Clinton Hart Merriam
Zoologist and ornithologist; conducted studies
Born
Died
Category
Scientists & Innovators
Country
United States
Links & References
An American zoologist, ornithologist, and entomologist made significant contributions to the understanding of North American wildlife. Played a pivotal role in establishing wildlife conservation efforts. Developed the concept of the 'life zone,' which categorizes environments based on elevation and climate. Served as the chief of the U.S. Biological Survey and contributed to the founding of the American Ornithologists' Union. Authored numerous scientific papers and books on bird behavior and ecology.
Established the life zone concept
Led the U.S. Biological Survey
Contributed to the founding of the American Ornithologists' Union
Other People Born on December 5th
Paul Kogerman
Chemist and academic specializing in chemistry
Born
December 5th, 1891 134 years ago
Died
July 27th, 1951 74 years ago — 59 years old
Born in Estonia, a chemist and academic contributed significantly to the field of chemistry. Kogerman focused on organic chemistry and authored numerous scholarly articles. His work mainly revolved around the study of phenolic compounds and their derivatives. Throughout his career, he held various academic positions and was involved in scientific research that enhanced the understanding of chemical processes. Kogerman's contributions were crucial in advancing research methodologies in Estonia and beyond.
Continue ReadingRobert Harley
English lawyer and politician
Born
December 5th, 1661 364 years ago
Died
May 21st, 1724 301 years ago — 62 years old
Born in 1661, this figure served as Secretary of State for the Northern Department. As a prominent political leader during Queen Anne's reign, held influential roles in the government, particularly as a key advisor. Played a vital role in managing relations between England and Scotland and was instrumental in the passing of significant legislation. Elevated to the peerage as the 1st Earl of Oxford and Earl Mortimer, represented the Tory party during a time of political upheaval. Contributed to the British political landscape through various legislative efforts and reforms.
Continue ReadingClyde Vernon Cessna
Aircraft manufacturer and businessman
Born
December 5th, 1879 146 years ago
Died
November 20th, 1954 71 years ago — 74 years old
Established the Cessna Aircraft Corporation in 1927, significantly contributing to the advancement of general aviation. Cessna designed and built the first Cessna aircraft, the Cessna Model A, and later produced iconic aircraft models like the Cessna 172, widely regarded for its reliability and performance. Played a key role in promoting private flying and was instrumental in popularizing light aircraft in the United States.
Continue ReadingHelen Dettweiler
American golfer and U.S. Women's Open winner
Born
December 5th, 1914 111 years ago
Died
November 13th, 1990 35 years ago — 75 years old
Helen Dettweiler was an American golfer who achieved significant success in women's golf during the mid-20th century. Born in December 1914, Dettweiler began competing in amateur tournaments and quickly rose to prominence. She won the 1943 U.S. Women's Open, which solidified her status in the sport. In addition to her U.S. Women’s Open victory, she was a member of the victorious American team at the Curtis Cup in 1948. Throughout her career, Dettweiler competed in numerous national and international tournaments, contributing to the growing popularity of women's golf in the United States.
Continue ReadingHilary Koprowski
Virologist and immunologist; developed vaccines
Born
December 5th, 1916 109 years ago
Died
April 11th, 2013 12 years ago — 96 years old
This Polish-American virologist and immunologist developed the first effective oral polio vaccine, which significantly contributed to the global effort to eradicate poliomyelitis. The vaccine was tested in mass campaigns in Colombia and later used in other countries. Koprowski's research included work on vaccines for other diseases, including rabies. His contributions to the field of virology included pioneering work in the study of viruses.
Continue ReadingKen Downing
English racing driver and competitor
Born
December 5th, 1917 108 years ago
Died
May 3rd, 2004 21 years ago — 86 years old
Competed in various racing events during the mid-20th century, including participation in the 24 Hours of Le Mans. Achieved notable success in sports car racing and was a prominent figure in the British motorsport scene. Contributed to the development of racing techniques and car modifications in the post-war era of motorsport.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on March 19th
John DeLorean
Automotive engineer and business founder
Born
January 6th, 1925 101 years ago
Died
March 19th, 2005 20 years ago — 80 years old
An American engineer and businessman founded the DeLorean Motor Company in 1975. DeLorean initiated the production of the DMC-12, an iconic car known for its stainless steel body and distinctive gull-wing doors. Prior to establishing his company, served as a chief engineer at General Motors, overseeing the development of the Pontiac GTO, which contributed to the popularization of the muscle car segment in the 1960s. The automobile industry saw significant innovations attributed to work in automotive design and engineering.
Continue ReadingGlynn Lunney
American engineer for NASA missions
Born
1936 90 years ago
Died
March 19th, 2021 4 years ago — 85 years old
An engineer played a key role in the Apollo space program and later contributed to the Space Shuttle program at NASA. Significant responsibilities included serving as a flight director during critical missions, including Apollo 10, which served as a prelude to the first Moon landing. Lunney's expertise and leadership were instrumental in managing flight operations and ensuring mission success. He also worked on the development of the Space Shuttle and oversaw its missions, emphasizing safety and reliability.
Continue ReadingHenry the Bearded
Polish duke and military leader
Born
1163 863 years ago
Died
March 19th, 1238 787 years ago — 75 years old
Held the title of Duke of Silesia and played a significant role in the political landscape of Poland during the 12th and early 13th centuries. Son of Bolesław I the Tall, worked to unify and strengthen the duchies in Silesia. Engaged in military campaigns against various opponents, including the Mongols. His reign saw attempts at consolidating power in a fragmented Polish state. Died in 1238, leaving a legacy of regional leadership.
Continue ReadingNorman Haworth
Chemist, Nobel Prize in Chemistry winner
Born
March 19th, 1883 142 years ago
Died
March 19th, 1950 75 years ago — 67 years old
An English chemist and academic contributed significantly to the study of carbohydrates. Extensive research on the structure and function of sugars and polysaccharides advanced the field of organic chemistry. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1937 for investigations of sugars and their derivatives. Served as a professor at the University of Birmingham, promoting research and education in chemistry. Authored numerous scientific papers and works that are foundational in carbohydrate chemistry.
Continue ReadingJohn Bingham
American lawyer and diplomat
Born
1815 211 years ago
Died
March 19th, 1900 125 years ago — 85 years old
Served as the 7th United States Ambassador to Japan from 1896 until 1900. Played a significant role in enhancing U.S.-Japan relations during a period of growing international influence in Asia. Actively engaged in various diplomatic discussions to strengthen ties between the two nations. Prior to ambassadorship, held various legal and political positions, contributing to the American legal landscape in the late 19th century.
Continue ReadingPatrick Joseph McGovern
Businessman and IDG founder
Born
August 11th, 1937 88 years ago
Died
March 19th, 2014 11 years ago — 76 years old
Founded International Data Group (IDG), a leading technology media, events, and research company. Expanded IDG into multiple markets globally, focusing on technology and innovation. Served as chairman of IDG Communications. Contributed to the growth of technology journalism and information dissemination through various influential publications, including Computerworld.
Continue Reading