Nicolaas Govert de Bruijn

Mathematician and theorist

Nicolaas Govert de Bruijn - Mathematician and theorist
Born

July 9th, 1918
107 years ago

Died

February 17th, 2012
13 years ago — 93 years old

Category

Scientists & Innovators

Country

Netherlands

Links & References

Contributed significantly to the fields of topology and combinatorial mathematics. Developed de Bruijn sequences, an important concept in combinatorics and information theory. Published numerous papers, advancing understanding of number theory and its applications. Held a long-term position at the Delft University of Technology, influencing the next generation of mathematicians.

Developed de Bruijn sequences

Published extensively in number theory

Other People Born on July 9th

Edward Heath

Politician, Prime Minister (1970-74)
Born
July 9th, 1916 109 years ago
Died
July 17th, 2005 20 years ago — 89 years old

Served as the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom from 1970 to 1974. Led the Conservative Party and oversaw significant events such as the UK's entry into the European Economic Community in 1973. Implemented various domestic policies and reforms during tenure. After leaving office, continued to be active in politics and public life.

Continue Reading

Roy McLean

South African cricketer and rugby player
Born
July 9th, 1930 95 years ago
Died
2007 18 years ago — 77 years old

A cricketer and rugby player from South Africa, participated in first-class cricket matches during the 1950s and represented South Africa in rugby union. Played as a member of the cricket team in eight first-class matches and contributed to provincial rugby teams, showcasing talent in both sports.

Continue Reading

John Archibald Wheeler

Theoretical physicist and educator
Born
July 9th, 1911 114 years ago
Died
April 13th, 2008 17 years ago — 96 years old

Contributions to theoretical physics included work on the concepts of black holes and quantum gravity. Played a key role in the development of nuclear fission during World War II. Served as a professor at Princeton University, influencing generations of physicists. Promoted the interpretation of quantum mechanics known as 'it from bit', emphasizing the fundamental role of information in physics.

Continue Reading

Ann Ward

English author and poet
Born
July 9th, 1764 261 years ago
Died
1823 202 years ago — 59 years old

An English author and poet, celebrated for contributions to literature in the late 18th century. Writings often reflected themes of nature and human experience. Published several volumes of poetry, which gained attention during her lifetime. Also engaged with various literary circles of the period and contributed to discussions on the role of women in literature.

Continue Reading

Robert Koenig

Director and producer of film and TV
Born
July 9th, 1975 50 years ago

A director, producer, and screenwriter, this individual contributed significantly to the film and television industry. Engaged in various notable projects, he developed a reputation for storytelling that resonates with audiences. The career began with foundational work in independent film before transitioning to larger productions, showcasing a flair for both dramatic and comedic narratives. Utilizing experience as a writer and director, this figure collaborated with several established actors and production teams, ultimately leading to recognition within the industry.

Continue Reading

Michael Graves

Architect, designed the Portland Building
Born
July 9th, 1934 91 years ago
Died
2015 10 years ago — 81 years old

An American architect and designer, contributed significantly to postmodern architecture. His work on the Portland Building in Oregon marked a pivotal moment in architectural design, being one of the first major examples of postmodern architecture in the United States. Graves also designed the Humana Building in Louisville, Kentucky, showcasing a blend of color and form that challenged traditional architectural norms. Throughout his career, he emphasized the importance of context, function, and the interaction of spaces. In addition to architecture, Graves designed numerous products, including those for Target, which demonstrated his versatility and influence in design.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on February 17th

Bruno Walter

Conductor and composer of classical music
Born
September 15th, 1876 148 years ago
Died
February 17th, 1962 63 years ago — 85 years old

A significant figure in the world of classical music, a celebrated conductor and composer. Studied under the notable composer Richard Strauss. Conducted major orchestras, including the New York Philharmonic and the Los Angeles Philharmonic. Focused on the works of Beethoven, Mahler, and Mozart. Established a prominent career in both Europe and the United States. Renowned for interpretations of Mahler's symphonies, which have become a standard in the classical repertoire. Contributed to the revival of Mahler's music and left a lasting legacy as a conductor and composer.

Continue Reading

Adolphe Quetelet

Belgian mathematician and social statistician
Born
February 22nd, 1796 229 years ago
Died
February 17th, 1874 151 years ago — 77 years old

A prominent figure in the development of social statistics and the study of human behavior, contributions included the establishment of the concept of 'l'homme moyen' or the average man. Utilized statistical methods to analyze social phenomena, influencing both sociology and demography. Founded the Belgian Statistical Society and authored several works that laid the groundwork for modern statistics. Worked on applications of statistical analysis in various fields, emphasizing the importance of data in understanding societal trends.

Continue Reading

Shmuel Yosef Agnon

Ukrainian-Israeli novelist and poet
Born
July 17th, 1888 137 years ago
Died
February 17th, 1970 55 years ago — 81 years old

Agnon was a Ukrainian-Israeli novelist, short story writer, and poet. Born in Ukraine, he immigrated to Palestine in the early 20th century, contributing significantly to Hebrew literature. His works often explored themes of Jewish identity and tradition. In 1966, Agnon received the Nobel Prize in Literature, recognized for his mastery in weaving folklore and contemporary experiences. His stories and novels remain pivotal in Hebrew literature.

Continue Reading

Nita Naldi

American actress of silent films
Born
1894 131 years ago
Died
February 17th, 1961 64 years ago — 67 years old

An actress active primarily during the silent film era, worked with notable directors and appeared in several critically acclaimed films. Gained attention for performances in productions that showcased her strong screen presence and dramatic abilities. Transitioned to talkies but eventually saw a decline in popularity as the film industry evolved. Continued to take on various roles until retirement from acting. Contributed to the artistic landscape of early cinema with a distinctive style.

Continue Reading

Robert Carr

English engineer and Shadow Chancellor
Born
November 11th, 1916 108 years ago
Died
February 17th, 2012 13 years ago — 95 years old

Engaged in engineering and political service, served as the Shadow Chancellor of the Exchequer. Advocated for various fiscal policies within the Labour Party, shaping the economic discourse during tenure. Played a pivotal role in party strategies and governance, influencing economic discussions in the UK.

Continue Reading

Christopher Latham Sholes

American politician and typewriter inventor
Born
February 14th, 1819 206 years ago
Died
February 17th, 1890 135 years ago — 71 years old

An influential figure in American publishing, contributed to the development of the typewriter. Served as a politician in the Wisconsin State Legislature. Developed a practical version of the modern typewriter, which led to widespread use in offices and homes. The QWERTY keyboard layout, designed to reduce jamming in early typewriters, was established through this innovation. Efforts in publishing included founding the first newspaper in Wisconsin.

Continue Reading