Louis Pasteur
French chemist and microbiologist
Contributions to microbiology revolutionized the understanding of disease and fermentation. Developed the germ theory of disease, which established that microorganisms are the cause of many illnesses. Created vaccines for rabies and anthrax, contributing to immunization practices. Invented the process of pasteurization to eliminate harmful bacteria in food and beverages.
Developed the germ theory of disease
Created the rabies vaccine
Invented pasteurization
Other People Born on December 27th
François-Marie-Thomas Chevalier de Lorimier
Canadian rebel leader during 1837
Born
December 27th, 1803 221 years ago
Died
February 15th, 1839 186 years ago — 35 years old
A key leader in the Rebellions of 1837-1838 in Lower Canada, he played a significant role in the struggle against British colonial rule. Engaging in political activism and organizing forces, he sought to establish a responsible government. Following the defeat of the Patriotes, he was captured and tried for treason. He was executed by hanging on February 15, 1839, which marked a pivotal moment in the struggle for Canadian democracy and reform.
Continue ReadingGhalib
Indian poet and educator
Born
December 27th, 1797 227 years ago
Died
February 15th, 1869 156 years ago — 71 years old
A prominent Urdu and Persian poet, acclaimed for intricate ghazals, which explored themes of love, loss, and existentialism. Contributions to literature fostered appreciation for vernacular poetry in the 19th century. Ghalib's works captured the complexities of human emotion and social context during British India. Renowned for stylistic innovations and philosophical musings through poetry, he influenced generations of poets and writers.
Continue ReadingJohannes Kepler
German mathematician and astronomer
Born
December 27th, 1571 453 years ago
Died
November 15th, 1630 395 years ago — 58 years old
This figure significantly contributed to the scientific revolution through the formulation of the laws of planetary motion. A major work includes the publication of 'Astronomia Nova', where the first two laws were introduced. Further contributions included the development of the Kepler's laws of planetary motion which described the orbits of planets around the sun as elliptical rather than circular, revolutionizing the understanding of celestial mechanics. Kepler's work laid the groundwork for future astronomers and mathematicians, influencing Isaac Newton's theories of gravitation. In addition to astronomy, this figure made advancements in optics and vision and contributed to the field of astrology, which was widely practiced during his time.
Continue ReadingJohn I of Aragon
Monarch of Aragon with a complex reign
Born
December 27th, 1350 674 years ago
Died
May 19th, 1396 629 years ago — 45 years old
Ruled as King of Aragon from 1387 until death in 1396. Challenges during the reign included internal conflicts and struggles over influence in the Iberian Peninsula. Worked to maintain Aragon’s alliances, particularly with the Papacy and in relations with Castile. Oversaw military campaigns against the Moors. His reign saw notable events like the siege of the central Catalan city of Barcelona.
Continue ReadingMaurice De Waele
Cyclist, 1929 Tour de France winner
Born
December 27th, 1896 128 years ago
Died
February 14th, 1952 73 years ago — 55 years old
A Belgian cyclist participated in road racing events during the late 1920s and early 1930s. Achieved significant success by winning the 1929 Tour de France, marking a notable moment in cycling history. Besides road racing, participated in other prestigious cycling events throughout his career. Contributed to the early development of the sport in Belgium, influencing future generations of cyclists.
Continue ReadingLouis Bromfield
Environmentalist and author
Born
December 27th, 1896 128 years ago
Died
March 18th, 1956 69 years ago — 59 years old
Bromfield was an American author and environmentalist, recognized for contributions to agriculture and conservation. He wrote several novels, with 'The Farm' being a significant work that reflects his passion for farming and sustainability. Bromfield founded the Malabar Farm in Ohio, which became a model for innovative agricultural practices, emphasizing organic farming methods. He advocated for responsible land management and conservation through his writings and personal efforts in environmental stewardship.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on September 28th
Jean Baptiste Massillon
French bishop, author of sermons
Born
June 24th, 1663 362 years ago
Died
September 28th, 1742 283 years ago — 79 years old
A prominent French bishop and theologian who served as the Bishop of Clermont. Recognized for eloquent preaching and rich sermons. Contributed significantly to French literature through sermons that addressed moral and spiritual themes. Played a vital role in the Catholic Church during the reign of Louis XIV, navigating the complexities of the period with a focus on faith and morality. Published notable works, including 'Conferences' and 'Sermons', which are still referenced for their oratory and theological depth.
Continue ReadingConstance Baker Motley
American lawyer and judge
Born
September 14th, 1921 104 years ago
Died
September 28th, 2005 20 years ago — 84 years old
A prominent lawyer, judge, and politician who played a crucial role in the civil rights movement. Served as the first African American woman to be appointed to the Manhattan borough presidency. Worked extensively with the NAACP Legal Defense Fund and was instrumental in key legal cases that advanced civil rights, including Brown v. Board of Education. Her career included serving as a federal judge for the Southern District of New York, where she presided over many significant cases.
Continue ReadingAmunda Kolderup
Opera singer in Norway
Born
December 15th, 1846 179 years ago
Died
September 28th, 1882 143 years ago — 35 years old
Born in Norway, an opera singer gained recognition in the 19th century. Career highlights included performing at major operatic venues and participating in significant opera productions. Kolderup's contributions to the Norwegian music scene were notable during this period, and involvement in various performances showcased skills in vocal artistry. The singer’s work helped elevate the profile of opera in Norway, influencing subsequent generations of performers.
Continue ReadingPierre Trudeau
Canadian politician, Prime Minister of Canada
Born
October 18th, 1919 106 years ago
Died
September 28th, 2000 25 years ago — 80 years old
A Canadian lawyer and academic held the position of the 15th Prime Minister of Canada, serving two terms from 1968 to 1979 and then from 1980 to 1984. Trudeau was a key figure in Canadian politics, emphasizing national unity, multiculturalism, and civil rights. His government implemented the Official Languages Act, promoting English and French as the country's official languages. He also introduced the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms in 1982, significantly shaping Canada's constitutional framework.
Continue ReadingChris Economaki
Sportscaster and automotive journalist
Born
October 15th, 1920 105 years ago
Died
September 28th, 2012 13 years ago — 91 years old
A prominent sportscaster, contributed significantly to auto racing coverage in the United States. Served as a pit reporter for ABC's Wide World of Sports. Created and hosted various motorsports programs, including the popular NASCAR-related shows. Was the first to report live from a NASCAR pit during a race.
Continue ReadingEdwin Hubble
Astronomer known for Hubble's Law
Born
November 20th, 1889 136 years ago
Died
September 28th, 1953 72 years ago — 63 years old
An American astronomer and cosmologist developed the field of extragalactic astronomy. This individual provided evidence that the universe is expanding, leading to the formulation of Hubble's Law. The use of the 100-inch telescope at Mount Wilson Observatory facilitated groundbreaking observations of distant galaxies. The discovery of the redshift-distance relationship significantly advanced the understanding of the universe's structure and dynamics.
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