Edwin McMillan
American physicist and chemist, Nobel laureate
A physicist and chemist contributed to the discovery of the element plutonium and advanced the understanding of nuclear reactions. Developed the first cyclotron in the late 1930s, which allowed for particle acceleration and nuclear research. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1951 for contributions to the field of heavy ion physics. Worked at the Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory and participated in the Manhattan Project during World War II.
Discovered the element plutonium
Developed the first cyclotron
Received Nobel Prize in Physics in 1951
Other People Born on September 18th
Richard With
Norwegian captain and founder of Hurtigruten
Born
September 18th, 1846 179 years ago
Died
February 9th, 1930 96 years ago — 83 years old
Founded the coastal shipping service Hurtigruten, which became essential for transport along Norway's coastline. Held the position of captain and instrumental in the development of maritime logistics in Norway. The service began operations in 1893 and significantly improved connection between remote coastal communities and urban areas. Played a key role in promoting tourism and commerce in Norway.
Continue ReadingScotty Bowman
Ice Hockey Coach with multiple championships
Born
September 18th, 1933 92 years ago
A prominent figure in ice hockey, this individual became one of the most successful coaches in National Hockey League (NHL) history. Coaching stints included famous teams such as the Montreal Canadiens, Buffalo Sabres, Pittsburgh Penguins, and Detroit Red Wings. Under coaching, achieved an impressive nine Stanley Cup championships, setting a record that remains unmatched. Additionally, served as a front office executive after retiring from coaching, contributing to team strategies and performance evaluations.
Continue ReadingAdrien-Marie Legendre
French mathematician and theorist
Born
September 18th, 1752 273 years ago
Died
January 9th, 1833 193 years ago — 80 years old
Contributed significantly to mathematics, particularly in number theory and statistics. Developed Legendre polynomials and introduced the method of least squares. His work in number theory included the formulation of Legendre's conjecture concerning prime numbers. Authored influential texts on analysis and number theory, which became standard references in mathematics.
Continue ReadingHarold Clurman
Theatre director and producer, co-founder of Group Theatre
Born
September 18th, 1901 124 years ago
Died
1980 46 years ago — 79 years old
An influential theatre director and producer in American theatre, played a pivotal role in the development of the modern American theatre scene. Co-founded the Group Theatre in 1931, which became a formative influence in the American theatrical landscape. Directed significant productions such as 'The Skin of Our Teeth' and 'Waiting for Lefty'. Clurman also contributed essays and critiques on theatre, shaping the discourse around dramatic arts.
Continue ReadingEddie Rochester Anderson
American actor and comedian
Born
September 18th, 1905 120 years ago
Died
1977 49 years ago — 72 years old
An actor and comedian achieved acclaim through performance in the Jack Benny Program, portraying a comedic character named Rochester. Worked in early Hollywood films, including the 1943 feature 'The Gang's All Here'. Anderson appeared on stage and in films during the mid-20th century, gaining popularity for his humor and timing. His career spanned several decades, contributing to the entertainment industry with memorable performances.
Continue ReadingPope Gregory XVI
Pope with papal bull on slavery
Born
September 18th, 1765 260 years ago
Died
June 1st, 1846 180 years ago — 80 years old
Served as Pope from 1831 until death in 1846. Issued the encyclical 'In supremo apostolatus' which condemned the slave trade and slavery itself. Advocated for the preservation of the Papal States and opposed liberal reforms. Strengthened the Congregation of the Index to curtail modernist thought and censorship of publications. Worked on restoring the Catholic Church's authority in regions where church influence had diminished.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on September 7th
Romesh Bhandari
Diplomat and Foreign Secretary of India
Born
March 29th, 1928 98 years ago
Died
September 7th, 2013 12 years ago — 85 years old
Served as the 13th Foreign Secretary of India and held various diplomatic posts throughout a lengthy career. Engaged in significant negotiations during critical periods in Indian foreign relations. Contributed to shaping India's diplomatic stance in the international arena. Served as the Governor of Uttar Pradesh and as a High Commissioner to several countries, facilitating bilateral relations and cooperation in multiple sectors.
Continue ReadingBud Fisher
American cartoonist famous for Mutt and Jeff
Born
April 3rd, 1885 141 years ago
Died
September 7th, 1954 71 years ago — 69 years old
Started cartooning career with 'Mutt and Jeff', which became one of the first successful daily comic strips. Created characters that represented everyday American life and humor. Influenced the development of comic strips and established the model for many future cartoonists. Worked as a cartoonist until death in 1954.
Continue ReadingHarold Shipp
Businessman and philanthropist
Born
1926 100 years ago
Died
September 7th, 2014 11 years ago — 88 years old
A businessman and philanthropist, contributions included founding a successful transportation company. Established significant charitable initiatives that benefited education and health sectors in Canada. Played a pivotal role in the development of community programs.
Continue ReadingKen Boyer
Baseball player and manager, World Series champ
Born
May 20th, 1931 95 years ago
Died
September 7th, 1982 43 years ago — 51 years old
A baseball player and manager, achieved significant success in Major League Baseball. Played primarily for the St. Louis Cardinals, where a standout career spanned from 1955 to 1965. Excelled as a third baseman and earned the National League Most Valuable Player award in 1964. Contributed to the Cardinals' victory in the 1964 World Series. Later transitioned to manage teams including the New York Mets and the Cardinals, further influencing the game behind the scenes.
Continue ReadingDickie Moore
American actor in 'Our Gang' series
Born
September 12th, 1925 100 years ago
Died
September 7th, 2015 10 years ago — 89 years old
An actor gained prominence as a child star, appearing in the 'Our Gang' series in the 1930s. Transitioned to more mature roles in later years, contributing to various films and television shows. Acted in significant productions, showcasing talent across a range of genres. Continued involvement in the entertainment industry well beyond the peak of early fame.
Continue ReadingEdward Grey
British politician and ornithologist
Born
April 25th, 1862 164 years ago
Died
September 7th, 1933 92 years ago — 71 years old
Served as Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs from 1905 to 1916. Established a significant presence in the political landscape of early 20th-century Britain. Contributed to ornithology through extensive studies and published works. Advocated for wildlife conservation and created a public awareness of avian species.
Continue Reading