Friedrich Bergius
German chemist, Nobel Prize winner
An accomplished chemist contributed significantly to the development of high-pressure chemistry. Pioneered the Bergius process for the hydrogenation of coal, which transformed coal into liquid hydrocarbons. Earned the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1931 for innovations in chemical compounds. Held academic positions and contributed to the advancement of chemical research and education in Germany. Participated in research that facilitated the industrial production of synthetic fuels.
Developed the Bergius process for coal hydrogenation
Awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1931
Other People Born on October 11th
Jon Miller
American sportscaster and voice of baseball
Born
October 11th, 1951 74 years ago
A prominent sportscaster, Miller gained recognition for his work as a play-by-play announcer for Major League Baseball. His career included a long tenure with the San Francisco Giants and ESPN, where he called numerous Baseball Tonight broadcasts. Miller has provided commentary for several All-Star Games and World Series, becoming a staple voice in baseball broadcasting. With a distinct style and engaging storytelling, he contributed to the coverage of many memorable moments in the sport. Miller has also received multiple awards for excellence in sports broadcasting, securing a place in the Bay Area Radio Hall of Fame.
Continue ReadingDouglas Albert Munro
Coast Guard signalman and Medal of Honor recipient
Born
October 11th, 1919 106 years ago
Died
September 27th, 1942 83 years ago — 22 years old
Served as a signalman in the United States Coast Guard during World War II. Munro played a crucial role in the Battle of Guadalcanal, providing vital support during the evacuation of American forces. His actions on September 27, 1942, involved risking his life to save fellow service members, leading to his posthumous award of the Medal of Honor. Munro was the only Coast Guard service member to receive this high honor for actions in World War II.
Continue ReadingFred Trump
Real estate entrepreneur and developer
Born
October 11th, 1905 120 years ago
Died
June 25th, 1999 26 years ago — 93 years old
A real estate entrepreneur engaged in property development in New York City, built and managed numerous residential properties. Active in the residential real estate market primarily during the mid-20th century. Started business in the 1920s focused on building homes in Queens. Continued involvement in real estate throughout the following decades, expanding into other boroughs. Established a strong reputation in the field of property development, particularly in the post-World War II housing boom.
Continue ReadingCahit Arf
Turkish mathematician and academic
Born
October 11th, 1910 115 years ago
Died
December 26th, 1997 28 years ago — 87 years old
Contributed significantly to mathematics, especially in the fields of algebra and number theory. Developed the Arf invariant, a crucial concept in topology. Held a professorship at Istanbul Technical University and was a member of the Turkish Academy of Sciences. Engaged in academic activities throughout most of life, including publishing numerous research papers that advanced mathematical understanding.
Continue ReadingAndy Douglas
Professional wrestler and tag champion
Born
October 11th, 1979 46 years ago
Born in 1979, a professional wrestler gained prominence in the wrestling circuits. Achieved recognition in Total Nonstop Action Wrestling (TNA), where participated in significant tag team competitions. Partnered with Shark Boy to form the tag team known as the 3Live Kru, which won multiple championships and showcased skills in the ring. Notable for high-energy performances and competitive spirit.
Continue ReadingErnst Sars
Historian specializing in Norwegian history
Born
October 11th, 1835 190 years ago
Died
January 27th, 1917 109 years ago — 81 years old
Contributed significantly to the understanding of Norwegian history through extensive research and publication. Focused on the medieval period and played a key role in advancing the study of Norway's past. Held a prominent position in academic circles, shaping historical discourse in Norway.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on March 30th
Michael King
New Zealand historian and author
Born
1945 81 years ago
Died
March 30th, 2004 21 years ago — 59 years old
A prominent historian and author, contributed significantly to New Zealand's historical narrative. Writings included critical examinations of New Zealand's culture, society, and development. Achievements included biographies of key figures and explorations of Maori history. Engaged in public history projects, aimed at educating the wider community about the nation's past. Worked as a broadcaster and wrote extensively for various publications.
Continue ReadingG. Gordon Liddy
chief operative in the Watergate scandal
Born
November 30th, 1930 95 years ago
Died
March 30th, 2021 4 years ago — 90 years old
Served as the chief operative for the White House Plumbers during the Watergate scandal. Played a significant role in the break-in at the Democratic National Committee headquarters and subsequent cover-up efforts. Arrested in 1972 and later convicted of conspiracy, burglary, and illegal wiretapping. After serving over four years in prison, became a radio talk show host and political commentator, and authored several books detailing his experiences.
Continue ReadingValentin Pavlov
Russian banker and Soviet Prime Minister
Born
September 26th, 1937 88 years ago
Died
March 30th, 2003 22 years ago — 65 years old
A banker and politician served as the 11th Prime Minister of the Soviet Union from January to August 1991. Under leadership, faced significant economic challenges amid the dissolution of the USSR. Developed and implemented reforms aimed at transitioning the Soviet economy towards market mechanisms. Involved in controversial decisions that affected the political landscape during a pivotal time in Russian history.
Continue ReadingEdith Schaeffer
Religious leader and author; co-founded L'Abri
Born
1914 112 years ago
Died
March 30th, 2013 12 years ago — 99 years old
Co-founded the L'Abri community in Switzerland, providing a place for intellectual and spiritual discussions. Authored several books exploring Christian faith, including 'The Hidden Art of Homemaking' and 'Christianity Is Jewish'. Contributed to the dialogue between faith and reason through various speaking engagements. Engaged in counseling and mentoring individuals seeking spiritual guidance.
Continue ReadingDavid Leslie
Scottish racing driver and commentator
Born
1953 73 years ago
Died
March 30th, 2008 17 years ago — 55 years old
A Scottish racing driver achieved prominence in various motorsport categories during the 1980s and 1990s. He competed in the British Touring Car Championship and was a successful driver for several teams, including Nissan and Vauxhall. Leslie was well-known for his performances in the British Touring Car Championship, securing multiple race victories. Beyond racing, he transitioned into a career as a television motor racing commentator, sharing expertise and insights into the sport. His career was tragically cut short by a fatal accident during a 2008 race.
Continue ReadingGranville Semmes
Businessman, Founder of 1-800-Flowers
Born
1928 98 years ago
Died
March 30th, 2012 13 years ago — 84 years old
Founded the floral and gift retailer 1-800-Flowers. Established the brand as a pioneer in the online flower delivery industry, growing it into a prominent name. Oversaw various expansions and diversifications, including the introduction of gourmet food and gift baskets. Played a significant role in shaping the company's customer service philosophy and commitment to quality.
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