Rafael Bombelli

Italian mathematician, algebraic pioneer

Rafael Bombelli - Italian mathematician, algebraic pioneer
Born

January 20th, 1526
499 years ago

Died

1572
453 years ago — 46 years old

Category

Thinkers & Philosophers

Country

Italy

Links & References

Born in Italy in 1526, contributions to mathematics included the development of algebra. Authored 'L Algebra', which laid foundational concepts and operations for complex numbers. Focused on manipulating equations and introduced methods for solving polynomial equations, advancing the discipline significantly during the Renaissance. His work prioritized systematic approaches to calculation, enhancing algebraic procedures and notation.

Authored 'L Algebra' in 1572

Developed rules for operations with complex numbers

Pioneered algebraic notation and equation solving

Other People Born on January 20th

Thorleif Schjelderup

Norwegian ski jumper and Olympic champion
Born
January 20th, 1920 105 years ago
Died
May 28th, 2006 19 years ago — 86 years old

Competed in ski jumping, winning a gold medal at the 1948 St. Moritz Olympics in the large hill event. Authored books on skiing and the sport's techniques, contributing to the literature of winter sports. Continued involvement in skiing beyond competition years, promoting the sport's development in Norway.

Continue Reading

Jeffrey Epstein

Financier and convicted sex offender
Born
January 20th, 1953 72 years ago
Died
August 10th, 2019 6 years ago — 66 years old

Engaged in financial consulting and investment management during the 1980s and 1990s. Managed a hedge fund and developed a network of high-profile connections. Faced legal issues related to sexual offenses, including a conviction in 2008 for soliciting a minor for prostitution. Arrested again in 2019 on federal charges of sex trafficking minors. Died in custody in 2019.

Continue Reading

Juan García Esquivel

Pianist and composer of exotic lounge music
Born
January 20th, 1918 107 years ago
Died
2002 23 years ago — 84 years old

A Mexican pianist, composer, and bandleader who pioneered the genre of Exotica music. Developed a unique sound by blending traditional Latin music with jazz and pop elements. Gained popularity in the 1950s through innovative arrangements and use of studio techniques. His albums, particularly 'Other Worlds' and 'Esquivel! In a Little Black Book', showcased an experimental approach to music that incorporated playful and lush orchestration. Achieved a resurgence in popularity in the 1990s due to a revival of interest in mid-century pop culture and music, leading to renewed appreciation for his work.

Continue Reading

Nick Foles

American football quarterback, Super Bowl MVP
Born
January 20th, 1989 36 years ago

Played as a quarterback in the National Football League (NFL). Foles started his career with the Philadelphia Eagles, where he gained recognition for his performance during the 2013 season, finishing with 27 touchdown passes and a passer rating of 119.2. He returned to the Eagles in 2017 and led the team to victory in Super Bowl LII, earning the Super Bowl MVP award for his efforts, which included throwing for 373 yards and three touchdowns. Foles also had stints with other teams, including the St. Louis Rams, Kansas City Chiefs, and Chicago Bears.

Continue Reading

Giovanni Vincenzo Gravina

Italian lawyer and jurist, legal scholar
Born
January 20th, 1664 361 years ago
Died
January 6th, 1718 307 years ago — 53 years old

Contributed significantly to the field of law through writings and legal theory. Focused on civil law and its applications, emphasizing the importance of legal certainty and the role of custom in law. Engaged in scholarly debates on the nature of law and ethics, influencing future generations of legal thinkers. Served as a professor of law, disseminating knowledge and shaping legal education in Italy during the early 18th century.

Continue Reading

Jack Lewis

American soldier and author
Born
January 20th, 1964 61 years ago

Served as a soldier in the United States military. Authored several books that reflect on military experiences and personal insights related to service. Focused on the complexities of war and personal growth through difficult situations. Engaged in discussions about the moral implications of military decisions and the psychological effects of combat.

Continue Reading