Thomas Young

English physicist and physiologist

Thomas Young - English physicist and physiologist
Born

June 13th, 1773
251 years ago

Died

May 10th, 1829
195 years ago — 55 years old

Category

Scientists & Innovators

Country

England

Links & References

Contributed significantly to the fields of physics and physiology in the early 19th century. Made foundational discoveries in wave theory and the nature of light. Conducted pioneering work on the human eye's accommodation and the theory of color vision. Published several influential papers that provided insights into the wave-particle duality of light and established the concept of the Young's modulus in material science.

Developed the wave theory of light

Conducted experiments on the human eye

Established Young's modulus for elasticity

Other People Born on June 13th

Étienne Gilson

French philosopher and academic
Born
June 13th, 1884 140 years ago
Died
September 19th, 1978 46 years ago — 94 years old

This philosopher contributed significantly to medieval philosophy and the thought of St. Thomas Aquinas. A professor at the Collège de France, he focused on metaphysics and the relationship between faith and reason. His works included 'The Unity of Reason' and 'The Spirit of Mediaeval Philosophy.' Additionally, he played a crucial role in establishing the Nouvelle Théologie movement, which sought to renew theological discourse within the Catholic Church.

Continue Reading

Ally Sheedy

Actress from The Breakfast Club
Born
June 13th, 1962 62 years ago

An actress and author, notable performances occurred in several key films during the 1980s. Gained significant recognition for portraying Allison Reynolds in 'The Breakfast Club' and for her role in 'St. Elmo's Fire'. Later ventured into writing, publishing works that further showcased versatility and depth beyond acting. Participated in various film festivals and continued to engage with the entertainment industry through independent projects.

Continue Reading

Sir Vincent Corbet

English politician and 1st Baronet
Born
June 13th, 1617 407 years ago
Died
1656 369 years ago — 39 years old

Born in 1617, served as a Member of Parliament for Shropshire during the English Civil War. Held a significant role in the parliamentary army and engaged with the local governance during a period of political unrest. His baronetcy was a hereditary title, establishing a legacy of influence in the region.

Continue Reading

Helmut Lent

German soldier and pilot in WWII
Born
June 13th, 1918 106 years ago
Died
October 7th, 1944 80 years ago — 26 years old

Served as a Luftwaffe pilot during World War II, achieving notable success as a night fighter ace. Credited with 110 aerial victories, Lent became one of the most decorated German pilots of the war. He received the Knight's Cross of the Iron Cross with Oak Leaves for his achievements. His expertise in aerial combat contributed to the effectiveness of the Nachtjagd (night fighter) units, especially in the defense against Allied bombers. Lent's tenure in the Luftwaffe exemplified the strategies of air combat during this period.

Continue Reading

Jonathan Lucroy

Professional baseball catcher
Born
June 13th, 1986 38 years ago

A professional baseball catcher played in Major League Baseball from 2011 to 2019. Team affiliations included the Milwaukee Brewers, Texas Rangers, and Oakland Athletics. Achieved an All-Star selection in 2017. Contributed to teams with solid offensive and defensive capabilities.

Continue Reading

Tage Erlander

Swedish politician and Prime Minister
Born
June 13th, 1901 123 years ago
Died
June 21st, 1985 39 years ago — 84 years old

Served as the 25th Prime Minister of Sweden from 1943 to 1969. Focused on social welfare policies and economic stability during a time of significant post-war reconstruction. Led the Social Democratic Party, fostering a strong alliance with labor unions. Efforts centered on expanding the welfare state and managing industrial relations, contributing to Sweden's reputation as a social democratic nation. Oversaw a period of economic growth and established a framework for modern Swedish social policies.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on May 10th

Peter Weiss

German playwright and painter
Born
1916 109 years ago
Died
May 10th, 1982 42 years ago — 66 years old

A prominent figure in German literature, Weiss specialized in theater and visual arts. Contributions included significant plays that explored themes of oppression, war, and existentialism. 'The Investigation', a play based on the Frankfurt Auschwitz Trials, critically examined the Holocaust. Also engaged in surrealist painting, showcasing complex imagery and social critique.

Continue Reading

Carl Nägeli

Botanist and Mycologist, contributor to plant taxonomy
Born
1817 208 years ago
Died
May 10th, 1891 133 years ago — 74 years old

A Swiss botanist and mycologist, focused on plant classification and understanding of plant development. Developed significant taxonomic frameworks and contributed to the understanding of hybridization in plants. Worked on cell theory as it pertains to mycology and served as a professor at the Polytechnic Institute in Zurich. His research laid groundwork for future studies in botany and mycology. Maintained correspondence with fellow scientists and participated in botanical societies throughout Europe.

Continue Reading

Jean-Baptiste Donatien de Vimeur

French general during American Revolution
Born
July 1st, 1725 299 years ago
Died
May 10th, 1807 217 years ago — 81 years old

Born in 1725, served as a French general during the American Revolutionary War. Commanded French forces that aided the Thirteen Colonies in their struggle against British rule. Played a crucial role in the Siege of Yorktown, contributing to the decisive victory over British General Cornwallis in 1781. Worked closely with General George Washington, strengthening the alliance between France and America. After the war, returned to France, where he continued to serve in the military until retirement.

Continue Reading

Shel Silverstein

Poet and illustrator, 'The Giving Tree'
Born
September 25th, 1930 94 years ago
Died
May 10th, 1999 25 years ago — 68 years old

A poet and illustrator, gained prominence through children's literature. Authored widely read books including 'The Giving Tree' and 'Where the Sidewalk Ends'. Worked as a cartoonist and songwriter, contributing music to notable artists such as Johnny Cash. Established a unique style combining whimsical stories with profound themes, making a lasting impact on children's poetry.

Continue Reading

Élisabeth of France

French princess, sister of Louis XVI
Born
1764 261 years ago
Died
May 10th, 1794 230 years ago — 30 years old

A French princess and the youngest sibling of King Louis XVI, Élisabeth was deeply involved in the royal family's affairs during a turbulent period in French history. She was known for her steadfast loyalty to her brother and the monarchy. Following the onset of the French Revolution, she faced increasing dangers due to her royal status. Élisabeth was arrested in 1793 and ultimately executed by guillotine in 1794. Her life and tragic end marked the downfall of the French monarchy and reflected the harsh realities experienced by royal figures during this revolutionary period.

Continue Reading

John of Ávila

Spanish mystic and saint
Born
January 6th, 1500 525 years ago
Died
May 10th, 1569 455 years ago — 69 years old

Born in 1500, a prominent figure in the Spanish Renaissance, dedicated life to spirituality and education. Played a crucial role in the Catholic Reformation. Authored several theological works including 'Audi, Filia' and other treatises that emphasized personal piety and reformative practices. Ordained as a priest, established a reputation for preaching and fostering spiritual development among clergy and laity. Canonized a saint by the Catholic Church in 1970, recognized for contributions to spiritual literature and pastoral care.

Continue Reading