Gustaf Dalén
Swedish physicist and Nobel Prize laureate
Born in 1869, a physicist and engineer contributed significantly to the development of gas absorption and automatic regulation systems. Established the AGA company, which pioneered the production of gas lamps, including those used for lighthouses. Achieved recognition in 1912 with the Nobel Prize in Physics for inventions related to gas lamps and the development of the sun valve, which enabled automatic operation of lighthouses. His work had a substantial influence on maritime navigation safety through improved lighthouse technology.
Won the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1912
Developed the sun valve for lighthouses
Founded the AGA company
Other People Born on November 30th
Philip Sidney
English soldier, poet, and courtier
Born
November 30th, 1554 471 years ago
Died
October 17th, 1586 439 years ago — 31 years old
Born in 1554, this individual served as an English soldier and courtier. He was a notable figure at the court of Queen Elizabeth I and took part in various military campaigns. His contributions to literature include the completion of 'Arcadia', a pastoral romance, which remains influential. Additionally, this individual composed the sonnet sequence 'Astrophel and Stella', recognized as one of the earliest in English literature, exploring themes of love and desire. His works remain celebrated for their stylistic elegance and depth.
Continue ReadingTakako Doi
Japanese politician and scholar.
Born
November 30th, 1928 97 years ago
Died
September 20th, 2014 11 years ago — 85 years old
Elected as a member of the House of Representatives in 1979. Served as the 68th Speaker of the House of Representatives of Japan from 1989 to 1990, marking a significant role in Japanese politics. Instrumental in advancing women's rights and representation within the political sphere throughout her career. Contributed to various legislative efforts and served in influential positions within the Democratic Party and the House of Representatives.
Continue ReadingSteve Aoki
DJ and producer, founded Dim Mak Records
Born
November 30th, 1977 48 years ago
A prominent figure in electronic dance music, Aoki founded Dim Mak Records, which has helped to launch several successful artists in the genre. His career took off with remixing popular tracks and producing original songs that topped music charts. Aoki has collaborated with various artists across different genres, expanding the reach of EDM. Notable for his energetic performances, Aoki has headlined major music festivals worldwide, including Tomorrowland and Ultra Music Festival.
Continue ReadingFrederick Temple
Archbishop and academic leader
Born
November 30th, 1821 204 years ago
Died
December 23rd, 1902 123 years ago — 81 years old
Served as the Archbishop of Canterbury from 1896 to 1902. Contributed to theological education and served as bishop in various capacities including Bishop of Exeter and Bishop of London. Engaged in educational reforms and emphasized the importance of higher education for clergy. Played a role in the establishment of several educational institutions and argued for a more comprehensive approach to theology that incorporated scientific understanding.
Continue ReadingAndres Narvasa
Chief Justice of the Philippines
Born
November 30th, 1928 97 years ago
Died
October 31st, 2013 12 years ago — 84 years old
Served as the 19th Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of the Philippines, holding office from 1991 to 1998. Prior to this role, significant contributions were made in various capacities within the judiciary and legal education. Played an influential role in landmark decisions that shaped Philippine jurisprudence. Participated in numerous judicial reforms and served as a professor of law at prestigious institutions, contributing to legal education in the country.
Continue ReadingTom Simpson
Professional Cyclist; 1965 World Champion
Born
November 30th, 1937 88 years ago
Died
July 13th, 1967 58 years ago — 29 years old
A prominent cyclist, achieved significant success during the 1960s. Competed in road racing and represented Great Britain in various international events. Won the World Road Race Championship in 1965, becoming the first British cyclist to secure this title. Participated in the Tour de France, where he was recognized for his competitive spirit and determination. Tragically passed away during the 1967 Tour de France, leading to increased awareness regarding substance abuse in cycling. His career remains a prominent chapter in sports history.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on December 9th
Rev. Aeneas Francon Williams
Church Minister, Missionary, Writer
Born
1886 140 years ago
Died
December 9th, 1971 54 years ago — 85 years old
Served as a Church of Scotland minister and dedicated time to missionary work in India and China. Contributed to literature and poetry, addressing themes of faith and social justice. Advocated for the needs of local communities and engaged with cultural contexts in his writings. Offered insights into the challenges faced by societies through his ministry and literary works.
Continue ReadingPatty Donahue
Singer and member of The Waitresses
Born
March 29th, 1956 69 years ago
Died
December 9th, 1996 29 years ago — 40 years old
An American singer gained recognition as the lead vocalist of the band The Waitresses, which emerged in the late 1970s. The music group is well-known for their unique blend of punk and new wave, particularly for their hit single 'I Know What Boys Like'. The Waitresses released several albums during their career, including 'Wasn't Tomorrow Wonderful?' and 'Shake It Up'. After the band's initial success, continued to perform and contribute to various projects in the music industry until the mid-1990s.
Continue ReadingPope Clement IX
Pope; presided over the Papacy
Born
1600 426 years ago
Died
December 9th, 1669 356 years ago — 69 years old
Served as Pope from 1667 until death in 1669. His papacy was marked by efforts to promote peace within Europe and address the cultural and political challenges of the time. He played a role in the reconciliation of various factions within the Catholic Church and sought to harmonize relations with different European powers. His tenure witnessed the continuation of the Counter-Reformation efforts initiated by previous Popes. Notably, he oversaw the completion of the new Santa Maria Maggiore basilica in Rome.
Continue ReadingMalcolm IV of Scotland
Scottish King and monarch during turmoil
Born
1141 885 years ago
Died
December 9th, 1165 860 years ago — 24 years old
Ascended to the throne at a young age, ruling Scotland from 1153 until death in 1165. His reign was marked by efforts to strengthen royal authority amidst ongoing conflicts with both internal barons and external threats from England. His rule experienced significant challenges, including maintaining control over Scotland's feudal nobles. Some attempts were made to assert Scottish independence during his reign. Malcolm IV also established a grant of lands to the Abbey of Dunfermline, which strengthened the church's influence.
Continue ReadingMary Leakey
Archaeologist known for early hominids
Born
February 6th, 1913 113 years ago
Died
December 9th, 1996 29 years ago — 83 years old
An archaeologist and anthropologist, significant contributions to the discovery of early hominid fossils were made. Conducted extensive research at Olduvai Gorge in Tanzania, where the first fossilized footprints of early hominids were discovered. Developed techniques for studying human evolution and excavated several notable prehistoric sites. Authored numerous publications detailing findings in paleoanthropology, influencing the field's development.
Continue ReadingAlmeida Garrett
Portuguese journalist and playwright
Born
February 4th, 1799 227 years ago
Died
December 9th, 1854 171 years ago — 55 years old
A prominent figure in Portuguese literature, contributed significantly to the romantic movement in the 19th century. Worked as a playwright, novelist, and journalist, and was deeply involved in the cultural and political life of Portugal. Wrote notable works such as the play 'Frei Luis de Sousa' and the novel 'Viagens na Minha Terra'. His writing often explored themes of nationalism and romanticism, reflecting the societal changes of his time.
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