August Wilhelm von Hofmann

Chemist known for organic chemistry advances

August Wilhelm von Hofmann - Scientists & Innovators born April 8th, 1818
Born
Died
Category

Scientists & Innovators

Country

Germany

Links & References

Contributed significantly to the field of organic chemistry. Developed new synthetic methods and studied many important organic compounds. Served as a professor at the University of Berlin, influencing the study of chemistry in Germany and beyond. Pioneered research on the structure of organic compounds and the use of coal tar in dyes. His work laid foundational concepts still utilized in modern chemistry.

Established the field of organic chemistry

Discovered various organic compounds

Developed synthetic dye processes

Other People Born on April 8th

John Hicks

Economist and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
April 8th, 1904 121 years ago
Died
May 20th, 1989 36 years ago — 85 years old

An English economist and academic, had a significant influence in the fields of welfare economics and general equilibrium theory. Contributed to the development of the IS-LM model, which describes the relationship between interest rates and real output. Authored important works, including 'Value and Capital', which examined the concepts of demand and supply. Received the Nobel Prize in Economic Sciences in 1972 for contributions to the analysis of demand and supply. His theories continue to be referenced in economic literature and education.

Continue Reading

Kofi Annan

Diplomat and 7th UN Secretary-General
Born
April 8th, 1938 87 years ago
Died
August 18th, 2018 7 years ago — 80 years old

An economist and diplomat served as the 7th Secretary-General of the United Nations from 1997 to 2006. Played a significant role in international diplomacy and global peace efforts. Oversaw major initiatives including the UN Millennium Development Goals and efforts to reform the UN. Most notably, received the Nobel Peace Prize in 2001 alongside the United Nations for their work in fostering a better organized and more peaceful world.

Continue Reading

Allen Butler Talcott

American painter and educator
Born
April 8th, 1867 158 years ago
Died
June 1st, 1908 117 years ago — 41 years old

An influential painter and educator, this individual contributed to the American art scene in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. He studied at the Art Students League of New York and became associated with notable art organizations. His teaching career included positions at various institutions where fine arts cultivated among students. This individual's work often focused on landscape and genre painting, promoting a distinctly American aesthetic during a transformative period in art history.

Continue Reading

Michele Mercati

Italian physician and archaeologist
Born
April 8th, 1541 484 years ago
Died
June 25th, 1593 432 years ago — 52 years old

A physician and archaeologist, contributions include the study of ancient materials and the exploration of the natural sciences. Authored 'Metallotheca', a seminal work on metallurgy detailing the origins and uses of metals in antiquity. Mercati's research laid foundational principles for the field of archaeology, particularly concerning the relationship between material culture and the study of history. His interdisciplinary approach combined aspects of medicine, chemistry, and archaeology to advance the understanding of ancient technologies.

Continue Reading

Jacques Brel

Belgian singer-songwriter and actor
Born
April 8th, 1929 96 years ago
Died
October 9th, 1978 47 years ago — 49 years old

Emerging from Belgium, this artist became a prominent figure in the music scene during the 20th century, particularly in the French chanson genre. His career took off in the 1950s, with poetic lyrics and passionate performances captivating audiences. Several of his songs became classics, including 'Ne me quitte pas', which have been covered by many artists worldwide. In addition to music, he ventured into acting, appearing in films such as 'Franz' and 'Le Far West'. His work has left a lasting influence on both singers and songwriters across generations.

Continue Reading

Margaret Ayer Barnes

American author and playwright
Born
April 8th, 1886 139 years ago
Died
October 25th, 1967 58 years ago — 81 years old

An American author and playwright, contributions include novels and plays that reflect societal themes and personal experiences. Works include the Pulitzer Prize-winning play "Years Ago" and novels such as "The Fiddleneck". Literature often highlighted issues faced by women and the impacts of war on society.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on May 5th

Bernard Hill

English actor known for 'Titanic'
Born
December 17th, 1944 81 years ago
Died
May 5th, 2024 1 years ago — 79 years old

An English actor gained prominence through numerous performances in film and television. Striking roles include the portrayal of King Theoden in 'The Lord of the Rings' trilogy and Captain Edward Smith in 'Titanic'. Hill's career spans several decades, with work in both dramatic and comedic roles. Early career involvement in both theater and television laid a strong foundation for a notable film career. Recognition for performances in various productions led to a significant reputation within the acting community.

Continue Reading

Casimir II the Just

Polish Prince and Duke of Sandomierz
Born
1138 888 years ago
Died
May 5th, 1194 831 years ago — 56 years old

This figure played a significant role in the fragmentation of the Kingdom of Poland in the 12th century. Ruled as Duke of Sandomierz from 1177 until 1194 and also served as the High Duke of Poland after a period of civil strife. Implemented reforms to strengthen the power of the monarchy and promoted religious tolerance. His reign was marked by efforts to consolidate territories and reduce conflicts among the nobility.

Continue Reading

Mariano Ignacio Prado

Peruvian general and President
Born
December 18th, 1825 200 years ago
Died
May 5th, 1901 124 years ago — 75 years old

A prominent military figure and politician, this individual served as President of Peru during critical periods in the nation's history. Governance occurred during two separate terms, with significant focus on modernization and infrastructure development. A general by training, participated in various military campaigns to maintain national stability. Held the presidency during the War of the Pacific, which shaped relations with neighboring countries. Efforts included reforms that addressed economic and social issues within Peru.

Continue Reading

Jean Astruc

French physician and medical scholar
Born
March 19th, 1684 341 years ago
Died
May 5th, 1766 259 years ago — 82 years old

Born in 1684, a physician and scholar contributed significantly to medical literature and practice. His work focused on the understanding of syphilis and the study of medical history. Astruc was also interested in the classification of diseases, which influenced subsequent medical techniques. In addition, he advocated for the humane treatment of patients and emphasized the importance of clinical observation in medicine.

Continue Reading

George Sidney

American director of film musicals
Born
October 4th, 1916 109 years ago
Died
May 5th, 2002 23 years ago — 85 years old

A prominent film director and producer, was key in the production of musicals during the mid-20th century. Directed a number of significant films, particularly in the genre of musical comedy. Collaborated with major studios to create works that showcased vibrant choreography and memorable music. His films often featured well-known actors and helped shape the landscape of American cinema during the 1950s and 1960s.

Continue Reading

Bobby Sands

PIRA volunteer and hunger striker
Born
March 9th, 1954 71 years ago
Died
May 5th, 1981 44 years ago — 27 years old

A member of the Provisional Irish Republican Army, advocated for the rights of political prisoners during the Troubles in Northern Ireland. Sands led a hunger strike in 1981 while imprisoned, which garnered significant international attention and brought awareness to the conditions faced by Republican prisoners. Sands wrote poetry and a diary during his time in prison, expressing his thoughts on the political situation in Ireland. Sands died on May 5, 1981, after 66 days without food.

Continue Reading