Elizabeth Gertrude Britton
American botanist and academic
Born
1857
168 years ago
Died
Category
Scientists & Innovators
Country
United States
Links & References
A prominent botanist and academic, contributed significantly to the study of ferns and their classification. Held a position as a professor at Columbia University, where research focused on plant morphology and ecology. Co-founded the New York Botanical Garden and played an essential role in developing its fern collection. Published extensively on the flora of North America, including the influential 'The Ferns of North America'.
Co-founded the New York Botanical Garden
Published 'The Ferns of North America'
Served as a professor at Columbia University
Other People Who Died on February 25th
Haing S. Ngor
Physician and author of 'Survival in the Killing Fields'
Born
March 22nd, 1940 85 years ago
Died
February 25th, 1996 29 years ago — 55 years old
A Cambodian-American physician and author, contributed significantly to literature on the Khmer Rouge regime. Arrived in the United States as a refugee after surviving the Cambodian genocide. Wrote 'Survival in the Killing Fields', which details experiences during this tumultuous period. Worked as a physician in Los Angeles after earning a medical degree. Acted in the film adaptation of his book, receiving critical acclaim for the performance. Received an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor for the role, marking a significant achievement in film.
Continue ReadingTownsend Harris
American diplomat and ambassador to Japan
Born
October 3rd, 1804 221 years ago
Died
February 25th, 1878 147 years ago — 73 years old
A merchant and politician, served as the United States Ambassador to Japan from 1856 to 1862. His tenure was marked by significant diplomatic achievements, including the negotiation of the Harris Treaty in 1858, which established trade relations between the United States and Japan. This treaty paved the way for further diplomatic engagements between the two nations. Harris played a crucial role in opening Japan to the West during the Edo period, contributing to a pivotal shift in Japanese foreign relations.
Continue ReadingGrace Metalious
American author of 'Peyton Place'
Born
September 8th, 1924 101 years ago
Died
February 25th, 1964 61 years ago — 39 years old
An author published a novel that explored the hidden lives of a small town in New Hampshire. 'Peyton Place', released in 1956, became a bestseller and sparked widespread controversy due to its candid depiction of sexuality and social issues. The book's commercial success led to a film adaptation in 1957 and a television series in the 1960s, further embedding the story in popular culture. Metalious faced significant public scrutiny and personal challenges following the book's release but continued to write, producing several other works. Recognition for the novel remains strong, often cited in discussions of American literature that challenged social norms.
Continue ReadingTheodor Svedberg
Swedish chemist, Nobel Prize winner
Born
August 30th, 1884 141 years ago
Died
February 25th, 1971 54 years ago — 86 years old
Contributed significantly to the field of physical chemistry, focusing on colloids and the behavior of particles in solutions. Developed the ultracentrifuge for measuring the molecular weight of proteins and other macromolecules. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1926 for work on disperse systems. Served as a professor at Uppsala University, where research intensified understanding of colloidal chemistry.
Continue ReadingRobert Hayden
American poet and academic
Born
August 4th, 1913 112 years ago
Died
February 25th, 1980 45 years ago — 66 years old
This poet served as a professor and was the first African American to be appointed as a consultant in poetry to the Library of Congress. His writings often explored themes of African American identity, history, and culture. Key works include the poetry collections 'Words in the Mourning' and 'The Lion and the Unicorn.' His poem 'Those Winter Sundays' is widely regarded and is often studied in American literature.
Continue ReadingWilliam IV
Grand Duke of Luxembourg
Born
April 22nd, 1852 173 years ago
Died
February 25th, 1912 113 years ago — 59 years old
Ruled as Grand Duke of Luxembourg from 1905 until his death in 1912. Served as military leader during World War I, overseeing the defense of the country. Actively involved in the administration and development of Luxembourg's infrastructure and culture, promoting education and economic growth during his reign.
Continue Reading