Jean Baptiste Perrin
Physicist and Nobel Prize laureate
A physicist and chemist, contributions focused on the determination of Avogadro's number and the discovery of the Brownian motion. Worked extensively on the nature of matter and the kinetic theory of gases. Received the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1926 for work on the discontinuous structure of matter. Later became a member of the French Academy of Sciences, influencing the fields of physics and physical chemistry.
Received the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1926
Contributed to the understanding of Brownian motion
Determined Avogadro's number
Other People Born on September 30th
Ellis H. Roberts
Journalist and U.S. Treasurer
Born
September 30th, 1827 198 years ago
Died
January 8th, 1918 108 years ago — 90 years old
Worked as a journalist and served as the 20th Treasurer of the United States from 1893 to 1895. Involved in various political activities and held several public office positions throughout a career in both journalism and politics. Contributed to major publications and was active in the financial oversight of the nation during a transformative period in American history.
Continue ReadingLevi Miller
Actor in 'Pan' and 'Better Watch Out'
Born
September 30th, 2002 23 years ago
An Australian actor and model began acting at a young age, gaining attention for roles in feature films. Gained recognition for portrayal of Peter Pan in the 2015 film 'Pan'. Also starred in the horror film 'Better Watch Out', which contributed to his prominence in the acting industry. In addition to acting, has worked as a model, participating in various modeling projects.
Continue ReadingLewis Milestone
Film director of All Quiet on the Western Front
Born
September 30th, 1895 130 years ago
Died
September 25th, 1980 45 years ago — 84 years old
Born in Moldova and later becoming a naturalized American citizen, directed several acclaimed films. Achievements included winning an Academy Award for Best Director in 1930 for the film All Quiet on the Western Front, an adaptation of Erich Maria Remarque's novel. The film depicted the grim realities of World War I and received critical praise for its portrayal of the horrors of war. Directed other notable works, including The Front Page and Of Mice and Men, further establishing a successful career in the film industry during the early to mid-20th century.
Continue ReadingRichard Edwin Hills
Astronomer and academic in England
Born
September 30th, 1945 80 years ago
Died
2022 4 years ago — 77 years old
Significant contributions were made in the fields of astrophysics and cosmology. Focused research on celestial mechanics and binary star systems led to advancements in understanding stellar dynamics. Served as a professor at several institutions, shaping future generations of astronomers. Notable involvement with various astronomical organizations facilitated the promotion of scientific education.
Continue ReadingEric Stoltz
Actor, director, producer of 'Mask'
Born
September 30th, 1961 64 years ago
An American actor, director, and producer, this individual gained prominence in the 1980s. Initially cast as Marty McFly in 'Back to the Future,' he was replaced by Michael J. Fox after filming several scenes. The role in 'Mask' alongside Cher received critical acclaim, showcasing exceptional range and depth. The actor also directed episodes of popular television series such as 'The Caprices' and 'Glee.' In addition to directing, he produced films and worked on theatrical projects, further expanding contributions to the entertainment industry with a variety of roles spanning film and television.
Continue ReadingElie Wiesel
Holocaust survivor and human rights activist
Born
September 30th, 1928 97 years ago
Died
July 2nd, 2016 9 years ago — 87 years old
Survived the Holocaust and documented the experience in literature. Authored the memoir 'Night', which recounts experiences in Nazi concentration camps. Became a prominent advocate for human rights and spoke out against oppression worldwide. Founded the Elie Wiesel Foundation for Humanity, focusing on education and promoting understanding between people.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on April 17th
Al-Walid II
Umayyad caliph and architect of expansion
Died
April 17th, 744 1282 years ago — None years old
Became caliph of the Umayyad Caliphate in 743. Focused on military campaigns, aiming to expand the empire into Central Asia and the Byzantine territories. Established significant infrastructure projects, contributing to the development of cities and trade routes. His reign was marked by internal strife and challenges from rival factions within the Umayyad dynasty. Experience in governance included managing a vast territory that stretched from Spain to India. Ruled until death in 744 amid power struggles.
Continue ReadingKateri Tekakwitha
Native American saint and missionary
Born
1656 370 years ago
Died
April 17th, 1680 346 years ago — 24 years old
Born in 1656, a Mohawk woman lived in what is now New York. Raised in the traditional beliefs of her tribe, she converted to Christianity in her teenage years, primarily influenced by Jesuit missionaries. Faced with opposition from her community, she sought safety and acceptance among the Christian community in Canada. Known for deep devotion to her faith and dedication to a life of prayer, she became a symbol of holiness for Native Americans. She is venerated as the first Native American saint by the Catholic Church.
Continue ReadingJoseph I
Holy Roman Emperor during the War of Spanish Succession
Born
July 26th, 1678 347 years ago
Died
April 17th, 1711 315 years ago — 32 years old
Ascended to the throne as Holy Roman Emperor in 1705. His reign coincided with the War of the Spanish Succession, a major European conflict driven by the issue of succession to the Spanish throne. Joseph I’s leadership was marked by efforts to strengthen the Habsburg influence in Europe. The emperor struggled with various challenges, including military conflicts and issues of governance within the empire. His reign ended with his death in 1711, after which his younger brother succeeded him.
Continue ReadingRobert Atkins
Physician and creator of Atkins diet
Born
1930 96 years ago
Died
April 17th, 2003 23 years ago — 73 years old
A physician and cardiologist developed a low-carbohydrate diet that gained significant popularity in the 1970s. The diet emphasized the consumption of proteins and fats while limiting carbohydrates, which challenged conventional dietary guidelines. Authored several books on diet and nutrition, including 'Dr. Atkins' Diet Revolution' published in 1972. The book became a bestseller and sparked widespread discussion on dietary practices. Continued to promote the diet through subsequent publications and maintained a clinic that provided guidance related to weight loss and nutrition up until his passing in 2003.
Continue ReadingHannah Webster Foster
American journalist and author of novels
Born
September 10th, 1758 267 years ago
Died
April 17th, 1840 186 years ago — 81 years old
Published a notable early American novel that explored themes of women's rights and morality. Foster's work contributed to the literature of the early American republic. A prominent figure in the early 19th-century literary scene, she engaged in journalism, addressing social issues pertinent to her time. Through her writings, she shaped discussions around the role of women in society and authored several essays and articles, showcasing a commitment to the advancement of women's education.
Continue ReadingKarpal Singh
Malaysian lawyer and politician
Born
June 28th, 1940 85 years ago
Died
April 17th, 2014 12 years ago — 73 years old
A legal practitioner and a prominent politician in Malaysia, served as a Member of Parliament. Advocated for legal rights and represented clients in significant cases, especially criminal defense. Was the chairman of the Democratic Action Party and played a central role in Malaysian politics, focusing on issues of justice and human rights. Established a reputation for fearless advocacy and determined representation in the legal realm. His work extended to proposing reforms in Malaysian law and government systems.
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