Frits Zernike
Dutch physicist, Nobel Prize winner
A physicist and academic from the Netherlands, contributions focused on optics and the development of phase contrast microscopy. This innovation allowed for the study of transparent biological specimens without fixation or staining, enhancing microscopy techniques. The work led to recognition and receiving the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1953 for the invention of the phase contrast microscope, which significantly advanced biological and medical research.
Developed phase contrast microscopy
Awarded the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1953
Other People Born on July 16th
Shoeless Joe Jackson
Baseball player with Chicago White Sox
Born
July 16th, 1887 138 years ago
Died
December 5th, 1951 74 years ago — 64 years old
An American baseball player played primarily for the Chicago White Sox in the early 20th century. Jackson gained notoriety for his exceptional hitting skills and was a key player in the 1919 World Series. Controversy surrounded his career due to his involvement in the Black Sox Scandal, which led to his ban from Major League Baseball. Despite this, he maintained a reputation for being one of the best hitters of his time. After his playing career, he briefly managed a minor league team. His life and career have been the subject of various analyses regarding ethics in sports.
Continue ReadingPierre Le Moyne d'Iberville
Canadian explorer and military captain
Born
July 16th, 1661 364 years ago
Died
July 9th, 1706 319 years ago — 44 years old
Born in 1661, this individual played a significant role in the French colonization of North America. As a military captain, led several expeditions against British forces in the early 18th century. Established settlements in Louisiana and contributed to the founding of New Orleans. Engaged in naval warfare and played a strategic role in the conflicts between France and England during the colonial period.
Continue ReadingJerry Norman
Sinologist and linguist specializing in Chinese
Born
July 16th, 1936 89 years ago
Died
July 7th, 2012 13 years ago — 75 years old
A prominent sinologist and linguist contributed significantly to the study of Chinese languages. Focused on documenting and analyzing various Chinese dialects, highlighted the diversity and complexity of the language. Authored several notable works on Chinese phonetics and grammar, which are widely used in academic settings. Held positions at prestigious universities and participated in numerous linguistic conferences, influencing the field of sinology through research and mentorship. His scholarly work continues to be referenced by students and experts alike.
Continue ReadingLarry Sanger
Co-founder of Wikipedia and Citizendium
Born
July 16th, 1968 57 years ago
A philosopher and businessman co-founded Wikipedia in 2001, contributing significantly to the establishment of online collaborative knowledge. Later, in 2006, co-founded Citizendium, an initiative aimed at improving the reliability of online information through expert oversight. Sanger emphasized the importance of credible sources and the involvement of experts in the knowledge creation process.
Continue ReadingDouglas J. Feith
Lawyer and politician, Under Secretary of Defense
Born
July 16th, 1953 72 years ago
Served as the Under Secretary of Defense for Policy from 2001 to 2005 during the George W. Bush administration, providing strategic guidance on defense policy. Held positions at the Department of Defense and the National Security Council. Contributed to the formulation of U.S. policy in Iraq and the broader Middle East during a critical period in American foreign relations. Co-founded the Center for National Security Strategies, focusing on national security and defense issues, and has been involved in various legal, academic, and policy research endeavors since leaving government service.
Continue ReadingHermine Braunsteiner
SS officer with war crimes conviction
Born
July 16th, 1919 106 years ago
Died
April 19th, 1999 26 years ago — 79 years old
Served as a guard in Nazi concentration camps during World War II. Braunsteiner worked at several camps, including Majdanek and Auschwitz, where her role involved overseeing the treatment of prisoners. After the war, fled to the United States, where she lived until her past became known. In 1981, she was extradited to Germany to face charges for her actions during the Holocaust and was convicted in 1983 for assisting in the murders and mistreatment of prisoners.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on March 10th
Roberto Perfumo
Argentinian footballer and sportscaster
Born
1942 84 years ago
Died
March 10th, 2016 9 years ago — 74 years old
Played as a defender for clubs such as Racing Club and River Plate. Represented Argentina in international competitions, including the 1974 FIFA World Cup. After retiring from professional football, transitioned into sports broadcasting, becoming a prominent sports commentator in Argentina, providing insights on football matches and sports news.
Continue ReadingJan Masaryk
Czech politician and diplomat
Born
September 14th, 1886 139 years ago
Died
March 10th, 1948 77 years ago — 61 years old
Served as Czechoslovakia's foreign minister from 1940 to 1948. Played a crucial role in the establishment of Czechoslovakia after World War I. Advocated for democracy, human rights, and the importance of international cooperation. Involved in the Czechoslovak government-in-exile during World War II, working to represent Czechoslovakia's interests. His death in 1948 was surrounded by controversy and remains a subject of investigation.
Continue ReadingLloyd Bridges
American actor in 'Sea Hunt'
Born
1913 113 years ago
Died
March 10th, 1998 27 years ago — 85 years old
An American actor and director, Bridges became prominent in television and film from the 1940s through the 1990s. Gained considerable recognition for starring in the television series 'Sea Hunt', which aired from 1958 to 1961. Also appeared in films including 'Airplane!' and 'Hot Shots!', showcasing a talent for both drama and comedy. Directed several television episodes and movies, contributing to a lengthy career spanning over five decades.
Continue ReadingYevgeny Zamyatin
Russian author and playwright of We
Born
February 1st, 1884 142 years ago
Died
March 10th, 1937 88 years ago — 53 years old
An influential writer and political thinker, this individual made significant contributions to fiction and anti-totalitarian literature. Famous for the dystopian novel 'We', published in 1924, the narrative critiques totalitarianism through a futuristic setting. He also worked as a journalist, engaging with political discourse and the societal issues of early 20th-century Russia. His writings often faced censorship, leading to his eventual exile. The themes of individualism and freedom in his works have inspired many subsequent writers and thinkers.
Continue ReadingBill Blackbeard
Author and illustrator of comics history
Born
April 28th, 1926 99 years ago
Died
March 10th, 2011 14 years ago — 84 years old
A prominent author and illustrator, contributed significantly to the preservation and appreciation of comic strip art. Played a crucial role in increasing awareness of comic history through various publications. Established and edited the critical comic history magazine 'The Nostalgia Journal'. Authored numerous books and articles on the subject, including 'The Smithsonian Book of Comic-Book Comics'. Served as a curator for the San Francisco Academy of Comic Art.
Continue ReadingRichard Sharples
Governor of Bermuda, 1972–1973
Born
1916 110 years ago
Died
March 10th, 1973 52 years ago — 57 years old
Served as the Governor of Bermuda from 1972 until 1973. Oversaw local governance during a period marked by political tensions and social change in Bermuda. Managed relations between the British government and the Bermudian authorities. His term ended with his assassination in 1973.
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