What Happened This Year 1927
Born in 1927
Gene F. Franklin
Contributed significantly to the field of control systems engineering. Authored and co-authored several influential textbooks, including 'Feedback Control of Dynamic Systems' and 'Control of Dynamic Systems'. Served as a professor at Stanford University and was involved in various research projects pertaining to control theory. Held various academic and leadership roles throughout career, influencing both education and practical applications in engineering.
Continue ReadingJames D. Watkins
Served as the 6th United States Secretary of Energy from 1989 to 1993. Held the rank of admiral in the United States Navy and was distinguished for contributions to naval operations and policy. Focused on energy policy and nuclear safety during tenure as Secretary. Oversaw the Department of Energy during critical periods of energy regulation and management.
Continue ReadingRoméo LeBlanc
Served as the 25th Governor General of Canada from 1995 to 1999, overseeing numerous constitutional and ceremonial responsibilities. Prior to this role, had a prominent career in journalism, working for both radio and television stations. Held political positions including Minister of Fisheries and Oceans in the federal cabinet. Contributed to Canadian public service and engaged in various cultural initiatives throughout the tenure.
Continue ReadingJohn O'Connell
Served as a prominent politician in Ireland for many years. Held the position of Minister of Health, implementing key health policies and reforms. Advocated for improvements in healthcare services and public health initiatives during his tenure. Engaged in various legislative efforts aimed at advancing health access and quality across the nation. Contributed significantly to political discourse surrounding health issues.
Continue ReadingMartin Litchfield West
An established scholar and academic, contributed significantly to the understanding of Greek literature and language. Authored several influential works, including critical editions and commentaries on ancient texts. Served as a professor at prestigious institutions, guiding many students in the field of classical studies. Engaged in extensive research, exploring various aspects of ancient Greek poetry and philosophy.
Continue ReadingRobert Kearns
An American engineer invented the intermittent windscreen wiper, a device that allows windshield wipers to pause between wipes. This invention made driving in rain safer and more convenient. Kearns demonstrated the prototype in the early 1960s and patented the invention in 1964. His prolonged legal battles against major automotive companies for patent infringement garnered national attention and highlighted issues of intellectual property rights. Kearns's story was later depicted in the 2008 film 'Flash of Genius.'
Continue ReadingMarvin Minsky
Recognized as a foundational figure in artificial intelligence, pioneering work in the field of cognitive science and robotics. Contributed to the development of neural networks and the architecture of intelligent machines. Served as a professor at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, influencing generations of computer scientists. Initiated various projects exploring the intersection of technology and human intelligence.
Continue ReadingWilliam C. Davidon
Contributions in physics and mathematics included significant work in gravitational wave detection and chaos theory. Held a teaching position at Bucknell University for several decades, mentoring many students. Engaged in political activism and was a prominent figure in the peace movement, focusing on anti-nuclear efforts during the Cold War period.
Continue ReadingJohn Warner
An attorney and politician served as a U.S. Senator from Virginia from 1979 to 2009. Played a significant role in various committees, including the Armed Services Committee and the Environment and Public Works Committee. Served as Secretary of the Navy from 1972 to 1974 under President Richard Nixon. Contributed to substantial military and environmental legislation during tenure. Engaged in legislation concerning national defense, veterans' affairs, and military readiness.
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