Willebrord Snell

Dutch astronomer and mathematician

Willebrord Snell - Dutch astronomer and mathematician
Born

June 13th, 1580
445 years ago

Died

October 30th, 1626
399 years ago — 46 years old

Category

Scientists & Innovators

Country

Netherlands

Links & References

Contributions to astronomy and mathematics included formulating laws of refraction and providing the foundation for the field of trigonometry. Published 'Hypothesis Cosmica' which addressed celestial mechanics. Worked on the accurate measurement of latitude and developed scientific instruments for astronomical observations.

Developed Snell's Law of refraction

Contributed to trigonometric concepts

Published astronomical works

Other People Born on June 13th

Garnet Bailey

Ice Hockey Player and Scout
Born
June 13th, 1948 77 years ago
Died
2001 24 years ago — 53 years old

Born in Canada, became a professional ice hockey player in the NHL. Played for the Boston Bruins, Los Angeles Kings, and New York Islanders throughout the 1970s and early 1980s. Transitioned to scouting after retiring from professional play and contributed to talent development in the sport. His career in professional hockey spanned over a decade, and he was later involved in various scouting roles, evaluating talent for teams in the league until untimely passing in 2008.

Continue Reading

Jonathan Lucroy

Professional baseball catcher
Born
June 13th, 1986 39 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

Hassan Whiteside

Basketball player and All-Star center
Born
June 13th, 1989 36 years ago

Professional basketball player played predominantly as a center in the NBA. Played for the Miami Heat, where significant contributions to the team's success occurred during multiple seasons. Achieved NBA All-Star status in 2016, showcasing exceptional performance on both ends of the court. Known for rebounding prowess and shot-blocking ability, helped lead his team to the NBA playoffs during his tenure. Also played for teams such as the Sacramento Kings and Portland Trail Blazers, contributing to their competitive performances.

Continue Reading

Stellan Skarsgård

Swedish actor in film and television
Born
June 13th, 1951 74 years ago

Born in 1951, this actor has had a prolific career in film and television, working in both Swedish and international productions. Early on, a prominent role came in the Swedish film 'The Galsof Winnebagos', which set the stage for further success. Gained international recognition through performances in 'Good Will Hunting', 'Pirates of the Caribbean: At World's End', and the 'Avengers' film series. Demonstrated versatility in roles ranging from dramatic performances to supporting characters in blockbuster films.

Continue Reading

Lukas Ligeti

Drummer and composer, innovative works
Born
June 13th, 1965 60 years ago

A drummer and composer with a significant focus on contemporary and experimental music. Engaged in various collaborations across genres and continents, emphasizing the blending of traditional rhythms with modern techniques. Contributed to numerous performances and music festivals, showcasing a unique synthesis of styles. Explored different musical traditions through compositions that challenged conventional forms and instruments.

Continue Reading

Valeri Bure

Ice hockey player with notable NHL career
Born
June 13th, 1974 51 years ago

Born in Russia, a former ice hockey player competed in the NHL primarily as a right winger. Played for the Montreal Canadiens, Florida Panthers, and Dallas Stars. Achieved success as a member of the 1993 Stanley Cup-winning Montreal Canadiens. Transitioned to a business career after retirement, becoming involved in various ventures including a winery.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on October 30th

John Abbott

Prime Minister of Canada
Born
March 12th, 1821 204 years ago
Died
October 30th, 1893 132 years ago — 72 years old

A prominent lawyer and politician served as the third Prime Minister of Canada from 1891 to 1892. His leadership followed a lengthy career in public service, where he contributed to the development of Canadian policy and governance. Prior to becoming Prime Minister, played roles in provincial legislature and the federal Parliament. Abbott's tenure was marked by efforts to advance national interests and infrastructure development.

Continue Reading

Joan Mitchell

American-French abstract expressionist painter
Born
February 12th, 1925 100 years ago
Died
October 30th, 1992 33 years ago — 67 years old

Born in 1925, a significant figure in the abstract expressionism movement, Mitchell moved to Paris in the 1950s and became a prominent artist within the American expatriate community. The artist's works characterized by vibrant colors and dynamic brushwork reflect influences from the natural landscape, particularly from her time spent in the rural Midwest and Provence. Mitchell's paintings often evoke emotional landscapes and have been described as powerful and expressive. She participated in numerous exhibitions, gaining recognition for her contributions to modern art. In addition to painting, the artist also created prints and drawings, showcasing a versatile approach to her craft. Mitchell's legacy continues to influence contemporary artists and is celebrated in art history discussions.

Continue Reading

Robert Volkmann

German organist and composer of operas
Born
April 6th, 1815 210 years ago
Died
October 30th, 1883 142 years ago — 68 years old

Born in 1815, a German organist, composer, and conductor. Volkmann studied under prominent musicians and became known for contributing to the repertoire of opera and chamber music in the 19th century. His works include several operas such as 'Die drei Wünsche' and chamber music pieces that have been performed in various settings. Volkmann also held positions as an organist in multiple churches, where he influenced the music of the time. His compositions reflect the German Romantic style, showcasing both lyrical melodies and complex harmonies, making significant contributions to the organ music in Germany.

Continue Reading

Jean-Jacques Boissard

French poet and illustrator
Born
1528 497 years ago
Died
October 30th, 1602 423 years ago — 74 years old

A poet and illustrator contributed extensively to the literary and artistic culture of France. Boissard created detailed illustrations for various books, enhancing the literature of the Renaissance period. His works often combined text and visual art, showcasing the interconnectedness of literature and illustration. He was also a member of the literary circles of his time, participating in exchanges that influenced contemporary thought and art.

Continue Reading

William Forster

Politician, 4th Premier of New South Wales
Born
October 16th, 1818 207 years ago
Died
October 30th, 1882 143 years ago — 64 years old

Born in 1818, played a significant role in the development of New South Wales as a politician. Served as the 4th Premier of New South Wales from 1872 to 1875. Advocated for educational reforms and for the expansion of the colony's railway system. His tenure saw significant political and infrastructural changes aimed at modernizing the state. His efforts influenced the political landscape and the governance of New South Wales.

Continue Reading

James S. Sherman

Vice President of the United States
Born
October 24th, 1855 170 years ago
Died
October 30th, 1912 113 years ago — 57 years old

Served as the 27th Vice President of the United States from 1909 until 1912 under President William Howard Taft. Before assuming the vice presidency, held various political offices including Representative in the U.S. House for New York's 34th congressional district. Participated actively in the Republican Party and held influence in New York politics. His tenure as Vice President included significant events leading up to the presidential election of 1912, which he did not survive to see due to his death during the campaign.

Continue Reading