Howard Florey
Pathologist and pharmacologist, Nobel Prize
A pathologist and pharmacologist. Contributed significantly to the development and mass production of penicillin during World War II. Played a crucial role in the research and clinical trials that demonstrated the drug's efficacy against bacterial infections. Served as the Director of the Sir William Dunn School of Pathology at the University of Oxford, where further advancements in antibiotics were made. Received the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1945 alongside two other scientists for contributions to the discovery of penicillin.
Developed and mass produced penicillin
Received Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1945
Other People Born on September 24th
André Frédéric Cournand
Physician and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
September 24th, 1895 130 years ago
Died
February 19th, 1988 37 years ago — 92 years old
A French-American physician and physiologist contributed significantly to the understanding of cardiovascular dynamics. Conducted groundbreaking research in cardiac catheterization. Co-developed techniques that allowed for the measurement of blood flow and cardiac output, greatly influencing the field of cardiology. Received the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1956 alongside two other researchers for advancements in the field of cardiovascular physiology.
Continue ReadingHorace Walpole
Historian and politician, author of 'The Castle of Otranto'
Born
September 24th, 1717 308 years ago
Died
March 2nd, 1797 228 years ago — 79 years old
An English historian and politician, contributed significantly to literature and political thought during the 18th century. Served as a member of the Parliament for several years, focusing on Whig policies. Gained recognition for literary works, particularly as the author of 'The Castle of Otranto', which is considered the first Gothic novel. Established Strawberry Hill House in Twickenham, which became a center for intellectual discourse and a showcase of Gothic Revival architecture.
Continue ReadingPia Wurtzbach
Beauty queen, Miss Universe 2015
Born
September 24th, 1989 36 years ago
Won the title of Miss Universe in 2015, representing the Philippines. Began a career in modeling and acting, with appearances in television shows and films. Worked as a medical professional before fully committing to the entertainment industry. Engaged in various philanthropic activities after winning the pageant, focusing on health and education initiatives.
Continue ReadingCardiss Collins
American politician and congresswoman
Born
September 24th, 1931 94 years ago
Died
February 3rd, 2013 12 years ago — 81 years old
Served as a Democratic member of the United States House of Representatives from Illinois from 1973 to 1997. During tenure, contributed to various legislative efforts, focusing on healthcare, education, and civil rights. Collins was the first African American woman elected to Congress from Illinois. Advocated for women's rights and minority issues throughout career. After retirement, remained involved in community service and political advocacy.
Continue ReadingSonya Deville
Wrestler and MMA fighter in WWE
Born
September 24th, 1993 32 years ago
A professional wrestler and mixed martial artist, renowned for competing in WWE. Began wrestling in high school and quickly progressed to the professional scene, debuting in WWE's NXT. Participated in the first all-female WrestleMania match, marking a significant moment in women's wrestling. Transitioned from mixed martial arts to wrestling, achieving recognition for athleticism and skill in the ring.
Continue ReadingJéssica Bouzas Maneiro
Spanish tennis player with ITF titles
Born
September 24th, 2002 23 years ago
A Spanish tennis player, achievements include winning multiple International Tennis Federation (ITF) titles. Competed in various tournaments on the ITF circuit, progressively rising through the ranks. Participated in the junior circuit, showcasing talent and potential early in the career. Gained recognition for strong performances in singles and doubles events.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on February 21st
William Weston
Australian politician, 3rd Premier of Tasmania
Born
November 28th, 1804 221 years ago
Died
February 21st, 1888 137 years ago — 83 years old
Served as the 3rd Premier of Tasmania from 1887 until 1888. Political career included leadership roles in the Tasmanian Legislative Council. Played a significant role in shaping early Tasmanian politics and governance.
Continue ReadingInge Lehmann
Danish seismologist known for Moho
Born
May 13th, 1888 137 years ago
Died
February 21st, 1993 32 years ago — 104 years old
Contributions to the field of seismology included significant research on the Earth's interior. Developed the concept of the Lehmann discontinuity, which delineates the boundary between the Earth's crust and the underlying mantle. Conducted pioneering work in seismology, particularly in understanding seismic waves and their behavior. Published influential papers on earthquakes and the Earth's structure, enhancing the scientific understanding of geophysical phenomena.
Continue ReadingHéctor Maestri
Baseball player, played for multiple teams
Born
1935 90 years ago
Died
February 21st, 2014 11 years ago — 79 years old
A Cuban-American baseball player played as a pitcher in Major League Baseball. Making his debut in 1961, played for teams including the Washington Senators and the Kansas City Athletics. The player had a career marked by appearances in an era of competitive baseball.
Continue ReadingJames I of Scotland
Scottish King, author of 'The King's Quair'
Died
February 21st, 1437 588 years ago — None years old
Born in 1394, ascended to the Scottish throne at a young age after several years of captivity in England. Oversaw numerous political reforms and military campaigns aimed at strengthening the kingdom. Authored 'The King's Quair', a notable piece of literature in the early 15th century. Assassinated in 1437 due to political conspiracies and unrest among the nobility, leaving a legacy marked by efforts to centralize royal power.
Continue ReadingMireya Arboleda
Colombian Classical Pianist
Born
1928 97 years ago
Died
February 21st, 2021 4 years ago — 93 years old
Acclaimed as a prominent classical pianist, contributions spanned performances and recordings that celebrated Colombian and international composers. Educated at notable institutions, achieved recognition for skills and dedication to music. Participated in prestigious festivals and recitals across Colombia and internationally. Notably served as a music educator, influencing future generations of musicians.
Continue ReadingEric Brown
Pilot and test pilot for the UK
Born
January 21st, 1919 106 years ago
Died
February 21st, 2016 9 years ago — 97 years old
A prominent test pilot, achievements included extensive test flights of various aircraft types, including the British jet aircraft. Played a key role in the development of the British aircraft industry. Served in the Royal Navy and contributed significantly during World War II, flying various combat missions and later participating in the development of jet technology. After the war, took on various test pilot roles, including significant contributions to the Hawker Sea Hawk and the de Havilland Comet. Continued to advocate for aviation and participate in historical aerospace events until death.
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