August Kekulé
Chemist known for structural chemistry
A German chemist and academic established contributions to structural chemistry. Introduced the idea of chemical structure and proposed that carbon atoms could bond in a chain, which explained the molecular structure of various organic compounds. Formulated the concept of isomerism, which describes compounds with the same molecular formula but different structural arrangements. Developed the structural formula of benzene and suggested its cyclic structure, which has fundamental importance in organic chemistry and the development of aromatic compounds. His work laid groundwork for future developments in organic synthesis and chemical bonding theories.
Proposed the structural formula of benzene
Developed concepts of isomerism and chemical structure
Other People Born on September 7th
C. J. Dennis
Australian poet and author of 'The Songs of a Sentimental Bloke'
Born
September 7th, 1876 149 years ago
Died
June 22nd, 1938 87 years ago — 61 years old
Born in 1876 in Australia, a poet and author gained recognition for crafting verse that captured the essence of Australian life and culture. The work 'The Songs of a Sentimental Bloke', published in 1915, became emblematic of the Australian literary scene. This collection featured a blend of humor, sentiment, and local dialect, appealing to a broad audience and solidifying a place in Australian literature. Throughout a prolific career, engaged with various forms of writing including poetry, short stories, and works for children, contributing significantly to the literary landscape of Australia.
Continue ReadingBaudouin of Belgium
King of Belgium and constitutional monarch
Born
September 7th, 1930 95 years ago
Died
1993 32 years ago — 63 years old
Ascended to the throne of Belgium in 1951 and reigned until 1993. Played a key role in the nation's political stability during a period of significant change in Europe. Oversaw a constitutional monarchy and engaged in various social issues, including the promotion of cultural identity within Belgium's multilingual context. Held a strong personal commitment to the welfare of the Belgian people.
Continue ReadingMaria Anna of Austria
Archduchess and Queen of Hungary
Born
September 7th, 1683 342 years ago
Died
1754 271 years ago — 71 years old
Born in 1683, one of the daughters of Emperor Leopold I and his second wife, Eleonor Magdalene of Neuburg. Married Joseph I, Holy Roman Emperor, in 1708, becoming Empress after his ascension. Engaged in court affairs and supported the arts. After the death of Joseph I in 1711, served as regent for their son, Charles VI. Her tenure as Empress Consort included efforts to strengthen the Habsburg monarchy and navigate challenges from rival powers.
Continue ReadingTaylor Caldwell
Author of historical and psychological novels
Born
September 7th, 1900 125 years ago
Died
August 30th, 1985 40 years ago — 84 years old
An English-American author, primarily recognized for historical and psychological novels, gained prominence in the mid-20th century. Wrote numerous bestsellers during a prolific career, which included works such as 'Dynasty of Death' and 'Captains and the Kings'. Caldwell's writing often explored themes of power, morality, and the human experience, appealing to a wide audience and receiving critical acclaim. The author produced over 30 novels, contributing significantly to the literary landscape of her time. Additionally, her writings were adapted for television and film, expanding her reach beyond literature.
Continue ReadingDaniel Inouye
U.S. Senator and Medal of Honor recipient
Born
September 7th, 1924 101 years ago
Died
December 17th, 2012 13 years ago — 88 years old
Served as a U.S. Senator from Hawaii for nearly 50 years, representing the state in numerous important legislative matters. Participated in World War II as a member of the 442nd Regimental Combat Team, the most decorated unit in American military history. Received the Medal of Honor for extraordinary heroism during combat on April 21, 1945. Throughout Senate career, focused on issues such as civil rights, health care, and veteran affairs, significantly shaping policies affecting these areas.
Continue ReadingNorifumi Abe
Motorcycle racer; MotoGP competitor
Born
September 7th, 1975 50 years ago
Died
October 7th, 2007 18 years ago — 32 years old
Abe participated in the MotoGP racing series during the late 1990s and early 2000s. He achieved success with Yamaha and became the first Japanese rider to win a Grand Prix race in over a decade. Abe was part of the 500cc World Championship, where he showcased remarkable skill and competitiveness. He also competed in the Superbike World Championship, making significant contributions to the sport.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on July 13th
Johann Voldemar Jannsen
Estonian journalist and poet
Born
May 16th, 1819 206 years ago
Died
July 13th, 1890 135 years ago — 71 years old
Born in 1819, this individual contributed significantly to Estonian literature and journalism. He played a key role in the promotion of the Estonian language through poetry and writing. As the founder of the first Estonian-language newspaper, he was instrumental in the literary movements of the 19th century, championing the rights and cultural identity of the Estonian people. His works often reflected national themes and were pivotal during a time of growing national consciousness in Estonia.
Continue ReadingBronisław Geremek
Polish historian and Minister of Foreign Affairs
Born
March 6th, 1932 93 years ago
Died
July 13th, 2008 17 years ago — 76 years old
Born in 1932, studied history at the University of Warsaw. Contributed to Solidarity, the Polish trade union movement, in the 1980s. Served as Minister of Foreign Affairs from 1997 to 2000, advocating for Poland's integration into the European Union and NATO. Played a key role in the transition of Poland from communism to democracy. Participated in numerous international conferences, emphasizing human rights and democratic values.
Continue ReadingLeslie Groves
General in the US Army, Manhattan Project
Born
August 17th, 1896 129 years ago
Died
July 13th, 1970 55 years ago — 73 years old
An American general and engineer played a crucial role during World War II as the director of the Manhattan Project. Oversaw the development of the atomic bomb, coordinating efforts among various scientific and military personnel. The project culminated in the successful test of the first atomic bomb in July 1945, known as the Trinity Test. After the war, continued service in the Army, making contributions to the military infrastructure and leadership training.
Continue ReadingAlbert VII
Archduke of Austria, Governor of the Low Countries
Born
November 13th, 1559 466 years ago
Died
July 13th, 1621 404 years ago — 61 years old
Governed the Spanish Netherlands from 1596 until death in 1621. Served as a prominent political figure during the Twelve Years' Truce, a ceasefire in the Eighty Years' War. Oversaw efforts to stabilize the region and supported the arts and culture. His governance was marked by both military and diplomatic engagements, attempting to reconcile conflicting interests in the Low Countries.
Continue ReadingGabriel Lippmann
Physicist and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
August 16th, 1845 180 years ago
Died
July 13th, 1921 104 years ago — 75 years old
A physicist and academic, contributed significantly to the field of physics. Developed the method of color photography known as integral photography, which utilized the principles of light interference. In recognition of these advancements, received the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1908. His work laid the foundation for later developments in photographic technology and optics.
Continue ReadingZindzi Mandela
South African politician and diplomat
Born
1960 65 years ago
Died
July 13th, 2020 5 years ago — 60 years old
Third daughter of Nelson Mandela, played significant roles in politics and diplomacy in South Africa. Served as South Africa's ambassador to Denmark from 2015 until her death in 2020. Advocated for her father's legacy and participated in the struggle against apartheid. Her activism included efforts to promote peace and reconciliation in post-apartheid South Africa.
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