William Thomson
Physicist and engineer, contributed to thermodynamics
Born in 1824, this physicist and engineer significantly advanced the field of thermodynamics and contributed to the development of the absolute temperature scale, known as the Kelvin scale. He held the title of 1st Baron Kelvin. This figure's work encompassed electromagnetism and the formulation of the laws of thermodynamics. He served as a professor at the University of Glasgow and was involved in several engineering projects, including the laying of the Atlantic telegraph cable.
Established the Kelvin scale of absolute temperature
Contributed to the development of thermodynamics
Served as a professor at the University of Glasgow
Involved in the Atlantic telegraph cable project
Other People Born on June 26th
Charles Messier
French astronomer specializing in comet cataloging
Born
June 26th, 1730 295 years ago
Died
April 12th, 1817 208 years ago — 86 years old
An astronomer and academic focused on comet studies. Contributed significantly to the field of astronomy in the 18th century. Created the Messier catalog, which lists over 100 astronomical objects. This catalog helped distinguish between comets and fixed celestial bodies. Messier's work laid the foundation for modern astronomical observations and discoveries.
Continue ReadingFred Bruemmer
Photographer and author of Arctic life
Born
June 26th, 1929 96 years ago
Died
December 17th, 2013 12 years ago — 84 years old
Born in Latvia, Bruemmer moved to Canada and became a prominent photographer and author specializing in wildlife and the Arctic. His work prominently featured the natural beauty and cultural heritage of the Inuit people. He published several books, capturing the intimate relationship between indigenous communities and their environment. Additionally, he contributed articles and photographs to various magazines and organizations focused on environmental conservation.
Continue ReadingWolfgang Reitherman
Animator and director for Disney films
Born
June 26th, 1909 116 years ago
Died
May 22nd, 1985 40 years ago — 75 years old
An animator, director, and producer, contributed significantly to animation at Walt Disney Productions. Began career as an animator on classics such as 'Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs' and 'Pinocchio'. Directed acclaimed films including 'The Jungle Book' and 'The Aristocats', showcasing talent in storytelling and character development. Played a pivotal role in shaping the Disney animated feature style during the mid-20th century. Oversaw many successful projects, leaving a lasting legacy in the animation industry.
Continue ReadingEdward Holyoke
American pastor and academic leader
Born
June 26th, 1689 336 years ago
Died
June 1st, 1769 256 years ago — 79 years old
Contributed significantly to early American education as a pastor and educator. Served as the President of Harvard College from 1737 to 1769. Held a prominent position in the academic community during the early 18th century, overseeing a notable period of institutional growth and development. Engaged in various educational reforms and maintained a focus on classical studies. Played a vital role in shaping the curriculum and academic policies of the college, influencing generations of students. Notable for promoting both religious and scholarly pursuits.
Continue ReadingSan Pedro Claver
Spanish Jesuit saint and missionary
Born
June 26th, 1581 444 years ago
Died
1654 372 years ago — 73 years old
Born in 1581, a Spanish Jesuit missionary dedicated life to the service of enslaved people in the Americas. Deployed to Cartagena, Colombia, provided care and catechesis to thousands of Africans brought to the region. Established a reputation for compassion and advocacy for the rights of the enslaved, working tirelessly to alleviate their suffering. Canonized in 1888, he became the patron saint of enslaved people and mission workers.
Continue ReadingPhilip Doddridge
English hymn-writer and educator
Born
June 26th, 1702 323 years ago
Died
October 26th, 1751 274 years ago — 49 years old
A prominent hymn-writer and educator in England, contributed significantly to 18th-century evangelicalism. Established a dissenting academy in Northampton, which became influential in training Nonconformist ministers. Authored several influential works, including 'The Rise and Progress of Religion in the Soul' and more than 400 hymns, many of which remain in use today. Advocacy for religious education had a lasting impact on Nonconformist thought.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on December 17th
Kim Jong-il
North Korean Supreme Leader
Born
1941 85 years ago
Died
December 17th, 2011 14 years ago — 70 years old
Served as the Supreme Leader of North Korea from 1994 until 2011. Assumed leadership following the death of Kim Il-sung, the nation's founder and his father. Oversaw the country's nuclear weapons development program, which led to increased tensions with the international community. His tenure was marked by a strong cult of personality and an emphasis on military-first policies, leading to significant military expansion.
Continue ReadingTom Wesselmann
American painter of pop art
Born
February 23rd, 1931 94 years ago
Died
December 17th, 2004 21 years ago — 73 years old
An influential American painter and sculptor, this artist was a prominent figure in the pop art movement, known for incorporating elements of commercial culture in artwork. The series Great American Nude features bold colors and simplified forms, directly addressing themes of consumerism and sexuality. Throughout a career spanning several decades, the artist explored the intersection of fine art and everyday life, often utilizing assemblage techniques. The artwork reflected modern American culture, tackling subjects from advertising to personal desire. This artist's work has been important in establishing a narrative around consumer culture in the 20th century.
Continue ReadingJennifer Jones
American actress, Oscar winner for "The Song of Bernadette"
Born
March 2nd, 1919 106 years ago
Died
December 17th, 2009 16 years ago — 90 years old
An accomplished actress in American cinema, recognized for a career that spanned several decades. Featured in critically acclaimed films such as "The Song of Bernadette," which earned an Academy Award for Best Actress. Starred in major productions like "Duel in the Sun" and "Love is a Many-Splendored Thing." Established a prominent presence in Hollywood during the 1940s and 1950s, known for her exceptional acting ability and on-screen charisma. Received multiple nominations and awards throughout her career, solidifying her status as one of the leading actresses of her time.
Continue ReadingAlicia Boole Stott
Mathematician and theorist on geometry
Born
June 8th, 1860 165 years ago
Died
December 17th, 1940 85 years ago — 80 years old
Contributed to the field of mathematics with a focus on geometric theories and four-dimensional space. Developed projections of higher dimensions and worked on the study of polyhedra, particularly regular polytopes. Authored several papers detailing complex mathematical concepts and geometric visualization techniques. Engaged closely with the mathematical community through correspondence and collaboration with other mathematicians of the era.
Continue ReadingNzinga of Ndongo and Matamba
Queen and diplomat of Ndongo
Born
1583 443 years ago
Died
December 17th, 1663 362 years ago — 80 years old
Ruled as the Queen of Ndongo and Matamba during the 17th century. Engaged in resistance against Portuguese colonization in Angola. Established diplomatic relations with various European powers and advocated for her people's autonomy. Played a significant role in the political landscape of her time, navigating complex alliances and conflicts to strengthen her kingdoms. Successfully led military campaigns against Portuguese forces, displaying strategic acumen in protecting her territory and sovereignty.
Continue ReadingBaldwin V
Count of Hainaut and Flanders
Born
1150 876 years ago
Died
December 17th, 1195 830 years ago — 45 years old
Held the title of Count of Hainaut and Count of Flanders. Ascended to the throne at a young age and faced numerous challenges during the reign, including conflicts with neighboring territories and internal strife. Worked towards consolidating power and maintaining the stability of the region. Involved in the politics of the time, particularly regarding alliances and enmities among the local nobility.
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