Percy Shaw

Inventor of the cat's eye

Percy Shaw - Inventor of the cat's eye
Born

April 15th, 1890
135 years ago

Died

1976
49 years ago — 86 years old

Category

Scientists & Innovators

Country

United Kingdom

Links & References

An English businessman developed a reflective road safety device that improved visibility for drivers at night. The device, called the cat's eye, consisted of a pair of reflective lenses mounted in a rubber housing. This invention increased road safety and gained widespread adoption in the UK and beyond. Originally patented in the 1930s, the cat's eye significantly reduced accidents by enhancing lane visibility during low-light conditions. Shaw's company continued to produce cat's eyes for decades.

Invented the cat's eye in 1934

Founded the company Reflecting Road Studs Ltd

Other People Born on April 15th

Kim Min-kyo

South Korean actor and director
Born
April 15th, 1974 51 years ago

Born on April 15, 1974, this individual achieved prominence in the South Korean entertainment industry. The career includes notable performances in television and cinema, with a directing credit in addition to acting. The individual starred in popular television series such as 'Kiss Me' and 'Wonderful Life'. As a director, the individual worked on several projects that showcased unique storytelling and artistry.

Continue Reading

Elmer Gedeon

Baseball player and bomber pilot
Born
April 15th, 1917 108 years ago
Died
April 20th, 1944 81 years ago — 27 years old

An American baseball player and bomber pilot, played for the Washington Senators in Major League Baseball. After his baseball career, served as a pilot in the United States Army Air Forces during World War II. Gedeon was killed in action in 1944, becoming one of the few professional athletes to lose their life in the conflict.

Continue Reading

Stanley Bruce

Australian Prime Minister and politician
Born
April 15th, 1883 142 years ago
Died
August 25th, 1967 58 years ago — 84 years old

Served as the 8th Prime Minister of Australia from 1923 to 1929. Focused on economic development and infrastructural improvements during tenure. Advocated for closer ties between Australia and Great Britain. Contributed to the establishment of the National Health and Medical Research Council and played a role in various social reforms. Served in the Australian Senate after his prime ministerial term, representing the United Australia Party.

Continue Reading

Guru Arjan Dev

Fifth Sikh Guru and spiritual leader
Born
April 15th, 1563 462 years ago
Died
May 30th, 1606 419 years ago — 43 years old

Born in 1563, served as the fifth Guru of Sikhism from 1581 until 1606. Compiled the Adi Granth, the holy scripture of Sikhism, which included hymns by several Sikh Gurus and other saints. Focused on community service, established the city of Amritsar, and oversaw the construction of the Golden Temple. Promoted the principles of equality, compassion, and devotion.

Continue Reading

Pietro Cataldi

Italian mathematician and astronomer
Born
April 15th, 1552 473 years ago
Died
February 11th, 1626 399 years ago — 73 years old

Contributed to mathematics and astronomy during the Renaissance. Developed the theory of proportionality and made advancements in astronomical calculations. Emphasized the importance of geometrical principles in mathematical study. Published significant works that influenced later scholars in the field of mathematics.

Continue Reading

Émile Durkheim

French sociologist and philosopher
Born
April 15th, 1858 167 years ago
Died
November 15th, 1917 107 years ago — 59 years old

A foundational figure in sociology and social psychology, contributed significantly to the establishment of sociology as a formal discipline. Developed theories on social order, structures, and functions within society. Introduced concepts such as anomie and collective consciousness. Published key works including 'The Division of Labor in Society', 'Suicide', and 'The Elementary Forms of Religious Life'. Helped to shape the methods of sociological study, emphasizing the importance of empirical research and statistical analysis.

Continue Reading