February 29

Born in 1683 in France to Huguenot parents, Desaguliers moved to England and became associated with Isaac Newton's circle, studying physics under its leading figures. He became a curator of experiments for the Royal Society, demonstrating mechanical and optical phenomena to scientific audiences. Desaguliers authored influential textbooks and lectures that explained Newton's laws and experimental methods in clear language. He conducted early hydraulic engineering projects, including designs for waterworks and windmills. His work bridged theory and practice, making scientific principles accessible to artisans and scholars alike. Desaguliers also contributed to the Encyclopedie and mentored figures such as Benjamin Franklin. He died on February 29, 1744, leaving a legacy as a teacher, experimenter, and advocate for empirical science.

Born in 1922, Akira Yamada devoted his life to the study of philosophy and cultural dialogue. He held professorships at major Japanese universities and shared his insights through lectures and essays. Throughout his career, Yamada published works on ethics, metaphysics, and comparative philosophy. His writings helped introduce Japanese philosophical traditions to a global audience. He was recognized for his profound analyses of human nature and social ethics. Yamada passed away on February 29, 2008, leaving a legacy of cross-cultural understanding.