William Shockley
Physicist and Nobel laureate in physics
Born
Died
Category
Scientists & Innovators
Country
United States
Links & References
An English-American physicist and academic, contributions included the invention of the transistor, which significantly advanced electronic technology. Affiliated with Stanford University, awarded the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1956 along with John Bardeen and Walter Brattain for their roles in the development of the transistor. Later focused on controversial research related to genetics and intelligence.
Invented the transistor
Won the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1956
Other People Born on February 13th
Luke Voit
Baseball player and Home Run Derby champion
Born
February 13th, 1991 35 years ago
An American baseball player, significant contributions occurred primarily as a first baseman. Voit played for the St. Louis Cardinals, New York Yankees, and San Diego Padres across Major League Baseball. A notable achievement includes winning the Home Run Derby in 2021. Voit also led the American League in home runs during the 2020 season, showcasing impressive power at the plate.
Continue ReadingPeter Hook
Musician and bassist of Joy Division
Born
February 13th, 1956 70 years ago
A singer, songwriter, and record producer, this English musician achieved prominence as the bassist for the influential post-punk band Joy Division. Formed in 1976, Joy Division released seminal albums including 'Unknown Pleasures' and 'Closer'. Following the band's dissolution after the death of lead singer Ian Curtis in 1980, this musician co-founded the band New Order. New Order became known for blending post-punk with electronic dance music and released multiple chart-topping hits in the 1980s and 1990s.
Continue ReadingHarold Mahony
Scottish-Irish tennis player, Wimbledon winner
Born
February 13th, 1867 159 years ago
Died
June 27th, 1905 120 years ago — 38 years old
Born in 1867, a tennis player competed in the late 19th century. Achieved significant recognition by winning the men's doubles title at Wimbledon in 1896 alongside partner Joshua Pim. The victory marked a key achievement in his career. Participated in various tennis competitions during a time when the sport was rapidly gaining popularity. Contributed to the development of tennis in Scotland and Ireland through participation in national events and tournaments.
Continue ReadingCarlos Cotto
Wrestler and boxer, multiple champion
Born
February 13th, 1980 46 years ago
Born in 1980, a Puerto Rican-American wrestler and boxer achieved significant recognition in both sports. The career in boxing included multiple world championships across four weight classes. Cotto started professional boxing in 2001 and quickly became a contender in the welterweight division. Fought and defeated several notable opponents, securing titles including the WBA, WBC, and IBF championships. Transitioned to wrestling, showcasing athletic versatility. Competed in various wrestling promotions, contributing to the landscape of professional wrestling.
Continue ReadingArtur Yusupov
Chess Player and Author
Born
February 13th, 1960 66 years ago
A Russian-German chess player and author achieved notable success in international chess competitions. Achieved the title of Grandmaster in 1986. Played for the Soviet Union and later represented Germany in various tournaments. Contributed to chess literature by authoring books that provide insights into chess strategies and tactics. Engaged in teaching and coaching aspiring chess players, sharing extensive knowledge of the game.
Continue ReadingGary Patterson
Football coach and analyst, TCU
Born
February 13th, 1960 66 years ago
Served as head coach for the Texas Christian University football team from 2000 to 2021. Led the team to several bowl games and a Rose Bowl victory in 2011. Developed a reputation for strong defensive strategies and player development. Transitioned to a coaching consultant role after leaving TCU, sharing expertise in football coaching and analysis.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on August 12th
James B. Sumner
Chemist, Nobel Prize laureate
Born
November 19th, 1887 138 years ago
Died
August 12th, 1955 70 years ago — 67 years old
Significant contributions to enzymology and biochemistry occurred during an academic career. Achievements included demonstrating that enzymes could be crystallized, providing substantial evidence towards understanding their structure and function. Research focused on urease, leading to insights into enzyme mechanisms. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1946 for work in this field, recognized for pioneering techniques that advanced scientific understanding of catalysis.
Continue ReadingBobby Peel
Cricketer and coach with Yorkshire
Born
February 12th, 1857 169 years ago
Died
August 12th, 1941 84 years ago — 84 years old
Played first-class cricket primarily for Yorkshire from 1875 to 1899. Notable for being a leading left-arm spinner, accumulated over 1,800 wickets during career. Contributed to the development of cricket as a coach after retirement from playing. Helped promote the game and trained several players in Yorkshire.
Continue ReadingJack Delano
Photographer and composer, FSA photographer
Born
August 1st, 1914 111 years ago
Died
August 12th, 1997 28 years ago — 83 years old
A photographer and composer, Delano practiced his craft primarily during the 1930s and 1940s. He gained recognition for his work with the Farm Security Administration, where he documented the lives of rural Americans, capturing the struggles and resilience of agricultural families. Delano also composed music, contributing to cultural projects in the United States. His photographic works remain a valuable part of the historical record of American life during the Great Depression and World War II.
Continue ReadingAlbert Gallatin
Ethnologist & 4th U.S. Secretary of Treasury
Born
January 29th, 1761 265 years ago
Died
August 12th, 1849 176 years ago — 88 years old
A Swiss-American ethnologist, linguist, and politician, served as the fourth Secretary of the Treasury from 1801 to 1814 under Presidents Thomas Jefferson and James Madison. Played a significant role in the founding of the University of New York and the establishment of the first American ethnological society. Contributed to the development of American fiscal policy and worked on reducing the national debt during his tenure. Involved in diplomatic efforts including peace negotiations with Great Britain during the War of 1812 and advocated for Native American rights. Helped foster infrastructure improvements including roads and waterways, promoting economic growth.
Continue ReadingArthur Griffith
Irish politician and journalist, President
Born
March 31st, 1871 155 years ago
Died
August 12th, 1922 103 years ago — 51 years old
Involved in the establishment of Irish self-government, held the position of President of Dáil Éireann during the Irish Civil War. Griffith founded the political party Sinn Féin, advocating for Irish independence. His journalism career included editing the 'United Irishman.' Contributed significantly to the political landscape of Ireland in the early 20th century, promoting a vision of a sovereign nation.
Continue ReadingBryan Murray
Ice hockey coach with a Hall of Fame career
Born
December 5th, 1942 83 years ago
Died
August 12th, 2017 8 years ago — 74 years old
An influential ice hockey coach in the NHL, served as head coach for several teams, including the Washington Capitals, Detroit Red Wings, and Ottawa Senators. Achieved significant success in coaching and was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 2002. Contributed to the game not only through coaching but also as a general manager, particularly with the Senators. His tactical approach and leadership qualities shaped many players' careers and team dynamics.
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