Samuel Bentham
English engineer and architect
An engineer and architect from England, contributed significantly to naval architecture and engineering. Established a notable career in the design of innovative machinery and infrastructure. Worked with the British government on various engineering projects. Involved in the development of new techniques in shipbuilding and infrastructure, influencing the practices of the time.
Developed designs for naval ships
Contributed to the construction of the Portsmouth Dockyard
Introduced new engineering methods in shipbuilding
Other People Born on January 11th
Oliver Wolcott Jr.
American politician and Treasury Secretary
Born
January 11th, 1760 265 years ago
Died
June 1st, 1833 192 years ago — 73 years old
A lawyer and politician, held the office of the 2nd Secretary of the Treasury from 1795 to 1800. Served as the 24th Governor of Connecticut from 1817 to 1827. Played a significant role in state and federal finances, contributing to the early economic framework of the United States. Participated in the Revolutionary War, supporting American independence and governance post-war. Engaged in state politics throughout the late 18th and early 19th centuries, shaping fiscal policies that influenced future administrations.
Continue ReadingJerome Bixby
American author and screenwriter of sci-fi
Born
January 11th, 1923 102 years ago
Died
April 28th, 1998 27 years ago — 75 years old
An influential author and screenwriter contributed significantly to science fiction through works in both film and literature. Wrote episodes for the original 'Star Trek' series, including the notable episode 'Mirror, Mirror'. Authored the short story 'It's a Good Life', adapted into an episode of 'The Twilight Zone'. Worked on the screenplay for 'Fantastic Voyage', which became a classic of the genre. His creative influences extended to the broader cultural landscape, impacting generations of sci-fi writers and fans.
Continue ReadingGrant Tinker
Television producer, co-founder of MTM Enterprises
Born
January 11th, 1925 100 years ago
Died
2016 9 years ago — 91 years old
Co-founded MTM Enterprises, a television production company recognized for creating successful television series. Played an instrumental role in developing popular shows such as 'The Mary Tyler Moore Show' and 'The Bob Newhart Show'. Tinker served as chairman and CEO of NBC from 1973 to 1978, a period marked by significant ratings growth and the introduction of innovative programming. After leaving NBC, continued to produce television content, contributing to the landscape of American television.
Continue ReadingAnders Borg
Swedish economist and Minister for Finance
Born
January 11th, 1968 57 years ago
An economist and politician served as the Swedish Minister for Finance from 2006 to 2014. During this tenure, implemented various fiscal policies that contributed to economic stability and growth in Sweden. Played a significant role in managing the country's finances during the European debt crisis, advocating for reforms to strengthen the welfare state while maintaining fiscal responsibility. Worked on tax reforms and adjustments in budgetary practices to enhance economic competitiveness.
Continue ReadingEzra Cornell
Businessman, founder of Cornell University
Born
January 11th, 1807 218 years ago
Died
1874 151 years ago — 67 years old
An American businessman and philanthropist established Western Union and Cornell University. The university was named after him and he served as its first trustee. In the 1850s, a revolution in telegraphy occurred, and he played a crucial role in its advancement, serving as a co-founder of the entities that would become known as Western Union. His philanthropic efforts focused on education, and he dedicated significant resources to the establishment of the university, ensuring it provided a broad and practical education.
Continue ReadingBrandon Wakeham
Rugby league player, Canterbury Bulldogs
Born
January 11th, 1999 26 years ago
Born in 1999, this Australian-Fijian rugby league player gained recognition while playing for the Canterbury Bulldogs in the National Rugby League (NRL). Initially coming through the ranks at the Bulldogs, he made his first-grade debut and played primarily as a halfback. His playing style showcased agility and tactical awareness on the field, contributing to his team's strategies during matches. Over the years, he developed into a pivotal player for the Bulldogs, influencing games with his skillful play and determination.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on May 31st
Lewis Katz
Businessman and philanthropist
Born
1942 83 years ago
Died
May 31st, 2014 11 years ago — 72 years old
A prominent American businessman and philanthropist, contributed to various industries and causes throughout his career. Co-founded the New Jersey Nets and played a pivotal role in the team's relocation to Brooklyn, becoming one of the NFL's significant players in the business aspect of sports. Invested in a wide range of enterprises, including media, real estate, and aviation. Made substantial philanthropic contributions, particularly in education and healthcare, including significant donations to Temple University. Passed away in an airplane crash in 2014.
Continue ReadingJonas Bevacqua
Fashion Designer, co-founder of LRG
Born
1977 48 years ago
Died
May 31st, 2011 14 years ago — 34 years old
A fashion designer co-founded the Lifted Research Group (LRG) in 1999, focusing on streetwear that merged skate and hip-hop culture. LRG gained recognition for its innovative designs and collaborations, establishing a strong presence in the urban fashion scene. The brand became popular among celebrities and athletes, embodying a unique style that appealed to a youth audience. Over the years, LRG expanded its reach globally, contributing significantly to the streetwear market. The brand's success rested on its authentic representation of the culture it emerged from, and it maintained a loyal customer base until its challenges in the competitive fashion industry.
Continue ReadingPauline Betz
Tennis player, 1942 U.S. Open champion
Born
August 6th, 1919 106 years ago
Died
May 31st, 2011 14 years ago — 91 years old
Achieved significant success in tennis during the 1940s. Won the U.S. Women's Singles Championship in 1942. Achieved a high ranking of World No. 1. Represented the United States in international competition and contributed to the popularity of women's tennis during that era. After retirement, remained involved in the sport through coaching and mentoring.
Continue ReadingHans Keilson
Psychoanalyst and author of 'The Death of the Adversary'
Born
1909 116 years ago
Died
May 31st, 2011 14 years ago — 102 years old
Born in 1909, a German-Dutch psychoanalyst and author focused on the psychological effects of trauma and persecution. Emigrated to the Netherlands in 1936 due to the rise of the Nazi regime. His experiences as a Jewish refugee informed his work, particularly in relation to themes of survival and human resilience. Keilson developed significant theories on the psychological ramifications of living in a hostile environment and contributed to the understanding of trauma in literature and psychoanalysis. In addition to his clinical practice, he wrote several notable works highlighting these themes, with 'The Death of the Adversary' gaining recognition for its exploration of moral conflict and existential struggle. Keilson continued to write and publish until his later years, contributing to both literary and psychoanalytic discussions.
Continue ReadingOrlando Woolridge
Basketball player and coach, NBA veteran
Born
1959 66 years ago
Died
May 31st, 2012 13 years ago — 53 years old
A professional basketball player and coach contributed significantly to the sport. Played college basketball at Notre Dame before being selected by the Chicago Bulls in the 1981 NBA Draft. Played as a forward for multiple teams, including the New Jersey Nets and the Los Angeles Lakers. Known for a scoring ability and athleticism throughout a career that spanned over a decade. Transitioned into coaching after retirement from playing, guiding teams in various capacities. His contributions to the game continue to be recognized within the basketball community.
Continue ReadingElizabeth Blackwell
Pioneer female physician and educator
Born
February 3rd, 1821 204 years ago
Died
May 31st, 1910 115 years ago — 89 years old
First woman to receive a medical degree in the United States, completing studies at Geneva Medical College in 1849. Founded the New York Infirmary for Women and Children in 1857, which provided medical care and education. Authored several books on medicine and health, contributing to medical education and public health.
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