Otto Jespersen

Danish linguist and language reformer

Otto Jespersen - Danish linguist and language reformer
Born

1860
165 years ago

Died

April 30th, 1943
82 years ago — 83 years old

Category

Thinkers & Philosophers

Country

Denmark

Links & References

Contributions included extensive work in the field of linguistics, focusing on the development of the English language and the theory of language change. Engaged in significant analysis of irregular verbs and the process of grammar. Published numerous influential texts, including 'Growth and Structure of the English Language' and 'Language: Its Nature, Development, and Origin'. Participated actively in the language reform movement for Danish.

Authored books on English language development

Analyzed irregular verbs in English

Participated in Danish language reform

Other People Who Died on April 30th

Peter Mayhew

Actor best known as Chewbacca
Born
May 19th, 1944 81 years ago
Died
April 30th, 2019 6 years ago — 74 years old

An actor and former hospital orderly, gained fame for portraying Chewbacca in the Star Wars franchise, starting with the original film in 1977. Mayhew reprised the role in several sequels and spin-offs, including The Empire Strikes Back, Return of the Jedi, and Revenge of the Sith. The character became iconic in popular culture, recognized for its distinct personality and presence alongside Han Solo. Mayhew was known for his towering height, standing at 7 feet 3 inches, which contributed to the character's imposing yet friendly demeanor. Outside of his acting career, Mayhew engaged in charitable work, particularly with children’s hospitals.

Continue Reading

Sergio Leone

Italian film director and screenwriter
Born
January 3rd, 1929 96 years ago
Died
April 30th, 1989 36 years ago — 60 years old

An influential film director, producer, and screenwriter, recognized for shaping the Spaghetti Western genre. Directed the iconic films 'A Fistful of Dollars', 'For a Few Dollars More', and 'The Good, the Bad and the Ugly'. Created a unique cinematic style characterized by extreme close-ups, dynamic score, and thematic depth. A significant cultural figure in Italian cinema, Leone's work explored themes of morality, violence, and the passage of time.

Continue Reading

Julian Lewis

Biologist and academic, authored textbooks
Born
1946 79 years ago
Died
April 30th, 2014 11 years ago — 68 years old

A British biologist specialized in neurobiology and behavioral sciences. Contributed extensively to the study of the neuroscience of aging and neurodegenerative diseases. Held a position as a professor and published numerous academic articles and textbooks that served as important resources in the biological sciences field. Worked on understanding the mechanisms of neurodegeneration and the influence of genetic factors on diseases. Collaborated with various academic institutions to advance research in these areas.

Continue Reading

Robert Plot

English chemist and academic known for work in geology
Born
December 13th, 1640 384 years ago
Died
April 30th, 1696 329 years ago — 55 years old

Contributed to the foundational fields of geology and natural history. Conducted studies on fossils and minerals, emphasizing the analysis of the earth's materials. Published 'The Natural History of Staffordshire' in 1686, detailing the region's geology and quarrying practices. Served as the first curator of the Ashmolean Museum in Oxford, where valuable specimens were cataloged and displayed.

Continue Reading

Alexander Dale Oen

Norwegian competitive swimmer and champion
Born
May 21st, 1985 40 years ago
Died
April 30th, 2012 13 years ago — 26 years old

Became a prominent figure in Norwegian swimming, specializing in breaststroke events. Achieved significant recognition after competing in the 2004 Summer Olympics held in Athens. Won a gold medal at the 2012 World Swimming Championships in Istanbul, marking a high point in career. Additionally, earned multiple national titles and set several Norwegian records in swimming. Tragically passed away in 2012 while preparing for the upcoming Olympics, leading to an outpouring of tributes from the sports community and fans.

Continue Reading

Marie of the Incarnation

foundress of the Ursuline Monastery
Born
October 28th, 1599 425 years ago
Died
April 30th, 1672 353 years ago — 72 years old

Established the Ursuline Monastery in Quebec, which played a significant role in the education of young girls in New France. Served as the first superior of the monastery and contributed to the spiritual and educational development of the community. Her writings provide valuable insight into the early history of Canada and the role of women in the church. Promoted the importance of education and religious instruction among Indigenous peoples.

Continue Reading