Henri Moissan
Chemist, Nobel Prize laureate in Chemistry
A French chemist and academic, contributed significantly to the understanding of chemical processes and elements. Conducted groundbreaking research on fluorine, isolating this previously unexamined element for the first time. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1906 for the development of the electric arc furnace and the extraction of fluorine from minerals. Led scientific advancements in high-temperature chemistry and materials.
Isolated fluorine as an element
Developed electric arc furnace technology
Awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1906
Other People Born on September 28th
Helen Grant
English lawyer and Minister for Sport
Born
September 28th, 1961 64 years ago
Born in 1961, a prominent lawyer and politician served as the Member of Parliament for Maidstone and The Weald. Held the position of Minister for Sport and the Olympics from 2012 to 2015, overseeing key initiatives associated with the London 2012 Olympic Games. Contributed to legislation and policy affecting sports and physical activity, addressing issues surrounding sports governance and participation.
Continue ReadingDietmar Schacht
Football manager and former player
Born
September 28th, 1962 63 years ago
A German footballer and manager, played primarily as a midfielder. Emerged from the youth system of VfL Wolfsburg and made professional appearances for the team in the late 1970s and early 1980s. After retirement from playing, transitioned to management, taking roles at various clubs. Achieved notable success in youth coaching and player development throughout the career.
Continue ReadingLaura Bruce
American Artist with notable works
Born
September 28th, 1959 66 years ago
Born in 1959, an American artist recognized for contributions to contemporary art. Specialized in painting and sculpture, the body of work reflects a variety of themes, often exploring nature and human emotion. Participated in numerous exhibitions across the United States, showcasing unique artistic styles. Works have been included in public and private collections, establishing a significant presence in the American art scene.
Continue ReadingBill Cassidy
American politician and physician
Born
September 28th, 1957 68 years ago
A physician and politician, played a significant role in the U.S. Senate representing Louisiana. Elected to the Senate in 2015, served on several committees, including the Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions. Prior to the Senate, represented Louisiana's 6th congressional district in the House of Representatives from 2009 to 2015. Engaged in healthcare policy and reforms during tenure, advocating for medical and immunization issues. Participated in various legislation related to healthcare and public welfare.
Continue ReadingJohnny Dawkins
Basketball player and head coach
Born
September 28th, 1963 62 years ago
A highly regarded basketball player and coach, had a standout collegiate career at Duke University, leading the Blue Devils to the 1986 NCAA Championship Game. Transitioned to professional play in the NBA, representing teams like the San Antonio Spurs and the Philadelphia 76ers. Transitioned to coaching after retiring from playing, serving as an assistant coach and head coach at various institutions, including the University of Central Florida.
Continue ReadingRon Fellows
Race Car Driver, Le Mans Winner
Born
September 28th, 1959 66 years ago
A Canadian race car driver who achieved success in multiple forms of motorsport. Competed in the American Le Mans Series and earned a notable victory at the 24 Hours of Le Mans, driving for Corvette Racing. Also participated in NASCAR events, showcasing versatility in racing disciplines. Established a reputation in the motorsport community for skill and sportsmanship.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on February 20th
Frederick Douglass
American author and abolitionist leader
Died
February 20th, 1895 130 years ago — None years old
Born into slavery, became a prominent author, speaker, and reformer advocating for the emancipation of enslaved people and for women's rights. Authored several autobiographies detailing experiences as a slave and the journey to freedom, the most famous being 'Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass, an American Slave'. Founded and edited influential anti-slavery newspapers. Played a significant role in the abolitionist movement and was an advisor to President Abraham Lincoln during the Civil War, advocating for the enlistment of Black soldiers. Continued to fight for civil rights after the war.
Continue ReadingPhilip William
Prince of Orange and Military Leader
Born
December 19th, 1554 471 years ago
Died
February 20th, 1618 407 years ago — 63 years old
Served as a prominent military leader during the Eighty Years' War, contributing to the Dutch struggle for independence from Spanish rule. Held the title of Prince of Orange and played a crucial role in strategizing campaigns against Spanish forces. His leadership was pivotal for the establishment of the Dutch Republic, with efforts directed towards unifying the provinces against external threats. Negotiated various treaties to strengthen the Rebel forces and maintain order in the region, cementing his status within the complex political landscape of the time. His death in 1618 marked a significant moment in the ongoing conflict.
Continue ReadingGarrick Utley
American journalist and news anchor
Born
1939 86 years ago
Died
February 20th, 2014 11 years ago — 75 years old
Started a career in journalism in the 1960s, contributing to significant news outlets. Served as a foreign correspondent for NBC News during crucial global events like the Vietnam War. Anchored weekend editions of NBC Nightly News and played a pivotal role in the launch of CNN in 1980. Later, worked with PBS and contributed to various news programs, offering insights on international relations and media ethics. Continued to engage in journalism until retirement, influencing generations of news reporting.
Continue ReadingSaint Wulfric of Haselbury
Medieval Christian monk and hermit
Died
February 20th, 1154 871 years ago — None years old
Originating around 1080, a Christian monk and hermit established a hermitage at Haselbury Plucknett, where spiritual guidance was provided to locals. A dedicated life of solitude was embraced, alongside the practice of healing and performing miracles. Canonization occurred posthumously, with a feast day recognized on February 20th. A notable pilgrimage site developed at Haselbury, attracting many seeking solace and assistance. The legacy included influence on the monastic community in the region, fostering a tradition of devotion.
Continue ReadingMax Schreck
German actor in film and theater
Born
September 6th, 1879 146 years ago
Died
February 20th, 1936 89 years ago — 56 years old
An influential German actor primarily recognized for the role of Count Orlok in the 1922 silent horror film 'Nosferatu'. Schreck began his career in theater, performing in various productions before transitioning to cinema. His portrayal of the vampire Orlok left a lasting impact on the horror genre and established a definitive image of the creature. Schreck's work in early German cinema helped shape the expressionist style that characterized the era. Alongside 'Nosferatu', Schreck appeared in several other films, contributing to the development of the medium during its formative years.
Continue ReadingDavid S. McKay
American biochemist and geologist
Born
1936 89 years ago
Died
February 20th, 2013 12 years ago — 77 years old
A biochemist and geologist, contributed to the understanding of extraterrestrial life's potential by studying Martian meteorites. Worked at NASA's Johnson Space Center and participated in the analysis of samples brought back from the Moon during the Apollo missions. His research focused on recognizing biological signatures in ancient rocks, enhancing the search for life beyond Earth.
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