André Michaux
French botanist and explorer of flora
A prominent botanist and explorer, significant contributions to the study of North American flora occurred during a series of botanical expeditions in the late 18th century. Worked extensively in regions that are now the United States, documenting various plant species and their habitats. Conducted research in the Ohio Valley, the Southern states, and the Appalachian Mountains. Established a botanical garden in Paris which served as a center for plant study and exchange. His writings include valuable observations on plant cultivation and natural history.
Authored 'Histoire des Plantes de la Louisiane'
Explored and documented North American flora
Other People Born on March 8th
Edward Calvin Kendall
Nobel Prize-winning chemist
Born
March 8th, 1886 139 years ago
Died
May 4th, 1972 53 years ago — 86 years old
Born in 1886, a prominent American chemist specialized in the field of steroid chemistry. Worked extensively on the isolation and identification of various hormones, particularly adrenal cortical hormones. Contributed to significant advancements in endocrinology through research involving the chemistry of adrenal glands. Shared the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1950 for discoveries related to these hormones, which had profound implications for medicine and health. Held academic positions and was involved in various scientific organizations, fostering further research in the field.
Continue ReadingIgnacy Łukasiewicz
Inventor of the Kerosene lamp
Born
March 8th, 1822 203 years ago
Died
1882 144 years ago — 60 years old
Born in 1822, an inventor and businessman developed the kerosene lamp, which revolutionized lighting and energy use during the 19th century. Łukasiewicz's innovations laid the groundwork for the modern petroleum industry. He opened the first modern oil well in Bóbrka, Poland, and initiated the large-scale distillation of kerosene from crude oil, significantly impacting energy production at the time. His work contributed to the growth of the oil industry, leading to advancements in various applications of petroleum.
Continue ReadingDavid Wilkie
Swimmer, Olympic gold medalist
Born
March 8th, 1954 71 years ago
Died
May 22nd, 2024 1 years ago — 70 years old
Born in Sri Lanka and raised in Scotland, a competitive swimmer specialized in breaststroke events. Achieved significant success in the 1970s, winning a gold medal in the 200-meter breaststroke at the 1976 Montreal Olympics. Set world records in multiple events, contributing to the prominence of swimming in the United Kingdom. Retired from competitive swimming after an illustrious career and later engaged in coaching and sports commentary.
Continue ReadingTijana Bošković
Serbian volleyball player, Olympic medalist
Born
March 8th, 1997 28 years ago
This athlete excelled in volleyball, representing Serbia in international competitions. Played a pivotal role in the national team's success at the 2016 Rio de Janeiro Olympics, where the team secured a silver medal. Achieved multiple accolades at the European Championships, contributing to Serbia's dominance in women's volleyball. Recognized in club competitions, including successful stints in the Italian league.
Continue ReadingPetra Kvitová
Czech tennis player, Wimbledon champion
Born
March 8th, 1990 35 years ago
A prominent figure in professional tennis, this individual surged to fame in the early 2010s. Two-time Wimbledon champion, achieved titles in 2011 and 2014. Competed for the Czech Republic in Fed Cup victories, contributing to team success in 2011, 2012, and 2014. Demonstrated exceptional skill on the court with a powerful left-handed playing style. Overcame significant injuries to return to top-level competition, showcasing resilience and determination throughout the career.
Continue ReadingTom Chaplin
Singer-songwriter and musician, lead of Keane
Born
March 8th, 1979 46 years ago
A singer-songwriter and musician gained prominence as the lead vocalist of the British alternative rock band Keane. The band, formed in 1995, achieved significant success with the release of their debut album, 'Hopes and Fears,' in 2004, which topped the charts and produced hit singles such as 'Somewhere Only We Know.' After the band went on hiatus, pursued a solo career, releasing albums like 'The Wave' in 2016. Known for a distinctive voice and emotive songwriting, his music often reflects personal themes.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on November 16th
A. A. Ames
American physician and Mayor of Minneapolis
Born
January 18th, 1842 184 years ago
Died
November 16th, 1911 114 years ago — 69 years old
Born in 1842, this individual served as a physician and held the position of Mayor of Minneapolis. The mayoralty spanned significant local developments and efforts in public health and urban governance. The tenure contributed to shaping the administrative and civic landscape of the city during a transformative period.
Continue ReadingAnn Wedgeworth
American actress, starred in 'Three's Company'
Born
January 21st, 1934 92 years ago
Died
November 16th, 2017 8 years ago — 83 years old
An American actress with a career spanning several decades. Gained prominence for performances in television and film. Featured in the sitcom 'Three's Company' as the character Lana Shields. Appeared in various stage productions, including Broadway shows. Earned acclaim for her role in the 1977 film 'The Great Gatsby'.
Continue ReadingPrincess Marie of Hesse and by Rhine
Royalty and Queen consort of Denmark
Born
May 24th, 1874 151 years ago
Died
November 16th, 1878 147 years ago — 4 years old
Born into the German nobility, the individual became Queen of Denmark through marriage to King Christian IX. Played a significant role in the Danish royal family, contributing to its cultural and social life. Mothered several children who established ties across European royal houses. The individual also engaged in charitable causes during her lifetime, reflecting a commitment to social issues prevalent in Denmark during the 19th century. Passed away at a relatively young age.
Continue ReadingRobert Clary
French-American actor and author
Born
March 1st, 1926 99 years ago
Died
November 16th, 2022 3 years ago — 96 years old
Born in France, pursued a career in acting and writing after facing challenges during World War II. Emigrated to the United States post-war, where a successful career in television and film unfolded. Gained recognition for portraying Corporal Louis LeBeau in the television series 'Hogan's Heroes'. Authored several books, sharing experiences and reflections on life, particularly focusing on his wartime experiences and the impact it had on his perspective.
Continue ReadingGiuseppe Volpi
Italian businessman, founded Venice Film Festival
Born
November 19th, 1877 148 years ago
Died
November 16th, 1947 78 years ago — 69 years old
A prominent businessman and politician, played a crucial role in the establishment of the Venice Film Festival in 1932, which became the oldest film festival in the world. Volpi served as a member of the Italian Senate and was involved in various sectors of business, particularly in finance and industry. He also took part in efforts promoting Italian cinema during his lifetime, focusing on fostering cultural endeavors. His leadership was instrumental in shaping the film industry in Italy, making significant contributions to its global recognition.
Continue ReadingFrederick William II of Prussia
King of Prussia, instituted reforms
Born
September 25th, 1744 281 years ago
Died
November 16th, 1797 228 years ago — 53 years old
Ruled as King of Prussia from 1786 until death in 1797. Oversaw a period marked by various domestic reforms, including the promotion of trade and agriculture. Engaged in military campaigns during the War of the Bavarian Succession and the War of the Third Coalition. Advocated for an increase in religious tolerance and supported the arts and culture, contributing to the growth of Prussian identity.
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