Karl Ziegler
Chemist, Nobel Prize winner in Chemistry
Born in 1898, a German chemist and engineer contributed significantly to the field of polymer chemistry. Developed the Ziegler process, which enabled the production of high-density polyethylene. This innovation revolutionized plastic manufacturing and has widespread applications in various industries. The recipient of the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1963, shared the award for advancements in polymerization techniques, further solidifying a legacy in chemical research and industrial applications.
Developed the Ziegler process for polyethylene
Won the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1963
Other People Born on November 26th
Edward Higgins
General of The Salvation Army
Born
November 26th, 1864 161 years ago
Died
December 14th, 1947 78 years ago — 83 years old
Served as the 3rd General of The Salvation Army from 1939 until his death in 1947. Guided the organization through World War II, focusing on humanitarian efforts and support for servicemen and women. Established initiatives to aid those in need during challenging times and emphasized the importance of community service and faith. Played a significant role in expanding the Army's mission and outreach globally.
Continue ReadingDes Walker
Footballer and England national team player
Born
November 26th, 1965 60 years ago
Played as a central defender in professional football. Made over 500 appearances in the Football League and represented the England national team in international competitions. Played a significant role in Nottingham Forest's defense during the late 1980s and early 1990s. Had a successful club career with notable stints at Sheffield Wednesday and Nottingham Forest, contributing to league campaigns and cup competitions.
Continue ReadingFord Beebe
American director and screenwriter
Born
November 26th, 1888 137 years ago
Died
November 26th, 1978 47 years ago — 90 years old
Directed films primarily in the early to mid-20th century, contributing significantly to the action and adventure genres. Notably worked on serials, with many projects for Universal Pictures. Collaborated with other industry professionals to create engaging stories that attracted audiences. His career spanned several decades, with involvement in both directing and screenwriting roles across a range of productions.
Continue ReadingBjörn von Sydow
Swedish politician and Minister for Defence
Born
November 26th, 1945 80 years ago
A prominent academic and politician, served as the 27th Minister for Defence in Sweden. Held various positions within the Swedish Parliament and engaged in defense policy and military strategy during a critical period in the nation's history. Contributed to discussions on international security and Sweden's role in NATO. Actively participated in efforts to enhance Sweden's defense capabilities and military cooperation with other countries.
Continue ReadingChris Hughes
Publisher, co-founder of Facebook
Born
November 26th, 1983 42 years ago
Co-founded Facebook, one of the largest social media platforms, while studying at Harvard University. Served as the spokesperson for the company during its early years, helping to shape its public image. After leaving Facebook, engaged in various entrepreneurial ventures and became active in democratic political campaigns. Worked on initiatives related to social media and online privacy. Published a book on the future of business and technology.
Continue ReadingMaud of Wales
Queen of Norway, Wife of King Haakon VII
Born
November 26th, 1869 156 years ago
Died
November 20th, 1938 87 years ago — 68 years old
Born into the British royal family, Maud married Prince Carl of Sweden, who later became King Haakon VII of Norway. Maud served as queen consort from 1905 until her death in 1938. She undertook royal duties and engaged in charitable work, supporting various causes in Norway. The queen was fluent in Norwegian and contributed to fostering relations between Norway and the United Kingdom. Her reign coincided with Norway's transition to a constitutional monarchy after independence from Sweden.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on August 12th
Enos Slaughter
Major League Baseball player and manager
Born
April 27th, 1916 109 years ago
Died
August 12th, 2002 23 years ago — 86 years old
Born in 1916, a professional baseball player achieved prominence as an outfielder. Played primarily for the St. Louis Cardinals, also played for the New York Yankees and the Chicago White Sox during a career spanning 19 seasons. Contributed significantly to the Cardinals' 1942 and 1944 World Series victories. Transitioned to managing after retirement, overseeing minor league teams and later serving as a coach. Inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1985, recognizing outstanding achievements in Major League Baseball.
Continue ReadingNikolai Triik
Estonian painter and illustrator
Born
August 7th, 1884 141 years ago
Died
August 12th, 1940 85 years ago — 56 years old
Born in Estonia, an influential painter and illustrator emerged, primarily recognized for contributions to the development of modern art in the region. Active during the 20th century, created vivid landscapes and expressive works reflecting the Estonian identity and culture. Studied at the St. Petersburg State Academy of Arts, influencing a generation of artists. Collaborated with various artists and exhibited works in multiple venues, gaining attention for unique stylistic elements that integrated both realism and impressionism.
Continue ReadingThomas Mann
German author, Nobel Prize winner
Born
June 6th, 1875 150 years ago
Died
August 12th, 1955 70 years ago — 80 years old
An influential German author and critic, Mann wrote extensively throughout the 20th century. His literary career was marked by a focus on the themes of morality, aesthetics, and the complexities of human experience. Major works include 'Buddenbrooks', which received critical acclaim and established his reputation as a leading novelist, and 'The Magic Mountain', a significant exploration of time and illness set in a sanatorium. In 1929, he was awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature for his distinguished body of work. Mann's writings often reflected the political and social changes in Germany and Europe, particularly during the rise of fascism.
Continue ReadingHenry Fonda
American actor in classic films
Born
May 16th, 1905 120 years ago
Died
August 12th, 1982 43 years ago — 77 years old
An influential American actor whose career spanned over five decades. Became prominent in the 1930s and gained recognition for performances in films such as 'The Grapes of Wrath', '12 Angry Men', and 'On Golden Pond'. Fonda's work earned him accolades and cemented a legacy in Hollywood. He was also a recipient of the Academy Award for Best Actor for 'On Golden Pond'.
Continue ReadingJohn Philip Holland
Irish engineer, designer of submarines
Born
1840 186 years ago
Died
August 12th, 1914 111 years ago — 74 years old
An engineer from Ireland, focused on submarine design. Developed the first successful submarine, HMS Holland 1, which was commissioned by the British Royal Navy. The design featured a torpedo-launching system, marking a significant advancement in naval warfare technology. Holland's innovations laid the groundwork for future submarine development and influenced naval engineering practices.
Continue ReadingLeoš Janáček
Czech composer, famous for opera Jenůfa
Born
July 3rd, 1854 171 years ago
Died
August 12th, 1928 97 years ago — 74 years old
A composer and music theorist from the Czech Republic, contributions included operas, orchestral, and chamber compositions. Operas such as "Jenůfa," "Káťa Kabanová," and "The Cunning Little Vixen" are significant works that showcase unique musical language influenced by Moravian folk music. Janáček's theories on music education also played a role in his career.
Continue Reading