Niccolò Zucchi

Italian astronomer and physicist

Niccolò Zucchi - Italian astronomer and physicist
Born

December 6th, 1586
438 years ago

Died

May 21st, 1670
354 years ago — 83 years old

Category

Scientists & Innovators

Country

Italy

Links & References

Contributed to the fields of astronomy and physics during the 17th century. Conducted extensive studies on the nature of light and optics, proposing theories on the composition of sunlight. Developed one of the early telescopes and observed Jupiter's moons. Authored several works, including writings on the atmosphere of the moon.

Developed one of the first telescopes

Wrote about lunar observations

Studied the nature of light and optics

Other People Born on December 6th

Dion Fortune

Occultist and author of 'The Mystical Qabalah'
Born
December 6th, 1890 134 years ago
Died
1946 79 years ago — 56 years old

A Welsh occultist and psychologist, contributed significantly to the field of Western esotericism. Founded the Society of the Inner Light, which promoted spiritual teaching and practices based on mystical traditions. Authored several works on occultism and psychology, with 'The Mystical Qabalah' being one of the most recognized. Explored themes of psychology and spirituality in her writings, blending them with her occult practices.

Continue Reading

Princess Sofia

Duchess of Värmland
Born
December 6th, 1984 40 years ago

Born in 1984, this individual became a member of the Swedish royal family through marriage. Engaged in charitable work, the focus includes support for issues related to children's health and well-being. Pursued a career in modeling before transitioning into royal duties, performing various engagements both domestically and internationally. Active in initiatives aimed at promoting social inclusion and education.

Continue Reading

Adam Eaton

Major League Baseball outfielder
Born
December 6th, 1988 36 years ago

An outfielder played in Major League Baseball from 2012 to 2021. Teams included the Arizona Diamondbacks, Chicago White Sox, and Washington Nationals. Contributed to the Nationals' victory in the 2019 World Series. Recognized for speed and defensive skills throughout career. Known for strong performances in pivotal games.

Continue Reading

José Contreras

Cuban baseball player, World Series Champion
Born
December 6th, 1971 53 years ago

Born in Cuba, a professional baseball player played as a pitcher in Major League Baseball. Debuted in 1996 with the New York Yankees and played for several teams, including the Chicago White Sox. Achieved recognition as a key pitcher during the 2005 season, contributing to the White Sox's World Series victory. Transitioned to play in the Mexican League later in his career, showcasing versatility and continued performance in baseball.

Continue Reading

Bill Thomas

American politician and academic
Born
December 6th, 1941 83 years ago

Bill Thomas served as a U.S. Representative from California from 1979 to 2007. During his tenure, he played a key role in shaping tax policy and healthcare legislation. Thomas chaired the House Ways and Means Committee from 2001 to 2007, where he worked on significant reforms in Medicare and Social Security. He also contributed to the development of the 2003 Medicare prescription drug benefit. After retiring from Congress, he continued to engage in various academic and policy-related pursuits.

Continue Reading

Helen Liddell

Scottish politician and journalist
Born
December 6th, 1950 74 years ago

A prominent Scottish journalist and politician, contributed significantly to political discourse in Scotland. Served as the Secretary of State for Scotland from 1997 to 1999 during Tony Blair's government. Represented the Labour Party and was a Member of Parliament for Airdrie and Shotts from 1997 to 2005. Focused on issues such as social justice and education policy. Elevated to the House of Lords in 2004 as Baroness Liddell of Coatdyke, continuing a career in public service.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on May 21st

Hernando de Soto

Spanish-American explorer of the Americas
Born
1496 529 years ago
Died
May 21st, 1542 482 years ago — 46 years old

An explorer contributed to European knowledge of the southeastern United States. Led an expedition through Florida and into present-day Georgia, South Carolina, North Carolina, and Tennessee. Became the first European to cross the Mississippi River, which he encountered in 1541 during his quest for gold. Founded the city of Quito in present-day Ecuador and served as the governor of Peru before his expeditions in North America. Passed away in 1542 in present-day Arkansas.

Continue Reading

Robert Harley

English lawyer and politician
Born
December 5th, 1661 363 years ago
Died
May 21st, 1724 300 years ago — 62 years old

Born in 1661, this figure served as Secretary of State for the Northern Department. As a prominent political leader during Queen Anne's reign, held influential roles in the government, particularly as a key advisor. Played a vital role in managing relations between England and Scotland and was instrumental in the passing of significant legislation. Elevated to the peerage as the 1st Earl of Oxford and Earl Mortimer, represented the Tory party during a time of political upheaval. Contributed to the British political landscape through various legislative efforts and reforms.

Continue Reading

Binyavanga Wainaina

Kenyan writer and memoirist
Born
January 18th, 1971 54 years ago
Died
May 21st, 2019 5 years ago — 48 years old

A prominent Kenyan writer, contributed significantly to contemporary African literature. Authored the acclaimed memoir 'One Day I Will Write About This Place' which explores themes of identity and belonging in post-colonial Kenya. Also served as the editor for 'Kwani?', a Kenyan literary magazine which provided a platform for emerging African voices. His literary work often reflected on the complexities of race, culture, and politics in Africa.

Continue Reading

August Kundt

German physicist known for Kundt's tube
Born
November 18th, 1839 185 years ago
Died
May 21st, 1894 130 years ago — 54 years old

A physicist and educator made significant contributions to experimental physics. Developed Kundt's tube, an apparatus used to measure the speed of sound in gases. Served as a professor and emphasized the importance of practical experiments in teaching physics.

Continue Reading

Ann Little

American actress in silent films
Born
1891 134 years ago
Died
May 21st, 1984 40 years ago — 93 years old

Active in the early 20th century, this actress starred in silent films. Gained attention for performances in movies such as 'The Coming of Amos' (1913) and 'The Count of Monte Cristo' (1922). Transitioned to sound films but her prominence diminished with the advent of talkies. Continued to work in various acting roles throughout the late 1920s and early 1930s.

Continue Reading

Klaus Mann

German-American novelist and critic
Born
November 18th, 1906 118 years ago
Died
May 21st, 1949 75 years ago — 42 years old

Authored several significant literary works, including the novel 'Mephisto', which explored the rise of fascism in Germany. Became notable as a critic and a prominent figure in the exiled German literary community. Engaged deeply with themes of identity and personal politics, particularly regarding the impact of totalitarian regimes on individual lives. Contributed to the magazine 'Die Sammlung', which played a vital role in the intellectual discourse of the time.

Continue Reading