Otto Wallach

Chemist, Nobel Prize laureate

Otto Wallach - Chemist, Nobel Prize laureate
Born

March 27th, 1847
178 years ago

Died

February 26th, 1931
94 years ago — 83 years old

Category

Scientists & Innovators

Country

Germany

Links & References

A chemist and academic made significant contributions to the field of organic chemistry. The work focused extensively on terpenes and their derivatives. Conducted research that identified the structure and synthesis of various organic compounds. Earned the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1910 for these contributions to the study of alicyclic compounds.

Received the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1910

Conducted groundbreaking research on terpenes

Published influential works on organic compounds

Other People Born on March 27th

René Fonck

French military pilot and WWI ace
Born
March 27th, 1894 131 years ago
Died
1953 72 years ago — 59 years old

Achieved fame as a fighter pilot during World War I, securing a record of 75 confirmed aerial victories, making him one of the top aces of the war. Served in the French Air Force and received the Distinguished Service Cross and the Legion of Honor for exceptional bravery and skill. Participated in several key battles and contributed to the development of aerial combat tactics. Post-war, Fonck remained involved in aviation, promoting aviation technology and training new pilots.

Continue Reading

Pee Wee Russell

Clarinetist recognized for jazz improvisation
Born
March 27th, 1906 119 years ago
Died
1969 56 years ago — 63 years old

Born in 1906, Pee Wee Russell was an influential American clarinetist and saxophonist. He collaborated with jazz greats, contributing to the development of jazz music and improvisation techniques. His unique style incorporated elements of both traditional and avant-garde jazz. Throughout his career, Russell recorded with prominent artists and bands, including Louis Armstrong and the Paul Whiteman Orchestra. In addition to performing, he composed various pieces that showcased his innovative approach.

Continue Reading

Xuxa

Brazilian television presenter and singer
Born
March 27th, 1963 62 years ago

A prominent Brazilian television presenter, singer, and businesswoman, Xuxa rose to fame in the 1980s and 1990s with her children's television shows. Starting her career as a model, she transitioned to television, creating and hosting programs that became cultural phenomena in Brazil and beyond. The most notable show, "Xou da Xuxa," garnered high ratings and introduced a new style of children's programming in Brazil, characterized by colorful sets, musical performances, and interactive segments. In addition to television, Xuxa also released numerous albums, achieving significant success in the music industry. The influence of her work extends to various media forms, including film and stage productions, and she has engaged in philanthropic efforts focused on children.

Continue Reading

Tony Rominger

Swiss professional cyclist Tour de France
Born
March 27th, 1961 64 years ago

A professional cyclist achieved significant success during the 1990s. Specialized in time trials and stage races, excelled in major cycling events. Claimed victory in the Vuelta a España three times consecutively from 1992 to 1994. Also achieved notable results in the Tour de France, securing the overall title in 1995. Included among the top riders of the era.

Continue Reading

Jay Kim

Engineer and U.S. Congressman
Born
March 27th, 1939 86 years ago

Born in South Korea, an engineer and politician served as a U.S. Congressman representing California's 41st district from 1993 to 1995. Focused on issues such as economic development and education during tenure. Emigrated to the United States in 1964 and became a successful entrepreneur before entering politics. Engaged in community service and supported various initiatives for the Asian-American community.

Continue Reading

Žarko Paspalj

Serbian basketball player, Olympic medalist
Born
March 27th, 1966 59 years ago

Born in 1966, a Serbian basketball player played for several teams in Europe and the NBA. He began his professional career with Partizan Belgrade, where he achieved significant success. He later played for the NBA's San Antonio Spurs and reached prominence in European leagues. Paspalj represented Yugoslavia in international competitions, winning a bronze medal at the 1984 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles and a gold medal at the 1990 FIBA World Championship. His skills as a forward and his contributions to the sport during his career were highly regarded.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on February 26th

Boris Trajkovski

Macedonian politician and president
Born
June 25th, 1956 69 years ago
Died
February 26th, 2004 21 years ago — 47 years old

Served as the second President of the Republic of Macedonia from 1999 until death in 2004. Focused on promoting peace and stability within the country during a period of ethnic tensions. Worked on furthering Macedonia's intentions to join the European Union and NATO. Advocated for governmental reforms and national dialogue across ethnic lines, enhancing cooperation among diverse communities.

Continue Reading

Alexandros Koumoundouros

Greek lawyer and Prime Minister
Born
1817 208 years ago
Died
February 26th, 1883 142 years ago — 66 years old

Served as the 56th Prime Minister of Greece, Koumoundouros held office during a politically turbulent period in the 19th century. His legal career began prior to his political engagement, contributing to various legal reforms. Koumoundouros significantly influenced the Greek political landscape, emphasizing national unity and stability. His leadership was marked by efforts to strengthen the central government and address issues of national importance, particularly in relation to Greece's territorial integrity and governance. He interacted with prominent political figures of the time and was involved in discussions surrounding Greece's modernization.

Continue Reading

Robert Aickman

English author of supernatural fiction
Born
June 27th, 1914 111 years ago
Died
February 26th, 1981 44 years ago — 66 years old

An author renowned for supernatural fiction, this individual published numerous short stories and novels that explored the uncanny. Many works highlighted a distinct narrative style and atmospheric tension, often blurring the lines between reality and the supernatural. A founding member of the Inner London Group, he contributed to the literary scene while engaging in various activist causes. The collection 'Cold Hand in Mine' featuring stories from the 1950s stands out among publications, embodying the eerie and thought-provoking themes characteristic of this author's literary oeuvre.

Continue Reading

Vinayak Damodar Savarkar

Indian politician and freedom fighter
Born
May 28th, 1883 142 years ago
Died
February 26th, 1966 59 years ago — 82 years old

A prominent figure in the Indian independence movement, contributions included advocacy for revolutionary activities against British rule. Wrote extensively on Hindutva, articulating the concept of Hindu nationalism, which influenced later political movements. Served as president of the Hindu Mahasabha and promoted the notion of a unified Hindu identity. His writings and political activism left a lasting legacy in Indian politics.

Continue Reading

Theodor Eicke

German general and concentration camp commander
Born
October 17th, 1892 132 years ago
Died
February 26th, 1943 82 years ago — 50 years old

A high-ranking officer in the German Army, played a significant role in the establishment and operation of the SS and police within Nazi Germany. Eicke became the commandant of the Dachau concentration camp, where he implemented harsh policies that served as a model for other camps. Later, he led the 3rd SS Panzer Division Totenkopf during World War II, which gained notoriety for its actions on the Eastern Front. Eicke's leadership in military operations and his involvement in the local administration of concentration camps marked key moments in the history of the Nazi regime.

Continue Reading

Lawrence Tierney

American actor in film and television
Born
March 15th, 1919 106 years ago
Died
February 26th, 2002 23 years ago — 82 years old

An American actor gained recognition for portrayals of tough characters in film and television. Made his film debut in 1943 with 'The Devil Thumbs a Ride.' Achieved prominence in the 1940s and 1950s with performances in films like 'Born to Kill' and 'Reservoir Dogs.' Featured in television series including 'The Honeymooners' and 'Two and a Half Men.' His distinctive persona contributed to a lasting legacy in the film noir genre, influencing portrayals of antiheroes in subsequent cinema.

Continue Reading