Frank Fenner
Microbiologist, contributed to eradication
An Australian microbiologist and virologist, played a key role in the global effort to eradicate smallpox. Fenner’s research focused on the control and eradication of infectious diseases. He served as a director of the John Curtin School of Medical Research and contributed significantly to virology and immunology studies. His work included extensive research on poxviruses and the development of vaccines. Fenner also advised various international health organizations on disease eradication strategies and public health policies.
Led efforts in smallpox eradication
Contributed extensively to virology research
Other People Born on December 21st
Joseph Carruthers
Australian politician, Premier of NSW
Born
December 21st, 1857 168 years ago
Died
December 10th, 1932 93 years ago — 74 years old
Served as the 16th Premier of New South Wales from 1904 to 1907. Contributed to the development of the state's infrastructure and economic policies. Participated actively in the establishment of a public railway system, promoting transport and trade. Advocated for educational reforms. Held membership in various parliamentary committees, influencing legislative progress.
Continue ReadingGustave Kahn
French poet and literary critic
Born
December 21st, 1859 166 years ago
Died
September 5th, 1936 89 years ago — 76 years old
Born in 1859, this individual contributed significantly to French poetry and literary criticism. Active during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, worked with the Symbolist movement and played a critical role in the evolution of modern poetry. Editored important literary reviews and published various poetry collections. Engaged in promoting the works of contemporary poets and critics, influencing the literary landscape of the time.
Continue ReadingAnthony Powell
English soldier and author
Born
December 21st, 1905 120 years ago
Died
March 28th, 2000 25 years ago — 94 years old
Served in the British Army during World War II. Began writing novels after the war, with a significant focus on English society. Authored the twelve-volume work 'A Dance to the Music of Time,' which explored themes of time, memory, and the passage of life. Received various literary accolades during a prolific writing career, contributing essays and criticism as well.
Continue ReadingClara Tauson
Danish professional tennis player
Born
December 21st, 2002 23 years ago
A professional tennis player, achieved notable success on the WTA Tour. Reached her career-high singles ranking of No. 33 in March 2022. Claimed the French Open girls' singles title in 2019, showcasing talent in youth competition. Competed in various Grand Slam events, including the Australian Open and Wimbledon, representing Denmark on the international stage.
Continue ReadingJoe Paterno
American football coach at Penn State
Born
December 21st, 1926 99 years ago
Died
January 22nd, 2012 13 years ago — 85 years old
A college football coach, led the Penn State Nittany Lions for 46 seasons. Achieved the most wins in NCAA Division I football history at the time of retirement. Coached the team to two national championships and numerous bowl game victories. Developed a reputation for his commitment to academic integrity and player development throughout his tenure.
Continue ReadingJohn H. Ketcham
American general and politician
Born
December 21st, 1832 193 years ago
Died
November 4th, 1906 119 years ago — 73 years old
Served as a Union general during the American Civil War and later became a politician in the post-war period. Commanded troops in several significant battles, contributing to military efforts for the Union. After the war, held various political offices, including serving in the U.S. House of Representatives. Worked on issues related to veterans and reconstruction.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on November 22nd
Alec Reid
Irish priest and peace activist
Born
1931 94 years ago
Died
November 22nd, 2013 12 years ago — 82 years old
Alec Reid served as a Catholic priest in Northern Ireland and played a significant role in peace initiatives during the Troubles. He was involved in secret negotiations between the Irish Republican Army and the British government aimed at achieving a lasting peace. His efforts were crucial in fostering dialogue and understanding among various factions. Reid utilized his position within the church to advocate for reconciliation and social justice. He also worked on numerous community projects aimed at healing divisions in society caused by decades of conflict.
Continue ReadingJean Cione
American baseball player and pitcher
Born
June 23rd, 1928 97 years ago
Died
November 22nd, 2010 15 years ago — 82 years old
This individual played as a pitcher in Major League Baseball, primarily for the Philadelphia Phillies. Debuting in 1949, contributions included a solid performance during the early years of the franchise. Although career statistics were modest, time spent in the league represented a significant commitment to the sport.
Continue ReadingArthur Eddington
Astrophysicist and general relativity proponent
Born
December 28th, 1882 142 years ago
Died
November 22nd, 1944 81 years ago — 61 years old
British astrophysicist, physicist, and mathematician contributed significantly to the understanding of stellar structure and the theory of relativity. Eddington provided the first observational confirmation of general relativity during a solar eclipse in 1919, which brought global attention to Einstein's theories. His work on the internal structure of stars, particularly the theory of energy generation through nuclear fusion, laid the groundwork for modern astrophysics. Eddington authored influential works on physics and astronomy, including 'The Nature of the Physical World,' which discussed the philosophy of science and its relation to physics.
Continue ReadingAsima Chatterjee
Chemist and herbal medicine expert
Born
September 23rd, 1917 108 years ago
Died
November 22nd, 2006 19 years ago — 89 years old
Contributions to the field of organic chemistry included research on alkaloids and medicinal plants. Developed anti-epileptic drugs from natural sources, which advanced pharmaceutical science in India. Authored numerous research papers and was instrumental in bridging traditional medicine with modern science. Held positions in various academia and research institutions, playing a significant role in the scientific community.
Continue ReadingBob Avakian
Music producer and political activist
Born
1919 106 years ago
Died
November 22nd, 2017 8 years ago — 98 years old
A prominent music producer, this individual was influential in the fusion of politics and music. He founded a music label and produced various artists who resonated with social and political themes. Through works that merged hip-hop with revolutionary ideas, this producer emphasized a strong critique of capitalism and imperialism. He contributed to the development of music that sought to inspire social change. His efforts extended beyond production, engaging in public speaking to advocate for his political beliefs and vision.
Continue ReadingOtto Hutter
Physiologist with significant contributions
Born
1924 101 years ago
Died
November 22nd, 2020 5 years ago — 96 years old
Austrian-born British physiologist contributed extensively to the field of physiology, particularly in cardiovascular research. Worked on the mechanics of the heart and its regulation. Conducted research that enhanced the understanding of blood flow and circulation. Published numerous scientific papers and mentored many students throughout an academic career.
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