Paul Hermann Müller
Chemist and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
Died
Category
Scientists & Innovators
Country
Switzerland
Links & References
Contributed significantly to the field of chemistry, particularly in the study of insecticides. Developed dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane (DDT), which became widely used during World War II for pest control and later in agriculture. Received the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1948 for this discovery. Worked in academia and industry throughout the career, contributing to the understanding of chemical compounds and their effects on health and the environment.
Developed DDT for pest control
Received the Nobel Prize in 1948
Other People Born on January 12th
Petrus Scriverius
Dutch historian and scholar
Born
January 12th, 1576 450 years ago
Died
April 30th, 1660 365 years ago — 84 years old
Contributed significantly to the field of history and scholarship in the early 17th century. Served as a professor at the University of Leiden, focusing on various historical texts and manuscripts. Published several works that compiled historical narratives and analysis, including studies on the history of the Netherlands and the esteem of prominent figures in Dutch history. Engaged in debates regarding historical interpretation and methodology, influencing future historians.
Continue ReadingTim Horton
Ice hockey player, co-founder of Tim Hortons
Born
January 12th, 1930 96 years ago
Died
February 21st, 1974 52 years ago — 44 years old
Played professional ice hockey in the National Hockey League (NHL) primarily with the Toronto Maple Leafs. Achieved two Stanley Cup championships with the Maple Leafs in 1962 and 1963. After retiring from hockey, co-founded the Tim Hortons restaurant chain, which became a prominent fast food franchise in Canada. Horton passed away in a car accident in 1974, but his legacy continues through the coffee and donut chain.
Continue ReadingRay Harroun
Race car driver and engineer, Marmon Wasp
Born
January 12th, 1879 147 years ago
Died
January 19th, 1968 58 years ago — 89 years old
An American race car driver and engineer, contributed significantly to the evolution of motorsports. Achieved fame by winning the inaugural Indianapolis 500 in 1911 driving the Marmon Wasp. Pioneered the use of rearview mirrors in automobiles to enhance driver safety and visibility. Harroun's innovations and racing strategies played a crucial role in shaping early 20th-century auto racing.
Continue ReadingAmerie
Singer-songwriter with '1 Thing'
Born
January 12th, 1980 46 years ago
An American singer-songwriter, producer, and writer emerged in the early 2000s, gaining prominence with the release of the hit single '1 Thing' from the album 'Touch.' This work showcased a distinctive blend of R&B and hip-hop elements. The artist's debut album, 'All I Have,' also received critical acclaim, including a Grammy nomination. Beyond music, involvement in writing and production illustrated versatility and creativity in the entertainment industry.
Continue ReadingSir Robert Inglis
English politician and baronet
Born
January 12th, 1786 240 years ago
Died
May 5th, 1855 170 years ago — 69 years old
Served as a Member of Parliament for the University of Oxford from 1820 to 1831 and again from 1832 to 1841. Held the title of 2nd Baronet after succeeding his father. Advocated for conservative policies during his political career. Opposed the Reform Act of 1832, which aimed to expand the electorate and reform parliamentary representation. Was also involved in various charitable organizations throughout his life.
Continue ReadingAllisha Gray
Basketball player, WNBA Champion
Born
January 12th, 1995 31 years ago
A professional basketball player, played for the Dallas Wings and the Atlanta Dream in the WNBA. Contributed to the championship victory of the South Carolina Gamecocks in NCAA women's basketball. Achieved recognition for scoring ability and defensive skills throughout the career. Also earned a gold medal with the USA Women's U18 National Team.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on October 12th
Mustafa Zaidi
Pakistani poet and academic
Born
1930 96 years ago
Died
October 12th, 1970 55 years ago — 40 years old
An influential poet and academic, contributed significantly to Urdu literature. Zaidi's poetry is appreciated for its lyrical quality and depth, exploring themes of love, loss, and existential thought. He also served in educational roles, promoting Urdu language and literature. Zaidi's works have been published in various collections, solidifying his place in the literary canon of Pakistan.
Continue ReadingNorm Grabowski
Hot rod builder and actor in American films
Born
1933 93 years ago
Died
October 12th, 2012 13 years ago — 79 years old
A notable figure in the automotive world, contributions included innovative hot rod designs that influenced car culture. In acting, appearances included television shows like 'The Munsters' and films such as 'American Graffiti'. Became a well-respected icon within the hot rod community through various builds and exhibitions.
Continue ReadingSukhdev Singh Kang
Indian politician and judge, Governor
Born
1931 95 years ago
Died
October 12th, 2012 13 years ago — 81 years old
Served as a judge before entering politics. Held the position of 14th Governor of Kerala from 2004 to 2006. Contributed to various legal reforms and governance initiatives during tenure. Engaged in activities aimed at improving the legal and educational frameworks within the state.
Continue ReadingRoberto Telch
Argentinian footballer and coach
Born
1943 83 years ago
Died
October 12th, 2014 11 years ago — 71 years old
Played professional football primarily as a midfielder. Spent significant time at Club Atlético River Plate, where he achieved considerable success and built a reputation as a skilled player. Transitioned to coaching after retirement from playing, leading teams in various leagues. Contributed to football development in Argentina through coaching roles.
Continue ReadingLuis Garavito
Colombian serial killer
Born
1957 69 years ago
Died
October 12th, 2023 2 years ago — 66 years old
Engaged in the murder of numerous young boys in Colombia during the 1990s, leading to a conviction for 138 counts of murder. The criminal activities spanned various regions, creating widespread panic and horror. Arrested in 1999, received one of the longest sentences in Colombian history, totaling 1,853 years, although due to legal provisions, he is eligible for release after serving a portion of his sentence. The case drew significant media attention and led to discussions regarding the judicial system in Colombia.
Continue ReadingConchata Ferrell
American actress from 'Two and a Half Men'
Born
March 28th, 1943 82 years ago
Died
October 12th, 2020 5 years ago — 77 years old
An actress, she gained acclaim for her role as Berta on the television series 'Two and a Half Men'. Her career spanned several decades, beginning in the late 1960s. Ferrell appeared in a range of television shows and films, showcasing her talent in both comedic and dramatic roles. In addition to 'Two and a Half Men', she featured in 'Mystic Pizza' and 'Erin Brockovich'. Ferrell received multiple award nominations throughout her career, reflecting her contributions to television and film.
Continue Reading