Anselme Payen
French chemist and academic
Contributed to the field of chemistry by discovering the enzyme diastase, an important catalyst in the breakdown of starch into sugars. Served as a professor at the Collège de France and published numerous scientific articles. Participated in the establishment of the Société Chimique de France, promoting chemical research in France.
discovered diastase
served as a professor at Collège de France
co-founded Société Chimique de France
Other People Born on January 6th
Kid Chocolate
Cuban Boxer, World Champion
Born
January 6th, 1910 115 years ago
Died
1988 37 years ago — 78 years old
A professional boxer from Cuba, achieved notable success in the 1930s. Gained recognition as a lightweight champion and was a prominent figure in the sport during his career. Fought several high-profile matches, showcasing exceptional skill and technique in the ring. Transitioned to the welterweight division later, continuing to compete at a high level. Retired with a strong reputation and is remembered as one of the great boxers of his time.
Continue ReadingWill Barton
American basketball player, NBA champion
Born
January 6th, 1991 34 years ago
Born in 1991, a basketball player with a prominent career in the NBA. Played for multiple teams, primarily with the Denver Nuggets. Achieved success in various playoff scenarios, contributing consistently to team efforts and performance.
Continue ReadingKevin Gausman
Professional baseball pitcher, 2014 MLB Debut
Born
January 6th, 1991 34 years ago
A professional baseball pitcher from the United States, began career in Major League Baseball (MLB) in 2014 with the Baltimore Orioles. Played college baseball at Louisiana State University, where significant performance garnered attention for future prospects. Over the years, pitched for several MLB teams including the Atlanta Braves, San Francisco Giants, and Toronto Blue Jays. Achieved recognition for strikeout ability and pitched in the postseason, notably in the 2021 season.
Continue ReadingJulie Chen
Television journalist and producer
Born
January 6th, 1970 55 years ago
This television journalist and producer has hosted the reality television show 'Big Brother' since its inception in 2000, becoming an iconic figure in the genre. Chen began her career as a news anchor and reporter, gaining experience at various local television stations before joining CBS News. She worked on 'The Morning Show' and later anchored 'The Early Show.' In addition to reporting and anchoring, initiated 'The Talk,' a daytime talk show that explores various topics through discussions among a panel of women. Chen's work in television journalism has garnered several awards throughout her career.
Continue ReadingKenyon Martin Jr.
Basketball player, NBA Houston Rockets
Born
January 6th, 2001 24 years ago
Professional basketball player competed in the NBA. Played college basketball for the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) before declaring for the NBA Draft. Selected as the 52nd overall pick in the 2021 NBA Draft by the Houston Rockets. Known for strong athleticism and versatility as a forward. Achieved notable statistics during his tenure, contributing to the team in both offensive and defensive capacities.
Continue ReadingAnne Hamilton
Scottish peeress, 3rd Duchess of Hamilton
Born
January 6th, 1632 393 years ago
Died
1716 309 years ago — 84 years old
Born in 1632, a noble title was inherited through the Hamilton family. The individual managed extensive estates and engaged in the political landscape of Scotland during a time of civil strife. Involvement in royalist causes and support for King Charles I characterized the political activities. Hosted significant gatherings of nobles and played a role in maintaining alliances during turbulent periods towards the end of the 17th century. Death occurred in 1716, marking the end of a notable lineage that contributed to the peering classes of Scotland.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on May 12th
Prince Sadruddin Aga Khan
Diplomat and UN High Commissioner
Born
January 17th, 1933 92 years ago
Died
May 12th, 2003 22 years ago — 70 years old
A French-Pakistani diplomat served as the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees from 1965 to 1977. During this tenure, efforts focused on advocating for refugee rights and addressing the needs of displaced populations globally. Established initiatives and programs aimed at providing humanitarian assistance and facilitating resettlement. He played a key role in promoting international cooperation to tackle refugee crises effectively. After leaving his position, continued to influence humanitarian efforts through various foundations and organizations.
Continue ReadingIrena Sendler
Polish nurse and humanitarian
Born
February 15th, 1910 115 years ago
Died
May 12th, 2008 17 years ago — 98 years old
Worked as a nurse and social worker during World War II, providing assistance to Jewish families in German-occupied Poland. Facilitated the escape of approximately 2,500 Jewish children from the Warsaw Ghetto, placing them with Polish families and in convents to protect them from the Holocaust. After the war, continued to advocate for social justice and human rights. Received numerous awards and honors posthumously for contributions to saving lives during the Holocaust.
Continue ReadingRobert Rauschenberg
Painter and illustrator of Combines
Born
October 22nd, 1925 100 years ago
Died
May 12th, 2008 17 years ago — 82 years old
An influential artist emerged in the mid-20th century, contributing significantly to the development of modern art. Emphasized the merger of painting and sculpture, creating a new genre known as 'Combines.' These works integrated everyday materials and objects, challenging traditional boundaries of art. Collaborated with artists such as Jasper Johns and served as a catalyst for the Neo-Dada movement. Associated with innovative uses of technology, explored printmaking and fabric arts throughout the career. Received numerous accolades, including the National Medal of Arts in 1993.
Continue ReadingLorenzo Zambrano
Businessman and philanthropist
Born
1944 81 years ago
Died
May 12th, 2014 11 years ago — 70 years old
A prominent Mexican businessman led Cemex, a global leader in the construction industry. Under leadership, Cemex expanded its operations worldwide, becoming a major player in cement and building materials. The company executed strategic acquisitions and developed innovative business models, enhancing its market position. In addition to business ventures, engaged in philanthropic efforts focused on education, health, and community development through various initiatives.
Continue ReadingErich von Stroheim
Actor and director of silent films
Born
September 22nd, 1885 140 years ago
Died
May 12th, 1957 68 years ago — 71 years old
An influential figure in early cinema, one of the first filmmakers to achieve artistic acclaim. Directed and starred in films such as "Greed" and "The Wedding March", which showcased an innovative approach to storytelling and production techniques. Contributed to the development of cinematic language through meticulous attention to detail and realism. Worked in various capacities in the film industry, including roles as an actor in major silent films. His filmmaking style paved the way for future directors in Hollywood.
Continue ReadingMark Damon
Film actor and producer, produced horror films
Born
1933 92 years ago
Died
May 12th, 2024 1 years ago — 91 years old
An American film actor and producer, earned recognition during the 1960s and 1970s for contributions to the horror genre. Gained fame for performances in films such as 'Angel Face' and 'The Pit and the Pendulum.' Established a production company that specialized in low-budget horror films, achieving considerable success in international markets. After transitioning from acting to producing, focused on fostering new talent and developing innovative projects in the genre. Active in the film industry for several decades, he maintained a presence both in front of and behind the camera until recent years.
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