Srinivasa Ramanujan
Indian mathematician and theorist
An Indian mathematician made significant contributions to mathematical analysis, number theory, infinite series, and continued fractions. Ramanujan developed several breakthrough concepts, including the Ramanujan prime and the Ramanujan-Hardy number. He collaborated with British mathematician G. H. Hardy at Cambridge, where his innovative ideas were recognized and further explored. Despite limited formal training, Ramanujan's work laid the foundation for many future advances in mathematics.
Developed the concept of Ramanujan primes
Contributed to the Ramanujan-Hardy number
Worked extensively on partition theory
Other People Born on December 22nd
Lynne Thigpen
Actress known for 'Reading Rainbow'
Born
December 22nd, 1948 77 years ago
Died
March 12th, 2003 22 years ago — 54 years old
An American actress and singer, gained recognition for roles in theater, television, and film. Most notable role was as the teacher on the PBS children's program 'Reading Rainbow'. Appeared in various productions, showcasing talents in both acting and music. Received significant acclaim for her performances. Contributed to the entertainment industry with a career that spanned several decades.
Continue ReadingGisela Birkemeyer
German Hurdler and Coach
Born
December 22nd, 1931 94 years ago
Died
2024 2 years ago — 93 years old
Competed in hurdles on an international level during the mid-20th century. Represented Germany in the 1952 Helsinki Olympics. Achieved notable success as a coach after retiring from competitive athletics, developing training programs for future athletes. Contributed to the sport through coaching roles at various clubs and institutions.
Continue ReadingRoger II of Sicily
King of Sicily, established a kingdom
Born
December 22nd, 1095 930 years ago
Died
February 26th, 1154 871 years ago — 58 years old
Ruled from 1130 to 1154, this individual unified Sicily under a single kingdom, establishing a centralized and prosperous realm. Through military campaigns, expanded territory in Southern Italy and North Africa. Promoted a culture of tolerance and intellectual exchange, blending Arabic and Latin influences in governance and arts. The royal court attracted scholars and poets, fostering advancements in science and philosophy. Actively supported trade, leading to economic growth in the region. The individual consolidated power through strategic marriages and alliances throughout Europe.
Continue ReadingHermann Samuel Reimarus
German philosopher and author of works
Born
December 22nd, 1694 331 years ago
Died
March 1st, 1768 257 years ago — 73 years old
A German philosopher and author contributed significantly to the Enlightenment era. Best recognized for the critique of religious beliefs and the historical analysis of Jesus' life through works such as 'Apologie oder Schutzschrift für die vernünftigen Verehrer Gottes.' Reimarus aimed to reconcile faith and reason, questioning traditional theological dogmas. His posthumously published writings laid foundational ideas for biblical criticism and the historical-critical method, influencing later thinkers. He engaged in philosophical debates of his time, focusing on ethics and epistemology.
Continue ReadingJean-Michel Basquiat
Influential American painter and poet
Born
December 22nd, 1960 65 years ago
Died
August 12th, 1988 37 years ago — 27 years old
Emerging from the New York City art scene in the late 1970s, focused on graffiti art and neo-expressionism. His work combined text and imagery, often addressing themes of race, identity, and social commentary. Gained prominence through collaborations and exhibitions, including works at the Annina Nosei Gallery. Kicked off a unique fusion of street art and high art, becoming a pivotal figure in the art movement of the 1980s. Throughout his career, faced challenges associated with fame and the art market. Passed away in 1988, leaving a lasting legacy as an innovator in contemporary art.
Continue ReadingJames Oglethorpe
English general and colonial governor
Born
December 22nd, 1696 329 years ago
Died
June 30th, 1785 240 years ago — 88 years old
An English general and politician, served as the first colonial governor of Georgia from 1733 to 1743. Advocated for social reform, particularly concerning debtors' rights, and was instrumental in the founding and establishment of the colony of Georgia as a buffer between South Carolina and Spanish-controlled Florida. Worked to improve conditions for the poor and enacted regulations to benefit settlers. Developed strong relations with Native American tribes during administration.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on April 26th
Gerald Guralnik
American physicist and academic
Born
September 17th, 1936 89 years ago
Died
April 26th, 2014 11 years ago — 77 years old
Contributed significantly to the field of physics, particularly in particle physics. Worked on the development of the Higgs boson theory alongside others, which later influenced the discoveries at the Large Hadron Collider. Served as a professor at various academic institutions and published numerous papers on theoretical physics. Engaged in various initiatives to advance scientific research and education throughout a long academic career.
Continue ReadingJill Dando
English journalist and television presenter
Born
November 9th, 1961 64 years ago
Died
April 26th, 1999 26 years ago — 37 years old
Acquired recognition as a journalist and television presenter. Worked with the BBC, hosting programs such as 'Crimewatch' which highlighted unsolved crimes. Received numerous awards for reporting excellence. Tragically murdered in 1999, leading to widespread media coverage and national mourning.
Continue ReadingTangaraju Suppiah
Singaporean drug trafficker
Born
1977 49 years ago
Died
April 26th, 2023 2 years ago — 46 years old
Involved in drug trafficking activities, engaged in a case that brought attention to Singapore's strict anti-drug laws. Arrested in 2014 for coordinating a heroin trafficking operation. Convicted and sentenced to death, resulting in significant discussion around capital punishment for drug-related offenses. Execution took place on April 26, 2023, sparking international reactions regarding drug laws and human rights.
Continue ReadingBroderick Crawford
American actor in film and television
Born
December 9th, 1911 114 years ago
Died
April 26th, 1986 39 years ago — 74 years old
Born in 1911, this American actor gained prominence in the mid-20th century. Esteemed for his passionate performances, he starred in the classic film 'All the King's Men' (1949), which earned him an Academy Award for Best Actor. His career flourished on television with the lead role in the police drama series 'Highway Patrol' (1955-1959), which showcased his talent for portraying tough characters. This actor was recognized for his deep voice and commanding presence, which became his signature traits throughout his career.
Continue ReadingKlaus Schulze
German electronic music pioneer
Born
August 4th, 1947 78 years ago
Died
April 26th, 2022 3 years ago — 74 years old
A pioneer in electronic music, contributed significantly to the genre with innovative compositions and performances. Made a name as a leading figure in the krautrock movement during the 1970s. Utilized a range of synthesizers and sequencers, exploring different soundscapes. Founded the influential group Ash Ra Tempel and released numerous solo albums, marking a transformative period in electronic music history.
Continue ReadingMarcel Pronovost
Ice hockey player and coach, Stanley Cup winner
Born
June 15th, 1930 95 years ago
Died
April 26th, 2015 10 years ago — 84 years old
Played professional ice hockey for the Detroit Red Wings and won four Stanley Cup Championships. Transitioned to coaching after retirement, working with various teams including the New Jersey Devils. Recognized for strong defensive skills and contribution to team dynamics both on and off the ice. Inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 1978, cementing a legacy in the sport.
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