John Wesley Hyatt

American engineer and inventor of celluloid

John Wesley Hyatt - American engineer and inventor of celluloid
Born

November 28th, 1837
187 years ago

Died

1920
105 years ago — 83 years old

Category

Scientists & Innovators

Country

United States

Links & References

An American engineer contributed significantly to the invention of synthetic materials. Developed the first practical process for producing celluloid in 1868, which became widely used in various applications, including photography and billiard balls. The innovation in celluloid provided an alternative to ivory and other materials. Hyatt also invented a number of devices related to the production and use of this plastic, which played a vital role in the growing industries of the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

Invented the first practical celluloid

Developed processes for synthetic materials

Other People Born on November 28th

Jade Puget

Guitarist for punk rock band AFI
Born
November 28th, 1973 51 years ago

An American guitarist and producer contributed significantly to the punk rock music scene. As a member of the band AFI, played a key role in the success of the group's albums, particularly 'The Art of Drowning' and 'Sing the Sorrow'. In addition to performance, engaged in production work for various artists, showcasing versatility in the music industry. The distinct style and innovative sound contributed to the band's long-standing reputation and influence in the genre.

Continue Reading

Russell Alan Hulse

Physicist and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
November 28th, 1950 74 years ago

Contributions to astrophysics included the discovery of the first binary pulsar, which provided crucial evidence for general relativity. Collaboration with Joseph Taylor led to significant advancements in the study of gravitational waves. Hulse's research has enabled deeper understanding of neutron stars and the universe's structure. The groundbreaking work earned the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1993.

Continue Reading

Joe Dante

American director of Gremlins
Born
November 28th, 1946 78 years ago

An American director and producer, this individual emerged as a prominent figure in the film industry during the 1980s. The work in the horror-comedy genre gained widespread recognition, particularly with the release of films such as Gremlins and The Howling. Renowned for blending humor and horror elements, this director garnered a loyal fan base. Beyond directing, contributions to various projects included producing and mentoring upcoming filmmakers, solidifying a place in cinematic history. The influence extended into television, with involvement in noteworthy series like Masters of Horror.

Continue Reading

Friedrich Engels

Philosopher and economist, co-authored The Communist Manifesto
Born
November 28th, 1820 204 years ago
Died
August 5th, 1895 129 years ago — 74 years old

A German-English philosopher and economist, contributed significantly to socialist theory, particularly through collaboration with Karl Marx. Authored several works, exploring topics such as capitalism, class struggle, and labor. Co-authored The Communist Manifesto in 1848, a foundational text for modern socialism. Also wrote The Condition of the Working Class in England, which examined the living conditions of workers in the industrial revolution. The partnership with Marx led to the development of dialectical materialism and the principles of communist theory.

Continue Reading

Abdul Halim of Kedah

Yang di-Pertuan Agong of Malaysia
Born
November 28th, 1927 97 years ago
Died
2017 8 years ago — 90 years old

Born into the royal family in Kedah, served as the 5th and 14th Yang di-Pertuan Agong of Malaysia, holding this position from 1970 to 1975 and again from 2011 to 2016. Contributed to the stability and development of Malaysia during both terms, engaging in ceremonial duties and representing the Malayan monarchy on the national and international stage. Played a significant role in promoting unity among the states of Malaysia and in the political landscape, participating in numerous state functions and meetings.

Continue Reading

Alan Lightman

Physicist and author of 'Einstein's Dreams'
Born
November 28th, 1948 76 years ago

An American physicist and novelist, recognized for contributions in both science and literature. Served as a professor of the practice of writing at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Wrote various essays and novels exploring the intersection of science and spirituality. The novel 'Einstein's Dreams' gained significant acclaim, weaving together themes of time and relativity through fictional narratives. Engaged in conversations about the philosophical implications of science through public lectures and writings.

Continue Reading