What Happened This Year 1916

Born in 1916

Chia-Chiao Lin

Mathematician who advanced fluid dynamics
Born
1916 110 years ago
Died
January 13th, 2013 13 years ago — 97 years old

Contributions to the fields of applied mathematics and fluid mechanics spanned several decades. Developed mathematical models for turbulent flow, providing insights essential for engineering applications. Held significant academic positions, including professorships at institutions such as the University of California, Los Angeles. Played a pivotal role in the development of computational techniques used in aerodynamics and fluid dynamics. Authored numerous research papers and collaborated extensively with other mathematicians and scientists.

Continue Reading

Herbert A. Simon

Political Scientist, Economist, Nobel Laureate
Born
1916 110 years ago
Died
February 9th, 2001 25 years ago — 85 years old

Contributed to the fields of political science and economics with significant research on decision-making processes within organizations. Developed the concept of bounded rationality and was a pioneer in information processing theory. Served as a professor at Carnegie Mellon University and published a wide range of academic works, influencing both economics and cognitive psychology. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Economic Sciences in 1978 for work on decision-making in economic organizations.

Continue Reading

Ruth Handler

Inventor of the Barbie doll
Born
1916 110 years ago
Died
April 27th, 2002 24 years ago — 86 years old

An American inventor and businesswoman developed the Barbie doll, which debuted in 1959. Handler co-founded Mattel Inc. with her husband, Elliott Handler, and their friend Harold 'Matt' Matson. The concept of the doll emerged from Handler's observation of her daughter's play habits. The success of Barbie transformed the toy industry and established a new benchmark for fashion dolls. Handler served as the president of Mattel for several years and was instrumental in the company's growth and marketing strategies. Throughout her career, Handler faced challenges but continued to innovate in the realm of dolls and toys.

Continue Reading

Arno Peters

German cartographer and historian
Born
1916 110 years ago
Died
December 2nd, 2002 23 years ago — 86 years old

Contributed to the field of cartography through the development of the Peters Projection, a world map that portrays countries in their true size relative to one another. This projection was designed to challenge the Eurocentric bias of traditional maps. Peters also engaged in historical research and published works on various subjects related to geography and visual representation. His approach emphasized the importance of accurate geographical representation and became a topic of discussion among cartographers and educators.

Continue Reading

Carl Johan Bernadotte

Count of Wisborg
Born
1916 110 years ago
Died
May 5th, 2012 14 years ago — 96 years old

Held the title of Count of Wisborg and was a notable figure in the Swedish royal family. Was the son of Prince Carl, Duke of Västergötland, and the grandson of King Gustav V of Sweden. Engaged in various charitable activities and took part in royal duties. Actively participated in events related to the royal family and contributed to several cultural and social initiatives.

Continue Reading

Robert Hanbury Brown

English astronomer and physicist
Born
1916 110 years ago
Died
January 16th, 2002 24 years ago — 86 years old

Contributed significantly to the fields of astronomy and physics, particularly in the study of stellar intensity interferometry. Developed the intensity interferometer, which became an important tool in astronomical measurements. Conducted groundbreaking experiments that advanced the understanding of quantum interference and its implications for astrophysics. Served as a Professor of Physics at the University of Sydney, where research focused on observational techniques in astronomy and related areas.

Continue Reading

Fred Lasswell

American cartoonist known for 'Barney Google'
Born
1916 110 years ago
Died
March 4th, 2001 25 years ago — 85 years old

A cartoonist created the comic strip 'Barney Google', which debuted in 1919. The strip became popular for its humorous depiction of a character who frequently engaged in various adventures. Lasswell took over the comic in the 1930s and continued to develop its themes and characters. His work contributed to the evolution of comic strips during the golden age of comics in the United States. Lasswell also produced several other comic strips throughout his career, showcasing his artistic style and storytelling abilities. He received recognition in the cartooning community for his contributions to the field.

Continue Reading

Fritz Schmenkel

German anti-Nazi partisan leader
Born
1916 110 years ago
Died
February 22nd, 1944 82 years ago — 28 years old

Joined the Soviet partisans during World War II, actively resisting Nazi forces in Germany. Involved in guerrilla warfare against the Nazis, contributing to the fight for liberation from fascism. Participated in various operations that targeted Nazi supply lines and military installations. Significant involvement in planning and executing sabotage missions which supported Allied efforts on the Eastern Front. Died in combat on February 22, 1944, while engaging German troops.

Continue Reading

Jean Drapeau

Canadian politician, former Mayor of Montreal
Born
1916 110 years ago
Died
August 12th, 1999 26 years ago — 83 years old

Served as the 37th Mayor of Montreal for 29 years across two terms from 1954 to 1957 and from 1960 to 1986. Instrumental in the success of Expo 67, which celebrated Canada's centennial and showcased Montreal to the world. Played a significant role in the development of the city’s infrastructure, including the construction of the La Ronde amusement park and the building of the Olympic Stadium for the 1976 Summer Olympics. Advocated for the artistic and cultural advancement of Montreal.

Continue Reading