William John Macquorn Rankine
Scottish physicist and engineer with Rankine cycle
Contributions included work in thermodynamics, particularly the formulation of the Rankine cycle, which assesses the efficiency of heat engines. Developed concepts in the area of civil engineering and made significant strides in the understanding of energy and its transformations. Authored several influential texts that laid the groundwork for modern thermodynamic principles and provided a comprehensive theory of heat engines. Rankine's work bridged the gap between physics and engineering, fostering advancements in both fields.
Formulated the Rankine cycle
Authored influential texts in thermodynamics
Other People Born on July 5th
Nicolas Kiefer
German tennis player and Olympic medalist
Born
July 5th, 1977 48 years ago
A professional tennis player from Germany, gained recognition for achievements on the ATP Tour during the late 1990s and early 2000s. Reached a career-high singles ranking of World No. 4 in 2000, which was a significant milestone in his career. Kiefer represented Germany in various international competitions, including the Olympics, where he earned a bronze medal in men's singles at the 2004 Athens Games. Additionally, he participated in the Davis Cup, contributing to Germany's efforts in the tournament.
Continue ReadingBengt Lagerberg
Swedish drummer with soundtracks
Born
July 5th, 1973 52 years ago
A drummer primarily associated with the band Soundtrack of Our Lives, contributed significantly to the Swedish rock music scene. The band formed in the late 1990s and released several albums, gaining both national and international recognition. Released critically acclaimed albums such as 'Behind the Music' and 'Origin'. Lagerberg also participated in various musical projects and collaborations, showcasing versatility across different genres.
Continue ReadingRobert Esmie
Canadian sprinter and Olympic medalist
Born
July 5th, 1972 53 years ago
Born in 1972, competed in track and field events, specializing in the 4x100 meters relay. Achieved significant success as a member of the Canadian national team, earning a bronze medal at the 1996 Summer Olympics in Atlanta. Additionally, contributed to several national titles and represented Canada in multiple international competitions throughout the 1990s.
Continue ReadingKatherine Helmond
American actress, 'Soap' and 'Who's the Boss?'
Born
July 5th, 1929 96 years ago
Died
February 23rd, 2019 6 years ago — 89 years old
An American actress gained prominence through her roles in popular television sitcoms. Worked extensively in both television and film, showcasing a range of comedic and dramatic talent. Achieved critical acclaim and recognition for contributions to the entertainment industry across several decades. Stars in the groundbreaking soap opera 'Soap' as Jessica Tate and in the sitcom 'Who's the Boss?' as Mona Robinson. The performances demonstrated a strong comedic presence and character depth, leading to a lasting legacy in television history.
Continue ReadingMarcus Allbäck
Swedish footballer and coach
Born
July 5th, 1973 52 years ago
Played as a forward and had a successful career in professional football, representing clubs in Sweden, Germany, and Denmark. Allbäck began his career at Örebro SK and later played for clubs including IFK Göteborg, where he won the Allsvenskan. He had a stint at the German club Hansa Rostock and played for FC Copenhagen, securing multiple Danish Superliga titles. In addition to club success, Allbäck represented the Swedish national team at the international level, contributing to the team's performance in major tournaments.
Continue ReadingAi Sugiyama
Tennis Player with Grand Slam Titles
Born
July 5th, 1975 50 years ago
Born in 1975, this tennis player achieved significant success on the WTA Tour and in Grand Slam events. Competing professionally from the mid-1990s to the 2000s, excelled in both singles and doubles. Won the 2000 French Open mixed doubles title and reached the semifinals of Wimbledon in singles in 2000. Achieved a career-high singles ranking of World No. 8 and contributed to the Japanese national team in various international competitions.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on December 24th
Gardner Fox
American author and comic book writer
Born
May 20th, 1911 114 years ago
Died
December 24th, 1986 39 years ago — 75 years old
A prolific writer, worked in comic books and fiction. Contributed significantly to the development of the superhero genre. Co-created notable characters, including The Flash and Green Lantern, for DC Comics. Also wrote extensively for pulp magazines and science fiction, producing numerous novels and short stories throughout a long career.
Continue ReadingJosé Mariano Salas
Mexican General and Politician
Born
May 11th, 1797 228 years ago
Died
December 24th, 1867 158 years ago — 70 years old
Served as a general in the Mexican Army and held the position of President of Mexico for a brief period in the 19th century. Salas played a significant role during the tumultuous times of the post-independence era, contributing to various military campaigns. Assumed the presidency in 1859, leading the nation during a critical period in its history. His political career extended through various military confrontations and government roles, reflecting the challenges faced by Mexico in the aftermath of independence.
Continue ReadingCharles Lock Eastlake
English painter and art historian
Born
November 17th, 1793 232 years ago
Died
December 24th, 1865 160 years ago — 72 years old
A prominent figure in Victorian art, he specialized in landscape and historical painting. He served as the Director of the National Gallery in London from 1855 to 1865. Eastlake was also an influential art critic and wrote extensively on art and painting techniques. His writings contributed to the understanding and appreciation of various artists and movements during the 19th century. Notably, he made significant contributions to the critique of Old Masters and the promotion of contemporary British art. His approach to art history combined both academic rigor and accessible writing, impacting art education and appreciation.
Continue ReadingHedwiga
Duchess of Saxony
Died
December 24th, 903 1122 years ago — None years old
Hedwiga served as Duchess of Saxony during the late 9th century. As a member of the noble family, she played a significant role in the political landscape of the region. Her influence was notable in the management of familial alliances and estates, helping to secure power and stability for her lineage in a time of sociopolitical change. Hedwiga's contributions were vital in preserving the interests of the Saxon nobility, facilitating negotiations and marriages that strengthened ties with other influential families.
Continue ReadingJohannes Heesters
Actor and singer; renowned musical performances
Born
December 5th, 1903 122 years ago
Died
December 24th, 2011 14 years ago — 108 years old
Born in 1903, this individual achieved prominence as an actor and singer in Europe, particularly in Germany and the Netherlands. He became renowned for performances in operettas, musicals, and films. The career spanned several decades, during which he appeared in various productions, showcasing vocal talent and charm. This individual gained further acclaim through appearances in the operettas 'The Merry Widow' and 'Kiss Me, Kate'. Continued to perform well into advanced age, leaving a lasting legacy in the performing arts.
Continue ReadingJohns Hopkins
Philanthropist, Founder of Johns Hopkins University
Born
May 19th, 1795 230 years ago
Died
December 24th, 1873 152 years ago — 78 years old
A businessman and philanthropist established a university and hospital in Baltimore, Maryland. After amassing significant wealth through the wholesale mercantile business, dedicated a substantial portion of the fortune to charitable causes. The university, founded in 1876, became the first in the United States to implement a graduate school. Also contributed to the establishment of the Johns Hopkins Hospital, recognized as a pioneer in medical education and research.
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