Marianne Vos
Cyclist and Olympic gold medalist
Born in the Netherlands, a professional cyclist distinguished in road racing and cyclo-cross. Achieved significant success over a career marked by multiple world championships and Olympic victories. First earned Olympic gold at the 2012 London Games in women's road race. Competed in various prestigious races, securing numerous national and international titles.
Won gold medal at the 2012 London Olympics
Claimed multiple UCI Road World Championships
Achieved victories in cyclo-cross events
Other People Born on May 13th
Sebastião José de Carvalho e Melo
1st Marquis of Pombal, Portuguese Prime Minister
Born
May 13th, 1699 326 years ago
Died
May 8th, 1782 243 years ago — 82 years old
Held the office of Prime Minister of Portugal from 1750 to 1777. Implemented significant reforms in education, economics, and administration following the 1755 Lisbon earthquake. Advocated for the reduction of the power of the Church and centralized royal authority, thereby modernizing the state. Initiated infrastructure projects and promoted trade, contributing to Portugal's recovery and growth in the 18th century.
Continue ReadingGeorgios Papanikolaou
Pathologist, invented the Pap smear
Born
May 13th, 1883 142 years ago
Died
February 19th, 1962 63 years ago — 78 years old
A Greek-American pathologist contributed significantly to cancer screening techniques through the invention of the Pap smear, a revolutionary method for detecting cervical cancer. After receiving his medical degree from the University of Athens, Papanikolaou emigrated to the United States, where he started working at New York Hospital. The Pap smear was introduced in 1943 and became a standard procedure in gynecological examinations, significantly reducing cervical cancer mortality rates. Throughout his career, he conducted extensive research on reproductive biology and the cellular changes associated with cancer.
Continue ReadingInge Lehmann
Danish seismologist known for Moho
Born
May 13th, 1888 137 years ago
Died
February 21st, 1993 32 years ago — 104 years old
Contributions to the field of seismology included significant research on the Earth's interior. Developed the concept of the Lehmann discontinuity, which delineates the boundary between the Earth's crust and the underlying mantle. Conducted pioneering work in seismology, particularly in understanding seismic waves and their behavior. Published influential papers on earthquakes and the Earth's structure, enhancing the scientific understanding of geophysical phenomena.
Continue ReadingGil Evans
Composer and bandleader of jazz music
Born
May 13th, 1912 113 years ago
Died
1988 37 years ago — 76 years old
Contributions included pioneering arrangements in the jazz genre, particularly through collaborative works with musicians such as Miles Davis. Worked extensively in the jazz fusion style and was integral in the development of orchestral jazz. Created influential recordings, including 'Miles Ahead' and 'Sketches of Spain'. Led the Gil Evans Orchestra, which showcased innovative compositions and arrangements. Received multiple Grammy Awards for work in music, cementing a legacy in jazz history.
Continue ReadingCharles Watson-Wentworth
British Prime Minister, 2nd Marquess of Rockingham
Born
May 13th, 1730 295 years ago
Died
July 1st, 1782 243 years ago — 52 years old
Served as Prime Minister of Great Britain during two non-consecutive terms in the 18th century. His first term lasted from 1765 to 1766 and was marked by efforts to repeal the Stamp Act, which aimed to tax American colonies. The second term occurred from 1782 until his death in 1782, focusing on peace negotiations following the American Revolutionary War. Active in the Whig party, implemented policies that shaped British governance during a turbulent time.
Continue ReadingRonald Ross
Physician who discovered malaria's vector
Born
May 13th, 1857 168 years ago
Died
September 16th, 1932 93 years ago — 75 years old
A physician and mathematician emerged as a prominent figure in the study of malaria. Conducted groundbreaking research on mosquito-borne diseases while working in India. Received the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1902 for discovering the life cycle of the malaria parasite within Anopheles mosquitoes. The work laid the foundation for malaria control and prevention methods, significantly influencing public health efforts worldwide. His contributions extended to various aspects of disease transmission and vector control, marking a milestone in the understanding of infectious diseases.
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