Martinus Beijerinck
Microbiologist, developed microbiology
Born
Died
Category
Scientists & Innovators
Country
Netherlands
Links & References
Contributions in microbiology focused on the study of viruses and soil microbiology. Developed the concept of viruses as infectious agents while working with tobacco mosaic virus. Held a position at the Delft University of Technology where extensive research on microorganisms was conducted. Recognized for establishing foundational principles in environmental microbiology, including the identification of nitrogen-fixing bacteria. Authored significant publications that advanced the understanding of microbial processes in soil ecology.
Discovered and characterized the tobacco mosaic virus
Pioneered studies in soil microbiology
Published important texts on microbial ecology
Other People Born on March 16th
Aladár Gerevich
Hungarian fencer with Olympic gold medals
Born
March 16th, 1910 115 years ago
Died
May 14th, 1991 34 years ago — 81 years old
Competitor in fencing, specializing in the foil and sabre events. Achieved remarkable success during the mid-20th century, securing seven Olympic gold medals across three different Olympic Games. Active in numerous World Championships, contributing to Hungary's dominance in the sport during that era. Served as a key member of the Hungarian national fencing team, influencing the development of the sport. Retired from competitive fencing in the early 1960s, leaving a lasting legacy in the world of fencing.
Continue ReadingGösta Mittag-Leffler
Mathematician, founder of Acta Mathematica
Born
March 16th, 1846 179 years ago
Died
July 7th, 1927 98 years ago — 81 years old
Contributed significantly to mathematical analysis, the theory of functions, and complex analysis. Founded the journal Acta Mathematica in 1882, which became a prominent platform for mathematical research. Served as a professor at the University of Stockholm, where formalized and advanced various mathematical theories. Involved in the establishment of several mathematical societies and contributed to the organization of international mathematical congresses.
Continue ReadingReggie Walker
South African Olympic sprinter
Born
March 16th, 1889 136 years ago
Died
November 5th, 1951 74 years ago — 62 years old
Competed in athletics, specializing in sprinting events. Claimed the gold medal in the 100 meters at the 1908 London Olympics, becoming the first South African to win an Olympic gold. Participated in the 1906 Intercalated Games where a silver medal was earned in the 110-meter hurdles. Held the South African 100 yards record for several years. Helped promote athletics in South Africa through various competitions and events throughout his career.
Continue ReadingRosa Bonheur
Painter of 'The Horse Fair'
Born
March 16th, 1822 203 years ago
Died
May 25th, 1899 126 years ago — 77 years old
Born in 1822, this artist gained recognition for detailed animal paintings, particularly horses. Growing up in Paris, significant influence from the art community shaped her work. A pioneer for women in the arts, she often dressed in traditionally male attire to facilitate her access to rural areas for studying animals. 'The Horse Fair', completed in 1855, showcased her skill in capturing the movement and spirit of horses. This work gained critical acclaim during the Paris Salon, establishing her reputation as a leading artist of the time. Her dedication to realism and the naturalistic portrayal of animals set trends within the art community. An animal lover, she owned and cared for a variety of species, reflecting her passion in her paintings. Throughout her career, numerous exhibitions featured her works, solidifying her status in the art world.
Continue ReadingIftikhar Ali Khan Pataudi
Cricketer, 8th Nawab of Pataudi
Born
March 16th, 1910 115 years ago
Died
1952 74 years ago — 42 years old
An accomplished cricketer and politician, served as the 8th Nawab of Pataudi. Played for the England national cricket team and the India national cricket team. Participated in Test matches during the 1930s and 1940s, contributing significantly to the sport. Was also active in Indian politics post-independence, taking on leadership roles and being involved in sports administration. Remembered for dual representation in international cricket.
Continue ReadingPat Nixon
First Lady of the United States
Born
March 16th, 1912 113 years ago
Died
June 22nd, 1993 32 years ago — 81 years old
An American educator who served as the First Lady of the United States from 1969 to 1974. Played a significant role in various initiatives focused on volunteerism and the arts. Engaged in public service through her work with numerous organizations, including the American Red Cross and the Girl Scouts. Contributed to the Nixon administration's efforts to support women's rights and health issues. Actively participated in the White House decoration and restoration projects.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on January 1st
Roswell B. Mason
25th Mayor of Chicago
Born
1805 221 years ago
Died
January 1st, 1892 134 years ago — 87 years old
Served as the 25th Mayor of Chicago from 1857 to 1858. Contributed to the city's governance during a period of significant growth and development. Prior to the mayoralty, held roles within the city council, influencing local legislation and administration. Practiced law and engaged in various civic activities, advocating for improvements in city infrastructure and services. Oversaw the city's response to challenges faced during rapid urbanization.
Continue ReadingLhasa de Sela
Singer-songwriter with 'La Llorona'
Born
1972 54 years ago
Died
January 1st, 2010 16 years ago — 38 years old
Born in 1972, a singer-songwriter combined elements of folk, rock, and traditional Mexican music. Raised in a multicultural environment in the United States and Mexico, began performing in various venues. Released debut album, 'La Llorona', in 1997, which gained critical acclaim. Continued to explore themes of love and loss in subsequent albums, 'The Living Road' (2003) and 'Last Days of the Sun' (2009). Passed away in 2010, leaving a lasting influence on contemporary music.
Continue ReadingElmira Minita Gordon
Belizean educator and psychologist
Born
December 30th, 1930 95 years ago
Died
January 1st, 2021 5 years ago — 90 years old
Educational contributions included serving as the first female president of the University of Belize. Worked extensively in the field of psychology, focusing on education and mental health. Authored several publications aimed at improving educational practices in Belize. Advocated for the rights of students and the promotion of mental health awareness within the community.
Continue ReadingArthur C. Parker
American archaeologist and historian
Born
1881 145 years ago
Died
January 1st, 1955 71 years ago — 74 years old
An archaeologist and historian primarily associated with archaeological studies in New York State. Contributed significantly to the understanding of Native American history and culture in the Northeast. Served as the first curator of the New York State Museum and played a crucial role in developing methods for archaeological investigations. Authored several important works that explored the prehistory of Native American tribes and advocated for the preservation of archaeological sites.
Continue ReadingEdward Arthur Thompson
Irish historian and academic
Born
1914 112 years ago
Died
January 1st, 1994 32 years ago — 80 years old
This individual specialized in early medieval history and actively contributed to the field through various publications. Held academic positions in multiple universities and was influential in shaping historical studies related to Ireland and its connections to the wider European context. Authored significant works that explored the complexities of historical narratives and cultural exchanges.
Continue ReadingAlfred Ely Beach
American publisher and engineer of transit system
Born
1826 200 years ago
Died
January 1st, 1896 130 years ago — 70 years old
Conceived and constructed the Beach Pneumatic Transit in New York City, an underground transportation system. The transit system utilized a tunnel and a unique pneumatic propulsion method. Although the project faced financial challenges and opposition, it garnered significant attention during its operation in the 1870s. Beach also contributed to the development of the magazine Scientific American, enhancing public interest in science and technology.
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