Born on This Day: February 13

Danish-Norwegian naval officer whose campaigns became central to Scandinavian military history and national memory.

English economist whose population theory profoundly influenced economics, demography, evolutionary thought, and public policy.

American first lady whose correspondence and public life provide important insight into the Truman presidency and twentieth-century civic culture.

American painter whose regionalist works became enduring images of rural American life.

Belgian writer whose Inspector Maigret novels and psychological fiction influenced modern crime literature.

American physicist who co-invented the transistor, a development fundamental to modern electronics.

American singer and broadcaster whose recordings helped popularize country, gospel, and folk music.

American test pilot who became the first person confirmed to exceed the speed of sound in level flight.