Willi Hennig

Biologist and entomologist, founder of phylogenetic systematics

Willi Hennig - Scientists & Innovators born April 20th, 1913
Born
Died

1976
50 years ago — 63 years old

Category

Scientists & Innovators

Country

Germany

Links & References

A German biologist and entomologist contributed significantly to the field of systematics. Established the principles of phylogenetic systematics, a method that classifies organisms based on evolutionary relationships. Developed the concept of cladistics, which emphasizes the use of shared derived characteristics for classification. Authored the influential book 'Phylogenetic Systematics' in 1966, which spurred a new direction in biological classification. His work laid the groundwork for modern evolutionary biology.

Founded phylogenetic systematics

Published 'Phylogenetic Systematics' in 1966

Developed the concept of cladistics

Other People Born on April 20th

Odilon Redon

French painter; The Eye, Like a Strange Balloon
Born
April 20th, 1840 185 years ago
Died
July 6th, 1916 109 years ago — 76 years old

A prominent painter and illustrator associated with the Symbolist movement. Produced works that often featured dreamlike imagery and an exploration of the subconscious. Utilized various mediums including oil painting, charcoal, and pastel. Worked largely in isolation, developing a unique style characterized by a focus on color and form. Early in his career, created lithographs that showcased fantastical themes, later transitioning to canvas paintings that evoked emotional and psychological depth.

Continue Reading

Betty Cuthbert

Australian sprinter and Olympic champion
Born
April 20th, 1938 87 years ago
Died
August 6th, 2017 8 years ago — 79 years old

Competed in athletics, specializing in sprinting events. Achieved prominence at the 1956 Melbourne Olympics, winning three gold medals. Dominated the 100 meters, 200 meters, and 4x100 meter relay. Set world records in various events during the late 1950s. Retired from competition after the 1964 Tokyo Olympics and later contributed to sports as a coach.

Continue Reading

Siegmund Lubin

Businessman, founder of Lubin Company
Born
April 20th, 1851 174 years ago
Died
1923 103 years ago — 72 years old

Born in 1851, established a manufacturing company that specialized in creating and distributing motion picture equipment. Lubin's enterprise played a significant role in the early film industry and was influential during the silent film era. The company operated extensively, producing a variety of films and equipment that contributed to the growth of cinema in the United States. Lubin's work helped lay the foundation for future developments in the film industry.

Continue Reading

Napoleon III

French politician and 1st President of France
Born
April 20th, 1808 217 years ago
Died
January 9th, 1873 153 years ago — 64 years old

Served as the first President of France from 1848 to 1852. Elected following the revolution of 1848, implemented various economic and social reforms during presidency. Later declared himself Emperor of the French, ruling as Napoleon III from 1852 until 1870. His reign is marked by modernization efforts in France, including the expansion of the railway system and urban renewal of Paris. Involved in several military conflicts, including the Crimean War and the Franco-Prussian War, which led to his ultimate fall from power.

Continue Reading

Kakha Bendukidze

Georgian economist and reformer
Born
April 20th, 1956 69 years ago
Died
November 13th, 2014 11 years ago — 58 years old

An economist and politician from Georgia, contributed significantly to the nation's economic reforms after the Rose Revolution. Served as the Minister of Economy and Sustainable Development, implementing policies that spurred privatization and deregulation. Advocated for free market principles, which transformed the Georgian economy. Believed in reducing the size of government and promoted entrepreneurship.

Continue Reading

Cornelius Harnett

American politician and merchant
Born
April 20th, 1723 302 years ago
Died
April 28th, 1781 244 years ago — 58 years old

Served as a prominent political figure during the American Revolution. Acted as the Speaker of the North Carolina Provincial Congress and played a significant role in advocating for independence from British rule. Involved in commerce and farming, contributing to the economic stability of his community. Held various offices, including the North Carolina Senator.

Continue Reading