F. Scott Fitzgerald
American novelist; The Great Gatsby
An American novelist and short story writer born in 1896, this individual became a prominent figure in literature during the early 20th century. The works frequently explore themes of wealth, society, and the American Dream. The most notable work, 'The Great Gatsby,' published in 1925, portrays the extravagance and disillusionment of the Jazz Age. Additional works include 'This Side of Paradise' and 'Tender Is the Night,' which also reflect contemporary social themes. The individual’s writing style has influenced countless authors and remains a staple of American literature courses today.
Authored 'The Great Gatsby'
Wrote 'This Side of Paradise'
Published 'Tender Is the Night'
Other People Born on September 24th
Gustave Garrigou
French cyclist, Tour de France winner
Born
September 24th, 1884 141 years ago
Died
January 28th, 1963 63 years ago — 78 years old
A French cyclist achieved significant success in the early 20th century. Competed in multiple editions of the Tour de France and secured victory in 1921. Overcame challenging terrain and intense competition during the grueling race. Contributed to the growing popularity of cycling as a competitive sport in France.
Continue ReadingHoward Florey
Pathologist and pharmacologist, Nobel Prize
Born
September 24th, 1898 127 years ago
Died
February 21st, 1968 58 years ago — 69 years old
A pathologist and pharmacologist. Contributed significantly to the development and mass production of penicillin during World War II. Played a crucial role in the research and clinical trials that demonstrated the drug's efficacy against bacterial infections. Served as the Director of the Sir William Dunn School of Pathology at the University of Oxford, where further advancements in antibiotics were made. Received the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1945 alongside two other scientists for contributions to the discovery of penicillin.
Continue ReadingAndré Frédéric Cournand
Physician and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
September 24th, 1895 130 years ago
Died
February 19th, 1988 38 years ago — 92 years old
A French-American physician and physiologist contributed significantly to the understanding of cardiovascular dynamics. Conducted groundbreaking research in cardiac catheterization. Co-developed techniques that allowed for the measurement of blood flow and cardiac output, greatly influencing the field of cardiology. Received the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1956 alongside two other researchers for advancements in the field of cardiovascular physiology.
Continue ReadingJulius Klengel
Cellist and composer, famous for cello works
Born
September 24th, 1859 166 years ago
Died
1933 93 years ago — 74 years old
Born in Germany in 1859, a prominent cellist and composer contributed significantly to cello repertoire. Studied under renowned musicians and developed a distinct style. Held positions as a professor and performed with major orchestras. Composed numerous pieces, including concertos and sonatas, broadening the cello's role in music. Became a member of the Gewandhaus Orchestra, known for its rich musical tradition, and was influential in teaching and mentoring future cellists.
Continue ReadingA. P. Herbert
English author and playwright
Born
September 24th, 1890 135 years ago
Died
1971 55 years ago — 81 years old
An author and playwright contributed significantly to English literature. Best known for writing the comic novel 'The Water Gipsies' and the popular play 'The Country Wife'. Wrote many lighthearted and satirical works, often focusing on social commentary. His work included contributions to the BBC radio and he served as a Member of Parliament. Herbert's plays and novels frequently showcased his wit and comedic style, making him a notable figure in 20th-century literature.
Continue ReadingStephanie McMahon
Wrestler and WWE executive
Born
September 24th, 1976 49 years ago
A prominent figure in professional wrestling and sports entertainment, one served as a key executive in WWE, playing significant roles in various business ventures and storylines. She joined WWE in the late 1990s, initially appearing on-screen as an interviewer before becoming a central character in several high-profile story arcs. Over the years, one took on several leadership roles within the company, including Chief Brand Officer. In addition to involvement in wrestling, one also focused on philanthropy through the Connor's Cure campaign, supporting pediatric cancer research.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on December 21st
Friedrich August von Quenstedt
Geologist and palaeontologist
Born
July 10th, 1809 216 years ago
Died
December 21st, 1889 136 years ago — 80 years old
Contributed significantly to geology and palaeontology during the 19th century. Worked extensively on the classification of fossils, particularly from the Jurassic period. Authored several pivotal works, including the influential treatise 'Die Gesteine Württembergs', detailing the geology of Württemberg. His research focused on the stratigraphy and fossil records, establishing foundational concepts in the study of prehistoric life.
Continue ReadingRosanjin
Japanese calligrapher and painter
Born
1883 143 years ago
Died
December 21st, 1959 66 years ago — 76 years old
A significant figure in Japanese art, practiced calligraphy, engraving, and painting. Contributed to the revival of traditional Japanese aesthetics and techniques. Established a reputation for blending fine art with ceramics. His work is characterized by simplicity and elegance, deeply rooted in Zen philosophy.
Continue ReadingEdwin G. Krebs
American biochemist, Nobel Prize winner
Born
June 6th, 1918 108 years ago
Died
December 21st, 2009 16 years ago — 91 years old
A prominent figure in biochemistry contributed to understanding the regulation of enzymes and cellular processes. Conducted research on the protein kinase cascade and discovered reversible protein phosphorylation. This research laid the foundation for the field of signal transduction in cells. Held a faculty position at the University of Washington for many years and served as chair of the biochemistry department. Received the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1992 for work on signal transduction in cells.
Continue ReadingJohn Eisenhower
Historian and U.S. Ambassador to Belgium
Born
August 3rd, 1922 103 years ago
Died
December 21st, 2013 12 years ago — 91 years old
Served as the 45th United States Ambassador to Belgium from 1969 to 1971. Held the rank of Brigadier General in the U.S. Army and contributed to military history through writing and research. Authored several books on military history, including a biography of his father, Dwight D. Eisenhower. Had a career in diplomacy and military service that spanned decades.
Continue ReadingNikolaas Tinbergen
Ethologist and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
April 15th, 1907 119 years ago
Died
December 21st, 1988 37 years ago — 81 years old
A prominent ethologist and ornithologist, this individual contributed significantly to the study of animal behavior. The research emphasized instinctive behavior in animals and introduced the concept of fixed action patterns. In 1973, shared the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine with Konrad Lorenz and Karl von Frisch for discoveries concerning organization and elicitation of individual and social behavior patterns in animals. His work laid foundational principles in ethology and significantly advanced understanding of animal behavior, breeding, and communications.
Continue ReadingGeorge S. Patton
American General during World War II
Born
November 11th, 1885 140 years ago
Died
December 21st, 1945 80 years ago — 60 years old
A prominent American general during World War II, played a crucial role in the European Theater of the conflict. Commanded the U.S. Third Army and led operations in the Normandy landings. Developed a reputation for aggressive tactics and rapid armored advancement. His leadership was pivotal in several key battles, including the Battle of the Bulge and the liberation of France.
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