Giulio Natta
Chemist and Nobel Prize laureate
An Italian chemist contributed significantly to the development of plastics and synthetic rubber. He served as a professor at the Polytechnic University of Milan. Research focused on stereospecific polymerization. Collaborated with Karl Ziegler, leading to advancements in polymer chemistry. Played a crucial role in the discovery of techniques for producing polypropylene and polyethylene.
Awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1963
Developed techniques for stereospecific polymerization
Other People Born on February 26th
Doris Belack
Actress in 'Love, Sidney'
Born
February 26th, 1926 100 years ago
Died
October 4th, 2011 14 years ago — 85 years old
An American actress with a career spanning over six decades, primarily in television and theatre, gained recognition for roles in various series. Featured prominently in the sitcom 'Love, Sidney,' which aired from 1981 to 1983. Also appeared in notable productions such as 'Rhoda' and 'All in the Family.' Contributed to numerous stage performances, showcasing versatility in acting skills. Engaged in roles that highlighted both comedic and dramatic talents, influencing the landscape of television during her active years.
Continue ReadingTakanoiwa Yoshimori
Mongolian sumo wrestler, former sekitori
Born
February 26th, 1990 36 years ago
Born in Mongolia, a sumo wrestler began professional career in 2012. Achieved the rank of Sekiwake, one of the highest ranks in the sport. Competed in top division tournaments, earning recognition for skill and technique. Known for previous stints in the Sumo Association before retirement due to injuries.
Continue ReadingJamal Musiala
German footballer with Bayern Munich
Born
February 26th, 2003 23 years ago
Born in 2003, this footballer started his career in the youth system of Chelsea FC before moving to Bayern Munich. He made his first-team debut for Bayern in 2020 and quickly established himself as a key player. His technical skills and agility on the ball contributed to the team's success in domestic and international competitions, including the UEFA Champions League.
Continue ReadingJean-Pierre Wimille
French race car driver and Le Mans winner
Born
February 26th, 1908 118 years ago
Died
January 28th, 1949 77 years ago — 40 years old
A prominent race car driver from France, gained recognition in the 1930s and 1940s for participation in prestigious motorsport events. Achieved significant success in endurance racing, particularly at the 24 Hours of Le Mans, where victories showcased exceptional driving skills. Competed in various Grand Prix events, establishing a reputation in the pre-war racing circuit and contributing to automotive sports history. Continued racing until tragic death in a car accident.
Continue ReadingJacob Trouba
Professional Ice Hockey Defenseman
Born
February 26th, 1994 32 years ago
An American ice hockey player, he plays defense and serves as the captain of the New York Rangers in the National Hockey League (NHL). Trouba played collegiate hockey at the University of Michigan before being selected ninth overall by the Winnipeg Jets in the 2012 NHL Entry Draft. He developed into a reliable defenseman and earned a reputation for his physical style of play. Trouba was traded to the Rangers in 2019, where he took on a leadership role on the team.
Continue ReadingJessie Bates
American football player, Super Bowl participant
Born
February 26th, 1997 29 years ago
A safety in American football, played for the Cincinnati Bengals. Played college football at Wake Forest University, where significant defensive skills emerged. Entered the NFL in 2018 through the draft. Contributed to the Bengals' defense and participated in Super Bowl LVI in 2022 against the Los Angeles Rams. Recognized for solid tackling and coverage abilities.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on May 2nd
Guy Carawan
American singer and musicologist
Born
July 27th, 1927 98 years ago
Died
May 2nd, 2015 11 years ago — 87 years old
Carawan contributed significantly to the folk music revival, especially in the 1960s. A key figure in the Civil Rights Movement, he popularized the song 'We Shall Overcome' through his performances and arrangements. His work focused on preserving and promoting traditional folk music and songs, encouraging cultural appreciation and awareness. As a musicologist, Carawan conducted research on Southern Appalachian music and other regional folk traditions. He also taught music at various institutions, sharing knowledge and enthusiasm for folk music with new generations.
Continue ReadingClara Immerwahr
Chemist and peace activist
Born
June 21st, 1870 156 years ago
Died
May 2nd, 1915 111 years ago — 44 years old
Born in 1870, a chemist and academic specialized in physical chemistry. Engaged in scientific research while opposing the militarization of science. Served as a lecturer at the Technical University of Berlin. Advocated for pacifism and disarmament, particularly in the context of her husband's work on explosives. Her commitment to peace influenced several movements during her lifetime.
Continue ReadingDorothea Binz
German SS officer during WWII
Born
1920 106 years ago
Died
May 2nd, 1947 79 years ago — 27 years old
Served as an SS officer in Nazi Germany. Held the rank of camp leader at Ravensbrück concentration camp. Oversaw the mistreatment and execution of prisoners during the Holocaust. Captured after the war and tried for war crimes.
Continue ReadingErnest Starling
English physiologist and academic
Born
April 17th, 1866 160 years ago
Died
May 2nd, 1927 99 years ago — 61 years old
Contributed significantly to the field of physiology, particularly through the establishment of the Starling Law of the Heart, which describes the relationship between the heart's filling and its contraction strength. His research included the role of hormones in bodily functions and the development of techniques for measuring blood pressure and heart functions. Starling conducted extensive studies on the actions of the thyroid gland and the role of the pancreas in digestion, helping to lay the groundwork for future research in these areas.
Continue ReadingEberhard Anheuser
American businessman, co-founder of Anheuser-Busch
Born
1805 221 years ago
Died
May 2nd, 1880 146 years ago — 75 years old
Co-founded Anheuser-Busch, a major brewery in the United States. Established a successful beer company that grew to become one of the largest in the world. Contributed significantly to the expansion of the American brewing industry during the 19th century.
Continue ReadingBeverlee McKinsey
American actress on soap operas
Born
August 9th, 1935 90 years ago
Died
May 2nd, 2008 18 years ago — 72 years old
An American actress gained recognition for roles in popular soap operas. Appeared as Iris Carrington on 'Another World' and as Alexandra Spaulding on 'Guiding Light.' McKinsey's performances contributed to the long-running success of these shows, making significant impacts on the soap opera genre. After a brief departure from acting, made a return to television.
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