Carl Woese
Microbiologist and biophysicist; discovered archaea
Born
July 15th, 1928
96 years ago
Died
December 30th, 2012
12 years ago — 84 years old
Category
Scientists & Innovators
Country
United States
Links & References
Contributed significantly to microbial phylogeny and the tree of life. Developed the concept of archaea, a separate domain of life distinct from bacteria and eukaryotes. His work utilized ribosomal RNA sequencing techniques to classify organisms based on genetic material. Published the groundbreaking paper 'The Universal Tree of Life' which reshaped the understanding of evolutionary biology. Served as a professor at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign and received numerous accolades for research in genetics and microbiology.
Discovered and classified archaea as a separate domain of life
Advanced ribosomal RNA sequencing techniques for phylogenetic studies
Published influential research on the tree of life
Other People Born on July 15th
Buju Banton
Reggae singer rose to prominence in the 1990s, combining dancehall and reggae styles. Gained international attention with the hit 'Boom Bye Bye.' Released critically acclaimed albums, including 'Til Shiloh' and 'Inna Heights.' His music often addressed social issues and personal experiences. After serving time in prison, returned to music in 2018 and continued to tour and release new material, reaffirming his status in the reggae music scene.
Continue ReadingJacques Derrida
Born in Algeria, this philosopher contributed significantly to literary theory and philosophy. He developed the concept of deconstruction, which critiques the relationship between text and meaning, challenging traditional interpretations. Teaching at various institutions, including the École Normale Supérieure in Paris, he influenced a wide range of disciplines. Major works include "Of Grammatology" and "Writing and Difference," which established his reputation in post-structuralist thought. His ideas have permeated various fields, including law, architecture, and feminist theory.
Continue ReadingJason Bonham
Born in England, a drummer gained recognition as the son of Led Zeppelin drummer John Bonham. Played drums for Led Zeppelin during their 2007 reunion concert at the O2 Arena in London. Also participated in various other musical projects, including Bonham and his contributions to other rock bands. Throughout the career, showcased talent through live performances and recorded albums with significant success.
Continue ReadingLivia Gouverneur
Born in 1941, this political figure emerged as a prominent member of the Venezuelan Communist Party. Active in Marxist politics throughout her life, she worked to influence labor movements and engage in grassroots organizing. Involved in various political campaigns, she contributed to debates on social justice and equity in Venezuela. Additionally, she played a significant role in advocating for workers' rights.
Continue ReadingDiane Kruger
Born in Germany, this actress pursued a career in modeling before transitioning to acting. Gained international recognition for the role of Bridget von Hammersmark in 'Inglourious Basterds' directed by Quentin Tarantino. Starred as Abigail Chase in the 'National Treasure' series, showcasing a blend of action and adventure. Received accolades for performances in various films, including winning the Best Actress award at the Cannes Film Festival for her role in 'In the Fade.'
Continue ReadingEdda Garðarsdóttir
Competed as a professional footballer for Iceland's national women's team. Played as a defender during a career spanning from the late 1990s to the early 2000s. Participated in qualifying matches for the UEFA Women's Euro championships. Contributed to the development of women's football in Iceland through club and national team engagements.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on December 30th
Abdurrahman Wahid
Served as the 4th President of Indonesia from 1999 to 2001, playing a key role in the transition to democracy after the fall of Suharto. Co-founded the National Awakening Party (PKB) and was a prominent leader of the Nahdlatul Ulama, the largest Islamic organization in Indonesia. Advocated for human rights and religious tolerance, and was involved in various interfaith dialogues. Post-presidency, continued to contribute to Indonesian society through writing and public speaking.
Continue ReadingSam Muchnick
A prominent wrestling promoter, co-founded the National Wrestling Alliance in 1948, which became a significant governing body in professional wrestling. Pioneered the promotion of televised wrestling, helping to popularize the sport across the United States. Muchnick's innovative approaches to booking and talent management established him as a key figure in wrestling history. Managed numerous wrestling promotions, notably in St. Louis, where he held events that attracted large audiences. Instrumental in the careers of many wrestlers and contributed to the establishment of wrestling as a mainstream entertainment form.
Continue ReadingBarbara Walters
A pioneering journalist and television producer, this American journalist gained prominence as the first female co-anchor of a network evening news program. She hosted the influential talk show 'The View,' which brought together a panel of women discussing current events. Walters began her career in television news at NBC, where she worked on the 'Today' show and gained recognition for conducting high-profile interviews with politicians, celebrities, and world leaders. Walters also created and produced '20/20,' a news magazine that showcased investigative reporting and compelling human interest stories. Over her career, she received numerous awards, including multiple Emmy Awards.
Continue ReadingYuli Daniel
An author and poet from Russia, became prominent primarily as a writer during the Soviet era. Faced persecution for expressing dissent through literary works. Wrote notable pieces that captured the struggles of individual freedom and artistic expression under oppressive regimes. His imprisonment and subsequent exile drew attention to issues of censorship and human rights within the Soviet Union. Continued to write and publish works that resonated with themes of liberty and resistance.
Continue ReadingJosephine Butler
A prominent social reformer, dedicated efforts focused on women's rights and social justice. Advocated against the Contagious Diseases Acts, which discriminated against women. Established organizations to support social reform, fighting for the education and welfare of women. Raised awareness on issues related to child welfare and women's health. Played a crucial role in shaping public opinion on prostitution and sexual morality.
Continue ReadingAlfred North Whitehead
Contributed significantly to the fields of mathematics and philosophy. Co-authored the seminal work 'Principia Mathematica' with Bertrand Russell, which laid foundational aspects of mathematical logic. Developed process philosophy, emphasizing the processual nature of reality and the interconnectivity of all entities. Served in various academic roles, including at Harvard University, influencing future generations of scholars.
Continue Reading