William Redington Hewlett
Co-founder of Hewlett-Packard
An American engineer and businessman co-founded Hewlett-Packard in 1939, a pioneering company in the electronics industry known for quality computing and measurement devices. The company initially gained success with the production of audio oscillators. Under effective leadership, the business expanded its range of products, influencing the growth of Silicon Valley. Hewlett also served as a director of the board for several organizations and was involved in various philanthropic activities throughout his career. His contributions to the technology sector helped shape the landscape of modern computing.
Co-founded Hewlett-Packard
Developed audio oscillators
Other People Born on May 20th
Enes Kanter
Basketball player and activist
Born
May 20th, 1992 33 years ago
Born in 1992, this basketball player gained prominence in the NBA after being selected third overall in the 2011 draft by the Utah Jazz. Throughout his career, he played for multiple teams including the Oklahoma City Thunder and Boston Celtics. As a center, he became recognized for his scoring ability and rebounding skills, leading to a successful tenure in the league. In addition to basketball, this athlete advocated for various social and political issues, particularly focusing on human rights and freedoms in Turkey. The player has also engaged in philanthropic efforts aimed at helping those in need.
Continue ReadingMatt Langridge
English rower and Olympic medalist
Born
May 20th, 1983 42 years ago
Competed in rowing at the international level, achieving significant success with the British team. Won a bronze medal in the men's four at the 2008 Beijing Olympics. Contributed to the team’s performance in various World Rowing Championships, earning medals and establishing the crew as a competitive force in the sport. Participated in multiple World Cup series, showcasing skills in both sweep and sculling events.
Continue ReadingJamie Chadwick
Race car driver, W Series champion
Born
May 20th, 1998 27 years ago
An English race car driver achieved prominence in motorsport, particularly in the W Series. Earned multiple championships, including the W Series title in both 2019 and 2021. Competed in various racing series, including the British GT Championship and Eurocup Formula Renault. Also participated in development roles with prominent teams, showcasing talent and skill in competitive racing.
Continue ReadingCate Campbell
Swimmer and Olympic gold medalist
Born
May 20th, 1992 33 years ago
Competed in international swimming events, winning multiple medals. Achieved Olympic success at the 2016 Rio de Janeiro Games, securing gold in the 4x100 meter freestyle relay. Set numerous national records and was part of the Australian swimming team that excelled in World Championships.
Continue ReadingJack Gleeson
Irish actor from Game of Thrones
Born
May 20th, 1992 33 years ago
An Irish actor achieved recognition for the role of Joffrey Baratheon in the television series Game of Thrones, which aired from 2011 to 2019. Gleeson gained acclaim for his portrayal of the character, known for his cruel demeanor and significant impact on the series' storyline. After his success in Game of Thrones, he stepped away from acting and pursued an academic career, focusing on philosophy. He has also been involved in various theater productions, contributing as both an actor and a director.
Continue ReadingJoel Moon
Rugby league player & representative athlete
Born
May 20th, 1988 37 years ago
Debuted in professional rugby league in 2007. Played for clubs including the Sydney Roosters and the New Zealand Warriors. Represented New South Wales Country in representative matches. Participated in the rugby league World Cup, contributing to team strategies and performance.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on January 12th
Oscar Florianus Bluemner
Painter and illustrator of color theories
Born
June 21st, 1867 158 years ago
Died
January 12th, 1938 87 years ago — 70 years old
A German-American painter and illustrator, this individual contributed significantly to the development of modern color theory within the visual arts. Arriving in the United States in the early 20th century, this artist created a body of work characterized by vibrant colors and abstract forms. The artist's work combined elements of landscape and abstraction, demonstrating a unique approach to light and color. Most notably, incorporation of German expressionism influenced many of the paintings created during this period. The individual exhibited frequently and gained recognition among contemporary art circles.
Continue ReadingGraham Taylor
English football manager, Watford FC
Born
September 15th, 1944 81 years ago
Died
January 12th, 2017 8 years ago — 72 years old
A prominent football manager, this individual managed several clubs during a long career in English football. Most notably, this individual served as the manager of Watford FC, leading the team to remarkable success and promotion to the First Division in 1982. Later, a significant managerial role involved leading the England national football team from 1990 to 1993, with a focus on qualification for major tournaments. After a challenging period with the national team, continued contributions to football included work in media and analysis, sharing insights and experiences from a long career in the sport.
Continue ReadingOlga Ladyzhenskaya
Mathematician and academic specializing in mathematics
Born
March 7th, 1922 103 years ago
Died
January 12th, 2004 21 years ago — 81 years old
Made significant contributions to the fields of mathematics and mathematical physics. Developed theories in the study of partial differential equations and nonlinear equations. Worked at the Steklov Institute of Mathematics in Saint Petersburg and held a professorship at the University of Stuttgart. Published numerous research papers that advanced the understanding of fluid dynamics and turbulence. Received recognition for teaching and mentoring many students in mathematical sciences.
Continue ReadingMaurice Gibb
Singer-songwriter and Bee Gees member
Born
December 22nd, 1949 75 years ago
Died
January 12th, 2003 22 years ago — 53 years old
Prominent musician and record producer, contributed to the popular music group Bee Gees. Co-wrote and produced many of the group's hit songs, including "Stayin' Alive" and "How Deep Is Your Love." Developed a distinctive style that blended pop, rock, and disco elements, influencing the music industry. Involved in various side projects and collaborations throughout his career, creating a rich catalog of music.
Continue ReadingCyrus Vance
American lawyer and Secretary of State
Born
March 27th, 1917 108 years ago
Died
January 12th, 2002 23 years ago — 84 years old
Served as the 57th United States Secretary of State from 1977 to 1980 under President Jimmy Carter. Focused on foreign policy, particularly in détente with the Soviet Union and promoting peace in the Middle East. Prior to this role, worked as an attorney and engaged in various governmental positions, including service as a Deputy Under Secretary of State and as an Assistant Secretary of the Army. Advocated for human rights and arms control during tenure as Secretary of State. Played a significant role in negotiating the Camp David Accords alongside Carter and Egyptian President Anwar Sadat, establishing a framework for peace in the region. After leaving office, continued participation in foreign policy discussions through various organizations.
Continue ReadingHermann Minkowski
Mathematician known for spacetime theory
Born
June 22nd, 1864 161 years ago
Died
January 12th, 1909 116 years ago — 44 years old
A mathematician and academic contributed significantly to mathematics and physics. Developed the concept of spacetime, integrating time into the three dimensions of space, which transformed the understanding of physics. This foundational work laid the groundwork for Einstein's theory of relativity. Served as a professor at the University of Göttingen and the University of Berlin, influencing future generations of mathematicians and physicists. Published several papers that advanced the field of mathematics, particularly in the areas of number theory and geometry.
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