medal in the downhill event at the 2018 Winter Olympics in Pyeongchang. Consistently performed well in World Cup races, securing multiple victories and podium finishes throughout her career. Competed for the Italian national team and specialized in the downhill and super-G disciplines.
Continue ReadingTyTy Washington Jr.
American basketball player, Houston Rockets
Born
November 15th, 2001 24 years ago
A basketball player born in 2001, played college basketball for the Kentucky Wildcats. After a successful college career, entered the 2022 NBA Draft. Selected in the second round by the Houston Rockets. Known for impressive ball-handling skills and playmaking ability, contributing to the team's development in the 2022-2023 NBA season.
Continue ReadingNera White
Basketball player; Pan American Games gold
Born
November 15th, 1935 90 years ago
Died
2016 10 years ago — 81 years old
Played basketball at the collegiate level for the University of Connecticut and significantly contributed to the team. Excelled in international competition, representing the United States. Participated in the 1955 Pan American Games, where the team secured a gold medal. Following the competitive career, transitioned to coaching, mentoring young players and promoting the sport.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on December 18th
Ruth Bernhard
Photographer renowned for nude art
Born
1905 121 years ago
Died
December 18th, 2006 19 years ago — 101 years old
A German-American photographer, Ruth Bernhard specialized in black-and-white photography. Her career spanned several decades, during which she produced a significant body of work focusing on the human form, particularly nudes, using natural light and careful composition. Her most acclaimed series included intimate and classical portrayals of female subjects. Bernhard also contributed to photographic education and was influential in shaping the field of fine art photography. In addition to her artistic work, she was involved in the creative process behind books, showcasing her photographs and sharing her insights on the craft.
Continue ReadingBobby Jones
Golfer, co-founder of The Masters
Born
March 17th, 1902 124 years ago
Died
December 18th, 1971 54 years ago — 69 years old
A prominent amateur golfer and lawyer, contributed significantly to the sport in the early 20th century. Won the Grand Slam in 1930, a feat that involved winning all four major golf championships in a single calendar year. Co-founded The Masters Tournament in Augusta, Georgia, one of the most prestigious golf events in the world. Also involved in the establishment of the Augusta National Golf Club, which remains a key venue in professional golf.
Continue ReadingIrving Caesar
American songwriter and composer
Born
July 4th, 1895 131 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 ReadingJean-Baptiste Lamarck
Biologist and early evolution theorist
Born
August 1st, 1744 282 years ago
Died
December 18th, 1829 196 years ago — 85 years old
Contributed significantly to early biological thought. Developed the concept of inheritance of acquired characteristics, which proposed that organisms could pass traits developed during their lifetime to their offspring. Served as a soldier before embarking on a scientific career. Held academic positions, notably at the National Museum of Natural History in Paris. His work laid groundwork for later evolutionary theories, although some ideas were later revised or challenged.
Continue ReadingPaul Tortelier
Cellist and composer of note
Born
March 21st, 1914 112 years ago
Died
December 18th, 1990 35 years ago — 76 years old
A distinguished cellist and composer, contributed significantly to the world of classical music. Held memberships in prominent orchestras and taught at renowned conservatories. Frequently performed with various orchestras, bringing cello repertoire to diverse audiences. Composed original works that showcased the instrument's capabilities. Promoted the art of cello through inspiring performances and educational efforts.
Continue ReadingPierre Cauchon
French Catholic bishop and inquisitor
Born
1371 655 years ago
Died
December 18th, 1442 583 years ago — 71 years old
Served as a prominent bishop in France during the early 15th century. Presided over the trial of Joan of Arc, playing a key role in her condemnation. Held the position of Bishop of Beauvais, which influenced ecclesiastical politics. Cauchon was involved in the complexities of regional power struggles amid the Hundred Years' War, aligning with English interests at a critical time.
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