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
Linda McCartney
Photographer and animal rights activist
Born
September 24th, 1941 84 years ago
Died
April 17th, 1998 28 years ago — 56 years old
Worked as a professional photographer, contributing significantly to music and activism. Developed a notable career in photography, with work published in various magazines. Promoted vegetarianism and animal rights, founding an animal welfare charity. Collaborated with husband Paul McCartney in the band Wings, contributing to many albums and performances. Actively participated in social causes, especially regarding the treatment of animals. Passed away in 1998 after a battle with cancer.
Continue ReadingManfred Wörner
Politician, 7th NATO Secretary General
Born
September 24th, 1934 91 years ago
Died
1994 32 years ago — 60 years old
Served as the 7th Secretary General of NATO from 1988 until 1994. His tenure emphasized the importance of transatlantic cooperation and collective defense. Worked to foster dialogue between Eastern and Western blocs during the end of the Cold War. Pursued policies aimed at nuclear disarmament and strengthened NATO's role in crisis management. Advocated for the inclusion of Eastern European countries into NATO, contributing to the organization's evolution post-Cold War. Worked diplomatically to navigate the complexities of international relations during a significant geopolitical transition.
Continue ReadingJoe Locke
Manx actor in 'Heartstopper'
Born
September 24th, 2003 22 years ago
An actor gained recognition for the role of Charlie Spring in the Netflix series 'Heartstopper', based on the webcomic by Alice Oseman. The character's story centers on themes of friendship, love, and acceptance during teenage years. This role marked a significant point in the actor's career, showcasing talent in portraying complex younger characters in contemporary storytelling. The performance received acclaim for its authenticity and emotional resonance, contributing to the show's popularity.
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 ReadingOriol Romeu
Spanish footballer, played for Chelsea
Born
September 24th, 1991 34 years ago
A professional footballer from Spain, played primarily as a defensive midfielder. Began his career at FC Barcelona, coming through the youth ranks and making his first-team debut in 2010. Transferred to Chelsea in 2011, where contributions included winning the UEFA Champions League in 2012. Later played for various clubs, showcasing consistent performances in La Liga and the Premier League. Joined Southampton in 2015, solidifying a role as a key player. Continued to demonstrate skill in controlling midfield play and providing defensive support throughout his career.
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 ReadingOther People Who Died on February 21st
Héctor Maestri
Baseball player, played for multiple teams
Born
1935 91 years ago
Died
February 21st, 2014 12 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 ReadingInge Lehmann
Danish seismologist known for Moho
Born
May 13th, 1888 137 years ago
Died
February 21st, 1993 33 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 ReadingEmperor Ninkō of Japan
Emperor of Japan during the 19th century
Born
March 16th, 1800 226 years ago
Died
February 21st, 1846 180 years ago — 45 years old
Ascended to the throne in 1817, Ninkō presided over a period of political turmoil and transformation in Japan. This era witnessed the opening of Japan to foreign influence, marking the beginning of the end for the Tokugawa shogunate. The emperor's reign included the Boshin War, which was pivotal in the transition from feudalism to modernization in Japan. Ninkō's rule was characterized by a reluctance to embrace the changes that foreign contact brought, as the country faced internal conflicts and pressures for reform. Despite the civil strife, this period laid the groundwork for Japan's subsequent rapid modernization.
Continue ReadingIlmari Juutilainen
Finnish pilot and air force ace
Born
February 21st, 1914 112 years ago
Died
February 21st, 1999 27 years ago — 85 years old
Born in Finland, a celebrated soldier and pilot gained prominence during World War II. As a fighter pilot in the Finnish Air Force, he achieved exceptional success in aerial combat. Juutilainen participated in the Continuation War against the Soviet Union and earned the title of the highest-scoring ace in Finnish history. His combat career spanned several years, during which he flew numerous missions and demonstrated remarkable skill and bravery. Post-war, he continued to contribute to aviation and served in various military roles.
Continue ReadingBernard Nathanson
Physician and abortion rights activist
Born
July 31st, 1926 99 years ago
Died
February 21st, 2011 15 years ago — 84 years old
A physician and abortion rights activist, contributed to the legalization of abortion in the United States. Played a crucial role in founding the National Association for the Repeal of Abortion Laws. Later became an outspoken opponent of abortion after undergoing a personal transformation regarding the ethics of the procedure. Authored the book 'Aborting America', detailing the history of abortion in America and advocating for the pro-life movement.
Continue ReadingGeorg Friedrich von Martens
German jurist and diplomat
Born
1756 270 years ago
Died
February 21st, 1821 205 years ago — 65 years old
Contributed significantly to international law and diplomacy. Served as a diplomat for the Kingdom of Prussia, participating in various important negotiations. Authored several important works that laid the groundwork for future legal studies in international relations. Developed comprehensive treaties that guided diplomatic practices in Europe during his tenure.
Continue Reading