Edward B. Lewis

American biologist and Nobel Laureate

Edward B. Lewis - American biologist and Nobel Laureate
Born

May 20th, 1918
107 years ago

Died

July 21st, 2004
21 years ago — 86 years old

Category

Scientists & Innovators

Country

United States

Links & References

An American biologist and geneticist contributed significantly to the understanding of genetic mechanisms through research on the fruit fly Drosophila melanogaster. Received the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1995 for discovering genes controlling the development of body plan in organisms. His academic career included teaching at the California Institute of Technology, influencing generations of scientists. Conducted groundbreaking studies elucidating the role of homeotic genes in regulating the development of body segments.

Won the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1995

Conducted pioneering research on Drosophila melanogaster

Explained genetic mechanisms of development in organisms

Other People Born on May 20th

Henri-Edmond Cross

Neo-Impressionist painter, Landscape artist
Born
May 20th, 1856 169 years ago
Died
May 16th, 1910 115 years ago — 53 years old

Born in 1856, this French painter contributed significantly to the Neo-Impressionism movement. Influenced by the technique of pointillism, created vibrant landscapes and scenes, often using color harmony and light to evoke emotion. Worked closely with other notable artists of the time and was associated with the Parisian art scene, exhibiting his works in major galleries. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, paintings reflected a transition towards more expressive and dynamic forms. Helped lay the groundwork for future modernist movements in art. Died in 1910.

Continue Reading

R. J. Mitchell

English engineer, designer of the Spitfire
Born
May 20th, 1895 130 years ago
Died
June 11th, 1937 88 years ago — 42 years old

An English engineer specializing in aircraft design, contributed significantly to aviation technology. Designed the Supermarine Spitfire, a fighter aircraft used extensively during World War II. Spitfire gained a reputation for its performance and effectiveness in aerial combat. Mitchell's engineering leadership and innovative designs advanced the field of aeronautics and played a crucial role in the Battle of Britain.

Continue Reading

Shiboprosad Mukherjee

Indian film director, writer, actor
Born
May 20th, 1974 51 years ago

Shiboprosad Mukherjee directed critically acclaimed Bengali films and contributed to both writing and acting. His cinematic works often feature intricate storytelling that explores social themes. Collaboration with fellow director Nandita Roy resulted in multiple successful films. Projects like 'Bishorjan' and 'Posto' addressed various societal issues, gaining recognition in international film festivals. Mukherjee's influence extended beyond directing, as he also engaged in writing, enriching the Bengali film industry with compelling narratives and engaging characters.

Continue Reading

Antoinette Brown Blackwell

First female Protestant minister in U.S.
Born
May 20th, 1825 200 years ago
Died
1921 104 years ago — 96 years old

Ordained as a minister in 1853, the first woman to achieve this in a mainstream Protestant denomination. Advocated for women's suffrage and the abolition of slavery. Served as a lecturer and author, significantly contributing to discussions on women's rights and social reform. Involved with various organizations promoting equality and education for women.

Continue Reading

Nick Heyward

Singer-songwriter and guitarist with Haircut One Hundred
Born
May 20th, 1961 64 years ago

A British singer-songwriter and guitarist gained prominence in the early 1980s as the lead singer of the band Haircut One Hundred. The group achieved commercial success with their debut album 'Pelican West,' which featured hit singles such as 'I Don't Believe It' and 'Love Plus One.' Following the band's split, pursued a solo career and released several albums, including 'North of a Miracle,' which showcased a distinctive style blending pop and rock elements. Throughout the career, engaged in various musical projects and collaborated with numerous artists, contributing to the British music scene.

Continue Reading

Sigrid Undset

Danish-Norwegian Nobel Prize-winning novelist
Born
May 20th, 1882 143 years ago
Died
June 10th, 1949 76 years ago — 67 years old

Born in 1882, a prominent novelist and essayist emerged, contributing significantly to literature. The author primarily focused on themes of womanhood, morality, and spirituality in her works. Notable literary achievements include the trilogy 'Kristin Lavransdatter', which explores the life of a medieval woman in Norway, and 'Gunnar's Daughter', showcasing her narrative style and deep character insights. Undset's literary contributions garnered her the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1928, recognizing her mastery of storytelling and cultural depiction. Throughout a lifetime of writing, her works reflected the tumultuous changes faced by society during her era.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on July 21st

Louis Vauxcelles

French art critic and curator
Born
1870 155 years ago
Died
July 21st, 1943 82 years ago — 73 years old

Louis Vauxcelles was a prominent French art critic who significantly influenced the art world in the early 20th century. His critique of the Salon des Indépendants in 1905 introduced the term 'Fauvism' to describe the vibrant works of artists like Henri Matisse and André Derain. Vauxcelles wrote extensively for various publications, championing modern art movements and providing a platform for emerging artists. He worked for major newspapers, offering insights that shaped contemporary art discourse.

Continue Reading

Geoffrey I

Count of Anjou during the 10th century
Died
July 21st, 987 1038 years ago — None years old

Count of Anjou from 943 until death in 987. Played a significant role in the politics of medieval France. His leadership helped consolidate and expand the power of the county. Oversaw various military campaigns and territorial disputes. Developed the foundations for the future nobility of Anjou.

Continue Reading

Ralph Craig

American sprinter and Olympic sailor
Born
June 21st, 1889 136 years ago
Died
July 21st, 1972 53 years ago — 83 years old

Born in 1889, this individual excelled as a sprinter and sailor. Competing in the 1912 Stockholm Olympics, secured two gold medals in the 100 meters and 200 meters. Achieved significant success in sailing as well, competing in various national and international events. Contributed to the growth of athletics and sailing during the early 20th century.

Continue Reading

Alene Duerk

U.S. Navy first female admiral
Born
1920 105 years ago
Died
July 21st, 2018 7 years ago — 98 years old

Served in the U.S. Navy, achieving the rank of Rear Admiral, the first woman to hold this position in the Navy. Joined the Navy during World War II, where service as a nurse began. Contributed significantly to the advancement of women in the military, advocating for equal opportunities and representation. Earned recognition for leadership and commitment to service throughout a career spanning several decades. Continued to influence naval policy and women's integration in the armed forces into retirement.

Continue Reading

Marie Kruckel

American baseball player, All-American Girls Professional Baseball League
Born
1924 101 years ago
Died
July 21st, 2012 13 years ago — 88 years old

A professional baseball player competed in the All-American Girls Professional Baseball League from 1944 to 1954. Primarily played as an outfielder. Contributed to the success of the Chicago Blue Sox and the Fort Wayne Daisies. Retired from baseball to pursue other interests but remained involved with the league and its legacy.

Continue Reading

Fiammetta Wilson

English astronomer with comet research
Born
July 19th, 1864 161 years ago
Died
July 21st, 1920 105 years ago — 56 years old

Born in England in 1864, notable contributions in astronomy centered on study and classification of comets. Participated in various astronomical societies and published research articles. Focused on the orbits of comets and their physical properties, contributing to the understanding of these celestial objects during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Engaged actively in promoting women’s participation in science, advocating for women's education in astronomy and related fields.

Continue Reading