Jan Baptist van Helmont

Flemish chemist and physician

Jan Baptist van Helmont - Flemish chemist and physician
Born

January 12th, 1577
448 years ago

Died

December 30th, 1644
380 years ago — 67 years old

Category

Scientists & Innovators

Country

Belgium

Links & References

Born in 1577, this individual made significant contributions to early chemistry and medicine. Trained as a physician, he conducted experiments that laid the groundwork for what would later be termed gas studies. His work in plant physiology included studies on the growth of plants and the role of water in their development. He is often credited with coining the term 'gas' as well. His findings highlighted the importance of air in combustion and respiration, influencing future scientific exploration in chemistry and the natural sciences.

Conducted experiments that defined 'gas'

Studied plant growth and water's role

Published 'Ortus Medicinae' detailing medical knowledge

Other People Born on January 12th

Mary Wilson

British poet and Spouse of PM
Born
January 12th, 1916 109 years ago
Died
February 8th, 2021 4 years ago — 105 years old

Born in 1916, a prominent British poet, served as the spouse of a Prime Minister of the United Kingdom. Active in literary circles, contributed significantly to poetry throughout her life. Engaged in various charitable activities and supported cultural initiatives, fostering appreciation for literature and the arts. Her role as Baroness Wilson of Rievaulx involved advocating for education and the arts, representing the interests of the arts community in the UK.

Continue Reading

Anthony Andrews

English actor, producer, and television star
Born
January 12th, 1948 77 years ago

An actor and producer, with a career spanning several decades, garnered recognition for performances in film, television, and theatre. Featured in the acclaimed period drama series 'Brideshead Revisited' as Charles Ryder, which gained significant popularity. Appeared in movies such as 'The King's Speech' and played memorable roles in various theatrical productions. Engaged in productions across the UK and internationally, contributing to both screen and stage arts.

Continue Reading

Laura Adams Armer

American author and photographer
Born
January 12th, 1874 151 years ago
Died
March 16th, 1963 62 years ago — 89 years old

An author and photographer, contributed significantly to children's literature. Published an acclaimed book titled 'Waterless Mountain,' which won the Newbery Honor Award in 1931. Photographed various Native American cultures, capturing their traditions and lifestyles. Promoted cultural understanding through literary and photographic works, reflecting the experiences of the American West.

Continue Reading

Emre Can

German footballer and Juventus midfielder
Born
January 12th, 1994 31 years ago

Born in 1994, this footballer started his professional career with Bayer Leverkusen. In 2014, transferred to Liverpool, where played an integral role in the team's midfield. Contributed to Liverpool's campaign in the UEFA Champions League and secured a UEFA Super Cup title. In 2018, signed with Juventus and has since participated in multiple Serie A championships. Known for versatility in playing both defensive and midfield positions.

Continue Reading

Johannes Vares

Estonian poet and politician
Born
January 12th, 1890 135 years ago
Died
1946 79 years ago — 56 years old

Born in 1890, this individual was a prominent Estonian poet, physician, and politician. Medical training was received, which facilitated a career in healthcare. In addition to practicing medicine, significant contributions to literature were made, particularly in poetry. The individual also engaged actively in politics and became a member of the Estonian government during a critical time in the country's history. Efforts included advocating for Estonia's independence and cultural identity, reflecting the political landscape of the early 20th century.

Continue Reading

Zack de la Rocha

Artist & Creative, Rage Against the Machine
Born
January 12th, 1970 55 years ago

Born in 1970, a prominent singer-songwriter emerged as the lead vocalist of the rock band Rage Against the Machine. The band's music combined elements of hard rock, rap, and punk with politically charged lyrics addressing social injustices, corporate greed, and governmental oppression. Rage Against the Machine gained significant recognition in the 1990s with the release of their self-titled debut album, which featured the hit single 'Killing in the Name.' Following the band's disbandment, the musician participated in various projects including the supergroup One Day as a Lion. The artistic contributions extended beyond music, incorporating visual art and activism into his career, advocating for a range of social issues.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on December 30th

Doug Atkins

Football Defensive End, Pro Football Hall of Famer
Born
May 8th, 1930 95 years ago
Died
December 30th, 2015 9 years ago — 85 years old

A professional football player, primarily played as a defensive end in the National Football League (NFL) for the Chicago Bears and the Cleveland Browns. Atkins participated in multiple Pro Bowls and was recognized for his exceptional skill and performance on the field. His career spanned from 1953 to 1969, during which he contributed to the Bears' defense and became a key figure in team successes. Atkins was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1982, solidifying a legacy in football history.

Continue Reading

Terry Becker

Actor and director on 'Voyage to the Bottom of the Sea'
Born
August 5th, 1921 104 years ago
Died
December 30th, 2014 10 years ago — 93 years old

Born in 1921, this American actor and director gained recognition for work in film and television. Significant contributions included a prominent role in the series 'Voyage to the Bottom of the Sea', where portrayal of Captain Lee Crane was notable. In addition to acting, directed several episodes of the series. Active in the entertainment industry for decades, engaged in various theatrical productions and films throughout career before passing.

Continue Reading

Carl Woese

Microbiologist and biophysicist; discovered archaea
Born
July 15th, 1928 97 years ago
Died
December 30th, 2012 12 years ago — 84 years old

Contributed significantly to microbial phylogeny and the tree of life. Developed the concept of archaea, a separate domain of life distinct from bacteria and eukaryotes. His work utilized ribosomal RNA sequencing techniques to classify organisms based on genetic material. Published the groundbreaking paper 'The Universal Tree of Life' which reshaped the understanding of evolutionary biology. Served as a professor at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign and received numerous accolades for research in genetics and microbiology.

Continue Reading

Richard of York

3rd Duke of York and military leader
Born
September 21st, 1411 614 years ago
Died
December 30th, 1460 564 years ago — 49 years old

A prominent figure during the Wars of the Roses, the 3rd Duke of York led a significant faction against the ruling Lancastrians. He held the claim to the English throne and served as protector for King Henry VI during periods of instability. York engaged in notable battles, including the First Battle of St Albans, where his forces achieved a decisive victory. His ambition for the crown propelled political tensions, leading to a series of conflicts that defined the period. His legacy continued through his descendants, most notably his son, Edward IV, who became king.

Continue Reading

Alberto Vargas

Painter and illustrator of pin-up art
Born
February 9th, 1896 129 years ago
Died
December 30th, 1982 42 years ago — 86 years old

Born in Peru, this artist gained prominence in the United States as a painter and illustrator. Vargas became renowned for his pin-up art, which featured idealized depictions of women. His style combined techniques from classical painting with modern illustration. Working with various publications, he created iconic imagery that defined the pin-up genre, particularly during the mid-20th century. Throughout his career, Vargas contributed cover illustrations to magazines such as Esquire and Life, showcasing glamorous models and actresses. The artistry was marked by its sensuality and attention to detail, securing a place in American pop culture.

Continue Reading

Johnny Orr

Basketball coach, Iowa State Cyclones
Born
June 10th, 1927 98 years ago
Died
December 30th, 2013 11 years ago — 86 years old

Began coaching career in the 1950s at Michigan, leading the Wolverines to multiple NCAA tournament appearances. Transitioned to Iowa State, resurrecting the program and achieving significant success in the 1980s. Under tenure, the team reached notable postseason tournaments, including the NCAA tournament. Renowned for developing talent and his coaching philosophy, contributing to the future success of numerous players.

Continue Reading