Michael Smith
Biochemist and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
Died
Category
Scientists & Innovators
Country
Canada
Links & References
An English-Canadian biochemist and geneticist contributed significantly to the field of molecular biology. Worked primarily at the University of British Columbia, focusing on site-directed mutagenesis, a groundbreaking technique that allowed for precise modifications of DNA. This method provided insights into the function of genes and proteins, influencing genetic research widely. Received the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1993 for advancements in the understanding of DNA, making major strides in genetic engineering and biotechnology.
Won Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1993
Developed site-directed mutagenesis
Other People Born on April 26th
Delon Wright
Professional Basketball Player
Born
April 26th, 1992 33 years ago
A professional basketball player, primarily played as a point guard in the NBA. Drafted by the Toronto Raptors in the 2015 NBA Draft. Played for several teams including the Memphis Grizzlies, Dallas Mavericks, and Washington Wizards. Known for contributions to team defense and facilitating plays.
Continue ReadingOdysseas Vlachodimos
Footballer with Greek national team
Born
April 26th, 1994 31 years ago
Born in 1994, a professional footballer plays as a goalkeeper. Began his career with AEK Athens and moved to Germany to join VfB Stuttgart. Joined Benfica in 2018 and became the first-choice goalkeeper. Represented the Greek national team, making significant contributions in international matches.
Continue ReadingNovlene Williams-Mills
Jamaican sprinter with Olympic medals
Born
April 26th, 1982 43 years ago
A Jamaican sprinter who specialized in the 400 meters. Competed in multiple Olympic Games and World Championships. Achieved notable success in relay events. Secured a bronze medal in the 4x400 meters relay at the 2008 Beijing Olympics. Also claimed silver in the 4x400 meters relay at the 2012 London Olympics.
Continue ReadingIsaac Liu
Rugby league player for New Zealand
Born
April 26th, 1991 34 years ago
This rugby league player was born in New Zealand and made significant contributions to the sport playing as a forward. Liu debuted in the NRL for the Sydney Roosters. He played a vital role in the team's success, contributing to their Premiership victories. Additionally, Liu represented New Zealand in international competitions, showcasing talent on a global stage.
Continue ReadingPeter Handscomb
Australian cricketer and Test player
Born
April 26th, 1991 34 years ago
Debuted for the Australian national cricket team in 2016. Played primarily as a middle-order batsman. Part of the team during the 2017-2018 Ashes series, contributing to the team's performance against England. Represented various domestic teams including Victoria and the Melbourne Stars in the Big Bash League. Known for playing pivotal innings in both Test and limited-overs formats.
Continue ReadingYuliya Zaripova
Russian middle-distance runner, Olympic medalist
Born
April 26th, 1986 39 years ago
Competed in middle-distance running events, particularly the 3000 meters steeplechase. Achieved notable success during her career, including participation in several international championships. Secured a gold medal at the 2011 World Championships in Athletics held in Daegu, South Korea. Also competed in the 2012 London Olympics, earning a bronze medal in the steeplechase event.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on October 4th
Neal Walk
Professional basketball player, Phoenix Suns
Born
1948 77 years ago
Died
October 4th, 2015 10 years ago — 67 years old
A professional basketball player played as a center in the National Basketball Association (NBA) primarily for the Phoenix Suns. Drafted second overall in the 1969 NBA Draft, excelled with an average of 16.4 points and 11.4 rebounds per game throughout his career. Played for multiple teams, including the New Orleans Jazz and the Detroit Pistons. Retired after the 1976 season, leaving a significant legacy in college basketball as a standout player at the University of Florida.
Continue ReadingSid McMath
Governor of Arkansas
Born
1912 113 years ago
Died
October 4th, 2003 22 years ago — 91 years old
Served as the 34th Governor of Arkansas from 1949 to 1953. Focused on modernizing the state's infrastructure and education system. Implemented progressive policies during a time of significant change in the South. Worked as a lawyer after his gubernatorial term and maintained involvement in politics.
Continue ReadingSarel Cilliers
South African preacher and activist
Born
September 7th, 1801 224 years ago
Died
October 4th, 1871 154 years ago — 70 years old
Born in 1801, this figure was a prominent preacher and activist in South Africa during the 19th century. An influential leader in the Boer community, he played a significant role in the establishment of the Voortrekker movement. Cilliers was a key figure in the Great Trek, where he advocated for the migration of Afrikaans-speaking settlers into the interior of South Africa, seeking to escape British rule. His sermons and writings often inspired the pioneers and provided a sense of purpose and direction during a tumultuous period in South African history. His legacy includes contributions to the cultural and religious identity of Afrikaners.
Continue ReadingKenzō Takada
Fashion Designer and Founder of Kenzo
Born
1939 86 years ago
Died
October 4th, 2020 5 years ago — 81 years old
A Japanese-French fashion designer, celebrated for establishing a globally recognized fashion brand. Launched the fashion house Kenzo in 1970 in Paris, blending Japanese aesthetics with French couture. Pioneered the use of bold colors, floral designs, and eclectic influences throughout collections. Expanded the brand into fragrances, accessories, and home goods, contributing to the global fashion landscape. Takada received several awards throughout the career, including the prestigious Chevalier de la Légion d'honneur in 2019.
Continue ReadingFrancesco Albani
Italian painter of the Baroque era
Born
August 17th, 1578 447 years ago
Died
October 4th, 1660 365 years ago — 82 years old
Born in Bologna in 1578, this painter became a prominent figure in the Baroque art movement. Influenced by the works of the Carracci family, he specialized in frescoes and altarpieces. His style incorporated vibrant colors and dynamic compositions, which garnered him significant recognition in his time. He contributed to the decoration of numerous churches, particularly in Bologna, and worked in Rome, where he collaborated with other artists. Notable works include 'The Virgin and Child with Angels' and a series of frescoes in the Palazzo Fava. His artwork reflects the transition towards a more emotional and theatrical representation in Baroque art.
Continue ReadingBernard Buffet
French painter of Expressionist works
Born
July 10th, 1928 97 years ago
Died
October 4th, 1999 26 years ago — 71 years old
Born in Paris, a prominent figure in the mid-20th century French art scene. Buffet developed a distinctive style characterized by bold lines and vivid colors, often depicting somber themes. He gained recognition during the 1940s and 1950s, producing a considerable body of work that included portraits, still lifes, and landscapes. His association with the Art Brut movement and being a member of the tachisme group drew attention to his work, leading to exhibitions across Europe and America. Besides painting, he worked in various media, including printmaking and stage design. Buffet's contribution to art was marked by the creation of numerous artworks that reflected the existential sentiments of his time.
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