William Rowan Hamilton
Irish physicist and mathematician

Born
August 4th, 1805
219 years ago
Died
September 2nd, 1865
159 years ago — 60 years old
Category
Scientists & Innovators
Country
Ireland
Links & References
Born in 1805, made significant contributions to classical mechanics and optics. Developed Hamiltonian mechanics, which reformulated Newtonian mechanics. Introduced quaternions, which represented the extension of complex numbers to a four-dimensional space. Served as the Astronomical Observator at the Dunsink Observatory in Dublin. Published important works in mathematical physics and played a pivotal role in the development of modern algebra.
Formulated Hamiltonian mechanics
Introduced quaternions
Other People Born on August 4th
Andrew Bartlett
A prominent social worker and politician, active in Australian politics, notably with the Australian Democrats. Played a significant role in advocating for social justice and welfare policies. Served in the Australian Senate from 1997 to 2003, where legislative contributions focused on civil liberties, education, and human rights. Engaged in discussions around issues such as climate change and social equity. Post-political career included work in various community organizations, emphasizing community service and engagement.
Continue ReadingDennis Lehane
An American author, screenwriter, and producer achieved recognition for crime fiction and thrillers. Initial works include the novel 'Mystic River', which became a major film directed by Clint Eastwood. Additional notable works include 'Gone, Baby, Gone' and 'Shutter Island', both adapted into successful films. In the realm of television, contributed as a writer and producer on the acclaimed series 'The Wire'. His narrative style often captures the intricacies of human relationships and moral complexities.
Continue ReadingEva Amaral
Born in 1973, this artist became prominent in the Spanish music scene as a leading figure in rock and pop. Since the late 1990s, released several successful albums with the band Amaral, achieving considerable commercial success and critical acclaim. The band is recognized for its distinct sound and evocative lyrics, contributing to the popularity of Spanish rock. The artist's performances across numerous music festivals and venues across Spain solidified a strong presence in the industry.
Continue ReadingBret Baier
Anchored Special Report on Fox News since 2009. Served as White House correspondent from 2006 to 2009. Reported from Afghanistan and Iraq as a part of the network's coverage during military engagements. Graduated from DePauw University with a degree in political science.
Continue ReadingAbeid Karume
Served as the first President of Zanzibar after leading the Zanzibar Revolution in 1964, which resulted in the overthrow of the Sultanate. This revolution aimed at addressing social inequalities and political disenfranchisement. Established a one-party state and aligned Zanzibar with Tanzania, which was formed soon after the revolution. His presidency was marked by efforts to unify Zanzibar with mainland Tanzania and implement socialist policies.
Continue ReadingKeith Maurice Ellison
Served as the 30th Attorney General of Minnesota, focusing on consumer protection, civil rights, and healthcare. Previously, served in the U.S. House of Representatives representing Minnesota's 5th congressional district from 2007 to 2018, where participation in major legislation took place, including the Affordable Care Act. Helped establish the Congressional Progressive Caucus and was actively involved in various progressive causes during tenure. Worked as a lawyer specializing in civil rights law before entering politics.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on September 2nd
Pierre de Coubertin
An educator and historian focused on educational reform in France. Advocated for the revival of the ancient Olympic Games. Established the International Olympic Committee in 1894, leading to the first modern Olympics held in Athens in 1896. Promoted physical education and sports as a means of character building and global unity.
Continue ReadingSaint Emeric of Hungary
Saint Emeric was a prince of Hungary who lived in the late 10th to early 11th century. He was the son of Stephen I, the first king of Hungary, and became canonized as a saint in the Christian tradition. Emeric received education in both religious and secular matters and played a significant role in the early Christianization of Hungary. His reign and influence contributed to the establishment of Christianity as the dominant faith in Hungary. He died at a young age, with his life being cut short, leading to his veneration as a martyr within the church. His legacy includes the promotion of Christian values and governance in the region.
Continue ReadingNathaniel Bliss
English astronomer and mathematician contributed to early astronomical measurements and calculations. Served as the Astronomer Royal from 1762 until death in 1778. Facilitated observations at the Royal Observatory in Greenwich, enhancing the accuracy of astronomical data. Pioneered the methods used for calculating solar and lunar eclipses, and published papers in various scientific journals, influencing subsequent research in celestial navigation.
Continue ReadingSimeon Stylites
Simeon Stylites was a Christian ascetic who lived in the 5th century. Renowned for his extreme form of asceticism, he spent 37 years on top of a pillar in Syria, drawing followers and devotees. His steadfast commitment to a life of solitude and prayer in such an unorthodox setting brought significant attention and contributed to the development of monasticism in the Byzantine Empire. Pilgrims traveled to seek his counsel, and his lifestyle influenced many ascetics of his time and afterward. Simeon's life demonstrated the possibilities of extreme dedication to faith.
Continue ReadingAlfonso García Robles
A prominent lawyer and diplomat, contributed significantly to disarmament efforts and international relations. Worked for the Mexican government and served as Ambassador to various countries. Advocated for peace and nuclear disarmament. Awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1982 for efforts in promoting disarmament in Latin America.
Continue ReadingFranz Xaver von Zach
An influential astronomer and academic, contributed significantly to the field of astronomy during the late 18th and early 19th centuries. Established the first celestial maps of the southern hemisphere, allowing for better understanding and navigation of the night sky. Participated in international astronomy collaborations, helping to promote scientific exchange across Europe. His work included creating and publishing star catalogs, enhancing the accuracy of astronomical observations.
Continue Reading