Born on This Day: February 8

French novelist whose scientifically informed adventures helped establish modern science fiction and inspired exploration and invention.

Russian chemist who developed the periodic table and predicted the properties of elements not yet discovered.

Austrian-Israeli philosopher whose writings on dialogue, relationship, and religious experience influenced theology and social thought.

Austrian-American economist whose theory of creative destruction transformed understanding of entrepreneurship and economic change.

American physicist and inventor whose xerographic process made modern photocopying possible.

American poet whose precise observation and formal control made her a major influence in modern poetry.

American actor whose screen career helped define Hollywood glamour and melodrama during the studio era.

American actor whose brief career and screen image became an enduring symbol of youthful alienation and rebellion.