James Edward Smith
Botanist and entomologist, author of Flora Britannica
Born
Died
Category
Scientists & Innovators
Country
United Kingdom
Links & References
An English botanist and entomologist contributed significantly to the study of plants and insects. Founded the Linnæan Society of London in 1788, which promoted the study of natural history. Bestowed the honorary title of Fellow of the Royal Society in recognition of significant contributions to botany. Authored 'Flora Britannica', providing extensive information about British plants. Edited and published the works of Carl Linnaeus and ensured the dissemination of botanical knowledge.
Founded the Linnæan Society of London
Authored Flora Britannica
Edited Linnaeus's works
Other People Born on December 2nd
Elias Lindholm
Ice hockey player and Olympic athlete
Born
December 2nd, 1994 31 years ago
Born in Sweden, a professional ice hockey player who plays as a forward. Played in the NHL for the Calgary Flames and has participated in international competitions representing Sweden. Achieved success in various championships, contributing to team efforts in both club and national settings.
Continue ReadingAaron Jones
American football running back, Pro Bowler
Born
December 2nd, 1994 31 years ago
Born in 1994, played as a running back in the National Football League (NFL) for the Green Bay Packers. In 2017, joined the Packers as a fifth-round draft pick. Achieved a breakout season in 2019, leading the league with 19 total touchdowns. Contributed significantly to the team's success in the playoffs, helping the Packers secure multiple division titles and reaching the NFC Championship Game. Recognized for his versatility, speed, and ability to catch passes out of the backfield, which added a dynamic element to the Packers' offense.
Continue ReadingMarc Platt
American actor and dancer
Born
December 2nd, 1913 112 years ago
Died
March 29th, 2014 11 years ago — 100 years old
An accomplished actor and dancer, contributions spanned across theatre, television, and film. Gained recognition for performances in prominent productions and musicals. Appeared in the original Broadway production of 'Camelot' and had notable roles in television series. His work included collaborations with significant theatre companies and artists, solidifying a memorable legacy in the performing arts.
Continue ReadingZach Cunningham
American football linebacker, Houston Texans
Born
December 2nd, 1994 31 years ago
A professional American football linebacker, contributions to the game were notable during tenure with the Houston Texans. Played college football at Vanderbilt University, earning recognition as a standout defensive player. Selected in the second round of the 2017 NFL Draft by the Houston Texans. Achieved significant defensive stats and consistently performed at a high level. Signed with the Tennessee Titans in 2021, continuing to showcase skills and experience in the NFL.
Continue ReadingMonica Seles
Tennis player and Grand Slam champion
Born
December 2nd, 1973 52 years ago
A Serbian-American tennis player achieved significant success in the 1990s. Dominated women's tennis with a powerful left-handed play style. Captured a total of nine Grand Slam titles, including four consecutive French Open victories from 1990 to 1993. Suffered a traumatic incident in 1993, leading to a hiatus from the sport before returning in 1995. Won two more Grand Slam titles post-recovery, showcasing resilience and determination.
Continue ReadingIlia Malinin
Competitive figure skater and champion
Born
December 2nd, 2004 21 years ago
Born in 2004, this American athlete achieved prominence in figure skating through remarkable performances in national and international competitions. In 2022, secured a gold medal at the World Junior Figure Skating Championships. Demonstrated technical proficiency and artistic expression, making a significant mark in the figure skating community at a young age.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on March 17th
Irène Joliot-Curie
French physicist, Nobel Prize laureate
Born
September 12th, 1897 128 years ago
Died
March 17th, 1956 69 years ago — 58 years old
A physicist and chemist, the individual conducted significant research in radioactivity and nuclear physics. In partnership with the spouse, discoveries included artificial radioactivity. The contributions led to the awarding of the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1935. Work also involved teaching and promoting scientific research in France. The legacy includes influence in academia and advancement in nuclear science.
Continue ReadingGilbert Burnet
Scottish bishop and historian
Born
September 18th, 1643 382 years ago
Died
March 17th, 1715 310 years ago — 71 years old
Burnet served as a bishop in the Church of England and is recognized for his historical writings. His work, 'The History of My Own Time,' chronicles the political and religious changes in England during the late 17th century. Additionally, he was instrumental in the establishment of the Church of Scotland and engaged in significant theological debates, particularly concerning the powers of bishops. Burnet played a crucial role during the Glorious Revolution and was a prominent figure in the discussions surrounding the theological issues of his time. His contributions to historical scholarship and church governance were notable during this period in British history.
Continue ReadingRay Meyer
Basketball coach at DePaul University
Born
December 18th, 1913 112 years ago
Died
March 17th, 2006 19 years ago — 92 years old
Coached the DePaul Blue Demons men's basketball team from 1942 to 1984. Directed the team to a record of 724 wins and 354 losses. Achieved significant success in the NCAA Tournament, leading the team to the Final Four in 1979. Instrumental in developing many players who went on to have successful professional careers.
Continue ReadingHaldan Keffer Hartline
Physiologist, Nobel Prize in Physiology
Born
December 22nd, 1903 122 years ago
Died
March 17th, 1983 42 years ago — 79 years old
A notable physiologist and academic, contributions focused on the physiology of the visual system. Conducted pioneering research on the function of the retina and the mechanisms of vision. Received the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1967 for work on the interactions of photoreceptor cells, specifically studying how light influences electrical signals in the retina. Served on the faculty at several prestigious institutions and inspired many students through dedicated teaching efforts.
Continue ReadingClodovil Hernandes
Television host and Brazilian politician
Born
June 17th, 1937 88 years ago
Died
March 17th, 2009 16 years ago — 71 years old
A television host and politician from Brazil, played a significant role in the entertainment industry and politics. Worked as a fashion designer before transitioning into television, hosting shows that showcased fashion and celebrity culture. Served as a federal deputy in Brazil, representing the state of São Paulo, and became the first openly gay politician elected to the Brazilian legislature. His career spanned several decades, during which he became a recognizable figure in both television and political arenas.
Continue ReadingLuchino Visconti
Italian film director and screenwriter
Born
November 2nd, 1906 119 years ago
Died
March 17th, 1976 49 years ago — 69 years old
An influential film director and screenwriter, this individual made significant contributions to cinema in the mid-20th century. Known for a distinctive style that blended realism and theatricality, notable works include 'La Terra Trema' and 'The Leopard'. This director also had a successful career in opera, bringing a unique vision to the stage. His films often explored themes of class struggle, family dynamics, and societal change, reflecting personal and historical narratives.
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