Friedrich Sertürner

German chemist who discovered morphine

Friedrich Sertürner - German chemist who discovered morphine
Born

June 19th, 1783
242 years ago

Died

1841
184 years ago — 58 years old

Category

Scientists & Innovators

Country

Germany

Links & References

A German chemist and pharmacist, significant contributions included the isolation of morphine from opium in 1804. This compound became the first natural opiate and laid the groundwork for modern pain management. Sertürner's work was crucial in advancing medicinal chemistry and the pharmaceutical industry. His findings not only contributed to scientific understanding of alkaloids but also had profound implications for medicine and pharmacology.

Isolated morphine from opium in 1804

First to identify a natural opiate

Other People Born on June 19th

Georges Ribemont-Dessaignes

French painter and art historian
Born
June 19th, 1884 141 years ago
Died
1974 51 years ago — 90 years old

Born in France, a prominent painter and art historian. Involved in the Surrealist movement, contributed to various exhibitions and publications. Known for combining elements of abstraction with surrealist themes. Also authored several works on art history, focusing on the evolution of modern art. Played a crucial role in promoting the works of other artists through exhibitions and critiques.

Continue Reading

Lester Flatt

Bluegrass musician and songwriter
Born
June 19th, 1914 111 years ago
Died
May 11th, 1979 46 years ago — 64 years old

A prominent bluegrass singer-songwriter and musician, contributed significantly to the genre's development. Founded the legendary band, The Foggy Mountain Boys, alongside Earl Scruggs. Gained widespread recognition for the song "The Ballad of Jed Clampett," which served as the theme for the TV show 'The Beverly Hillbillies.' Recorded numerous albums throughout the 1950s and 1960s, showcasing a distinctive style that blended traditional Appalachian music with contemporary influences. Influenced a generation of musicians and served as a key figure in defining bluegrass music.

Continue Reading

Ernst Boris Chain

Biochemist, Nobel Prize in Physiology
Born
June 19th, 1906 119 years ago
Died
August 12th, 1979 46 years ago — 73 years old

A biochemist and academic, made significant contributions to the field of antibiotic research. Worked on the development of penicillin, contributing to its mass production during World War II. Held academic positions throughout his career, including at the University of London, and later at various institutions in Ireland. Received the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1945, sharing the honor with Alexander Fleming and Howard Florey for the discovery and development of penicillin.

Continue Reading

Dan Ellis

Ice Hockey Goaltender and NHL Player
Born
June 19th, 1980 45 years ago

A professional ice hockey goaltender, played in the NHL from 2003 to 2015. Played for teams such as the Nashville Predators, Tampa Bay Lightning, and the Carolina Hurricanes. During his career, achieved notable statistics including multiple 20-win seasons and a standout performance leading to a .926 save percentage. Contributed to playoff runs and served as a reliable backup and starting goaltender.

Continue Reading

Wallis Simpson

Duchess of Windsor, socialite
Born
June 19th, 1896 129 years ago
Died
April 24th, 1986 39 years ago — 89 years old

An American socialite became the Duchess of Windsor after her marriage to Edward VIII, who abdicated the British throne in 1936 to marry her. This event marked the first time a reigning monarch voluntarily relinquished the crown. Born in 1896, she had a controversial relationship with Edward that influenced British royal history significantly. The couple lived primarily in France after their marriage, where they were involved in various social affairs. Throughout her life, she garnered attention for her style and presence, making appearances at various high-profile events. Her life story embodies the intertwining of personal choices and royal duties, as well as the societal expectations placed upon them.

Continue Reading

Bjørn Dæhlie

Nordic skier and Olympic champion
Born
June 19th, 1967 58 years ago

Achieved significant success in cross-country skiing during the 1990s and early 2000s. Excelled in the Winter Olympics, winning a total of eight gold medals and four silver medals. Dominated the FIS World Championships with a record of 17 medals, including 12 golds. Held the title of World Cup overall champion multiple times and set numerous records in the sport. Transitioned to a career in business following retirement from competitive skiing.

Continue Reading