James B. Sumner
Chemist, Nobel Prize laureate
Significant contributions to enzymology and biochemistry occurred during an academic career. Achievements included demonstrating that enzymes could be crystallized, providing substantial evidence towards understanding their structure and function. Research focused on urease, leading to insights into enzyme mechanisms. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1946 for work in this field, recognized for pioneering techniques that advanced scientific understanding of catalysis.
Demonstrated crystallization of enzymes
Awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1946
Other People Born on November 19th
Georg Hermann Quincke
German physicist and academic
Born
November 19th, 1834 191 years ago
Died
January 13th, 1924 102 years ago — 89 years old
Contributed to the fields of physics and optics. Developed the Quincke apparatus used for studying light refraction and optical phenomena. Conducted extensive research in acoustics and used a resonator to explore sound phenomena. Held academic positions and published significant works in the area of optics and acoustics.
Continue ReadingJack Dorsey
Businessman, co-founder of Twitter
Born
November 19th, 1976 49 years ago
Co-founded Twitter in 2006, which became a significant social media platform affecting communication and information dissemination. Played a pivotal role in developing Square, a financial services and mobile payment company, launched in 2009. Served as CEO of Twitter twice, from 2006 to 2008 and then from 2015 to 2021. Contributed to the evolution of social media by introducing innovative features and fostering digital discourse.
Continue ReadingGiuseppe Volpi
Italian businessman, founded Venice Film Festival
Born
November 19th, 1877 148 years ago
Died
November 16th, 1947 78 years ago — 69 years old
A prominent businessman and politician, played a crucial role in the establishment of the Venice Film Festival in 1932, which became the oldest film festival in the world. Volpi served as a member of the Italian Senate and was involved in various sectors of business, particularly in finance and industry. He also took part in efforts promoting Italian cinema during his lifetime, focusing on fostering cultural endeavors. His leadership was instrumental in shaping the film industry in Italy, making significant contributions to its global recognition.
Continue ReadingBarry Jenkins
Film Director and Screenwriter
Born
November 19th, 1979 46 years ago
An American director and screenwriter, acclaimed for creating poignant and immersive narratives. Gained recognition through the film 'Moonlight', which won the Academy Award for Best Picture in 2017. Directed and co-wrote the film 'If Beale Street Could Talk', based on the novel by James Baldwin, showcasing the complexities of love and justice.
Continue ReadingLouis D. Rubin Jr.
American author and literary critic
Born
November 19th, 1923 102 years ago
Died
November 16th, 2013 12 years ago — 89 years old
An author and critic focused on Southern literature, produced several influential works in the field. Rubin served as a professor at various institutions, contributing significantly to academic discourse. His writings explored themes of identity and culture within the Southern experience, often reflecting on the complexities of life in the American South. In addition to fiction, he wrote critical essays and edited notable anthologies, aiding in the promotion of Southern writers and expanding their reach. His efforts helped establish the Southern literary landscape in the mid-20th century.
Continue ReadingSushmita Sen
Indian actress and Miss Universe 1994
Born
November 19th, 1975 50 years ago
An actress and model, achieved fame by winning the Miss Universe title in 1994. Transitioned into acting and gained recognition for performances in multiple films. Starred in popular Bollywood movies and received accolades for contributions to Indian cinema. Also known for leading roles in web series, particularly gaining acclaim for performances that showcased depth and versatility.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on August 12th
Enos Slaughter
Major League Baseball player and manager
Born
April 27th, 1916 109 years ago
Died
August 12th, 2002 23 years ago — 86 years old
Born in 1916, a professional baseball player achieved prominence as an outfielder. Played primarily for the St. Louis Cardinals, also played for the New York Yankees and the Chicago White Sox during a career spanning 19 seasons. Contributed significantly to the Cardinals' 1942 and 1944 World Series victories. Transitioned to managing after retirement, overseeing minor league teams and later serving as a coach. Inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1985, recognizing outstanding achievements in Major League Baseball.
Continue ReadingBill Yeoman
College football coach and player
Born
1927 99 years ago
Died
August 12th, 2020 5 years ago — 93 years old
Contributed to college football as a player and coach. Played as a quarterback at the University of Houston. Served as the head coach for the University of Houston from 1962 to 1986, where contributed to the team's rise in the sport. Developed the veer offense, influencing football tactics in the college game. Achieved notable success including multiple conference championships and bowl game appearances during tenure.
Continue ReadingThomas Mann
German author, Nobel Prize winner
Born
June 6th, 1875 150 years ago
Died
August 12th, 1955 70 years ago — 80 years old
An influential German author and critic, Mann wrote extensively throughout the 20th century. His literary career was marked by a focus on the themes of morality, aesthetics, and the complexities of human experience. Major works include 'Buddenbrooks', which received critical acclaim and established his reputation as a leading novelist, and 'The Magic Mountain', a significant exploration of time and illness set in a sanatorium. In 1929, he was awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature for his distinguished body of work. Mann's writings often reflected the political and social changes in Germany and Europe, particularly during the rise of fascism.
Continue ReadingJack Delano
Photographer and composer, FSA photographer
Born
August 1st, 1914 111 years ago
Died
August 12th, 1997 28 years ago — 83 years old
A photographer and composer, Delano practiced his craft primarily during the 1930s and 1940s. He gained recognition for his work with the Farm Security Administration, where he documented the lives of rural Americans, capturing the struggles and resilience of agricultural families. Delano also composed music, contributing to cultural projects in the United States. His photographic works remain a valuable part of the historical record of American life during the Great Depression and World War II.
Continue ReadingVictor Ambartsumian
Astrophysicist and astronomer
Born
September 18th, 1908 117 years ago
Died
August 12th, 1996 29 years ago — 87 years old
An influential astrophysicist and astronomer contributed significantly to the development of the field of astrophysics. Founded an astronomical research institute in Armenia and held the directorship of the Byurakan Astrophysical Observatory. Worked extensively on stellar structure and evolution, including the theory of stellar formation. Played a critical role in promoting science and education in the Soviet Union.
Continue ReadingJacques Pellegrin
French zoologist and ichthyologist
Born
June 12th, 1873 152 years ago
Died
August 12th, 1944 81 years ago — 71 years old
Born in France in 1873, a prominent zoologist specialized in ichthyology. Contributed significantly to marine biology and the study of fish species. Involved in numerous expeditions and published various scientific papers enlightening on fish anatomy and classification. Served as a director at the Institut de France, promoting zoological research and education.
Continue Reading