Sir John Fowler
English engineer and civil engineer
English engineer and civil engineer
Scientists & Innovators
United Kingdom
An English engineer and civil engineer contributed significantly to railway construction and engineering projects in the 19th century. Instrumental in the introduction of the deep-level underground railway system in London, which became a model for cities globally. Played a major role in the design and construction of the Metropolitan Railway, the world's first underground railway, which began operations in 1863. Also involved in the design works for numerous railway lines in Great Britain and contributed to the marketing of progressive engineering techniques.
Designed the Metropolitan Railway in London
Advocated for deep-level underground railways
Served as the 44th President of Argentina from March to June 1982. Commanded the Argentine Army during the Falklands War against the United Kingdom. Implemented policies during a time of economic turmoil and military rule. Resigned after the defeat in the Falklands, which led to the transition to democracy in Argentina.
Continue ReadingBorn in Algeria, this philosopher contributed significantly to literary theory and philosophy. He developed the concept of deconstruction, which critiques the relationship between text and meaning, challenging traditional interpretations. Teaching at various institutions, including the École Normale Supérieure in Paris, he influenced a wide range of disciplines. Major works include "Of Grammatology" and "Writing and Difference," which established his reputation in post-structuralist thought. His ideas have permeated various fields, including law, architecture, and feminist theory.
Continue ReadingEngaged in political activism advocating for Irish independence. Participated in the hunger strikes in 1920s Ireland, which drew attention to the plight of political prisoners. Died on hunger strike in 1923, symbolizing the struggle for Irish freedom and bringing awareness to the cause.
Continue ReadingServed as a soldier and politician, holding significant positions in the German government. Played a key role in the Free Democratic Party (FDP), rising to national prominence during his tenure. Served as Vice-Chancellor from 1998 to 1999, contributing to the coalition government during a critical period in German politics. Shifted from military service to political life, impacting both domestic and foreign policy discussions.
Continue ReadingAn author, poet, and educator, contributions include the well-loved poem 'A Visit from St. Nicholas,' commonly known as 'Twas the Night Before Christmas.' This poem has been published in numerous collections, becoming a traditional part of Christmas celebrations. Apart from literary work, engaged in education and wrote on various topics, including theology and philanthropy. Served as a professor at the General Theological Seminary in New York City, where he influenced many students and contributed to the theological curriculum.
Continue ReadingServed as the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs from 2007 to 2010. Represented the Labour Party as the Member of Parliament for South Shields from 2001 to 2013. Played a key role in the Labour government during its third term. Contributed to international discussions and policy, including significant involvement in the response to global crises.
Continue ReadingContributed 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.
Continue ReadingContributed significantly to the fields of physics and electricity. Developed the Hall effect, which describes the behavior of electric charges in a conductor subjected to a magnetic field. This phenomenon has important applications in solid-state physics and engineering. Served as a professor at Harvard University and published extensively on the properties of magnetic fields and electric currents. Made notable contributions to understanding the effects of magnetic fields on semiconductors.
Continue ReadingA courtier and author writing during the late 16th and early 17th centuries. Harington served at the court of Queen Elizabeth I and was known for his satirical poetry and translations. He created the first flushing toilet in England, which he referred to as the 'Ajax' and published a notable work titled 'A New Discourse of a Stale Subject'. His literary contributions included poems and works that featured a blend of humor and social commentary.
Continue ReadingA prominent French painter active in the 19th century, gained recognition for portraits and historical scenes. Studied at the École des Beaux-Arts and exhibited at the Salon, attracting attention for contributions to the avant-garde art movement. Worked mainly in oil on canvas, focusing on figurative works. Cogniet's artistic style combined neoclassical elements with realism, exemplifying the transition between these movements. Later became a professor at the École des Beaux-Arts, influencing a new generation of artists.
Continue ReadingBorn in 1872, contributions to cosmology established a foundation for modern astronomical theory. Developed models that described the universe's structure and behavior. His work on general relativity led to significant insights in the field of theoretical physics. In addition, served as the president of the Royal Netherlands Academy of Arts and Sciences, influencing scientific research in the Netherlands. Recognized for the de Sitter space, which became essential for understanding cosmic phenomena.
Continue ReadingA Swedish chemist contributed significantly to physical chemistry, particularly in the field of chemical kinetics and the theory of electrolytic dissociation. Developed the concept of the Arrhenius equation, which describes the temperature dependence of reaction rates. Pioneered work in physical chemistry that laid the foundation for many modern chemical principles. Received the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1903 for discoveries related to electrolytic dissociation.
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