Howard Martin Temin
Geneticist, Nobel Prize laureate in Physiology
Born
Died
Category
Scientists & Innovators
Country
United States
Links & References
A prominent geneticist and academic, contributed significantly to the understanding of the interplay between genetics and viral behavior. Conducted groundbreaking research that led to the discovery of reverse transcriptase, an enzyme that converts RNA to DNA, illuminating mechanisms behind certain viruses such as HIV. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1975 for co-discovery of reverse transcription. His work laid important groundwork for molecular biology and genetics research.
Won the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1975
Discovered reverse transcriptase
Other People Born on December 10th
Cornelia Funke
German-American author of children's fantasy
Born
December 10th, 1958 67 years ago
An author recognized for contributions to children's literature, particularly in the fantasy genre. Achievements include the popular 'Inkheart' trilogy, which features a plot intertwining literature and reality. Other works include 'The Thief Lord' and 'Dragon Rider', which gained significant acclaim. Funke writes primarily in German and English, reflecting a blend of cultures and storytelling traditions. The author has received multiple awards for writing, including the prestigious BookSense Book of the Year Award, highlighting the success and reach of her literary works.
Continue ReadingKenneth Branagh
British actor and director of Shakespearean films
Born
December 10th, 1960 65 years ago
An influential figure in film and theater, this individual directed and starred in several adaptations of William Shakespeare's plays. Achievements include directing and acting in 'Henry V', which received critical acclaim and earned Academy Award nominations. Also directed and acted in 'Much Ado About Nothing', further establishing a reputation for Shakespearean adaptations. Produced and starred in various other projects, showcasing versatility and talent in multiple roles in the entertainment industry.
Continue ReadingRoberto Cassinelli
Italian lawyer and politician
Born
December 10th, 1956 69 years ago
Served as a lawyer and entered politics, holding multiple significant roles in Italian governance. Participated in legislative processes contributing to political discourse. Engaged in various initiatives to improve legal frameworks and public policy. Elected to the Chamber of Deputies and contributed to several political committees focusing on law and constitutional matters.
Continue ReadingGreg Laurie
American author and pastor
Born
December 10th, 1952 73 years ago
An influential Christian pastor and author, led Harvest Christian Fellowship in Riverside, California. Founded the Harvest Crusades, which brought together thousands for evangelistic outreach events across the United States. Authored several books on faith and spirituality, including 'Lost Generation' and 'The Upside Down Church'. Also hosts a widely listened-to radio program, 'A New Beginning'.
Continue ReadingWolf Hoffmann
German guitarist with Accept
Born
December 10th, 1959 66 years ago
A prominent guitarist, contributed significantly to the heavy metal band Accept, which formed in 1976. The band gained international recognition in the 1980s with the release of albums such as 'Balls to the Wall.' Hoffmann's distinctive guitar work and songwriting played a crucial role in shaping the band's sound and success. In addition to his work with Accept, he pursued a solo career, showcasing his skills through various projects. Hoffmann's influence is evident in the heavy metal genre, inspiring generations of guitarists.
Continue ReadingGeorge MacDonald
Scottish author and poet of fantasy tales
Born
December 10th, 1824 201 years ago
Died
September 18th, 1905 120 years ago — 80 years old
A Scottish minister and writer specializing in children's literature, focused on fantasy and fairy tales. Significant contributions include the creation of the genre alongside contemporaries such as Lewis Carroll and J.M. Barrie. Wrote notable works such as 'At the Back of the North Wind' and 'Phantastes', which influenced subsequent writers like C.S. Lewis. Engaged with themes of imagination and spiritual growth through storytelling, maintaining a firm connection to Christian values in his narratives.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on February 9th
Walter Frederick Morrison
Inventor of the Frisbee
Born
January 23rd, 1920 106 years ago
Died
February 9th, 2010 15 years ago — 90 years old
An American businessman invented the flying disc toy known as the Frisbee in the 1940s. Initially created as a cake pan, it became popular when its design was refined for recreational use. The toy gained widespread popularity in the 1960s, leading to the establishment of the Frisbee brand and various games associated with it. Morrison's invention has become a staple of outdoor play and has inspired numerous competitions and events around the world. The manufacturing and marketing of the Frisbee transformed the toy industry and created a new category of play.
Continue ReadingAllen Tate
American poet and academic
Born
November 19th, 1899 126 years ago
Died
February 9th, 1979 46 years ago — 79 years old
Contributed significantly to American poetry and criticism through both creative and academic work. Served as a professor at institutions such as Vanderbilt University and published numerous essays and poems. Worked as an editor for The Sewanee Review, influencing literary discourse. His poetry collection, 'The Lost Leader,' garnered attention for its exploration of themes such as despair and loss.
Continue ReadingDionysios Solomos
Greek poet and translator of 'Hymn to Liberty'
Born
April 8th, 1798 227 years ago
Died
February 9th, 1857 168 years ago — 58 years old
A significant figure in Greek literature, this individual played a crucial role in the national revival of Greece during the 19th century. Writing primarily in the Greek language, the poet's most celebrated work is the poem 'Hymn to Liberty', which later became the national anthem of Greece. Engaging with themes of freedom and identity, this individual contributed to the cultural movements of the time through poetry and translations that reflected the struggles and aspirations of the Greek people during their fight for independence from Ottoman rule. His literary legacy continues to influence modern Greek literature.
Continue ReadingKeiko Fukuda
Martial artist and judo trainer
Born
April 12th, 1913 112 years ago
Died
February 9th, 2013 12 years ago — 99 years old
An influential martial artist and judo trainer, held the rank of 10th dan in judo. Pioneered women's judo and dedicated life to teaching the art. Contributed to the development of judo in the United States after moving from Japan. Founded the San Francisco Judo Institute, cultivating many students and promoting judo as a valuable discipline. Her teachings emphasized not only the techniques of judo but also its philosophical aspects.
Continue ReadingJohn Frederick
Duke of Pomerania, military leader
Born
May 5th, 1582 443 years ago
Died
February 9th, 1600 425 years ago — 17 years old
Born into the House of Greifswald, this nobleman inherited the title of Duke of Pomerania after the death of his father. He played a significant role in the complex political landscape of the Holy Roman Empire during the late 16th century. His reign included military engagements and alliances, particularly in relation to the Protestant Reformation. He faced challenges from rival noble families and sought to maintain the autonomy of Pomerania. His governorship was marked by efforts to solidify control over the region, navigating both internal conflicts and external threats. The legacy includes influence over local governance and territorial disputes that shaped the region's future.
Continue ReadingJohan Jongkind
Dutch painter of landscapes and marines
Born
June 3rd, 1819 206 years ago
Died
February 9th, 1891 134 years ago — 71 years old
A prominent painter associated with the Dutch Impressionist movement, this individual specialized in landscapes and marine scenes. Early training occurred in The Hague, followed by a significant period in Paris. Influenced by the works of fellow artists, this painter contributed to the development of a unique style that blended traditional techniques with new approaches to light and color. Collaboration with Vincent van Gogh inspired further exploration into impressionistic landscapes. The works produced often depicted the Dutch countryside and French coastal views, showcasing a dedicated attention to atmospheric effects and natural beauty.
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