Kurt Alder
German chemist, Nobel Prize laureate

Born
July 10th, 1902
123 years ago
Died
June 20th, 1958
67 years ago — 55 years old
Category
Scientists & Innovators
Country
Germany
Links & References
A prominent chemist contributed significantly to the field of organic chemistry. Alder developed the Diels-Alder reaction, a vital tool in synthetic chemistry for constructing complex molecular structures. His work in this area revolutionized approaches to chemical synthesis and led to advancements in various industries, including pharmaceuticals. In 1950, awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry alongside Otto Hahn for contributions to the development of modern chemistry. Alder also served as a professor at multiple universities, guiding a generation of chemists.
Developed the Diels-Alder reaction
Won Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1950
Other People Born on July 10th
Lopo do Nascimento
This individual served as the first Prime Minister of Angola following the country’s independence from Portugal in 1975. A prominent member of the MPLA party, played a crucial role in the early governance of Angola during a time of significant political change. Developed policies aimed at stabilizing the nation and addressing the challenges arising from decades of colonial rule and subsequent civil conflict. His tenure laid the groundwork for Angola's political structure in the years that followed independence.
Continue ReadingC.K. Yang
A decathlete and pole vaulter, achieved remarkable success in athletics. Competed in the 1960 Rome Olympics, finishing second in the decathlon, earning a silver medal. Formed a notable partnership with another decathlete, breaking records in various events. Transitioned to pole vaulting later in career, representing Taiwan in multiple international competitions. Continued to contribute to athletics through coaching and mentorship after retiring from professional sports.
Continue ReadingHal McRae
Played Major League Baseball from 1968 to 1990, primarily for the Kansas City Royals. Achieved a .290 batting average with 1,091 hits and 1,079 runs batted in. Managed the Royals from 1991 to 1994, leading the team during significant seasons. Selected as an All-Star in 1982 and contributed to Kansas City’s victory in the 1985 World Series as a player. Transitioned to coaching post-retirement before taking on managerial roles.
Continue ReadingGillian Tett
An English journalist and author who wrote extensively on financial markets and economic issues. Tett served as the U.S. Managing Editor for the Financial Times and is recognized for her insights into the banking industry and crisis management. She gained prominence following her writing on the 2008 financial crisis and has authored several books addressing economic themes and cultural insights. Her academic background in anthropology provided a unique perspective on finance and economics.
Continue ReadingIan Wallace
Birth occurred in 1919 in England. Pursued a successful career in theater, contributing significantly to stage productions and musical performances. Achieved recognition for roles in notable plays and musicals. Expanded artistic reach into television and film, participating in various productions that enhanced cultural representation of the era. Maintained involvement in performing arts throughout his life, engaging audiences with both dramatic and musical talents.
Continue ReadingErnest Bertrand Boland
Ordained as a priest in 1951, served in various parishes before being appointed as an auxiliary bishop in 1989. Led the Archdiocese of Newark as Bishop from 1994 until retirement in 2001. Contributed to numerous theological discussions and supported various initiatives within the church structure during tenure.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on June 20th
Clifton Fadiman
An American game show host and author, engaged audiences with intellectual challenges and literary insights. Hosted the popular television quiz show 'Information, Please!' from 1938 to 1958, where contestants answered questions on a wide range of subjects. Wrote several books, including 'The Lifetime Reading Plan', guiding readers towards a comprehensive literary education. Established a reputation as a prominent figure in American media, and contributed to various publications, showcasing a passion for literature and knowledge.
Continue ReadingCarl Friedrich Abel
A prominent viol player and composer contributed significantly to the development of the viola da gamba repertoire. Abel frequently performed as a soloist and chamber musician across Europe, showcasing his skills in various cities. Composed numerous sonatas and concertos for the viol, demonstrating a deep understanding of the instrument. His work helped popularize the viol in the 18th century and influenced later composers. Established a successful association with the Bach family, notably hosting performances in London.
Continue ReadingJohannes Zukertort
A prominent chess player, linguist, and journalist, this individual played a crucial role in the development of modern chess. Born in Poland and later relocating to England, contributed significantly to chess theory and popularized the game through writings and match play. Achievements included competing in the first modern international chess tournament in 1883, which influenced subsequent events. Zukertort also provided commentary on games that shaped public understanding and appreciation of chess strategies.
Continue ReadingWillem Barentsz
An explorer and cartographer from the Netherlands, contributed to the exploration of the Arctic regions. Led multiple trips to the northern areas, including expeditions in search of a Northeast Passage. The third expedition in 1596 resulted in the discovery of Spitsbergen and the adjacent waters. Died during the fourth expedition, but navigational and geographical knowledge gathered during these journeys laid foundational information for subsequent explorers.
Continue ReadingLouis the Pious
Emperor of the Carolingian Empire, ruled from 814 to 840. Louis became emperor during a time of significant change and attempted to maintain the unity of his father's empire. He was the son of Charlemagne and shared power with his brothers, leading various military campaigns to defend the empire. His reign also saw the emergence of internal disputes which influenced the future of the empire. Following his death, the empire faced fragmentation, which ultimately reshaped European territories.
Continue ReadingSuzanne Comhaire-Sylvain
An influential figure in Haitian anthropology, extensive research focused on the culture and social structures of Haitian society. Contributed significantly to understanding the historical and cultural context of Haiti through field studies. Comhaire-Sylvain emphasized the importance of folklore and oral traditions in shaping national identity. Worked to document and analyze the complexity of Haitian culture, bridging local knowledge and academic research. Her writings highlighted the nuances of Haitian social life and contributed to the preservation of cultural heritage.
Continue Reading