Pafnuty Chebyshev
Mathematician and statistician, Chebyshev polynomials
A Russian mathematician and statistician, contributed significantly to number theory, approximation theory, and probability. Developed Chebyshev polynomials and established the foundation for Chebyshev's inequality in statistics. Authored several influential works and served as a professor at the University of St. Petersburg, where he influenced generations of mathematicians. The Chebyshev graph and Chebyshev approximation remain pivotal concepts in analysis and computational mathematics.
Developed Chebyshev polynomials
Established Chebyshev's inequality
Contributed to approximation theory
Other People Born on May 16th
Helga Radtke
German long jumper and Olympic athlete
Born
May 16th, 1962 63 years ago
Competed in long jump events during the 1980s. Achieved significant success at the European Championships. Represented East Germany in international competitions. Participated in the 1980 Summer Olympics held in Moscow.
Continue ReadingDavid Edward Hughes
Physicist, co-inventor of the microphone
Born
May 16th, 1831 194 years ago
Died
January 22nd, 1900 125 years ago — 68 years old
A Welsh-American physicist contributed significantly to the field of acoustics through the invention of the microphone. This invention was pivotal in the development of sound technology. His work in electrical engineering also included innovations in telegraphy and the study of electromagnetic waves. Hughes's contributions enabled advances in communication and sound reproduction.
Continue ReadingBen Kuroki
American pilot and World War II sergeant
Born
May 16th, 1917 108 years ago
Died
September 1st, 2015 10 years ago — 98 years old
Served as a pilot in the United States Army Air Forces during World War II. Kuroki flew combat missions in the Pacific Theater and became the first Japanese American to be awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross. His military career included significant contributions to aerial bombing campaigns against enemy targets. After the war, Kuroki returned to civilian life and continued to advocate for Japanese American rights.
Continue ReadingRachel Griffith
Economist specializing in industrial organization
Born
May 16th, 1963 62 years ago
An Anglo-American economist, contributed significantly to the field of industrial organization and applied microeconomics. Worked extensively on issues related to market structure, firm behavior, and the economics of R&D. Served as a professor at various academic institutions, including University College London. Played a prominent role in shaping economic policies and strategies through research and collaboration with both government bodies and private enterprises.
Continue ReadingStuart Bell
English lawyer and politician
Born
May 16th, 1938 87 years ago
Died
October 13th, 2012 13 years ago — 74 years old
Elected to Parliament as a Labour member, served as the representative for Middlesbrough since 1983. Played a significant role in legal matters and local governance. Took part in various parliamentary committees and advocated for community issues throughout tenure. Retired in 2012 after nearly three decades in politics.
Continue ReadingYvonne Craig
Ballet dancer and actress in TV series
Born
May 16th, 1937 88 years ago
Died
August 17th, 2015 10 years ago — 78 years old
Initiated a career as a ballet dancer, performing with prestigious ballet companies. Transitioned to acting and gained recognition for roles in television, particularly as Batgirl in the series 'Batman' during the 1960s. Appeared in films such as 'The Gene Krupa Story' and 'Mars Needs Women'. Also contributed to the arts as a choreographer for various productions.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on December 8th
Dimebag Darrell
Guitarist for Pantera and Damageplan
Born
August 20th, 1966 59 years ago
Died
December 8th, 2004 21 years ago — 38 years old
Renowned as a guitarist and songwriter, played a significant role in shaping heavy metal music. Co-founded the band Pantera, which became a prominent figure in the 1990s heavy metal scene. The band's albums, including 'Vulgar Display of Power' and 'Far Beyond Driven', achieved critical and commercial success. After Pantera disbanded, formed Damageplan, further showcasing guitar skills. Recognized for aggressive playing style and innovative techniques, influenced many guitarists. His career was tragically cut short in 2004.
Continue ReadingWilliam Shawn
Journalist and editor of The New Yorker
Born
August 31st, 1907 118 years ago
Died
December 8th, 1992 33 years ago — 85 years old
A prominent journalist and editor, this individual led The New Yorker for over 35 years, shaping its editorial voice and content. Under this leadership, the magazine grew in prominence as a platform for literary and journalistic excellence. This individual prioritized serious journalism and showcased the works of numerous writers and artists, establishing a space for critical and cultural commentary. Renowned for commitment to editorial integrity, the editorial policies emphasized in-depth reporting and narrative storytelling.
Continue ReadingElizabeth Charlotte
Princess Palatine of Germany
Born
May 27th, 1652 373 years ago
Died
December 8th, 1722 303 years ago — 70 years old
Born in 1652, a princess of the Palatinate, she became the Duchesse of Orléans through marriage. She served as a key figure at the French court, known for her correspondence with prominent intellectuals and politicians of the time. Elizabeth Charlotte's letters provide significant insights into the culture and politics of 17th-century France. Her life unfolded during the reign of Louis XIV, where she navigated the complexities of court life and familial duties.
Continue ReadingGolda Meir
Israeli politician and Prime Minister
Born
May 3rd, 1898 127 years ago
Died
December 8th, 1978 47 years ago — 80 years old
Born in Ukraine, became a prominent politician in Israel. Worked in various capacities within the Israeli government, eventually serving as the fourth Prime Minister from 1969 to 1974. Played a significant role in the 1973 Yom Kippur War and was a key figure in the development of the state of Israel. Advocated for social welfare and the rights of Jews worldwide. Instrumental in fundraising efforts for the country during its early years, emphasizing the need for security and stability.
Continue ReadingOliver Postgate
Animator and puppeteer for children's TV
Born
April 12th, 1925 100 years ago
Died
December 8th, 2008 17 years ago — 83 years old
An English animator and puppeteer, contributed significantly to children's television. Developed the iconic series Bagpuss and Noggin the Nog, which became staples of British children's programming. Utilized a unique stop-motion animation technique using puppets and models. Collaborated with Peter Firmin to create a distinctive visual style that defined many of the productions.
Continue ReadingLuther Adler
American actor in classic films
Born
May 4th, 1903 122 years ago
Died
December 8th, 1984 41 years ago — 81 years old
Debuted on Broadway in the 1920s and became a prominent figure in theater and film. Had a significant role in the 1951 film adaptation of 'The Great Gatsby'. Contributed to numerous productions throughout his career, including stage performances in 'The Brothers Karamazov'. Worked extensively in television, including a notable performance in 'The Edge of Night'.
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