Nikolai Vavilov
Botanist and geneticist, seed collector
A prominent botanist and geneticist, contributions included significant work on plant genetics and the collection of seeds. Established the Vavilov Institute of Plant Industry in Saint Petersburg, which became a leading institution in agricultural science. Conducted extensive research on seed diversity, leading to the identification of centers of origin for cultivated plants. Arrested during the Stalinist purges, died while imprisoned due to starvation.
Developed theories on the origin of cultivated plants
Conducted seed collecting expeditions worldwide
Established the Vavilov Institute of Plant Industry
Other People Born on November 25th
Kaja Juvan
Slovenian tennis player with WTA titles
Born
November 25th, 2000 25 years ago
A professional tennis player from Slovenia, achieved significant success on the WTA Tour. Gained attention for strong performances in junior competitions, winning the junior title at the 2018 French Open. Transitioned to the women's circuit and secured her first WTA title in 2021 at the 250 series event in Portorož. Consistently competed in major tournaments, including the Australian Open, French Open, Wimbledon, and US Open, advancing through the early rounds against higher-ranked opponents. Attained a career-high singles ranking within the top 100, reflecting a steady rise in professional tennis.
Continue ReadingTakaaki Yoshimoto
Japanese poet and philosopher
Born
November 25th, 1924 101 years ago
Died
March 16th, 2012 13 years ago — 87 years old
Contribution to Japanese literature through poetry and philosophical criticism. Played a significant role in the post-war literary scene, blending traditional and modern elements in works. Engaged with existential themes and contributed to various literary critiques and essays.
Continue ReadingJoe DiMaggio
Baseball player, 3-time MVP winner
Born
November 25th, 1914 111 years ago
Died
March 8th, 1999 26 years ago — 84 years old
Played Major League Baseball as a center fielder for the New York Yankees from 1936 to 1951. Achieved a remarkable 56-game hitting streak in 1941, a record that still stands. Secured nine World Series championships with the Yankees, establishing a legacy as one of the sport's greatest players. After retiring, served as a coach for the Yankees and became a public figure through various endorsements and appearances.
Continue ReadingJulius Robert von Mayer
Physicist who developed the first law of thermodynamics
Born
November 25th, 1814 211 years ago
Died
March 20th, 1878 147 years ago — 63 years old
A physician and physicist contributed significantly to the understanding of energy conservation. Formulated the first law of thermodynamics, establishing the principle of energy conservation in physical processes. Conducted extensive research in various fields, including thermodynamics and kinetic theory. Published major works that laid foundational aspects of classical physics.
Continue ReadingKarl Benz
Engineer and founder of Mercedes-Benz
Born
November 25th, 1844 181 years ago
Died
April 4th, 1929 96 years ago — 84 years old
An engineer and inventor, established the automotive industry by creating the first practical internal combustion engine automobile. Founded a company that would eventually become Mercedes-Benz, which produced the first automobile designed to be powered by an internal combustion engine. His work laid the foundation for modern automobiles, significantly influencing transportation.
Continue ReadingPedri
Spanish footballer with Barcelona
Born
November 25th, 2002 23 years ago
A professional footballer, he plays as a midfielder for FC Barcelona and the Spanish national team. Debuted with Barcelona in 2020, demonstrating exceptional skills and vision on the field. Contributed to Spain's success in international competitions, including the UEFA Euro 2020. Recognized for technical ability and intelligence in play, he quickly became a key player for both club and country.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on January 26th
Lucky Luciano
Italian-American mob boss
Born
November 24th, 1897 128 years ago
Died
January 26th, 1962 64 years ago — 64 years old
Born in 1897 in Sicily, a significant figure in organized crime in the United States. Played a pivotal role in the development of the National Crime Syndicate. Instrumental in establishing the commission system to govern Mafia activities. Deported to Italy in 1946 after being convicted of prostitution charges, continued to influence organized crime from abroad until death in 1962.
Continue ReadingJames Edwin Campbell
American educator and poet
Born
September 28th, 1867 158 years ago
Died
January 26th, 1896 130 years ago — 28 years old
An educator and school administrator, contributions included leadership in educational reform and poetry that reflected the experiences of his time. Edited various publications, including a newspaper, to promote literary works and community engagement. Served as an influential figure in educational institutions, focusing on improving curricula and support for teachers. Poetry often highlighted themes of nature and social issues, earning recognition among contemporaries.
Continue ReadingThomas Lovell Beddoes
Poet and playwright from England
Born
June 30th, 1803 222 years ago
Died
January 26th, 1849 177 years ago — 45 years old
Born in 1803, this individual was a poet, playwright, and physician. Significant works include the play 'The Bride of Death' and poetry collections that explored themes of death and the human condition. The writings often reflected Romantic influences and a fascination with the macabre. Contributions to literature spanned multiple genres, combining creative writing with medical knowledge. Beddoes' writings, although not widely recognized during lifetime, gained interest posthumously and contributed to the understanding of emotional and intellectual struggles of the time. Death occurred in 1849.
Continue ReadingEdward Davy
Physician and engineer, inventor of the Davy lamp
Born
June 16th, 1806 219 years ago
Died
January 26th, 1885 141 years ago — 78 years old
Started a career as a physician before transitioning into engineering. Developed an early safety lamp for mining, significantly improving working conditions in coal mines. Advocated for better health standards in the mining industry. Identified various methods to enhance ventilation in mines, contributing to safer mining practices.
Continue ReadingPaula Gruden
Slovenian-Australian poet and translator
Born
1921 105 years ago
Died
January 26th, 2014 12 years ago — 93 years old
Born in Slovenia, a significant figure in literature migrated to Australia. Engaged in poetry and translation, exploring themes of identity and culture. Contributed to both Slovenian and Australian literary landscapes. Published works encompass original poetry as well as translations that bridge languages and cultures, fostering cross-cultural understanding. Involved in various literary initiatives and events that celebrated Slovenian heritage.
Continue ReadingGeorge Younger
Scottish banker and politician
Born
September 22nd, 1931 94 years ago
Died
January 26th, 2003 23 years ago — 71 years old
Served as the 4th Viscount Younger of Leckie and held the position of Secretary of State for Scotland from 1979 to 1983. Worked in the banking sector before entering politics. Represented the Conservative Party and was a Member of Parliament for Ayr until 1992. Advocated for various policies during his political career and contributed to the affairs of Scotland at a governmental level.
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