Born on This Day: March 16

German-British astronomer whose comet discoveries and star catalogues advanced observational astronomy and women’s participation in science.

American statesman and fourth president whose constitutional work helped establish the structure and principles of the United States government.

German physicist whose law relating voltage, current, and resistance became fundamental to electrical science; the ohm is named for him.

French painter whose powerful animal studies brought her international success and challenged restrictions on women artists.

American physicist whose liquid-fueled rockets laid essential foundations for modern rocketry and spaceflight.

British-American comedian whose rapid one-line delivery became a model for stand-up comedy.

American comedian, filmmaker, and humanitarian whose physical comedy and directing influenced screen performance and popular entertainment.

Italian filmmaker whose visually ambitious works influenced international cinema and modern film storytelling.