Denton Cooley
Cardiothoracic surgeon and innovator
A prominent cardiothoracic surgeon and scientist, contributions to heart surgery and medical education included pioneering techniques and procedures. Established one of the first artificial hearts and performed the first successful heart transplant in the United States. Founded the Texas Heart Institute in Houston, focusing on cardiovascular diseases and education in surgical techniques in the field.
Pioneered the use of artificial hearts
Performed first successful heart transplant in the U.S.
Other People Born on August 22nd
Carl Yastrzemski
Baseball player; 1967 AL MVP
Born
August 22nd, 1939 86 years ago
This baseball player played for the Boston Red Sox from 1961 to 1983. A standout left fielder and first baseman, he recorded over 3,400 hits and is regarded as one of the all-time greats in Major League Baseball. Achieved significant accolades during a career that spanned over two decades, including a standout season in 1967 when he earned the American League MVP award. Helped lead the Red Sox to a World Series appearance in 1967. Inducted into the National Baseball Hall of Fame in 1989.
Continue ReadingDeng Xiaoping
Chinese politician and leader
Born
August 22nd, 1904 121 years ago
Died
February 19th, 1997 28 years ago — 92 years old
A prominent Chinese politician, held various roles in the government including Vice Premier and paramount leader during a significant reform period. Instrumental in China's economic reforms, aimed at transitioning from a command economy to a socialist market economy. Oversaw the introduction of policies that encouraged foreign investment and innovation, leading to rapid economic growth. Played a crucial role in the establishment of Special Economic Zones, transforming China's economy and global standing. His governance included a commitment to modernization and opening up the country.
Continue ReadingAdam Thielen
American football wide receiver, Pro Bowler
Born
August 22nd, 1990 35 years ago
An American football wide receiver, celebrated for contributions to the Minnesota Vikings in the National Football League (NFL). A standout from Minnesota State University, Mankato, achieved notable success after joining the Vikings as an undrafted free agent in 2013. Gained attention for his impressive route running and reliable hands, contributing significantly to the team's offense during crucial games. Played an integral role in the Vikings' journey to the NFC Championship Game during the 2017 season, finishing with over 1,000 receiving yards and earning a Pro Bowl selection as recognition of exceptional performance.
Continue ReadingNorman Schwarzkopf
American general, Persian Gulf War leader
Born
August 22nd, 1934 91 years ago
Died
December 27th, 2012 12 years ago — 78 years old
Served as a United States Army general, leading coalition forces during the Persian Gulf War in 1991. Graduated from the U.S. Military Academy at West Point and earned a master's degree in civil engineering from the University of Southern California. Played a vital role in Operation Desert Shield and Operation Desert Storm, executing military strategies that resulted in a swift victory against Iraqi forces. Throughout a distinguished military career, held various command positions and received numerous awards for leadership and service.
Continue ReadingJean Regnault de Segrais
French poet and novelist
Born
August 22nd, 1624 401 years ago
Died
March 25th, 1701 324 years ago — 76 years old
A poet and novelist contributed significantly to French literature in the 17th century. Worked in the literary circles of Paris and engaged with contemporary writers. Authored several works, with a blend of poetry and prose characteristics of the period. Emphasized themes of love and nature in writings, reflecting the style of the time. Served as an intellectual figure aligning with the literary trends and movements influencing France.
Continue ReadingJames Hillier
Computer Scientist, Co-inventor of Electron Microscope
Born
August 22nd, 1915 110 years ago
Died
January 15th, 2007 18 years ago — 91 years old
A Canadian-American computer scientist and academic who contributed significantly to the field of electron microscopy. Co-invented the first practical electron microscope in the 1930s, which transformed the ability to observe the ultra-structure of materials and biological samples. The development of this microscope represented a major advancement in imaging technology.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on November 18th
Émile Nelligan
Canadian poet celebrated for 'Chants d'Automne'
Born
December 24th, 1879 146 years ago
Died
November 18th, 1941 84 years ago — 61 years old
A significant figure in Canadian literature, this poet emerged in the early 20th century. His work captured the essence of the Symbolist movement, influencing subsequent generations of writers. The poet's first collection, 'Les fleurs du mal' (1897), showcased a talent that would define his legacy. Suffering from mental illness, he spent a significant portion of his life in a psychiatric institution, which limited his output. Despite these challenges, his poetry resonated with readers and critics alike, often reflecting themes of solitude and existential angst. His style combined rich imagery with a deep emotional undercurrent, leaving a lasting imprint on the literary landscape of Quebec.
Continue ReadingJames Coburn
American actor in action films
Born
August 31st, 1928 97 years ago
Died
November 18th, 2002 23 years ago — 74 years old
An American actor gained prominence in the 1960s and 1970s. His career featured roles in significant films, including a celebrated performance in 'The Magnificent Seven.' Coburn starred in the highly successful 'Our Man Flint' and its sequel 'In Like Flint,' showcasing talents in action and comedy. His portrayal of a Vietnam War veteran in 'The Great Escape' highlighted his versatility. In addition to film, Coburn contributed to television, receiving acclaim for his work on series like 'The Loner.' A dedicated performer, he also lent his voice to animated projects, further expanding his career. Coburn received an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor for his role in 'Affliction,' solidifying his status in the entertainment industry.
Continue ReadingWalther Nernst
Chemist and Physicist, Nobel Laureate
Born
June 25th, 1864 161 years ago
Died
November 18th, 1941 84 years ago — 77 years old
Born in 1864 in Germany, contributions to the fields of chemistry and physics included the development of the Nernst equation and the formulation of the third law of thermodynamics. Significant work in physical chemistry involved heat measurements and chemical equilibria. His research greatly advanced the understanding of chemical potentials and reaction rates. Nernst was awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1920 for his work in thermochemistry.
Continue ReadingPaul Bowles
Composer and author, wrote 'The Sheltering Sky'
Born
December 30th, 1910 114 years ago
Died
November 18th, 1999 26 years ago — 88 years old
An American composer and author, worked in various artistic fields. Best recognized for the novel 'The Sheltering Sky', which explores themes of existentialism and cultural displacement. Created a unique musical style that blended traditional Western classical music with various world influences. Lived in Morocco for much of his life, which heavily influenced his writing and compositions.
Continue ReadingColin Petersen
Australian drummer and record producer
Born
1946 79 years ago
Died
November 18th, 2024 1 years ago — 78 years old
Petersen contributed significantly to the music industry as a drummer, record producer, and actor. He gained recognition for playing drums on several projects, including work with popular artists. His role in the band The Bee Gees during their early years in Australia marked a pivotal point in his career. Apart from his musical contributions, he also ventured into acting, appearing in various television shows and films throughout the years. Petersen's work in the entertainment industry spanned several decades, showcasing his versatility across different mediums.
Continue ReadingTara Singh Hayer
Journalist and publisher of Punjabi Tribune
Born
November 15th, 1936 89 years ago
Died
November 18th, 1998 27 years ago — 62 years old
Born in India and later moving to Canada, contributed to journalism as a significant voice in the Punjabi community. Served as the editor of the Punjabi Tribune, highlighting issues affecting the Indian diaspora. Engaged in discussions about socio-political matters within the community, advocating for greater representation and awareness. His work included covering sensitive topics that resonated with both Canadian and Indian audiences.
Continue Reading