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
Chandler Canterbury
American actor in 'The Last Airbender'
Born
December 15th, 1998 27 years ago
Debuted in the film industry with a significant role in 'The Last Airbender'. Also appeared in 'The Curious Case of Benjamin Button' and various television shows. Participated in multiple projects across different genres, showcasing versatility in acting. Developed a presence in the entertainment industry during the late 2000s and early 2010s.
Continue ReadingKayvon Thibodeaux
American Football Player, NFL Defensive End
Born
December 15th, 2000 25 years ago
Professional football player played as a defensive end in the National Football League. Drafted in 2022 by the New York Giants as the fifth overall pick, made significant contributions to the team's defense. During college, played for the University of Oregon, where showcased exceptional talent as a pass rusher. Earned the distinction of being named a First-Team All-American in 2021, highlighting outstanding performance in collegiate football.
Continue ReadingJahlil Okafor
Basketball player, NBA Draft 2015
Born
December 15th, 1995 30 years ago
Born in 1995, this basketball player played college basketball at Duke University, where he helped lead the team to a national championship in 2015. After declaring for the NBA Draft, he was selected third overall by the Philadelphia 76ers in 2015. During his time in the NBA, he showcased his skills as a center, contributing to the teams he played for. His playing style included a strong post presence and scoring ability inside the paint.
Continue ReadingAlex Telles
Professional footballer, FC Porto defender
Born
December 15th, 1992 33 years ago
A Brazilian footballer, primarily played as a left-back. Started youth career at Grêmio before making professional debut in 2011. Moved to Europe and played for clubs such as Galatasaray and FC Porto. Recognized for technical skills and contributions to team defense. Earned gradual success in domestic leagues, securing multiple titles with FC Porto. Represented the Brazilian national team in international competitions, contributing to defensive strategies during tournaments.
Continue ReadingSwami Ranganathananda
Indian monk and educator at Ramakrishna Mission
Born
December 15th, 1908 117 years ago
Died
April 25th, 2005 20 years ago — 96 years old
A prominent Indian monk and educator associated with the Ramakrishna Order. Played a significant role in the dissemination of Vedanta and spiritual teachings. Focused on education as a means for social upliftment and played a part in various educational initiatives. Served as the president of the Ramakrishna Order from 1992 to 2005, strengthening the mission's outreach and teachings. Delivered numerous lectures and authored several books on spirituality and philosophy.
Continue ReadingMo Vaughn
Baseball player and 1995 MVP
Born
December 15th, 1967 58 years ago
An American baseball player played in Major League Baseball primarily for the Boston Red Sox and the Anaheim Angels. Achieved significant success during the 1995 season, winning the American League MVP award. Played as a first baseman and became a three-time All-Star during a career spanning from 1991 to 2003. Helped the Red Sox lead the American League in home runs during the 1996 season.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on September 24th
Patrick Gilmore
Composer and bandleader; 'When Johnny Comes Marching Home'
Born
December 25th, 1829 195 years ago
Died
September 24th, 1892 133 years ago — 62 years old
An Irish-American composer and bandleader, contributed significantly to American music in the 19th century. Established the Gilmore Band, which became one of the most popular brass bands of its time. Composed numerous pieces, including the well-known song 'When Johnny Comes Marching Home,' which gained widespread popularity during the American Civil War. Organized major musical events, such as the National Peace Jubilee in 1869, which showcased the talent of many prominent musicians of the era. Instrumental in shaping the brass band movement in the United States.
Continue ReadingEarle Cabell
American politician, Mayor of Dallas
Born
October 27th, 1906 119 years ago
Died
September 24th, 1975 50 years ago — 68 years old
Earle Cabell served as a prominent American banker and politician throughout his career. Elected as the Mayor of Dallas, he played a pivotal role in urban development and governance during the mid-20th century. His tenure was marked by efforts to modernize the city and enhance public infrastructure. In addition to his mayoral responsibilities, he was involved in various civic and community initiatives, contributing to the growth of Dallas as an urban center.
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 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.
Continue ReadingBranwell Brontë
English painter and poet
Born
June 26th, 1817 208 years ago
Died
September 24th, 1848 177 years ago — 31 years old
A painter and poet, produced works that reflected personal experiences and the cultural milieu of the time. Generated a collection of poetry with his sisters, which showcased a blend of individuality and collaboration. Contributed to the visual arts, illustrating and expressing themes central to his life and the lives of those around him. Despite personal struggles, continued to create until health declined, leaving behind a legacy that is studied in literary and art contexts.
Continue ReadingHans Geiger
Physicist and inventor of Geiger counter
Born
September 30th, 1882 143 years ago
Died
September 24th, 1945 80 years ago — 62 years old
A German physicist contributed significantly to nuclear physics. Developed the Geiger counter, a device used for detecting and measuring ionizing radiation. Engaged in research that expanded understanding of radiation, including work with Ernest Rutherford. Held academic positions, including a professorship at the University of Freiburg, where continued to advance research in physics and radiation detection.
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