Max Born
Physicist, Nobel Prize winner in Physics
A prominent physicist and mathematician, contributed significantly to the development of quantum mechanics. Worked on the statistical interpretation of quantum mechanics and introduced the concept of wave functions. Played a crucial role in the formulation of the Born rule, which describes the probability distribution of finding a particle in a given state. Served as a professor at universities including Göttingen and Edinburgh, influencing future generations of scientists.
Received the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1954
Contributed to the foundation of quantum mechanics
Introduced the Born rule in quantum theory
Other People Born on December 11th
Kellie Harrington
Irish boxer, Olympic gold medalist
Born
December 11th, 1989 36 years ago
Achieved an Olympic gold medal in women's lightweight boxing at the 2020 Tokyo Games. Claimed the World Amateur Boxing Championship title in 2018 and 2019. Competed for the Portland Rowing Club and has been involved in community initiatives promoting boxing and health. Recognized in Ireland for contributions to sports and youth engagement.
Continue ReadingMalcolm Brogdon
Professional Basketball Player, Rookie of the Year
Born
December 11th, 1992 33 years ago
A professional basketball player participated in the NBA since 2016. Played for the Milwaukee Bucks, contributing to the team's 2018 playoff run. Joined the Indiana Pacers, becoming a key player and further showcasing skills. Earned the NBA Rookie of the Year award in 2017 for outstanding performance during his first season. Known for versatility on the court, excelling in both scoring and playmaking. Played college basketball at the University of Virginia, leading the team to an NCAA Championship appearance.
Continue ReadingWalter Knott
American farmer and theme park founder
Born
December 11th, 1889 136 years ago
Died
December 3rd, 1981 44 years ago — 91 years old
Established Knott's Berry Farm in California, transforming a berry stand into a major amusement park. Initially began as a farm selling berries and preserves, later adding attractions and entertainment to attract visitors. The farm became a popular destination in the mid-20th century, known for its historical attractions and seasonal events. Developed ghost towns and Old West-themed areas, contributing to the growth of themed entertainment in the United States.
Continue ReadingAlexa Demie
Actress known for 'Euphoria'
Born
December 11th, 1990 35 years ago
An actress and singer, gained attention for portraying Maddy Perez in the HBO series 'Euphoria'. Born in 1990, began her career in music before transitioning to acting. Appeared in films such as 'Mid90s' and 'Waves', showcasing talent in both television and cinema. In addition to acting, engaged in music projects, contributing to her artistic profile.
Continue ReadingSantiago Creel
Mexican politician and Secretary of the Interior
Born
December 11th, 1954 71 years ago
A lawyer and politician involved in the Mexican political landscape since the late 20th century. Served as Secretary of the Interior from 2000 to 2003 under President Vicente Fox. Elected to the Chamber of Deputies and held positions within the National Action Party (PAN). Focused on issues related to security and governance during his tenure. Participated in various electoral processes, advocating for reforms within the party's structure and electoral laws.
Continue ReadingGerd Arntz
Modernist artist, co-creator of Isotype
Born
December 11th, 1900 125 years ago
Died
1988 37 years ago — 88 years old
An artist associated with the modernist movement, contributed significantly to visual communication through the development of the Isotype (International System of Typographic Picture Education). The Isotype aimed to present information visually, utilizing simple and clear symbols to convey complex ideas. This system became influential in various fields, including education, sociology, and design. Arntz's work was characterized by bold graphics and a commitment to clarity, reflecting the ideals of the modernist aesthetic during the early to mid-20th century. Collaborated with other artists and thinkers to promote the use of visual language in presenting statistical data and social information.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on January 5th
George Washington Carver
Botanist, educator, and inventor
Born
1864 161 years ago
Died
January 5th, 1943 82 years ago — 79 years old
A prominent American botanist and educator, contributions included advancements in agricultural science. Focused on crop rotation and the use of peanuts, sweet potatoes, and other alternative crops to improve soil fertility. Developed numerous products derived from these plants, enhancing the economic viability of farming in the South. Served as a faculty member at Tuskegee Institute, where education and agricultural research were priorities.
Continue ReadingDragoslav Šekularac
Serbian footballer and manager at Partizan
Born
1937 88 years ago
Died
January 5th, 2019 6 years ago — 82 years old
A Serbian footballer and manager, played primarily as an attacking midfielder. Achieved prominence during the 1950s and 1960s, leading the national team to a fourth-place finish at the 1962 FIFA World Cup. Made significant contributions to the club FK Partizan, winning multiple domestic titles. Transitioned into coaching after retirement, managing various clubs, including his former team, and supporting the development of football in Serbia.
Continue ReadingGriffin Bell
United States Attorney General
Born
1918 107 years ago
Died
January 5th, 2009 16 years ago — 91 years old
Served as the 72nd United States Attorney General from 1977 to 1979 under President Jimmy Carter. Focused on civil rights and criminal justice during tenure. Played a key role in the implementation of the Attorney General's Task Force on Family Violence. Was also a prominent lawyer in Georgia and contributed to multiple legal and political initiatives throughout his career.
Continue ReadingHristo Tatarchev
Physician and activist for social causes
Born
December 16th, 1869 156 years ago
Died
January 5th, 1952 73 years ago — 82 years old
Born in Bulgaria, Tatarchev pursued a career in medicine, eventually becoming a physician in Italy. He advocated for social and political reforms, striving to improve healthcare access and conditions for marginalized communities. Tatarchev engaged in various movements for social justice and health equity, contributing to the dialogue on public health and reform in both Bulgaria and Italy. His work extended beyond medicine, as he took on a role in political activism focused on civic rights and health care reforms during a tumultuous period in European history. Tatarchev's commitment to these causes and his contributions to healthcare were significant constituents of his professional life, reflecting a dedication to serving the public good.
Continue ReadingDouglas Shearer
Sound Designer for Academy Award-winning films
Born
November 17th, 1899 126 years ago
Died
January 5th, 1971 54 years ago — 71 years old
A prominent sound designer and engineer, contributions included work on multiple Academy Award-winning films. Developed innovative techniques in sound recording and editing that influenced the film industry. Collaborated with renowned directors and sound teams, ensuring high-quality audio production. Played a crucial role in the advancement of audio technology in cinema.
Continue ReadingSamuel Huntington
American jurist and politician
Born
July 16th, 1731 294 years ago
Died
January 5th, 1796 229 years ago — 64 years old
Served as the 18th Governor of Connecticut from 1786 until 1796. Contributed to the drafting of the Articles of Confederation. Played a role in the Continental Congress and signed the Declaration of Independence. Had a background in law and became a prominent figure in Connecticut's early governance.
Continue Reading