John Vane
Pharmacologist and Nobel Prize laureate
An English pharmacologist and academic contributed to the understanding of the mechanisms of drug action. Conducted pioneering research that elucidated the biochemical pathways of prostaglandins and their role in various physiological functions. The work significantly advanced pharmacological science, influencing the development of anti-inflammatory medications and pain relievers. Received the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1982 for discoveries pertaining to the effects of prostaglandins.
Received the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1982
Discovered the role of prostaglandins in inflammation and pain
Other People Born on March 29th
Priti Patel
British politician, former Home Secretary
Born
March 29th, 1972 54 years ago
A British politician served as Secretary of State for the Home Department. Represented the constituency of Witham since 2010. Held positions in the government including Minister of State for Immigration. Played a significant role in shaping immigration policy and law enforcement initiatives during tenure. Advocated for Brexit and promoted various national security measures. Resigned from the Home Secretary role in 2021.
Continue ReadingSam Walton
Businessman and founder of Walmart
Born
March 29th, 1918 108 years ago
Died
April 5th, 1992 34 years ago — 74 years old
Founded Walmart in 1962, reshaping retail by introducing a model of discount pricing and large-scale stores. Expanded the business with the creation of Sam's Club in 1983, catering to warehouse shopping. Grew Walmart into one of the largest retail chains globally, emphasizing customer service and distribution efficiency. Authored 'Made in America', reflecting on business practices and philosophy. Focused on rural markets initially, contributing to economic changes across the United States.
Continue ReadingRomesh Bhandari
Diplomat and Foreign Secretary of India
Born
March 29th, 1928 98 years ago
Died
September 7th, 2013 12 years ago — 85 years old
Served as the 13th Foreign Secretary of India and held various diplomatic posts throughout a lengthy career. Engaged in significant negotiations during critical periods in Indian foreign relations. Contributed to shaping India's diplomatic stance in the international arena. Served as the Governor of Uttar Pradesh and as a High Commissioner to several countries, facilitating bilateral relations and cooperation in multiple sectors.
Continue ReadingVangelis
Greek composer of electronic music
Born
March 29th, 1943 83 years ago
Died
May 17th, 2022 4 years ago — 79 years old
A celebrated Greek composer and keyboard player, made significant contributions to electronic music. Gained worldwide fame for composing film scores, particularly for 'Chariots of Fire' which won an Academy Award for Best Original Score. Also created the iconic score for 'Blade Runner', which became highly influential in the genre. Worked extensively with synthesizers and innovative techniques that shaped modern soundtracks. Released numerous albums that explored various musical styles and themes throughout a prolific career.
Continue ReadingAdolfo Müller-Ury
Swiss-American portrait painter
Born
March 29th, 1862 164 years ago
Died
July 6th, 1947 78 years ago — 85 years old
Born in Switzerland, a significant career involved portrait painting, primarily in the United States. Studied in Paris before moving to America. Gained recognition for the ability to capture the likeness and character of prominent figures. Supported by commissions from various high-profile clients, including political and artistic leaders. Worked in oil on canvas, showcasing meticulous detail and vibrant colors. Contributed to the art community through exhibitions, leading to a respected position among contemporaries. Continued to paint until the later years of life, leaving behind a legacy of portraits that reflected the culture of the time.
Continue ReadingJohn Spenkelink
American murderer involved in a high-profile case
Born
March 29th, 1949 77 years ago
Died
May 25th, 1979 47 years ago — 30 years old
Born in 1949, Spenkelink was sentenced to death in Florida for the murder of a man named Richard L. McCauley in 1973. The trial garnered significant media attention and sparked debates around the death penalty. Spenkelink became the first person executed in Florida after a 1972 U.S. Supreme Court ruling that had temporarily halted the death penalty in the United States. His case highlighted issues related to legal representation and sentencing in capital cases.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on November 19th
Phyllis Haver
American actress in silent films
Born
1899 127 years ago
Died
November 19th, 1960 65 years ago — 61 years old
A prominent actress during the silent film era, contributions include performances in numerous films, notably 'Chicago' (1927) and 'The Show of Shows' (1929). Haver transitioned to sound films, appearing in 'The Marriage Playground' (1929). Later in her career, she became involved in production and direction, shaping several film projects.
Continue ReadingErik Balling
Danish director, producer, screenwriter
Born
1924 102 years ago
Died
November 19th, 2005 20 years ago — 81 years old
Directed and produced numerous films and television series in Denmark. Contributed significantly to the Danish film industry from the 1950s to the early 2000s. Created the popular television series 'Matador', which became a cultural phenomenon. Worked on various productions that showcased Danish storytelling and garnered both national and international acclaim.
Continue ReadingMike Gregory
Rugby player and coach with Warrington
Born
1964 62 years ago
Died
November 19th, 2007 18 years ago — 43 years old
Played rugby league primarily for Warrington Wolves and represented England at the international level. Gregory contributed to the game as a coach after retiring from professional play. Notable for leadership both on and off the field, he also served as an assistant coach for England's national team.
Continue ReadingRuth Stone
American poet and recipient of Pulitzer Prize
Born
1915 111 years ago
Died
November 19th, 2011 14 years ago — 96 years old
A significant figure in American poetry, this poet gained prominence for an evocative style and deep emotional resonance. Stone published numerous poetry collections, with her works often reflecting personal experiences and broader human themes. Her career included teaching at various institutions and inspiring students with her passion for language and expression. The poet received the Pulitzer Prize for Poetry in 2009 for her collection 'What Love Comes To: New and Selected Poems,' which underscored her lasting influence and artistic contribution to the literary world.
Continue ReadingBabe Birrer
Baseball player, St. Louis Cardinals
Born
1928 98 years ago
Died
November 19th, 2013 12 years ago — 85 years old
A professional baseball player participated in Major League Baseball primarily as a pitcher. Played for the St. Louis Cardinals from 1943 to 1945. Also played for the Boston Braves during his career. Contributed to the team's efforts during World War II when many players were enlisted in the military. After his playing career, engaged in various roles within the sport, including coaching and scouting.
Continue ReadingAllen E. Ertel
American lawyer and politician
Born
1937 89 years ago
Died
November 19th, 2015 10 years ago — 78 years old
Served in various political capacities in the state of Pennsylvania. Represented Monroe County in the Pennsylvania House of Representatives from 1975 to 1980. Worked as a member of the Pennsylvania Senate from 1981 to 1984. Held the position of Pennsylvania Secretary of the Commonwealth from 1985 to 1988. Played a significant role in state government, focusing on legislative issues and civic engagement.
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