Percy Spencer
Physicist and inventor of microwave oven
An American physicist and inventor developed the microwave oven. Spencer worked with radar technology during World War II and while experimenting with microwave radiation, discovered its heating properties. This led to the invention of the microwave oven in 1945, which revolutionized food preparation methods. Spencer founded a company that manufactured these ovens for commercial use. His work in engineering and physics contributed significantly to advancements in cooking technology.
Invented the microwave oven
Developed microwave technology for cooking
Other People Born on July 19th
Rey Bucanero
Mexican professional wrestler
Born
July 19th, 1974 51 years ago
Debuted in professional wrestling in the mid-1990s and gained prominence in the Mexican wrestling promotion Consejo Mundial de Lucha Libre (CMLL). Known for high-flying maneuvers and charismatic persona. Held the CMLL World Tag Team Championship multiple times, often teaming with various partners. Participated in the annual CMLL Anniversary Show, one of the most significant events in Mexican lucha libre. Also achieved success in the United States wrestling circuit, competing in promotions like World Wrestling Federation (WWF).
Continue ReadingDavid Colquhoun
English pharmacologist and academic leader
Born
July 19th, 1936 89 years ago
A pharmacologist and academic contributed significantly to the understanding of drug action and pharmacodynamics. Served as a professor at University College London. Published numerous papers and has engaged in discussions on the misuse of science in pharmacology and medicine. Instrumental in highlighting the importance of evidence-based practice in the field of pharmacology.
Continue ReadingGeorges Friedel
Mineralogist known for Friedel's law
Born
July 19th, 1865 160 years ago
Died
1933 93 years ago — 68 years old
A prominent figure in mineralogy and crystallography, made significant contributions to the understanding of crystal structures. Developed Friedel's law, which applies to the orientation of minerals. Focused on the analysis of mineral composition and structure through scientific methods. Served as a professor at the University of Strasbourg and contributed to various scientific publications, enhancing knowledge in the field of mineralogy.
Continue ReadingRobert Mann
American violinist and chamber musician
Born
July 19th, 1920 105 years ago
Died
January 1st, 2018 8 years ago — 97 years old
A prominent American violinist, contributed significantly to chamber music in the United States. Served as the concertmaster of the New York Philharmonic and co-founded the string quartet that became the New York String Trio. Played a vital role in the music community, performing with various orchestras and musicians throughout a career spanning several decades. Recorded numerous albums and participated in numerous prestigious music festivals. Educated many violinists, influencing the next generation of musicians through teaching at various institutions.
Continue ReadingCharles Horace Mayo
American physician; co-founded Mayo Clinic
Born
July 19th, 1865 160 years ago
Died
May 26th, 1939 86 years ago — 73 years old
A prominent physician and surgeon, co-founded the Mayo Clinic, which became a leading medical center in the United States. Established the foundation of a collaborative practice model that emphasized a team-based approach to healthcare. Contributed to the development of surgical techniques, particularly in abdominal surgery. Actively engaged in medical education, fostering the next generation of physicians through mentorship and training.
Continue ReadingSeraphim of Sarov
Russian monk and canonized saint
Born
July 19th, 1759 266 years ago
Died
January 14th, 1833 193 years ago — 73 years old
A prominent figure in the Russian Orthodox Church, contributed to monastic life and spiritual teachings in the 18th and early 19th centuries. Established a hermitage near Sarov, where intense prayer and ascetic practices were emphasized. Engaged with the local community and offered guidance to those seeking spiritual counsel. Recognized for deep spirituality and emphasis on the importance of acquiring the Holy Spirit. Canonized in the early 20th century, became one of the most beloved saints in Russian Orthodoxy.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on September 8th
Willard Libby
American chemist, Nobel Prize winner
Born
December 17th, 1908 117 years ago
Died
September 8th, 1980 45 years ago — 71 years old
An American chemist contributed significantly to the field of radiocarbon dating. Developed the radiocarbon dating method while working at the University of Chicago in the late 1940s. This technique revolutionized the ability to date ancient organic materials and became a crucial tool in archaeology and geology. Received the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1960 for this pioneering research. Served as a professor at the University of California, Los Angeles, where advancements in nuclear science and chemistry were made.
Continue ReadingCarlo Gesualdo
Renaissance composer and lute player
Born
1566 460 years ago
Died
September 8th, 1613 412 years ago — 47 years old
A prominent figure in late Renaissance music, contributed significantly to the development of chromaticism. Composed a collection of madrigals that displayed complex emotional expression and innovative harmonic structures. Also known for sacred music compositions, including several settings of the Mass and motets. His life was marked by personal tragedy, including the murder of his wife and her lover, which influenced his artistic output.
Continue ReadingAdam Opel
Entrepreneur, founder of Opel
Born
May 9th, 1837 188 years ago
Died
September 8th, 1895 130 years ago — 58 years old
Founded a company that started as a bicycle manufacturer and later expanded into automobiles. Established the Opel brand, which became a significant player in the automotive industry. The company was recognized for pioneering mass production techniques in automobile manufacturing, contributing to the growth of the automobile market in Europe.
Continue ReadingDorothy Dandridge
Actress and singer in 'Carmen Jones'
Born
November 9th, 1922 103 years ago
Died
September 8th, 1965 60 years ago — 42 years old
An American actress, singer, and dancer, first gained prominence in the 1950s. Starring in the film 'Carmen Jones', became the first African American actress nominated for an Academy Award for Best Actress. Appeared in various films and stage productions, contributing to the visibility of black talent in Hollywood during a time of racial segregation. Expanded her career into music, releasing several singles and performing in lounges across the country. Dandridge's work provided pathways for future generations of black performers in the entertainment industry.
Continue ReadingFrédéric Ozanam
Historian and founder of a charitable society
Born
April 23rd, 1813 212 years ago
Died
September 8th, 1853 172 years ago — 40 years old
A scholar and historian significantly contributed to the field of history. Co-founded the Society of Saint Vincent de Paul in 1833, aimed at helping the poor. Published numerous works on the history of France, emphasizing social justice and moral responsibility. Advocated for better understanding of historical contexts and encouraged charitable efforts through academic insight. Engaged with various educational initiatives, inspiring a generation of future thinkers.
Continue ReadingLjubiša Samardžić
Serbian actor and film director
Born
November 19th, 1936 89 years ago
Died
September 8th, 2017 8 years ago — 80 years old
An accomplished actor and director, recognized for significant contributions to Yugoslav and Serbian cinema. Worked in both theater and film, contributing to a body of work that encompasses numerous popular films and television series. Directed and starred in various productions throughout a career that spanned several decades, influencing contemporary Serbian culture. Achievements highlight a unique blend of artistic talent and leadership in the arts.
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