James Franck
German physicist and Nobel laureate
Contributed significantly to the field of physics, focusing on atomic and molecular interactions. Received the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1925 for the Franck-Hertz experiment, which demonstrated the quantized nature of atomic energy levels. Held a position as a professor at the University of Göttingen and later emigrated to the United States, where continued academic work at various institutions. Engaged in research that informed advancements in quantum mechanics and atomic structure.
Won the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1925
Conducted the Franck-Hertz experiment
Other People Born on August 26th
Lil Tecca
American rapper with hit single 'Ransom'
Born
August 26th, 2002 23 years ago
Emerging in the late 2010s, a rapper gained recognition with the single 'Ransom,' which topped charts and achieved multi-platinum status. 'We Love You Tecca,' the debut mixtape, released in 2019, featured a blend of melodic rap and trap elements. The mixtape generated significant streaming success and established a strong following. Collaborations with various artists and releases of new singles continued to solidify place in the music industry.
Continue ReadingLars Stindl
German footballer, World Cup participant
Born
August 26th, 1988 37 years ago
Started professional career with Karlsruher SC, making a significant impact in the lower leagues. Transferred to Hannover 96, where played a key role in helping the team secure promotion to the Bundesliga. Joined Borussia Mönchengladbach, achieving consistent performances and contributing to multiple top-table finishes. Represented the national team and participated in the 2018 FIFA World Cup.
Continue ReadingIrina-Camelia Begu
Professional tennis player with WTA titles
Born
August 26th, 1990 35 years ago
Born in Romania, this professional tennis player turned pro in 2008. Competing primarily in singles and doubles, she achieved significant success on the Women's Tennis Association (WTA) Tour. Best results in Grand Slam tournaments included reaching the fourth round at Roland Garros in 2016 and the third round at the Australian Open in 2017. In doubles, she secured multiple titles, contributing to her national team's success in the Fed Cup. During her career, she has represented Romania in numerous international competitions.
Continue ReadingKotoshoho Yoshinari
Sumo wrestler and top division competitor
Born
August 26th, 1999 26 years ago
Born in 1999, this sumo wrestler achieved success in the sport, making a mark in the top division of Japanese sumo wrestling. Rising through the ranks, the wrestler exhibited skill and determination. Competing primarily in the Makuuchi division, notable for its prestige in professional sumo wrestling, the athlete quickly gained recognition for performances that captured attention in tournaments.
Continue ReadingLorenzo Brown
American basketball player
Born
August 26th, 1990 35 years ago
Played college basketball at North Carolina State University, contributing significantly to the team's success. Entered the NBA and played for multiple teams, including the Philadelphia 76ers and the Phoenix Suns. Transitioned to international play, having stints in leagues overseas, including the EuroLeague.
Continue ReadingKyren Williams
American football player, Los Angeles Rams
Born
August 26th, 2000 25 years ago
An American football player played as a running back for the Los Angeles Rams in the National Football League (NFL). Williams attended the University of Notre Dame, where significant contributions were made to the football team. After an impactful collegiate career, he was selected by the Rams in the 2022 NFL Draft. In his rookie season, he showcased strong rushing abilities and receiving skills.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on May 21st
Louis Johnson
Bass player and music producer
Born
1955 70 years ago
Died
May 21st, 2015 10 years ago — 60 years old
This individual gained prominence as a bass player and music producer, contributing significantly to the funk and disco genres. His work in the late 1970s and 1980s as part of the musical duo The Brothers Johnson included hits like "Stomp!" and "I'll Be Good to You." As a session musician, he collaborated with multiple artists across various genres, making notable contributions that shaped recordings. Johnson's innovative playing style and rhythmic grooves left a lasting influence on future generations of musicians.
Continue ReadingJan A. P. Kaczmarek
Polish composer of film scores
Born
1953 72 years ago
Died
May 21st, 2024 1 years ago — 71 years old
A Polish composer recognized for contributions to film music. Composed notable scores for films such as 'Finding Neverland' and 'The Pianist'. Worked extensively in the Polish film industry before achieving international recognition. Received an Academy Award for Best Original Score for 'Finding Neverland' in 2005. Contributed to various film soundtracks, blending classical music with contemporary sounds.
Continue ReadingWilliamina Fleming
Astronomer; cataloged over 10,000 stars
Born
May 15th, 1857 168 years ago
Died
May 21st, 1911 114 years ago — 54 years old
A Scottish-American astronomer and academic contributed to the field of astronomy while working at the Harvard College Observatory. Developed a system for classifying stars based on their spectral characteristics. Played a key role in the identification of variable stars and made significant contributions to the study of nebulae. Her work included creating the Henry Draper Catalogue, which documented stellar classifications.
Continue ReadingStephen Elliott
American actor in film and television
Born
November 27th, 1918 107 years ago
Died
May 21st, 2005 20 years ago — 86 years old
Stephen Elliott was an American actor active in film and television from the 1940s to the 2000s. Elliott appeared in numerous films including 'The Graduate' and 'The Misfits'. He was also a prominent television actor, with roles in series such as 'The Twilight Zone' and 'The Streets of San Francisco'. Throughout his career, he showcased a wide range of characters and styles, contributing significantly to both mediums.
Continue ReadingFrank Comstock
Trombonist, composer, and conductor
Born
1922 103 years ago
Died
May 21st, 2013 12 years ago — 91 years old
A prominent trombonist, composer, and conductor, this individual significantly contributed to the music industry through works in both classical and popular genres. His career spanned several decades, during which he performed with various orchestras and ensembles. He arranged music for television, including prominent shows such as 'The Ed Sullivan Show' and 'The Tonight Show'. His compositions and arrangements also featured in numerous radio broadcasts and recordings, showcasing his versatility in the modern music scene.
Continue ReadingOtto von Guericke
Physicist and politician in Germany
Born
November 20th, 1602 423 years ago
Died
May 21st, 1686 339 years ago — 83 years old
Born in 1602, a pioneering physicist and politician contributed significantly to the development of vacuum technology. Designed an air pump that demonstrated the existence of vacuum. Served as the mayor of Magdeburg, focusing on public projects and governance. Engaged in scientific experiments that laid the foundation for future studies in atmospheric pressure and electrostatics.
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