Humphry Davy

Chemist known for isolating elements

Humphry Davy - Chemist known for isolating elements
Born

December 17th, 1778
246 years ago

Died

May 29th, 1829
195 years ago — 50 years old

Category

Scientists & Innovators

Country

United Kingdom

Links & References

A renowned chemist and physicist, contributions spanned several fields including electrochemistry and spectroscopy. Developed the Davy safety lamp which improved mining safety, and conducted pioneering work on the isolation of various elements such as sodium and potassium through the process of electrolysis. Investigated nitrous oxide, exploring its potential as an anesthetic. His lectures and writings influenced the academic landscape of chemistry, establishing concepts that were fundamental to the field.

Isolated sodium and potassium

Developed Davy safety lamp

Studied nitrous oxide as anesthetic

Other People Born on December 17th

Stéphane Lasme

Gabonese basketball player, NBA presence
Born
December 17th, 1982 42 years ago

Born in Gabon, a professional basketball player, Lasme gained recognition for his athleticism and defensive skills. He played college basketball for the University of Massachusetts and earned acclaim as an All-Atlantic 10 player. Lasme competed in the NBA, primarily with the Miami Heat, and also had stints overseas in countries such as France and Turkey. His international career included representing Gabon in various competitions, contributing to the growth of basketball in his home country.

Continue Reading

Castello Lukeba

Footballer with Olympique Lyonnais
Born
December 17th, 2002 22 years ago

Born in December 2002, a footballer primarily recognized for playing as a defender for Olympique Lyonnais in Ligue 1. Developed through the club's youth academy, made his professional debut at the age of 18. Gained attention for strong defensive skills and composure on the ball. Represented France at various youth levels, contributing to team successes in international competitions.

Continue Reading

Mansoor al-Jamri

Journalist and author with notable writings
Born
December 17th, 1961 63 years ago

A Bahraini journalist and author, contributed significantly to journalism in Bahrain. Founded the newspaper Al-Wasat in 2002, which became an important platform for political discourse. Played a critical role in covering the events of the Bahraini uprising in 2011, providing insights into the political and social landscape of the country. Engaged in various discussions and forums concerning press freedom and political reform in Bahrain.

Continue Reading

John Kennedy Toole

American novelist; 'A Confederacy of Dunces'
Born
December 17th, 1937 87 years ago
Died
March 26th, 1969 56 years ago — 31 years old

An American novelist achieved acclaim posthumously for a single work. Wrote a comic novel focused on the misadventures of Ignatius J. Reilly. Published 'A Confederacy of Dunces' in 1980, around 11 years after the author's suicide. The novel won the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction in 1981, gaining significant recognition and maintaining a cult following over the years.

Continue Reading

Donovan Solano

Colombian baseball player and infielder
Born
December 17th, 1987 37 years ago

Born in 1987, Solano played in Major League Baseball as an infielder. He made his MLB debut in 2012 with the New York Yankees. Over the years, he played for various teams, including the Miami Marlins and San Francisco Giants. Solano gained recognition for his consistent batting and defensive skills, particularly during his time with the Giants, where he contributed to notable team performances.

Continue Reading

Wesley Fofana

Professional footballer, Chelsea FC defender
Born
December 17th, 2000 24 years ago

Born in France, this professional footballer began his career at Saint-Étienne, where he emerged as a key defender. Exceptional performances in Ligue 1 caught the attention of international clubs. In 2020, joined Premier League club Leicester City, contributing to the team's success, including a win in the FA Cup in 2021. In 2022, transferred to Chelsea FC, further establishing reputation in top-flight football. Represented France at various youth levels, showcasing potential for future contributions on the international stage.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on May 29th

Josef Suk

Czech violinist and composer
Born
January 4th, 1874 151 years ago
Died
May 29th, 1935 89 years ago — 61 years old

Born in 1874, this violinist and composer studied under Antonín Dvořák and became associated with the Czech nationalist movement. His works include symphonic poems, chamber music, and several violin concertos. The Violin Concerto in A minor remains one of his most significant compositions. Additionally, he contributed to the Czech cultural landscape through both performance and composition, and served as a teacher, influencing future generations of musicians.

Continue Reading

Doc Watson

American bluegrass musician and songwriter
Born
March 3rd, 1923 102 years ago
Died
May 29th, 2012 12 years ago — 89 years old

Born in 1923, this American musician gained recognition for contributions to the bluegrass and folk music genres. Blind from a young age, proficiency on guitar and flatpicking technique showcased remarkable talent. Released albums such as 'Doc Watson' and 'Will the Circle Be Unbroken', collaborating with a range of artists including the Nitty Gritty Dirt Band. Emphasized traditional and contemporary pieces, influencing subsequent generations of musicians.

Continue Reading

Manuel Noriega

Panamanian general and military leader
Born
February 11th, 1934 91 years ago
Died
May 29th, 2017 7 years ago — 83 years old

A Panamanian general and politician, served as the de facto ruler of Panama from 1983 to 1989. Initially an ally of the United States, he later became a significant figure in drug trafficking and corruption. In December 1989, the United States invaded Panama in a military operation named Operation Just Cause, which resulted in Noriega's capture. He was subsequently extradited to the United States and tried on drug charges, eventually serving time in prison until his release in 2007.

Continue Reading

David Beaton

Scottish Cardinal and Lord Chancellor
Born
1494 531 years ago
Died
May 29th, 1546 478 years ago — 52 years old

Served as a cardinal and Lord Chancellor of Scotland. Played a significant role in the political and religious landscape of Scotland during the 16th century. Involved in the governance of the country, Beaton was a supporter of Catholicism and opposed Protestant Reformation efforts. Held considerable influence and power, which contributed to the tense political climate of the period.

Continue Reading

George Harriman

English businessman and railway magnate
Born
1908 117 years ago
Died
May 29th, 1973 51 years ago — 65 years old

An influential businessman in the railway industry during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Established a successful career in the management and expansion of railway companies. Instrumental in the development of the Southern Railway, which played a significant role in the transportation network of Great Britain. Built a reputation for innovative practices that improved railway operations and customer service. Contributed to the significant growth of railway transport during a crucial era of industrial expansion in the country.

Continue Reading

Philippe de Mézières

French soldier and author of 'Songe du Vieil Pèlerin'
Born
1327 698 years ago
Died
May 29th, 1405 619 years ago — 78 years old

A medieval French soldier and author, contributed significantly to literature and military thought. Authored the influential work 'Songe du Vieil Pèlerin,' which combines allegory and personal reflections on knights and chivalry. Participated in various military campaigns during the Hundred Years' War, primarily engaging with English forces. Emphasized the importance of chivalric values and virtues in the context of warfare and peace.

Continue Reading