Alfred Werner
Swiss chemist and Nobel Prize laureate
A Swiss chemist awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1913 for the development of coordination chemistry. This work laid the foundation for understanding the bonding of transition metals and their implications in multiple chemical fields. Werner's theories emphasized the importance of structural analysis in the chemical sciences, influencing later research and applications in coordination compounds. His contributions were pivotal in shaping modern inorganic chemistry and academia.
Awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1913
Developed coordination chemistry concepts
Other People Born on December 12th
John Randle
American football defensive tackle
Born
December 12th, 1967 58 years ago
A former defensive tackle, played in the National Football League for the Minnesota Vikings and Seattle Seahawks. Achieved notable success during the 1990s, recognized for a relentless playing style and strong presence on the field. Inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2010. Contributed significantly to multiple playoff appearances and helped lead the Vikings to the NFC Championship game in 1998.
Continue ReadingVictor Moses
Footballer and Premier League Champion
Born
December 12th, 1990 35 years ago
A professional footballer with a career spanning multiple clubs, achieved prominence in football primarily in England. Began early career at Crystal Palace before moving to Wigan Athletic, where contributed to the team winning the FA Cup in 2013. Transferred to Chelsea in 2012, where won the Premier League title in 2015 and the UEFA Champions League in 2021. Additionally represented the Nigerian national team in international competitions, including the FIFA World Cup and the Africa Cup of Nations.
Continue ReadingHenry Wells
Businessman, co-founder of Wells Fargo
Born
December 12th, 1805 220 years ago
Died
1878 148 years ago — 73 years old
A businessman co-founded Wells Fargo and American Express in the mid-19th century. Focused on providing banking services and expanding financial systems, helped transform the landscape of American finance. Was instrumental in developing express mail services, allowing for faster communication and commercial transactions across the growing nation.
Continue ReadingGarrett Atkins
Baseball player with Colorado Rockies
Born
December 12th, 1979 46 years ago
A baseball player primarily played as a first baseman and third baseman in Major League Baseball. Played for the Colorado Rockies from 2003 to 2010. Contributed to the team's success during the 2007 season, which culminated in a World Series appearance. Later played for the Baltimore Orioles and the San Diego Padres. Also played internationally in Japan, adding to the breadth of professional experience in the sport.
Continue ReadingMichael Möllenbeck
German discus thrower and champion
Born
December 12th, 1969 56 years ago
A discus thrower who competed at an elite level, achieving significant success in the sport. Competed in the 1992 Summer Olympics held in Barcelona. Secured a gold medal at the 1994 European Championships in Helsinki, showcasing skill and strength in the event. Retired from competitive athletics after a successful career, contributing to the sport's heritage in Germany.
Continue ReadingIolanda Balaș
Romanian high jumper Olympic champion
Born
December 12th, 1936 89 years ago
Died
March 11th, 2016 10 years ago — 79 years old
Achieved significant success in high jump during the 1950s. Competed in international events representing Romania. Won a gold medal at the 1960 Rome Olympics. Set multiple world records throughout her career, including a remarkable jump of 1.85 meters in 1961. Retired in 1965, leaving a legacy in the sport.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on November 15th
Princess Mikasa
Japanese princess and royal family member
Born
June 4th, 1923 103 years ago
Died
November 15th, 2024 1 years ago — 101 years old
Born into the Japanese imperial family, a member of the Kōgakkan University faculty, and received recognition for her contributions to education and culture. Engaged in various charitable and educational activities throughout life, emphasizing the importance of education and cultural heritage. Actively participated in events promoting traditional Japanese arts and culture.
Continue ReadingÉmile Durkheim
French sociologist and philosopher
Born
April 15th, 1858 168 years ago
Died
November 15th, 1917 108 years ago — 59 years old
A foundational figure in sociology and social psychology, contributed significantly to the establishment of sociology as a formal discipline. Developed theories on social order, structures, and functions within society. Introduced concepts such as anomie and collective consciousness. Published key works including 'The Division of Labor in Society', 'Suicide', and 'The Elementary Forms of Religious Life'. Helped to shape the methods of sociological study, emphasizing the importance of empirical research and statistical analysis.
Continue ReadingMose Allison
American singer-songwriter and pianist
Born
November 11th, 1927 98 years ago
Died
November 15th, 2016 9 years ago — 89 years old
A prominent figure in the jazz and blues music genres, this artist blended elements of both styles throughout a prolific career. The distinctive vocal style and sharp lyrics drew inspiration from experiences and societal observations. Albums such as 'Back Country Suite' and 'Mose Allison Sings' showcased a unique fusion of jazz and blues, earning critical acclaim. The artist contributed significantly to the music scene from the 1950s onward, influencing countless musicians.
Continue ReadingGlafcos Clerides
Cypriot politician and lawyer, 4th President
Born
April 24th, 1919 107 years ago
Died
November 15th, 2013 12 years ago — 94 years old
Served as the 4th President of Cyprus from 1993 to 2003. Previously held various political roles, including President of the House of Representatives. Played a significant role in the peace process regarding the division of Cyprus. Participated in negotiations for a solution to the Cyprus conflict, striving for reconciliation between the Greek and Turkish communities. Authored several works on law and politics, contributing to legal discourse in Cyprus.
Continue ReadingCharles Thomson Rees Wilson
Physicist, Nobel Prize laureate
Born
February 14th, 1869 157 years ago
Died
November 15th, 1959 66 years ago — 90 years old
A Scottish physicist and meteorologist contributed to the understanding of particle physics through the invention of the cloud chamber. This device allowed for the observation of ionizing radiation, which advanced experimental physics significantly. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1927 for the work on cloud chambers, the invention has become a fundamental tool for many future experiments in high-energy physics. The research also played a role in the development of nuclear physics.
Continue ReadingSaeed Jaffrey
Indian-British actor in film and TV
Born
January 8th, 1929 97 years ago
Died
November 15th, 2015 10 years ago — 86 years old
Born in 1929, this actor gained recognition for roles in film and television, showcasing a range of characters reflective of different cultures. Breakthrough performances included starring in the film 'The Man Who Knew Too Much' and the series 'Tandoori Nights'. Jaffrey also lent his voice to various projects and appeared in numerous British television productions, establishing a notable presence in the industry. His contributions spanned several decades, reflecting a commitment to both creative performance and cultural representation.
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