Albert Hofmann
Swiss chemist who discovered LSD
A prominent Swiss chemist and academic, contributed significantly to the field of pharmaceuticals. Synthesized lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) in 1938 while working at Sandoz Laboratories. First ingested LSD personally in 1943, leading to the discovery of its psychedelic effects. Conducted further research on hallucinogenic substances and their potential therapeutic uses. Authored several books on psychedelic substances and their implications in psychology and culture.
Synthesized LSD in 1938
First intentional LSD trip in 1943
Research on the therapeutic uses of psychedelics
Other People Born on January 11th
Madeline Manning
American middle-distance runner and coach
Born
January 11th, 1948 78 years ago
Born on January 11, 1948, a middle-distance runner achieved significant success in track and field. Competed in the 800 meters and earned a gold medal at the 1968 Olympics in Mexico City, becoming the first American woman to win an Olympic medal in this event. After an athletic career, transitioned to coaching, contributing to the development of future athletes and programs. Served as a coach at various colleges and schools, emphasizing training and mentorship.
Continue ReadingEmperor Go-En'yū of Japan
Emperor of Japan during the Ashikaga period
Born
January 11th, 1359 667 years ago
Died
1393 633 years ago — 34 years old
Born in 1359, ascended the throne in 1371 as the 98th emperor of Japan during the Ashikaga shogunate. His reign was marked by the continued influence of the shogunal government and the cultural developments of the period. The emperor remained a symbolic figure while real power was held by the shogunate. Go-En'yū played a role in the imperial court's dynamics and preservation of traditional Japanese culture during a time of political fragmentation. His reign lasted until 1382, after which he continued to be influential in the imperial succession.
Continue ReadingMohammad Reza Rahimi
Iranian politician and lawyer
Born
January 11th, 1949 77 years ago
Served as the 2nd Vice President of Iran from 2009 to 2013. Held various governmental positions, including involvement in the country's legal system. Participated actively in the political landscape during a significant period in Iranian history.
Continue ReadingKostas Skandalidis
Greek politician and agricultural minister
Born
January 11th, 1953 73 years ago
An engineer and politician with a significant role in Greek governance, served as the Minister of Agricultural Development and Food. Focused on agricultural policies and rural development during his political career. Played a key role in shaping food policy and addressing issues related to agriculture in Greece.
Continue ReadingCharles Fraser
Rugby league player and coach
Born
January 11th, 1893 133 years ago
Died
1981 45 years ago — 88 years old
Played rugby league professionally and transitioned to coaching after retirement. Had a significant career in the sport, contributing to the development of teams and players. Served in various coaching roles throughout the years and was involved in championship competitions. Made contributions to the rugby league's growth within Australia.
Continue ReadingLim Sung-jin
South Korean volleyball player
Born
January 11th, 1999 27 years ago
Born on January 11, 1999, a professional volleyball player from South Korea. Played as a member of the national team and competed at various international tournaments. Contributed significantly to the team's performance during competitions.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on April 29th
Al Feldstein
Author and illustrator of EC Comics
Born
October 24th, 1925 100 years ago
Died
April 29th, 2014 12 years ago — 88 years old
An American author and illustrator contributed significantly to the comic book industry, particularly through the publication of EC Comics. Served as editor of the iconic comic series Tales from the Crypt, which gained notoriety for its horror themes and societal satire. Was instrumental in the development of graphic storytelling techniques and influenced future generations of comic creators. Also produced works beyond comics, including illustrations for novels and magazines, showcasing a versatile artistic talent.
Continue ReadingLuis García Meza
Bolivian general and military leader
Born
1929 97 years ago
Died
April 29th, 2018 8 years ago — 89 years old
Served as the 57th President of Bolivia from 1980 to 1981 following a military coup. Prior to the presidency, held various positions within the Bolivian Armed Forces, rising to general rank. The regime implemented several measures leading to significant political repression and economic turmoil in the country. After the fall of the regime, faced numerous legal challenges due to allegations of human rights violations. Exiled to different countries after leaving power, and eventually returned to Bolivia where legal proceedings continued until death.
Continue ReadingPadma Desai
Development economist and author
Born
1931 95 years ago
Died
April 29th, 2023 3 years ago — 92 years old
An Indian-American development economist, contributed to the fields of economic policy and development strategy. Served as a professor at Columbia University. Research focused on India's economy and transitioned to closely studying Russian economic reforms during the post-Soviet period. Authored several books and articles on economic issues, emphasizing the interplay between market economies and social structures.
Continue ReadingHugh of Cluny
French abbot and reformer
Born
May 13th, 1024 1002 years ago
Died
April 29th, 1109 917 years ago — 84 years old
Hugh of Cluny served as the abbot of Cluny Abbey and significantly reformed monastic life in Western Christianity. Under leadership, Cluny Abbey became a center of monastic reform, emphasizing strict adherence to the Rule of St. Benedict. Hugh focused on spiritual and temporal governance throughout the Cluniac order and played a crucial role in enhancing the influence of the Benedictine monastic tradition. His tenure saw the establishment of numerous daughter houses across Europe, contributing to the spread of reformist ideas.
Continue ReadingMichael Martin
Scottish politician, Speaker of the House
Born
July 3rd, 1945 81 years ago
Died
April 29th, 2018 8 years ago — 72 years old
Baron Martin of Springburn served as Speaker of the House of Commons from 2000 to 2009. Represented the constituency of Glasgow North East in Parliament from 1979 to 2009. Played a significant role in guiding debates and maintaining order in the House. Oversaw various significant legislative sessions during tenure, including debates on high-profile issues such as the Iraq War and economic crises.
Continue ReadingAlfred Hitchcock
Film director and producer of thrillers
Born
August 13th, 1899 127 years ago
Died
April 29th, 1980 46 years ago — 80 years old
A prominent film director and producer, contributed significantly to the suspense and thriller genres. Directed classic films such as 'Psycho', 'Rear Window', and 'North by Northwest'. Developed a distinctive style characterized by innovative camera techniques and complex narratives. Pioneered the use of music and sound in film to enhance emotional tension.
Continue Reading