Wilhelm Wien
German physicist and Nobel Prize laureate
An acclaimed German physicist recognized for contributions to theoretical and experimental physics. Developed Wien's displacement law, which describes the relationship between the temperature of a black body and the wavelength at which it emits the most radiation. The pioneering work in thermodynamics and his research on the kinetic theory of gases contributed significantly to the field. Received the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1911 for his work on the laws governing the emission of radiation from heated bodies.
Developed Wien's displacement law in 1893
Received the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1911
Other People Born on January 13th
Andrew Yang
Entrepreneur and presidential candidate
Born
January 13th, 1975 51 years ago
An entrepreneur and advocate focused on economic issues, founded Venture for America to support startups and create jobs in cities across the United States. Ran for the Democratic presidential nomination in 2020, promoting a universal basic income and addressing technological unemployment. Initiated discussions on the implications of automation and the future of work. Engaged in public speaking and writing on economic topics and the role of technology in society.
Continue ReadingMichael Bond
Author of Paddington Bear series
Born
January 13th, 1926 100 years ago
Died
2017 9 years ago — 91 years old
An English author wrote the beloved children's book series featuring Paddington Bear, a character who arrived from Peru. The first book, published in 1958, introduced readers to Paddington's adventures in London. Bond created the character inspired by a toy bear purchased for his own children. Over the years, numerous Paddington books were published, capturing the charm and innocence of childhood. The series has been adapted into television shows and films, bringing the character to a wider audience. Bond's works have remained popular across generations, enchanting millions of children and parents alike.
Continue ReadingAlbert Lamorisse
Director of The Red Balloon
Born
January 13th, 1922 104 years ago
Died
June 2nd, 1970 55 years ago — 48 years old
A French director and producer contributed significantly to cinema through a unique storytelling style. Best remembered for the film 'The Red Balloon', which won an Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay in 1957, the work showcased a poignant narrative with minimal dialogue. Lamorisse's career spanned various genres, but his enchanting children's films often featured themes of wonder and imagination. He also produced and directed 'White Mane', another acclaimed film that captured the beauty of nature and the bond between a boy and a wild horse. Lamorisse's innovative use of color and sound left a lasting impression on filmmakers and audiences alike.
Continue ReadingJosh Freeman
American football quarterback
Born
January 13th, 1988 38 years ago
Played college football at Kansas State University, achieving significant recognition and success. Selected in the first round of the 2009 NFL Draft by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Served as the starting quarterback for the Buccaneers and set a franchise record for passing yards in a single game. Later played for teams including the Minnesota Vikings and the Pittsburgh Steelers. His time in the NFL featured key performances and contributions to various teams.
Continue ReadingColette of Corbie
Abbess and saint in the Catholic Church
Born
January 13th, 1381 645 years ago
Died
March 6th, 1447 578 years ago — 66 years old
Born in 1381, served as an abbess and played a significant role in the reform of the Poor Clares. Founded several monasteries throughout Europe, emphasizing a return to strict observance of the Rule of Saint Clare. Renowned for piety and mystical experiences, recognized for divine visions that guided her reforms. Canonized as a saint in 1807 for her contributions to religious life.
Continue ReadingMax Whitlock
Artistic gymnast and Olympic champion
Born
January 13th, 1993 33 years ago
Accomplished artistic gymnast specialized in floor and pommel horse events. Won multiple gold medals in World Championships and European Championships. Achieved historic success at the 2016 and 2020 Olympic Games, becoming the first British gymnast to win an Olympic gold medal in the individual apparatus events. Added to his accolades, secured a bronze medal at the 2012 London Olympics. Recognized as a prominent figure in British gymnastics, contributing to its growth and visibility.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on August 30th
M. M. Kalburgi
Indian scholar and academic author
Born
1938 88 years ago
Died
August 30th, 2015 10 years ago — 77 years old
An influential scholar and academic focused on Kannada literature and philosophy. Authored several notable works that addressed various aspects of literature and cultural critique. Contributed to the academic community through teaching at multiple institutions. Participated in intellectual discourses regarding social issues and literary traditions, enhancing the understanding of Kannada heritage. His work engaged with themes of social reform and ethics within literature.
Continue ReadingDonald Davidson
Philosopher and academic in the USA
Born
March 6th, 1917 108 years ago
Died
August 30th, 2003 22 years ago — 86 years old
A prominent philosopher and academic, contributed significantly to the fields of philosophy of language, philosophy of mind, and action theory. Developed the theory of radical interpretation, which focused on understanding language and meaning through the context of speaker intentions. Also known for the principle of event semantics, linking actions and mental states to the events they describe. Published influential works that shaped contemporary philosophical discussions, particularly through essays and books such as 'Actions, Reasons, and Causes' and 'Truth and Meaning'.
Continue ReadingAllan Gotthelf
Philosopher focused on Ayn Rand's works
Born
1942 84 years ago
Died
August 30th, 2013 12 years ago — 71 years old
A significant figure in the study of philosophy, particularly the works of Ayn Rand. Contributed extensively to Rand's Objectivism, providing critical analysis and interpretations. Published articles and essays that clarified and defended Rand's ideas, influencing both academia and popular discourse. Held academic positions at several institutions, emphasizing the importance of rational thought and individualism in philosophical inquiry.
Continue ReadingFred Lawrence Whipple
Astronomer and educator, developed dark comets theory
Born
November 5th, 1906 119 years ago
Died
August 30th, 2004 21 years ago — 97 years old
Contributed significantly to the field of astronomy, particularly in the study of comets. Developed the 'dirty snowball' model of comet structure, which explained the composition and behavior of comets. Served as a professor at Harvard University and directed the Harvard-Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics. Authored many scientific papers and books that advanced astronomical research and education.
Continue ReadingNaguib Mahfouz
Egyptian Author, Nobel Prize Laureate
Born
December 11th, 1911 114 years ago
Died
August 30th, 2006 19 years ago — 94 years old
An Egyptian author, playwright, and screenwriter, this individual contributed significantly to Arabic literature and was the first Arab writer to receive the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1988. His works often explored themes of existentialism and social justice, providing insightful commentary on the human condition and Egyptian society. Major literary achievements include the 'Cairo Trilogy,' which encompasses the novels 'Palace Walk,' 'Palace of Desire,' and 'Sugar Street,' showcasing the intricacies of family life in Cairo. The author's storytelling blended realism with philosophical introspection, earning a place in global literature.
Continue ReadingSeymour Krim
American journalist and critic
Born
1922 104 years ago
Died
August 30th, 1989 36 years ago — 67 years old
Contributed extensively to American literature and culture through journalism and criticism. Emphasized the significance of personal narrative in literary critique. Held positions at various publications and was influential in shaping literary conversations in the mid-20th century. Explored the interplay between art and society with a distinctive voice. Published several collections of essays and critiques, contributing to the understanding of contemporary authors and movements.
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