Arthur Compton
Physicist and Nobel Prize laureate
An American physicist contributed significantly to the understanding of X-rays and the Compton effect, which describes the scattering of X-rays by electrons. Held academic positions at several prestigious institutions including the University of Chicago and Washington University in St. Louis. Received the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1927 for discovering the phenomenon that illustrated the particle nature of light. His work laid foundational principles for both quantum mechanics and radiation physics, making substantial contributions to both theoretical and experimental physics.
Received the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1927
Discovered the Compton effect
Served as the president of the American Physical Society
Other People Born on September 10th
Charles Kuralt
Television journalist and storyteller
Born
September 10th, 1934 91 years ago
Died
July 4th, 1997 28 years ago — 62 years old
A prominent television journalist, Kuralt created and hosted the series 'On the Road' for CBS News, showcasing human interest stories across America. Kuralt's career spanned four decades, during which he received numerous awards for his work in journalism including several Emmy Awards and the Edward R. Murrow Award. In addition to his television work, Kuralt authored several books reflecting on his travels and the stories of ordinary Americans. Kuralt's storytelling approach combined insights into American culture with a narrative style that resonated with viewers.
Continue ReadingMichèle Alliot-Marie
French politician and Minister of Foreign Affairs
Born
September 10th, 1946 79 years ago
A prominent French lawyer and politician with a significant role in government. Served as Minister of Foreign and European Affairs from 2010 to 2011. Held multiple ministerial positions, including Minister of Defense and Minister of the Interior. Served as a member of the National Assembly and as a mayor.
Continue ReadingStephen Jay Gould
Paleontologist and evolutionary biologist
Born
September 10th, 1941 84 years ago
Died
May 20th, 2002 24 years ago — 60 years old
A prominent paleontologist and evolutionary biologist contributed significantly to the field of evolutionary theory. Developed the theory of punctuated equilibrium alongside Niles Eldredge, emphasizing that evolution occurs in rapid bursts followed by long periods of stability. Authored several influential books, including 'Wonderful Life' and 'The Mismeasure of Man,' which critiqued the use of intelligence testing. Served as a professor at Harvard University, where extensive research focused on the patterns of evolution and the history of life on Earth. Engaged in public writing, making complex scientific ideas accessible to broader audiences, and published numerous essays in 'Natural History' magazine.
Continue ReadingJack Ma
Businessman, co-founder of Alibaba Group
Born
September 10th, 1964 61 years ago
Co-founded Alibaba Group in 1999, which grew to become a global leader in e-commerce and technology. Ma served as the executive chairman of the company until 2019. Under his leadership, Alibaba launched several notable platforms, including Taobao and Alipay, revolutionizing online shopping and payment systems in China. Ma has also focused on philanthropy and education, establishing the Jack Ma Foundation, which supports education and entrepreneurship.
Continue ReadingJim Oberstar
American politician and educator
Born
September 10th, 1934 91 years ago
Died
May 3rd, 2014 12 years ago — 79 years old
Served in the U.S. House of Representatives from 1975 to 2011, representing Minnesota's 8th congressional district. During tenure, chaired the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, influencing national transportation policy. Advocated for various infrastructure projects and supported initiatives to improve transportation safety and efficiency. Worked on policies concerning aviation, public transit, and highways. Contributed to the development of significant legislation such as theSafe, Accountable, Flexible, Efficient Transportation Equity Act.
Continue ReadingGunpei Yokoi
Japanese video game designer, Game Boy inventor
Born
September 10th, 1941 84 years ago
Died
1997 29 years ago — 56 years old
Contributed significantly to the video game industry, particularly through work at Nintendo. Designed the Game Boy, a portable gaming device that revolutionized gaming on the go and sold over 118 million units worldwide. Also created the Game & Watch series, which combined handheld gaming with a clock and became a precursor to modern portable games. Led development of several successful arcade games, including the highly acclaimed Kid Icarus. His innovative approach emphasized creativity and simplicity in game design.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on March 15th
Barbara Maier Gustern
Vocal coach and singer
Born
February 10th, 1935 91 years ago
Died
March 15th, 2022 4 years ago — 87 years old
A vocal coach and singer, she contributed significantly to the music industry through training and mentoring numerous artists. Gustern was a prominent figure in the world of vocal instruction, participating in various prestigious music events and performances. Her career spanned decades, during which she worked with both classical and contemporary vocalists, helping to develop their techniques and artistry. She also performed in musical theater productions, showcasing her talent on stage while nurturing the next generation of singers.
Continue ReadingMike Porcaro
Bass player for Toto
Born
1955 71 years ago
Died
March 15th, 2015 11 years ago — 60 years old
A prominent bass player, contributed to the rock band Toto, which formed in 1977. Played on their hit albums, including 'Toto IV', which won multiple Grammy Awards, including Album of the Year in 1983. Joined the band in the late 1970s and remained with them until 2008. Participated in numerous tours and recordings, showcasing a distinct playing style that defined many of the band's classic tracks. Developed a reputation in the music industry for contributions to various projects beyond Toto, collaborating with a range of artists and musicians.
Continue ReadingVittorio Gregotti
Italian architect & cultural designer
Born
1927 99 years ago
Died
March 15th, 2020 6 years ago — 93 years old
An architect and urban planner who played a significant role in shaping contemporary Italian architecture. Operated a design studio in Turin, producing works that integrated architecture with urban planning. Engaged in various projects throughout Italy and internationally. Contributed to discussions on architecture and society through writings and academic roles. Designed cultural and public buildings, focusing on coherence with their environment.
Continue ReadingAsa Briggs
Historian and academic authoring works
Born
1921 105 years ago
Died
March 15th, 2016 10 years ago — 95 years old
A prominent historian and academic, contributed significantly to the field of social history, particularly regarding Victorian Britain. Served as the vice-chancellor of the Open University and played an essential role in developing its educational and research programs. Authored several influential books, detailing aspects of British history and the media's role in shaping public consciousness. Engaged in public debates about history and education in the UK and delivered numerous lectures.
Continue ReadingSeru Rabeni
Rugby player for Fiji national team
Born
1978 48 years ago
Died
March 15th, 2016 10 years ago — 38 years old
A rugby union player represented Fiji internationally. Played as a center and wing, earning 36 caps for the national team from 2001 to 2007. Competed in two Rugby World Cups, participating in the 2003 and 2007 tournaments. Having played professionally for several clubs, most notably for Leicester Tigers in the English Premiership, contributed to the team's successes during his tenure.
Continue ReadingCurtis Gans
Political Scientist and Author
Born
1937 89 years ago
Died
March 15th, 2015 11 years ago — 78 years old
Contributed to the field of political science with a focus on elections and voter behavior. Authored influential works that analyzed civic engagement and public opinion. Conducted extensive research on the relationship between democracy and voter turnout. Served as a director at the Committee for the Study of the American Electorate.
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