Otto Wallach
Chemist, Nobel Prize laureate
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
Elsie MacGill
Canadian-American engineer and author
Born
March 27th, 1905 121 years ago
Died
November 4th, 1980 45 years ago — 75 years old
Significant contributions in engineering and literature were made. Played a pivotal role in the development of the Hawker Hurricane aircraft during World War II. Authored works that focused on women's roles in engineering and advocated for women's rights. Actively participated in the engineering community, promoting the involvement of women in technical fields.
Continue ReadingThorne Smith
American author of comic fantasy novels
Born
March 27th, 1892 134 years ago
Died
June 21st, 1934 92 years ago — 42 years old
A writer primarily recognized for comic fantasy works, this author published several popular novels in the 1920s and 1930s. The most renowned work is 'Topper,' which features a whimsical narrative about a man who encounters the ghosts of a pair of fun-loving spirits. Other notable novels include 'Night Life of the Gods' and 'The Stray Lamb.' This writer's style combined humor with elements of the supernatural, establishing a unique niche in American literature during the early 20th century.
Continue ReadingManuel Neuer
German football goalkeeper, World Cup winner
Born
March 27th, 1986 40 years ago
A professional football goalkeeper, achieved prominence with a career at FC Schalke 04 and Bayern Munich. Played a pivotal role in Bayern Munich's success, winning multiple Bundesliga titles and UEFA Champions League titles. Instrumental in Germany's triumph at the 2014 FIFA World Cup, showcasing exceptional skills and leadership. Renowned for revolutionary playing style, combining goalkeeper duties with the ability to act as a sweeper.
Continue ReadingStanley Rother
American Roman Catholic priest and missionary
Born
March 27th, 1935 91 years ago
Died
July 28th, 1981 44 years ago — 46 years old
Born in 1935, a Roman Catholic priest served as a missionary in Guatemala. Focused on providing pastoral care and advocating for indigenous rights in the region. Worked in the archdiocese of Los Angeles before being sent to Guatemala. Encountered violence and oppression during the civil unrest in the country. Gave life while fulfilling the mission in 1981, becoming a martyr for the faith unique to the challenges faced in Central America. Beatified in 2017, recognized for dedication to social justice and faith.
Continue ReadingStephen Fox
English politician and landowner
Born
March 27th, 1627 399 years ago
Died
October 28th, 1716 309 years ago — 89 years old
A politician and landowner in England during the 17th century, this individual served as a Member of Parliament and was active in local governance. His career included representation for constituencies in the House of Commons. He held significant influence in the political landscape of his time, particularly during the tumultuous periods of the English Civil War and the Commonwealth.
Continue ReadingAnne Ramsey
American actress known for The Goonies
Born
March 27th, 1929 97 years ago
Died
August 11th, 1988 37 years ago — 59 years old
An accomplished actress gained recognition for her roles in film and television during the latter half of the 20th century. Portrayed the memorable character Mama Fratelli in the 1985 adventure comedy film The Goonies. Appeared in the television series Room 222 and garnered a Primetime Emmy Award nomination for the show. Continued to work in various roles until her passing.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on February 26th
Richard Jordan Gatling
American engineer, inventor of the Gatling gun
Born
September 12th, 1818 207 years ago
Died
February 26th, 1903 123 years ago — 84 years old
An American engineer developed the Gatling gun, one of the earliest successful machine guns. The Gatling gun was patented in 1862 and saw extensive use during the American Civil War. Its design utilized a rotating barrel and a hand-crank mechanism, allowing rapid fire compared to traditional firearms. Gatling's invention significantly influenced military technology and warfare strategies. Later, the design was modified and improved for increased efficiency and reliability in subsequent conflicts. Gatling's contributions to engineering extended beyond firearms as he patented over a dozen inventions during his career.
Continue ReadingJef Raskin
Computer Scientist, Creator of Macintosh
Born
1943 83 years ago
Died
February 26th, 2005 21 years ago — 62 years old
A computer scientist played a pivotal role in the development of the Macintosh computer. Initiated the project in the late 1970s to create a user-friendly interface that would make personal computing accessible to a wider audience. Contributed significantly to software design principles and interface usability, emphasizing the importance of graphical user interfaces and direct manipulation. Worked at Apple Inc. until the mid-1980s, where innovative ideas transformed the way individuals interacted with technology. Authored several important works on human-computer interaction and interface design.
Continue ReadingWendy Richard
English actress known for EastEnders
Born
July 20th, 1943 82 years ago
Died
February 26th, 2009 17 years ago — 65 years old
An English actress achieved fame for portraying Pauline Fowler in the BBC soap opera EastEnders from 1985 to 2006. Initially trained at the Arts Educational Schools, participated in various stage productions before transitioning to television. Appeared in the sitcom Are You Being Served? as Miss Brahms, showcasing comedic talent. Throughout the career, involved in numerous other television projects, cementing a legacy as an enduring figure in British popular culture.
Continue ReadingEric XIV of Sweden
King of Sweden, claimed throne in 1560
Born
December 13th, 1533 492 years ago
Died
February 26th, 1577 449 years ago — 43 years old
Became King of Sweden in 1560, ruling until 1577. His reign was marked by various military conflicts and attempts to solidify power in the Baltic region. Eric XIV engaged in wars against Denmark and Russia, aimed at expanding the kingdom's influence. His marriage to Karin Månsdotter, a commoner, caused friction with the nobility and led to political instability. In 1570, he faced a coup that resulted in his imprisonment and eventual forced abdication. Died in captivity in 1577.
Continue ReadingAndy Bathgate
Ice hockey player, coach, and manager
Born
August 28th, 1932 93 years ago
Died
February 26th, 2016 10 years ago — 83 years old
Played in the National Hockey League (NHL) for 17 seasons, primarily with the New York Rangers. Secured the Hart Memorial Trophy as the league's Most Valuable Player in 1959. Contributed to the game's evolution with offensive skills and playmaking ability. Served as a coach and manager after retirement from playing, influencing the development of future players.
Continue ReadingTheodore Schultz
Economist, Nobel Prize laureate
Born
April 30th, 1902 124 years ago
Died
February 26th, 1998 28 years ago — 95 years old
An economist and academic contributed significantly to the analysis of human capital. Emphasized the importance of education and training in improving economic productivity. Authored pivotal works that explored the relationship between education and economic growth. His research laid the foundation for the development of the human capital theory. Received the Nobel Memorial Prize in Economic Sciences in 1979 for contributions to the understanding of how education affects economic performance.
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