Posy Simmonds
English author and illustrator of comics
An author and illustrator whose work includes comic strips, books, and graphic novels. Illustrated weekly strips for The Guardian, showcasing a unique blend of wit and insight into contemporary life. Created characters such as Gemma Bovery and Tamara Drewe, both of which gained critical acclaim and were adapted into films. Simmonds' illustrative style combines detailed drawings with sharp social commentary.
Created Gemma Bovery, adapted into a film
Illustrated Tamara Drewe, adapted into a film
Other People Born on August 9th
Johannes Cocceius
Theologian and biblical scholar
Born
August 9th, 1603 422 years ago
Died
November 4th, 1669 356 years ago — 66 years old
Contributions to Reformed theology marked scholarly discourse in the 17th century. Focused on a covenant theology framework, integrating biblical exegesis with historical-critical methods. Served as a professor at the University of Franeker, where lectures shaped theological education. Authored significant works, influencing subsequent generations of theologians and scholars in the Reformed tradition.
Continue ReadingNitin Chandrakant Desai
Art director for Indian cinema and television
Born
August 9th, 1965 60 years ago
Died
August 2nd, 2023 2 years ago — 57 years old
An art director and production designer, has worked extensively in Indian cinema and television. Created sets for numerous popular films and television series, contributing to the visual storytelling of the medium. Played a significant role in films like 'Lagaan' and 'Devdas', both of which received critical acclaim and numerous awards. Also produced television shows that gained considerable viewership and appreciation for their production quality.
Continue ReadingAmedeo Avogadro
Italian physicist and chemist, Avogadro's Law
Born
August 9th, 1776 249 years ago
Died
July 9th, 1856 169 years ago — 79 years old
Amedeo Avogadro contributed significantly to the field of molecular theory and chemistry. Born in Italy, he formulated Avogadro's Law, which states that equal volumes of gases, at the same temperature and pressure, contain an equal number of molecules. This principle played a crucial role in the development of modern atomic theory. He also introduced the concept of the mole, establishing a connection between the number of particles in a substance and its mass. His work laid the groundwork for future discoveries in physical chemistry and molecular science.
Continue ReadingEino Kaila
Finnish philosopher and psychologist
Born
August 9th, 1890 135 years ago
Died
July 31st, 1958 67 years ago — 67 years old
Philosopher and psychologist contributed to the development of logical positivism and scientific philosophy. Attended the Vienna Circle, engaging with notable thinkers of the early 20th century. His work bridged philosophy and empirical science, influencing the study of language and knowledge. Held various academic positions and wrote extensively on psychological theories. Emphasized the importance of empirical evidence in philosophical discourse.
Continue ReadingThomas Telford
Scottish engineer, designed Menai Bridge
Born
August 9th, 1757 268 years ago
Died
September 2nd, 1834 191 years ago — 77 years old
An engineer and architect, specialized in civil engineering. Worked on numerous infrastructure projects in the early 19th century. Designed the Menai Suspension Bridge, which connected Anglesey to mainland Wales and remains an engineering marvel. Contributed to the development of roads, canals, and railways across Britain. Served as the surveyor of public works for the county of Herefordshire, impacting transportation in the region.
Continue ReadingFrancesco Cetti
Italian zoologist and mathematician
Born
August 9th, 1726 299 years ago
Died
November 20th, 1778 247 years ago — 52 years old
Contributed to zoology and mathematics during the 18th century. Served as a priest while conducting research in the natural sciences. Published significant work in the field of zoology, including studies on vertebrates. Developed early methodologies in mathematical analysis that influenced later scientific inquiry.
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