Paul Collier
Economist specializing in development theory
An economist focused on the economics of developing countries. Served as the director of the Centre for the Study of African Economies at the University of Oxford. Authored several influential books, including 'The Bottom Billion' that addresses the challenges faced by the poorest countries. Contributed to policy discussions on international development and poverty alleviation, engaging with various institutions such as the World Bank and the United Nations. Played a pivotal role in promoting economic strategies that prioritize growth in low-income nations.
Authored 'The Bottom Billion'
Directed the Centre for the Study of African Economies
Other People Born on April 23rd
James Anthony Froude
Historian, novelist, and biographer
Born
April 23rd, 1818 207 years ago
Died
October 20th, 1894 131 years ago — 76 years old
Born in England, contributed significantly to historical literature. Education at Oxford shaped analytical skills and understanding of history. Edited the 'Fraser's Magazine' and published several works, including 'History of England' and a biography of Thomas Carlyle. Engaged in discussions and controversies surrounding historical interpretation. Attended many intellectual gatherings, influencing literary and historical discourse in Victorian England.
Continue ReadingAfonso II of Portugal
King of Portugal and organizer of the kingdom
Born
April 23rd, 1185 840 years ago
Died
1223 803 years ago — 38 years old
Ruled as King of Portugal from 1211 to 1223. Focused on consolidating royal authority and improving administrative structures. Known for issuing significant legal reforms and establishing the earliest known royal charters for towns. His reign faced challenges from his barons and external forces, leading to periods of conflict. In 1215, initiated the first Portuguese charter for city governance, promoting local autonomy. Attempts to strengthen the monarchy included military campaigns against the Moors in the south and the consolidation of territory in the region of the modern-day Algarve.
Continue ReadingWei Yuan
Chinese scholar and author of influential works
Born
April 23rd, 1794 231 years ago
Died
1856 170 years ago — 62 years old
Born in 1794, a significant scholar in the Qing dynasty, contributed to the ideological discourse of the time. Focused on historical geography and foreign relations, emphasized the importance of understanding Western powers. Authored notable works including 'A Draft for the Study of Modern Maritime Powers', which served as a pioneering analysis of Western imperialism. Played a critical role in shaping Chinese intellectual thought regarding modernization and reform.
Continue ReadingThomas Romney Robinson
Astronomer and physicist with noted works
Born
April 23rd, 1792 233 years ago
Died
1882 144 years ago — 90 years old
Contributions included advancements in observational astronomy and experiments in terrestrial physics. Served as the first Director of the Armagh Observatory in Ireland, a position held from 1823 until 1882, impacting astronomical studies. Developed significant meteorological instruments and undertook various studies related to atmospheric phenomena. Actively published research in various scientific journals during the 19th century, aiding the dissemination of knowledge in astronomy and physics.
Continue ReadingKarel Doorman
Dutch admiral during World War II
Born
April 23rd, 1889 136 years ago
Died
1942 84 years ago — 53 years old
Served as an admiral in the Royal Netherlands Navy during World War II. Commanded the naval forces of the Netherlands East Indies and played a crucial role in the Battle of the Java Sea. Known for leadership and strategic naval operations against Japanese forces. Emphasized the importance of naval power in protecting Dutch interests during the conflict. He died in action in 1942, becoming a symbol of Dutch naval bravery.
Continue ReadingGranville Woods
Inventor and engineer of electrical devices
Born
April 23rd, 1856 169 years ago
Died
1910 116 years ago — 54 years old
Granville Woods was an American inventor and electrical engineer. His innovations primarily focused on railway systems, communication, and electrical devices. One significant invention was the multiplex telegraph, which allowed multiple messages to be sent over a single wire. He held over 60 patents throughout his career. Woods founded the Woods Electric Company and contributed to advancements in electrical systems and trains. His work improved the safety and efficiency of rail travel in the late 19th century.
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