Simon Newcomb
Canadian-American astronomer and mathematician
An influential astronomer and mathematician, contributions spanned astronomy, mathematics, and predictive calculations for celestial phenomena. Played a significant role in the development of modern astronomical methods and collaborated with various scientific institutions. Served as director of the Nautical Almanac Office and published several works including extensive tables of planetary motion. Major contributions to the field included work on the theory of the orbits of comets and an extensive study of the measurements of stellar parallax.
Authored the Newcomb's Tables of the Sun
Contributed to the establishment of the International Astronomical Union
Other People Born on March 12th
Myrna Fahey
Actress known for 'The Ghost of Sierra de Cobre'
Born
March 12th, 1933 92 years ago
Died
1973 52 years ago — 40 years old
Born in 1933, an American actress gained recognition for roles in film and television. Began career in the 1950s, appearing in various television series. Gained significant attention for performances in 'The Ghost of Sierra de Cobre' and 'The Twilight Zone'. Also had roles in shows like 'The Rebel' and 'The Wild Wild West'. Actively worked in the entertainment industry until the 1970s, leaving a legacy of memorable characters.
Continue ReadingRatko Mladić
Serbian general during the Bosnian War
Born
March 12th, 1943 82 years ago
Served as a general in the Army of Republika Srpska during the Bosnian War from 1992 to 1995. Led military operations that contributed to the Siege of Sarajevo and the Srebrenica massacre. Played a significant role in the strategic planning and execution of military campaigns, which were marked by significant violence and human rights violations. After the war, was indicted for war crimes and crimes against humanity, leading to a long period of evasion before his arrest in 2011. Convicted for genocide and other war crimes by the International Criminal Tribunal for the former Yugoslavia in 2017.
Continue ReadingVladimir Msryan
Armenian actor in film and television
Born
March 12th, 1938 87 years ago
Died
2010 15 years ago — 72 years old
An actor, notable for contributions to Armenian cinema and television. Participated in numerous film productions and television series. Gained recognition for performances that resonated with audiences in Armenia and beyond. Worked with various prominent directors in the industry and contributed to the development of Armenian performing arts.
Continue ReadingMichał Heller
Polish professor of philosophy
Born
March 12th, 1936 89 years ago
A prominent philosopher and cosmologist who contributed to the philosophy of science. Focused on the interplay between philosophy and physics, exploring topics such as cosmology and the implications of contemporary scientific theories. Served as a professor at the Jesuit University of Philosophy and Education in Kraków. Authored numerous books addressing metaphysical questions and the conceptual foundations of modern science.
Continue ReadingJohnny Rutherford
Race Car Driver and Sportscaster
Born
March 12th, 1938 87 years ago
An American race car driver and sportscaster. Competed in the Indianapolis 500 multiple times, securing victories in 1974 and 1976. Achieved notable success in open-wheel racing and participated in various championships during the career. Transitioned to a career in motorsport broadcasting after retiring from racing, providing insights and commentary on various racing events.
Continue ReadingAl Jarreau
American jazz and R&B singer
Born
March 12th, 1940 85 years ago
Died
February 12th, 2017 8 years ago — 76 years old
A celebrated singer, his career spanned several decades, blending jazz, pop, and R&B. He gained prominence in the 1970s with a unique vocal style, utilizing scat singing and wind instruments. His first major album, 'We Got By,' was released in 1975. Throughout his career, multiple Grammy Awards were won, highlighting excellence in jazz, pop, and R&B categories. Jarreau also performed a memorable theme song for the television series 'Moonlighting,' which contributed to his recognition. His ability to adapt to various musical genres while retaining a distinct sound contributed to his legacy as a versatile performer.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on July 11th
Bill McGill
Basketball player with Chicago Bulls
Born
September 16th, 1939 86 years ago
Died
July 11th, 2014 11 years ago — 74 years old
Played professional basketball in the 1960s and 1970s. Competed in the NBA, primarily with the Chicago Bulls. Also had stints in the ABA and overseas. Achieved success at the collegiate level, playing for the University of Utah before entering the professional ranks. Notable for scoring ability and rebounding skill during his playing career.
Continue ReadingHelen Forrest
American singer and actress
Born
April 12th, 1917 108 years ago
Died
July 11th, 1999 26 years ago — 82 years old
A prominent figure in the world of music and film, this individual achieved significant recognition as a vocalist in the big band era, particularly with the Artie Shaw and Woody Herman orchestras. Known for a smooth, emotive singing style, her contributions to popular music include memorable recordings in the 1940s. Highlights include collaborations with renowned artists and performances in films, capturing the spirit of the era. Her versatility as both a singer and actress allowed her to engage audiences across various platforms, from radio to concert stages.
Continue ReadingOlga of Kiev
Regent of Kievan Rus and diplomat
Died
July 11th, 969 1056 years ago — None years old
Ruled as regent for her son after the death of her husband, Igor of Kiev. Implemented significant administrative reforms and influenced the expansion of Christianity within Kievan Rus. Conducted diplomatic missions, notably to the Byzantine Empire. Her leadership strengthened the state and set a foundation for future rulers.
Continue ReadingRobert Runcie
Archbishop and religious leader
Born
October 2nd, 1921 104 years ago
Died
July 11th, 2000 25 years ago — 78 years old
Served as the Archbishop of Canterbury from 1980 to 1991. Runcie played a key role in addressing issues within the Church of England and became an influential figure in the Anglican Communion. He engaged in dialogues on social justice, interfaith relations, and the role of the church in modern society. His tenure included significant events such as the ordination of women as priests, a topic which generated considerable discussion within the church. Runcie advocated for peace during the Cold War and sought ecumenical relationships among different Christian denominations. His leadership emphasized pastoral care and the importance of faith in public life.
Continue ReadingMichael E. DeBakey
Heart surgeon and medical innovator
Born
September 7th, 1908 117 years ago
Died
July 11th, 2008 17 years ago — 99 years old
A prominent American surgeon and educator, contributions included advancements in cardiovascular surgery and medical education. Developed the first successful coronary artery bypass graft procedure and played a key role in the development of the ventricular assist device. Served as a professor of surgery and held several leadership positions in various medical institutions. Involved in military surgery during World War II, contributing to surgical techniques in trauma care.
Continue ReadingEd Mirvish
Businessman and philanthropist
Born
July 24th, 1914 111 years ago
Died
July 11th, 2007 18 years ago — 92 years old
Established a successful chain of theaters in Toronto and played a crucial role in the cultural landscape of the city. Founded the Mirvish Productions, which became Canada's largest theatre company. Demonstrated a commitment to philanthropy through the Mirvish family foundation, supporting various causes in the arts and heritage preservation. Advocated for the preservation of historic buildings in Toronto, most notably the Old Vic Theatre's revival.
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