Owen Willans Richardson

Physicist and Nobel Prize laureate

Owen Willans Richardson - Physicist and Nobel Prize laureate
Born

April 26th, 1879
146 years ago

Died

February 15th, 1959
66 years ago — 79 years old

Category

Scientists & Innovators

Country

United Kingdom

Links & References

Richardson contributed significantly to the field of physics, particularly in the area of thermionic emission. Work led to the development of Richardson's Law, which describes the current density of electrons emitted from a heated surface. Obtained the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1928 for this contribution. Additionally, served as a professor at various institutions, influencing the next generation of physicists through both teaching and research.

Developed Richardson's Law

Awarded the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1928

Other People Born on April 26th

Marianne Hoppe

German actress in theater and cinema
Born
April 26th, 1909 116 years ago
Died
2002 23 years ago — 93 years old

Active in the German theater scene, significant engagements occurred at prestigious venues including the Deutsches Theater in Berlin. Featured in prominent films during the 1930s and 1940s, some notable works include 'The Threepenny Opera' and 'The Robbers'. Later, work expanded into television, with roles in widely viewed series. Renowned for contributions to both stage and screen over several decades.

Continue Reading

Jeanne Sauvé

Governor General of Canada
Born
April 26th, 1922 103 years ago
Died
January 26th, 1993 32 years ago — 70 years old

A prominent Canadian journalist and politician, served as the 23rd Governor General of Canada from 1984 to 1990. Prior to that role, had a notable career in journalism with Radio-Canada and later entered politics. Elected as the first female Speaker of the House of Commons in 1970, contributed significantly to Canadian political discourse. Advocated for various social issues throughout her career.

Continue Reading

Peter II of Portugal

King and Monarch of Portugal
Born
April 26th, 1648 377 years ago
Died
December 9th, 1706 318 years ago — 58 years old

Ruled as king from 1683 until death in 1706. Oversaw a period of political challenges, including conflicts with France. Strengthened alliances with England and other European powers. Was involved in the War of the Spanish Succession, aligning Portugal with Britain against France and Spain. Achieved significant territorial gains in Brazil during the reign. Worked on reforms within the administration, focusing on improving governance and economic stability.

Continue Reading

Joey Jordison

Drummer for the band Slipknot
Born
April 26th, 1975 50 years ago
Died
July 26th, 2021 4 years ago — 46 years old

Gained recognition as the drummer and one of the founding members of the heavy metal band Slipknot. The band achieved worldwide fame with the release of their self-titled album in 1999, which led to significant success and multiple award nominations. Apart from Slipknot, contributed to other projects such as Murderdolls and Scar the Martyr. Provided influential work in the heavy metal genre and was widely regarded for technical skill and creativity in drumming.

Continue Reading

Arno Allan Penzias

Physicist, Nobel Prize in Physics 1978
Born
April 26th, 1933 92 years ago
Died
2024 1 years ago — 91 years old

A German-American physicist contributed significantly to the field of astrophysics. Penzias served as a researcher at Bell Laboratories, where he and Robert Wilson discovered the cosmic microwave background radiation, providing strong evidence for the Big Bang theory. This pivotal discovery earned the 1978 Nobel Prize in Physics. Penzias also held various academic positions, sharing knowledge and advancing research in physics and engineering disciplines.

Continue Reading

Al-Hadi

Abbasid Caliph during 8th century
Born
April 26th, 764 1261 years ago
Died
September 14th, 786 1238 years ago — 22 years old

Ascended to the Abbasid Caliphate in 785, ruled until death in 786. His reign was marked by challenges, including political conflicts and revolts. Al-Hadi faced opposition from rival factions within the empire. His leadership was characterized by efforts to maintain stability within the caliphate amidst ongoing tensions following the Abbasid Revolution. Al-Hadi's rule ended abruptly with his untimely death, leading to the rise of his successor.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on February 15th

Nat King Cole

American singer and pianist known for 'Unforgettable'
Born
March 17th, 1919 106 years ago
Died
February 15th, 1965 60 years ago — 45 years old

A celebrated American singer and pianist made significant contributions to the music industry, particularly in jazz and pop genres. Achieved fame as the host of 'The Nat King Cole Show', one of the first television shows to feature an African American host. Also known for a smooth vocal style and a sophisticated approach to music, popularized several classics including 'Mona Lisa' and 'Unforgettable'. Throughout the career, collaborated with numerous artists and musicians, blending different styles into performances that reached a wide audience.

Continue Reading

Richard Feynman

Physicist and Nobel laureate
Born
May 11th, 1918 107 years ago
Died
February 15th, 1988 37 years ago — 69 years old

A theoretical physicist, contributed to the development of quantum electrodynamics, which revolutionized the understanding of atomic interactions. Feynman received the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1965 for this work. Improved science education through engaging teaching methods and popular science writing. Authored the autobiographical books 'Surely You're Joking, Mr. Feynman!' and 'What Do You Care What Other People Think?'. Worked on the Manhattan Project, aiding in the development of the atomic bomb. He also played a significant role in the investigation of the Space Shuttle Challenger disaster.

Continue Reading

Howard K. Smith

American journalist and television anchor
Born
May 12th, 1914 111 years ago
Died
February 15th, 2002 23 years ago — 87 years old

A prominent journalist and television anchor, contributed significantly to news broadcasting in the United States. Served as a network anchor for ABC and CBS during pivotal moments in American history, including the Watergate scandal and the Vietnam War. Worked as a correspondent for major events and produced numerous documentaries. Also had a notable film career, acting in productions such as 'The Best Man'.

Continue Reading

Michael Praetorius

German composer of sacred music
Born
1571 454 years ago
Died
February 15th, 1621 404 years ago — 50 years old

Originated from Germany, Praetorius contributed extensively to the Renaissance music scene. As an organist and composer, he created numerous sacred works and was particularly influential in the development of German church music. His notable collections include 'Musae Sioniae,' which features a wide array of chorales and hymns. Praetorius also engaged in music theory, authoring the treatise 'Syntagma Musicum,' which served as an important resource on contemporary music practices and instrumentation.

Continue Reading

H. H. Asquith

Prime Minister of the United Kingdom
Born
September 12th, 1852 172 years ago
Died
February 15th, 1928 97 years ago — 75 years old

A lawyer and politician served as Prime Minister of the United Kingdom from 1908 to 1916. Advocated for social reforms, including the introduction of unemployment insurance and old-age pensions. Led the country during the early years of World War I, navigating complex political pressures and military challenges. After leaving office, continued to be active in politics and literature until death in 1928.

Continue Reading

Dimitrie Ghica

Romanian lawyer and Prime Minister
Born
1816 209 years ago
Died
February 15th, 1897 128 years ago — 81 years old

Served as the 10th Prime Minister of Romania from 1866 to 1867. Contributed to the legal framework of Romania through various reforms. Played a significant role in the political landscape during the late 19th century. Engaged in the legislative process, focusing on modernization.

Continue Reading