Zhou Youguang

Linguist and creator of Pinyin system

Zhou Youguang - Linguist and creator of Pinyin system
Born

January 13th, 1906
119 years ago

Died

January 14th, 2017
8 years ago — 111 years old

Category

Scientists & Innovators

Country

China

Links & References

Born in 1906, this individual contributed significantly to the study of language and linguistics in China. He served as a professor and made extensive contributions to Chinese lexicography and phonetics. A major achievement includes the development of the Pinyin romanization system, which facilitated the teaching and learning of Mandarin Chinese. The system was officially adopted in 1958 and played a vital role in promoting literacy in China.

Developed the Pinyin romanization system

Authored numerous works on linguistics

Contributed to the modernization of Chinese language education

Other People Born on January 13th

Joe Pass

Renowned American jazz guitarist and composer
Born
January 13th, 1929 96 years ago
Died
1994 31 years ago — 65 years old

An influential guitarist and composer, contributed significantly to jazz music. Gained prominence in the 1970s, known for solo guitar performances and unique improvisational style. Released numerous albums, including 'Virtuoso' which showcased exceptional technical skill and artistry. Collaborated with various notable musicians, enriching the jazz genre through innovative approaches. Received multiple awards, including Grammys for exceptional work in music.

Continue Reading

Silvana Gallardo

Actress and producer with notable roles
Born
January 13th, 1953 72 years ago
Died
January 2nd, 2012 13 years ago — 58 years old

An American actress and producer gained prominence for work in film and television. Appeared in significant roles in productions such as 'The Last Dragon' and 'Jagged Edge.' Also contributed to the theater as a producer, engaging in various projects that showcased her artistic capabilities. Career spanned several decades, leading to recognition within the entertainment industry, both in front of and behind the camera.

Continue Reading

Trace Adkins

Country singer-songwriter and actor
Born
January 13th, 1962 63 years ago

Singer-songwriter and actor gained prominence in the country music genre with a deep baritone voice. Achieved commercial success with multiple albums and singles, some of which topped the Billboard Country charts. Also ventured into acting, appearing in films and television series. Recorded a notable collaboration with other artists, further expanding artistic reach. Engaged in various charitable endeavors throughout the career.

Continue Reading

Princess Marie of Orléans

French royal and philanthropist
Born
January 13th, 1865 160 years ago
Died
1908 117 years ago — 43 years old

Born into the House of Orléans, significant activities centered around social welfare and education. Marriage to Prince Philippe, Count of Paris, aligned with royal duties in France. Actively supported various charitable organizations and educational initiatives. Established the École des Enfants de France to promote education among disadvantaged children. Involved in the French Red Cross during World War I, contributing to wartime relief efforts.

Continue Reading

Constantinos Makrides

Cypriot footballer and midfielder
Born
January 13th, 1982 43 years ago

A Cypriot footballer played primarily as a midfielder. Career began in the early 2000s, with significant contributions to various clubs in Cyprus and abroad. Notably represented Apollon Limassol and had a stint with the Cyprus national team. Competed in major European competitions, providing key plays and assists during matches. Transitioned to coaching after retiring from professional play.

Continue Reading

Gaj Singh

Indian lawyer and politician
Born
January 13th, 1948 77 years ago

Elected to the Lok Sabha, represented the Ajmer constituency. Served as a prominent member of the Indian National Congress. Engaged in various legal practices and contributed to the political landscape in India, particularly in Rajasthan. Active in social issues and development initiatives during tenure.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on January 14th

Ricardo Montalbán

Mexican actor and Star Trek star
Born
November 25th, 1920 104 years ago
Died
January 14th, 2009 16 years ago — 88 years old

A prominent Mexican actor with a career that spanned over seven decades. Achieved fame through performances in film and television. Gained significant recognition for role as Khan Noonien Singh in 'Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan'. Starred in the television series 'Fantasy Island' as Mr. Roarke, a character that became iconic. Also featured in numerous films, including 'The King and I', 'Fiesta', and 'Give Me Your Heart'. His work extended to voice acting, contributing to animated films and series.

Continue Reading

Jacques Dubois

French anatomist and author of texts
Born
1478 547 years ago
Died
January 14th, 1555 470 years ago — 77 years old

Anatomical studies contributed to the understanding of human anatomy during the Renaissance. Wrote significant anatomical texts that influenced future medical education. Served as a lecturer at the University of Paris, where dissections were performed to enhance learning. Works included detailed descriptions of bones, muscles, and organs, which laid the groundwork for future anatomists.

Continue Reading

Stephen Heller

Hungarian pianist and composer
Born
1813 212 years ago
Died
January 14th, 1888 137 years ago — 75 years old

Born in Hungary, a distinguished pianist and composer emerged in the 19th century. He showcased exceptional talent at an early age and gained recognition for contributions to piano music. Heller spent time in France, where he became associated with prominent figures of the Romantic era. His compositions, particularly for piano, are characterized by technical brilliance and expressiveness. He published numerous works, influencing aspiring musicians and enriching the piano repertoire. Heller's legacy is preserved through his compositions, which continued to be performed long after his death.

Continue Reading

Eivind Berggrav

Norwegian bishop and translator of Bible
Born
1884 141 years ago
Died
January 14th, 1959 66 years ago — 75 years old

Served as a bishop in the Church of Norway, advocating for social justice and human rights. Contributed significantly to the field of biblical translation, bringing new interpretations to the Scriptures. Engaged in theological debates and emphasized the importance of faith in addressing contemporary societal issues. Played a role in the ecumenical movement, fostering unity among various Christian denominations. His tenure included participation in various church councils and international discussions.

Continue Reading

Henri Colpi

French director and screenwriter
Born
July 15th, 1921 104 years ago
Died
January 14th, 2006 19 years ago — 84 years old

Active primarily in the mid-20th century, this director and screenwriter contributed significantly to French cinema. Winner of the Academy Award for Best Short Film in 1963, the individual worked on various acclaimed films, highlighting both storytelling and visual impact. Significant directorial works include 'The Time of the Avenger' and 'The Tenth Day'. Collaborating with prominent figures in the French New Wave movement, the director explored themes of human experience and societal challenges. Various screenplays showcased a distinctive narrative style and character depth, engaging audiences across different demographics.

Continue Reading

Georgia Carroll

Singer, model, and actress from America
Born
1919 106 years ago
Died
January 14th, 2011 14 years ago — 92 years old

A notable singer, model, and actress, contributed to the entertainment industry during the mid-20th century. Gained significant recognition as a singer and performed in various venues and recordings. Worked as a model and appeared in several notable films, enhancing visibility in both music and film. Also featured in the 1940s film 'The Big Store' alongside the Marx Brothers. In addition to her entertainment career, participated in various modeling assignments and projects, establishing a visible presence in the fashion industry. Her multifaceted career spread across singing, modeling, and acting, securing a place in the cultural landscape of the time.

Continue Reading