Harold Urey
Chemist and Nobel Prize laureate
A prominent American chemist and astronomer, contributions focused on isotopic chemistry and nuclear physics. Developed methods for separating isotopes and played a significant role in the Manhattan Project. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1934 for the discovery of deuterium, an isotope of hydrogen. Served as a professor at several universities, including Columbia University and the University of California, Berkeley.
Discovered deuterium in 1931
Awarded Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1934
Contributed to the Manhattan Project
Other People Born on April 29th
Kimberly Birrell
Australian tennis player
Born
April 29th, 1998 27 years ago
Competed in professional tennis with significant achievements on the ITF Circuit and WTA Tour. Gained attention for strong performances in singles and doubles events. Represented Australia in various international competitions. Achieved career-high rankings in both singles and doubles. Participated in the Australian Open and other Grand Slam tournaments.
Continue ReadingSara Errani
Tennis player, French Open finalist
Born
April 29th, 1987 38 years ago
A professional tennis player achieved prominence in singles and doubles tennis. Won the 2012 French Open doubles title with partner Roberta Vinci. Reached the singles final at the 2012 French Open, finishing as runner-up. Ranked as high as World No. 5 in singles and World No. 1 in doubles during career. Contributed to the Italian national team in the Fed Cup, helping to secure victories.
Continue ReadingDavid Cox
Landscape painter and watercolourist
Born
April 29th, 1783 242 years ago
Died
June 7th, 1859 166 years ago — 76 years old
Active during the 19th century, a prominent English landscape painter specialized in watercolours. Developed a unique style that emphasized the treatment of light and atmosphere in natural scenes. Participated in the Royal Academy exhibitions, showcasing works that gained visibility among both critics and the public. Engaged in teaching, influencing a generation of artists through his lessons and writings on painting techniques. His commitment to landscape painting solidified a reputation within the art community in England.
Continue ReadingGeorg Carl von Döbeln
Swedish General and Military Leader
Born
April 29th, 1758 267 years ago
Died
February 16th, 1820 205 years ago — 61 years old
Served as a general in the Swedish army during the early 19th century. Notable for contributions in the Finnish War, particularly at the Battle of Systerap. Appointed as a commander and held various military positions during his career. Demonstrated leadership in key military strategies and operations, influencing the conduct of the war. His military legacy continued to be recognized in Swedish military history after his passing.
Continue ReadingYounha
Singer-songwriter known for 'Password 486'
Born
April 29th, 1988 37 years ago
Born in South Korea, a singer-songwriter gained prominence in the 2000s with a blend of pop and rock influences. The debut album, 'The Perfect Day', was released in 2004, showcasing vocal talent and emotional depth. The song 'Password 486' achieved significant commercial success, solidifying a presence in the South Korean music scene. Beyond singing, also worked as a record producer, contributing to various projects that highlight artistic capabilities. Continues to be active in music, releasing new material and collaborating with other artists.
Continue ReadingChris Johnson
Basketball player and All-Star athlete
Born
April 29th, 1990 35 years ago
A professional basketball player excelled in the National Basketball Association (NBA). Played for multiple teams, including the New Orleans Hornets and the Atlanta Hawks. Achieved recognition for outstanding performance in various seasons, contributing significantly on both ends of the court. His skills in scoring and defense earned a selection to the NBA All-Star team. Known for his speed and agility, he became a key player, demonstrating exceptional athleticism throughout his career.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on January 5th
Bernard Joseph McLaughlin
American bishop and religious leader
Born
November 19th, 1912 113 years ago
Died
January 5th, 2015 10 years ago — 102 years old
Served as a Roman Catholic bishop in the United States. Ordained as a priest in 1946, he became the Bishop of the Diocese of Wilmington in 1972 and served until retirement in 2008. Active in numerous church initiatives and community outreach programs, he emphasized social justice and education throughout his tenure. His leadership focused on engaging with the community and fostering dialogue on important issues.
Continue ReadingDragoslav Šekularac
Serbian footballer and manager at Partizan
Born
1937 88 years ago
Died
January 5th, 2019 6 years ago — 82 years old
A Serbian footballer and manager, played primarily as an attacking midfielder. Achieved prominence during the 1950s and 1960s, leading the national team to a fourth-place finish at the 1962 FIFA World Cup. Made significant contributions to the club FK Partizan, winning multiple domestic titles. Transitioned into coaching after retirement, managing various clubs, including his former team, and supporting the development of football in Serbia.
Continue ReadingSamuel Huntington
American jurist and politician
Born
July 16th, 1731 294 years ago
Died
January 5th, 1796 229 years ago — 64 years old
Served as the 18th Governor of Connecticut from 1786 until 1796. Contributed to the drafting of the Articles of Confederation. Played a role in the Continental Congress and signed the Declaration of Independence. Had a background in law and became a prominent figure in Connecticut's early governance.
Continue ReadingVasko Popa
Serbian poet and academic recognized for contemporary poetry
Born
June 29th, 1922 103 years ago
Died
January 5th, 1991 34 years ago — 68 years old
Born in 1922, one of the pivotal figures in Serbian literature, focused on avant-garde poetry. His work often explored themes of folklore, myth, and existentialism. Contributed significantly to the literary scene in Yugoslavia and influenced many writers with innovative forms and styles. Authored several notable collections, including 'The Little Box' and 'The Eternal Introduction'. Served as a professor of literature, mentoring a generation of poets and scholars until his death in 1991.
Continue ReadingJoseph Radetzky von Radetz
Austrian field marshal and military leader
Born
1766 259 years ago
Died
January 5th, 1858 167 years ago — 92 years old
A distinguished field marshal in the Austro-Hungarian Army, led successful campaigns in the Italian territories during the 19th century. Played a crucial role in the First Italian War of Independence, successfully defeating the Sardinian forces at the Battle of Custoza in 1848. Later, secured victory again in 1849 at the Battle of Novara, which reestablished Austrian control in Italy. Instrumental in the establishment of military reforms that modernized the Austro-Hungarian military structure. Received accolades for military leadership and strategy, and his legacy continued to influence military tactics in the region. Retired in the early 1850s and died in 1858.
Continue ReadingBilly Bletcher
American actor and voice artist
Born
September 24th, 1894 131 years ago
Died
January 5th, 1979 46 years ago — 84 years old
A prominent voice actor and singer, contributed significantly to the animation industry during the Golden Age of Animation. Provided the voices for numerous characters in classic cartoons. Often associated with the character of the Big Bad Wolf in Walt Disney's animated features. Also appeared in various live-action films, showcasing versatility as a performer.
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