August 07

Born in 1605 in the Netherlands, Martin van den Hove emerged as a promising scientist of his era. He conducted precise telescopic observations, measuring positions of the Moon and planets. His mathematical writings on spherical geometry advanced the study of celestial mechanics. Van den Hove shared his findings with European scholars, influencing the scientific dialogue of the 17th century. Despite a brief career, his research contributed to the evolving understanding of the solar system. He died on August 7, 1639, at the age of 34, cutting short a burgeoning scientific career.

Born in 1739 in Paris, Pierre Samuel du Pont de Nemours became a leading advocate of Physiocracy. He published influential works arguing for free trade and minimal government intervention in the economy. Du Pont served under Louis XVI, negotiating trade treaties and promoting economic liberalization. Exiled by the French Revolution, he settled in the United States in 1799, advising on new economic ventures. His family’s legacy continued with the founding of the DuPont company, a pillar of American industry. He died on August 7, 1817, remembered as a pioneer of modern economic theory and enterprise.

Born in 1779 in Sweden, Jöns Jacob Berzelius studied medicine before dedicating himself to chemistry. He discovered the elements cerium, selenium, silicon, and thorium, expanding the periodic table. Berzelius developed the modern chemical notation using letters and numbers to represent elements and compounds. He coined terms such as "catalysis" and "polymer," which remain fundamental concepts in chemistry. His systematic approach to atomic weights laid the groundwork for stoichiometry and analytical chemistry. Elected to the Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences, he mentored many leading chemists of the 19th century. Berzelius died on August 7, 1848, leaving an enduring legacy in the science of chemistry.

Born in 1841 in Morges, Switzerland, Forel initially trained as a medical doctor before turning to natural sciences. He became a professor at the University of Lausanne and devoted his career to the systematic study of inland waters. Forel coined the term 'limnology' and published extensive research on the physical, chemical, and biological properties of Lake Geneva. His multivolume 'Studies of Lakes' established foundational principles for aquatic ecology. Forel also contributed to glaciology and geology through field expeditions across Switzerland. He passed away in 1912, leaving an enduring scientific legacy in freshwater research.

K. D. Arulpragasam (1931–2003) was a distinguished Sri Lankan zoologist whose work advanced understanding of the region's amphibians and reptiles. He served as a professor at the University of Peradeniya, where he established comprehensive survey programs and published over fifty scientific papers. Arulpragasam was instrumental in training generations of biologists and played a key role in founding conservation initiatives in Sri Lanka. His field studies highlighted the importance of habitat preservation for endemic species. As a respected academic, he also contributed to national policy discussions on wildlife protection. His legacy endures in the robust zoological research community he helped build.

Colin Bibby (1948–2004) was a leading English ornithologist who revolutionized bird population studies with standardized survey techniques. After earning his PhD on European passerines, he served as Director of Research at the British Trust for Ornithology and contributed to the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds. Bibby authored the seminal guide Bird Census Techniques, which became a cornerstone for avian research worldwide. He co-founded the Global Waterbird Census, helping to map migratory patterns and inform conservation policy. A passionate educator, he mentored scientists across the globe. His work continues to shape modern ornithology and conservation efforts.

Born in 1924, John Nelder made foundational contributions to the field of statistics and data analysis. Along with Robert Wedderburn, he introduced the generalized linear model in 1972, transforming the way researchers analyze data. Nelder served as a professor at institutions in the UK and the United States, influencing generations of statisticians. He authored seminal textbooks and papers that remain cornerstones of modern statistical practice. His work underpins much of today's statistical software and advanced analytical techniques. He passed away in 2010, leaving a durable impact on science and research methodology.

Born in 1922 in Dallas, Oregon, Mark Hatfield served as a captain in the U.S. Army during World War II and earned the Bronze Star. After the war, he completed his doctorate and became president of Willamette University, demonstrating his commitment to education. Elected governor of Oregon at age 37, Hatfield championed infrastructure projects and expanded educational programs statewide. In 1967, he began a 30-year tenure in the U.S. Senate, known for his moderate stance and opposition to the Vietnam War. Hatfield co-sponsored the McGovern-Hatfield Amendment, an early congressional effort to end American involvement in Vietnam. He died in 2011, remembered for his principled leadership across military, academic, and political arenas.

Born in 1928 in Baku, Murtuz Alasgarov earned a doctorate in law and became a respected constitutional scholar. He authored numerous publications on legal theory and parliamentary procedure, shaping academic discourse in Azerbaijan. In 1996, he was elected Speaker of the National Assembly, guiding legislative reforms in the post-Soviet era. Under his leadership, pivotal laws were enacted that established the framework for Azerbaijan's young democracy. Alasgarov balanced scholarly pursuits with public service, mentoring future generations of legal experts. He passed away in 2012, leaving a legacy of legal scholarship and political leadership.

Born in 1922, Judith Crist became the first film critic for New York Magazine, setting a new standard for print criticism. She later reached television audiences as the inaugural film reviewer on NBC's Today show, making film critique accessible to millions. Crist authored several influential books on film history and theory, cementing her reputation as a leading authority. As a professor, she taught at prestigious institutions, nurturing generations of journalists and critics. Throughout her six-decade career, she championed independent and international cinema, broadening the cultural conversation. She passed away in 2012, remembered for her wit, insight, and lasting impact on film criticism.

Mayer N. Zald (1931–2012) was an American sociologist and professor known for pioneering studies in social movements, philanthropy, and organizational theory. After earning his doctorate, Zald held faculty positions at several universities in the United States. He co-developed the Resource Mobilization Theory, influencing how scholars understand collective action. Zald published extensively in top sociology journals and influenced public policy on nonprofit organizations. A sought-after speaker, he mentored generations of sociologists. His interdisciplinary work continues to shape research on social movements and civil society.

Dušan Zbavitel (1925–2012) was a leading Czech scholar of Indology who dedicated his life to studying and translating Indian texts. His academic career included a professorship at Charles University in Prague and research visits to India. Zbavitel specialized in classical Sanskrit and modern Indian literature, producing influential translations of major works. He edited critical anthologies and wrote monographs that bridged Eastern and Western literary traditions. A beloved teacher and mentor, he nurtured interest in South Asian studies in Czechoslovakia. His translations and research remain foundational for students of Indology.