Niels Ryberg Finsen
Physician, Nobel Prize in Physiology
A Faroese-Danish physician and educator contributed significantly to the field of medicine through the application of light therapy. Pioneered the use of ultraviolet light for treating skin tuberculosis, developing devices known as phototherapy apparatus. Received the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1903 for advancements in light treatment. Held a prominent role in medical education, influencing future generations of medical professionals.
Developed phototherapy for skin tuberculosis
Awarded the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1903
Other People Born on December 15th
Miguel Arraes
Brazilian lawyer and politician, Governor
Born
December 15th, 1916 109 years ago
Died
August 13th, 2005 20 years ago — 88 years old
An influential lawyer and politician in Brazil, served as the Governor of Pernambuco multiple times. Advocated for social reforms and economic development in the region. His tenure included efforts to improve education and healthcare, focusing on the needs of the disadvantaged populations. Experienced political exile in the 1960s due to opposition to military rule. Returned to politics after the end of the dictatorship, continuing to be a significant figure in Brazilian politics until his later years.
Continue ReadingRoger Gaudry
Chemist and businessman; C.D. Howe Award
Born
December 15th, 1913 112 years ago
Died
October 7th, 2001 24 years ago — 87 years old
An accomplished chemist and businessman contributed significantly to the fields of chemistry and industrial innovation. Played a pivotal role in advancing chemical engineering applications in Canada. Served as a faculty member at the University of Toronto, influencing future generations of chemists. Actively participated in various industrial ventures, focusing on the commercialization of scientific research. Recognized for exceptional contributions to the field through the C.D. Howe Award.
Continue ReadingFrancesco Zahra
Maltese painter of religious themes
Born
December 15th, 1710 315 years ago
Died
1773 253 years ago — 63 years old
Born in 1710, this painter specialized in creating religious artwork that graced numerous churches in Malta. Trained under prominent artists, development focused on baroque techniques that defined the era's aesthetic. Works feature a strong use of color and dramatic compositions. Established a reputation for executing altarpieces and other ecclesiastical works that reflected the spiritual fervor of the time. Significant contributions to the cultural landscape of Malta are observed in the surviving paintings that depict various saints and biblical scenes, capturing both the religious values and artistic traditions of the Maltese people.
Continue ReadingEdna O'Brien
Irish novelist, playwright, and poet
Born
December 15th, 1930 95 years ago
Died
July 27th, 2024 1 years ago — 93 years old
Born in 1930, this writer began her career in the 1960s, focusing on themes of female identity and social constraints in Irish society. The debut novel, 'The Country Girls', faced controversy for its candid portrayal of women's lives. O'Brien published numerous novels, plays, and short stories, often drawing on personal experiences and historical events. In addition to fiction, she wrote screenplays and adapted her works for stage and cinema, enhancing her profile in the literary world.
Continue ReadingLucien den Arend
Sculptor focused on contemporary art
Born
December 15th, 1943 82 years ago
A Dutch sculptor specialized in contemporary art, created distinctive sculptures that often reflect themes from nature and human experience. Initiated a significant artistic career during the late 20th century, achieving recognition in various exhibitions across Europe. Frequently collaborated with other artists and participated in international art fairs, showcasing innovative techniques and materials in sculpture.
Continue ReadingAlan Freed
American radio host popularized rock 'n' roll
Born
December 15th, 1921 104 years ago
Died
January 20th, 1965 61 years ago — 43 years old
A radio host contributed significantly to the promotion of rock 'n' roll music during the 1950s. Pioneered the genre through hosting programs that introduced the music to a broader audience, famously coining the term 'rock and roll' in the process. Established the Moondog Coronation Ball, widely recognized as the first major rock concert, which took place in 1952. Freely influenced multiple generations of artists and music listeners, showcasing a variety of artists on air.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on September 24th
Louis Gerhard De Geer
Swedish lawyer and first Prime Minister
Born
July 18th, 1818 207 years ago
Died
September 24th, 1896 129 years ago — 78 years old
A prominent lawyer and politician in Sweden, played a significant role in the formation of the modern Swedish state. Served as the first Prime Minister in 1876, leading the country during a time of political reform. Represented the Liberal Party and was pivotal in the development of parliamentary democracy in Sweden. Contributed to various political debates and discussions, advocating for reforms in governance and civil rights.
Continue ReadingBill Mollison
Permaculture researcher and author
Born
1928 98 years ago
Died
September 24th, 2016 9 years ago — 88 years old
A researcher and biologist, contributions focused on permaculture, a sustainable agricultural practice. Co-developed the concept of permaculture in the 1970s, integrating ecology and agriculture. Authored several influential books, including 'Permaculture: A Designer's Manual.' Co-founded the Permaculture Institute in Australia, promoting ecological design principles globally.
Continue ReadingIda Noddack
German Chemist and Physicist
Born
February 25th, 1896 129 years ago
Died
September 24th, 1978 47 years ago — 82 years old
Contributed to the field of chemistry and physics, with a focus on nuclear research. First proposed the concept of nuclear fission in an article co-authored with her husband in 1934. Conducted significant research on the behavior of elements and their radioactive properties, influencing later developments in the study of nuclear physics and chemistry.
Continue ReadingChristopher Hogwood
Harpsichordist and conductor, Academy of Ancient Music
Born
September 10th, 1941 84 years ago
Died
September 24th, 2014 11 years ago — 73 years old
A prominent harpsichord player and conductor, founded the Academy of Ancient Music in 1973, an orchestra dedicated to the performance of baroque and classical music on period instruments. Served as the musical director of the Academy and conducted various notable orchestras throughout Europe. Contributed extensively to both live performances and recordings, enhancing the appreciation of early music.
Continue ReadingVincenzo da Filicaja
Italian poet famous for lyric poetry
Born
December 30th, 1642 383 years ago
Died
September 24th, 1707 318 years ago — 64 years old
Born in Florence, this poet contributed significantly to Italian literature during the Baroque period. He focused heavily on lyric poetry, reflecting themes of love, nature, and the human experience in intricate verse. His works were characterized by their emotional depth and vivid imagery. Although many of his poems remained unpublished during his lifetime, they were later recognized for their artistic merit. His legacy includes influencing subsequent generations of Italian poets through his style and thematic choices.
Continue ReadingBruno Pontecorvo
Physicist and nuclear researcher
Born
August 22nd, 1913 112 years ago
Died
September 24th, 1993 32 years ago — 80 years old
A physicist and academic with significant contributions to nuclear physics and particle physics. Conducted groundbreaking research in neutrino physics at the time of the Cold War. Worked at the Los Alamos National Laboratory and later in the Soviet Union after 1950. Published numerous influential papers and contributed to the development of the first nuclear reactors in Italy.
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