Bengt I. Samuelsson

Swedish biochemist, Nobel Laureate

Bengt I. Samuelsson - Swedish biochemist, Nobel Laureate
Born

May 21st, 1934
90 years ago

Died

July 5th, 2024
0 years ago — 90 years old

Category

Scientists & Innovators

Country

Sweden

Links & References

Born in 1934, contributions to biochemistry included significant discoveries related to eicosanoids, which are vital hormone-like substances in the body. Research focused on lipoxygenase and cyclooxygenase, enzymes involved in the metabolism of arachidonic acid. These findings led to advancements in understanding inflammation and allergies. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1982 alongside two others for work on the chemical mediators of the immune system, leading to breakthroughs in pharmacology and therapeutics. Held academic positions and played a crucial role in promoting biochemistry in Sweden.

Awarded the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1982

Conducted seminal research on eicosanoids

Other People Born on May 21st

Sara Goller

German volleyball player, Olympic athlete
Born
May 21st, 1984 40 years ago

Competed as a professional volleyball player. Played for the German national team. Participated in multiple European Championships and World Championships. Achieved a notable career with significant performances on international stages.

Continue Reading

Henri Rousseau

French painter; The Dream
Born
May 21st, 1844 180 years ago
Died
September 2nd, 1910 114 years ago — 66 years old

Born in 1844, this painter was a self-taught artist who developed a distinctive style characterized by bold colors and imaginative subjects. Originally working as a customs officer, painting became a significant pursuit during his free time. The artist's works often depicted lush jungles and fantastical scenes, despite having never traveled to the tropics. His paintings received minimal recognition during his lifetime, but posthumously gained significant acclaim and a prominent place in the art world. Notable works include 'The Dream' and 'The Sleeping Gypsy'.

Continue Reading

Rosalind Plowright

English soprano and acclaimed opera singer
Born
May 21st, 1949 75 years ago

Acclaimed English soprano gained prominence in the opera world from the 1980s onwards. Performed at prestigious venues including the Royal Opera House and the Metropolitan Opera. Notable for a powerful voice and compelling stage presence, she has taken on leading roles in productions such as 'Carmen', 'Aida', and 'The Rake's Progress'. Contributed to world premieres and has collaborated with renowned conductors and composers.

Continue Reading

Claire Cashmore

Paralympic swimmer with multiple medals
Born
May 21st, 1988 36 years ago

An accomplished English Paralympic swimmer, this athlete competed in various international swimming competitions. Achievements include participation in the 2008, 2012, and 2016 Paralympic Games, earning multiple medals across different events. Specializing in the individual medley and butterfly, notable performances included winning a bronze medal in the 100m breaststroke at the 2012 London Paralympics. This swimmer also set world records in her classification events, showcasing exceptional talent and dedication to the sport.

Continue Reading

Adrian Hardiman

Irish lawyer and Supreme Court judge
Born
May 21st, 1951 73 years ago
Died
March 7th, 2016 9 years ago — 64 years old

Graduated from University College Dublin and qualified as a barrister. Appointed to the Supreme Court of Ireland in 2000, serving until death. Known for contributions in various significant cases and legal opinions that shaped Irish law. Also served as a judge on the High Court and worked on several pivotal legal reforms.

Continue Reading

Glenn Curtiss

Aviation pioneer and engineer
Born
May 21st, 1878 146 years ago
Died
July 23rd, 1930 94 years ago — 52 years old

Became a leading figure in early aviation, contributing extensively to the development of aircraft design and technology. Founded the Curtiss Aeroplane Company, which was instrumental in the growth of the aviation industry. His innovations included the development of the aileron and significant contributions to hydroaviation. He also produced military aircraft during World War I, including the Curtiss JN-4 'Jenny', which became one of the most popular training aircraft for the U.S. Army.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on July 5th

James Stockdale

Admiral and Medal of Honor recipient
Born
December 23rd, 1923 101 years ago
Died
July 5th, 2005 19 years ago — 81 years old

A United States Navy admiral and aviator who served during the Vietnam War, received the Medal of Honor for extraordinary heroism as a prisoner of war. Stockdale spent over seven years in captivity, enduring severe hardships and torture. After his release, Stockdale became a prominent author and educator, and served as a Vice Presidential candidate in 1992. His leadership and resilience during captivity significantly contributed to the morale of fellow prisoners.

Continue Reading

Walter Gropius

Architect, designed John F. Kennedy Building
Born
May 18th, 1883 141 years ago
Died
July 5th, 1969 55 years ago — 86 years old

A leading architect of the 20th century, contributed significantly to modern architecture as the founder of the Bauhaus school in Germany. Emphasized functional design and the integration of art with technology. Designed multiple iconic buildings including the John F. Kennedy Federal Building in Boston and the Werkbund Exhibition in 1914. Advocated for the unity of art and industrial design, influencing generations of architects and designers.

Continue Reading

Howard Nemerov

American Poet and Academic
Born
March 1st, 1920 105 years ago
Died
July 5th, 1991 33 years ago — 71 years old

An American poet and academic contributed significantly to 20th-century poetry. Served as a professor at Washington University in St. Louis and was a key figure in the academic study of poetry. Published several collections of poetry, essays, and criticism, and held prestigious positions including U.S. Poet Laureate. Recognition included the Bollingen Prize and the National Book Award.

Continue Reading

Richard Donner

Film director and producer of Superman
Born
April 24th, 1930 94 years ago
Died
July 5th, 2021 3 years ago — 91 years old

A prominent film director and producer, contributed significantly to the superhero genre with the release of 'Superman' in 1978. Directed the iconic 'The Goonies' in 1985, a beloved adventure film. Also directed several 'Lethal Weapon' series films, establishing a popular action-comedy franchise. Collaborated with various actors, enhancing their careers and bringing significant films to life. Active in the film industry from the mid-20th century until the early 21st century.

Continue Reading

Kenneth Lay

Businessman and Enron CEO
Born
April 15th, 1942 82 years ago
Died
July 5th, 2006 18 years ago — 64 years old

Born in 1942, a prominent American businessman served as the CEO and chairman of Enron Corporation, an energy company based in Houston, Texas. Lay played a crucial role in the company's rapid growth in the 1990s, promoting innovative energy trading and deregulation. Under his leadership, Enron's stock skyrocketed, making it one of the largest companies in the United States. However, amid accounting scandals, Enron filed for bankruptcy in 2001, marking one of the largest bankruptcies in U.S. history. Lay faced criminal charges related to securities fraud and conspiracy, though he died before the trial concluded.

Continue Reading

Murakami

Emperor of Japan during Heian Period
Born
July 14th, 926 1098 years ago
Died
July 5th, 967 1057 years ago — 40 years old

Ruled as Emperor of Japan from 946 until death in 967. His reign witnessed significant developments in the arts and culture during the Heian Period. Murakami was also involved in several political dynamics within the imperial court, navigating the complexities of aristocratic influences. Known for fostering cultural accomplishments and stabilizing the state during his rule, he presided over a time where literature and poetry flourished.

Continue Reading