Aaron Klug
Chemist and Nobel Prize laureate
A chemist and biophysicist, contributions focused on the structure of viruses and nucleic acids. Established techniques that integrated X-ray crystallography and electron microscopy to analyze biological molecules. Received the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1982 for developing crystallographic electron microscopy. Held positions at the MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology and the University of Cambridge.
Developed crystallographic electron microscopy
Received the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1982
Other People Born on August 11th
Joe Jackson
Singer-songwriter and musician
Born
August 11th, 1954 71 years ago
Died
June 27th, 2018 7 years ago — 63 years old
A British singer-songwriter and musician, this individual gained prominence in the late 1970s and early 1980s. The debut album, 'Look Sharp!', received critical acclaim and commercial success. The unique blend of new wave, punk, and jazz influences characterized the early work. Subsequent albums, including 'I'm the Man' and 'Night and Day', further established a distinctive sound and style. Throughout the career, a strong emphasis remained on lyrical content and orchestration, showcasing versatility across genres. Various hits, such as 'Is She Really Going Out with Him?' and 'Steppin' Out', contributed to recognition on international music charts.
Continue ReadingWilliam W. Chapman
American lawyer and politician
Born
August 11th, 1808 217 years ago
Died
October 18th, 1892 133 years ago — 84 years old
Born in 1808, served as a lawyer before entering politics. Represented the state in the U.S. House of Representatives from 1851 to 1853. Championed various legal reforms during tenure. His political career involved significant contributions to local governance and legislative processes.
Continue ReadingPrincess Louise Charlotte of Saxe-Altenburg
Princess of Saxe-Altenburg and Austria
Born
August 11th, 1874 151 years ago
Died
1953 72 years ago — 79 years old
Born into the House of Saxe-Altenburg, this princess was a member of the Saxe-Altenburg dynasty. Marriage to Duke Ernst I of Saxe-Altenburg established a significant alliance. Contributed to royal activities and cultural initiatives in the region. Significant involvement in charitable pursuits, particularly related to education and healthcare. The lineage remains linked to European nobility through various descendants.
Continue ReadingErwin Chargaff
Biochemist and DNA structure contributor
Born
August 11th, 1905 120 years ago
Died
June 20th, 2002 23 years ago — 96 years old
Born in Austria and later becoming an American citizen, Chargaff made significant contributions to biochemistry and molecular biology. He is best recognized for formulating Chargaff's rules, which describe the base pairing in DNA. His research laid critical groundwork for understanding the structure of DNA, influencing later discoveries in genetics. Chargaff was a professor at Columbia University, where he educated future scientists.
Continue ReadingPatrick Joseph McGovern
Businessman and IDG founder
Born
August 11th, 1937 88 years ago
Died
March 19th, 2014 11 years ago — 76 years old
Founded International Data Group (IDG), a leading technology media, events, and research company. Expanded IDG into multiple markets globally, focusing on technology and innovation. Served as chairman of IDG Communications. Contributed to the growth of technology journalism and information dissemination through various influential publications, including Computerworld.
Continue ReadingMike Douglas
Talk show host and singer
Born
August 11th, 1920 105 years ago
Died
August 11th, 2006 19 years ago — 86 years old
A prominent American talk show host and singer, contributed significantly to the television landscape in the 1960s and 1970s. Hosted 'The Mike Douglas Show' which featured a mix of celebrity interviews, political commentary, and musical performances. The show aired for more than 20 years, attracting high-profile guests and gaining a large audience. Douglas also released a number of albums, showcasing his vocal talent, and performed live across the United States.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on November 20th
David Dacko
Politician, 1st President of Central Africa
Born
March 24th, 1930 95 years ago
Died
November 20th, 2003 22 years ago — 73 years old
Served as the first president of the Central African Republic from 1960 to 1966. Elevated to this position after the country gained independence from France. Implemented policies aimed at centralizing power and developed plans for economic development. Overthrown in a coup led by Jean-Bédel Bokassa in 1966. Returned to politics and briefly served as president again in 1979.
Continue ReadingEnnio Flaiano
Italian author and screenwriter
Born
March 5th, 1910 115 years ago
Died
November 20th, 1972 53 years ago — 62 years old
An author, screenwriter, and critic, contributed significantly to Italian literature and cinema. Wrote screenplays for several acclaimed films and authored notable literary works. His writing style combined wit with a keen sense of observation, often exploring themes of existentialism. Received the Strega Prize in 1975 for the novel 'Tempo di uccidere', which gained recognition for its poignant narrative. Worked in various capacities within the Italian film industry and was involved in directing and producing.
Continue ReadingJames H. Billington
Librarian of Congress and academic leader
Born
June 1st, 1929 96 years ago
Died
November 20th, 2018 7 years ago — 89 years old
Served as the Thirteenth Librarian of Congress from 1987 to 2015. Played a significant role in modernizing the Library of Congress and advocating for digital access to American history and culture. Oversaw the establishment of various digital initiatives and projects, including the American Memory project, which made historical documents available online. Contributed extensively to academic discourse on American literature and culture through numerous publications.
Continue ReadingAllan Sherman
Comedian and TV producer, 'My Son, the Folk Singer'
Born
November 30th, 1924 101 years ago
Died
November 20th, 1973 52 years ago — 48 years old
Born in 1924, contributions included work as a comedian, producer, and singer. Achieved notoriety in the 1960s for comedic parodies of popular songs, with 'My Son, the Folk Singer' achieving significant commercial success. Also created and hosted the television show 'The Allan Sherman Show', which aired in the early 1960s. Wrote humorous songs that highlighted aspects of American life and culture.
Continue ReadingIan Smith
Prime Minister of Rhodesia
Born
April 8th, 1919 106 years ago
Died
November 20th, 2007 18 years ago — 88 years old
Served as the first Prime Minister of Rhodesia from 1965 to 1979, leading the country during its Unilateral Declaration of Independence from Britain. Played a crucial role in the Rhodesian Bush War, a conflict between the white-minority government and black nationalist movements. Advocated for minority rule and resistance against majority governance and was involved in negotiations that ultimately led to the end of white-minority rule. After leaving office, resided in South Africa.
Continue ReadingKristian Djurhuus
Faroese politician, 2nd Prime Minister
Born
February 12th, 1895 130 years ago
Died
November 20th, 1984 41 years ago — 89 years old
Served as the 2nd Prime Minister of the Faroe Islands. Contributed to the political landscape during a significant period in the islands' history. Held various prominent roles in the Faroese government. Engaged in shaping the policies and governance of the autonomous region.
Continue Reading