Ragnar Granit
Neuroscientist and Nobel Prize laureate
A prominent neuroscientist, made significant contributions to the understanding of the physiology of the retina and the mechanisms of visual perception. Worked at various research institutions and held academic positions during a distinguished career. In 1967, awarded the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine jointly for research on the function of the retina and the physiological role of different types of photoreceptors.
Awarded the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1967
Conducted groundbreaking research on retinal physiology
Other People Born on October 30th
Silvia Corzo
Colombian lawyer and journalist
Born
October 30th, 1973 52 years ago
A Colombian lawyer and journalist focused on issues of justice and human rights. Has worked in various media outlets, serving as a news anchor and reporter. Notable for contributing extensive coverage of socio-political events and legal matters in Colombia. Engaged in the promotion of legal education and social accountability through public discussions and publications. Actively participated in forums addressing justice and human rights for marginalized communities.
Continue ReadingIgnace Bourget
Canadian bishop and church leader
Born
October 30th, 1799 226 years ago
Died
June 8th, 1885 140 years ago — 85 years old
A prominent figure in the Roman Catholic Church in Canada during the 19th century. Served as the Bishop of Montreal from 1840 until death. Focused on strengthening the church's presence and community engagement in the region. Established several religious institutions, including schools and orphanages, to support the needs of the local population. Instrumental in the promotion of Catholic teachings and practices in Quebec, navigating challenges posed by emerging secular movements.
Continue ReadingAleksandr Dulichenko
Linguist recognized for academic work
Born
October 30th, 1941 84 years ago
A linguist and academic with a focus on the study of languages, conducted extensive research in the field of linguistics. Contributed to the understanding of language structures and development. Involved in various academic institutions, influencing the education of future linguists through lectures and publications. Authored several works that explored linguistic theory and practice.
Continue ReadingHermann Fegelein
German general during WWII
Born
October 30th, 1906 119 years ago
Died
April 28th, 1945 80 years ago — 38 years old
Served as a general in the Waffen-SS during World War II. Initially joined the SS and gained rapid promotion due to military success. Participated in significant campaigns on the Eastern Front, demonstrating leadership during critical operations. In the late stages of the war, served as a liaison officer with the command of Hitler's personal guard. Captured by Soviet forces in 1945 and executed shortly after the war.
Continue ReadingLeon Day
Professional baseball pitcher and player
Born
October 30th, 1916 109 years ago
Died
1995 30 years ago — 79 years old
A professional baseball player, recognized as a talented pitcher and outfielder. Played in the Negro Leagues from 1934 to 1949, showcasing significant skill on the mound and at the plate. Had a notable career with teams such as the Newark Eagles and the Baltimore Elite Giants. Inducted into the National Baseball Hall of Fame in 1995, acknowledging achievements and contributions to the sport.
Continue ReadingTim Sheens
Rugby league coach and player
Born
October 30th, 1950 75 years ago
Played rugby league at a professional level, later transitioned into coaching. Coached at various clubs, including the Canberra Raiders and Wests Tigers. Achieved significant success in coaching through multiple premiership titles. Known for innovative strategies and team development, shaping several players' careers within the sport.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on March 12th
José Policarpo
Portuguese cardinal and church leader
Born
February 26th, 1936 89 years ago
Died
March 12th, 2014 11 years ago — 78 years old
Ordained as a priest in 1961, contributed significantly to the Catholic Church in Portugal. Served as the Cardinal Patriarch of Lisbon from 1998 to 2013. Participated in the Papal conclaves of 2005 and 2013, which elected Popes Benedict XVI and Francis respectively. Involved in various church initiatives, promoting interfaith dialogue and social justice.
Continue ReadingStefan Dragutin
Serbian King and noble ruler
Died
March 12th, 1316 709 years ago — None years old
Became King of Serbia in 1282, ruling until 1316. Established territorial expansion and influence for Serbia during the late medieval period. His reign was marked by conflict with neighboring kingdoms and internal power struggles. Adopted a Catholic faith, which introduced religious changes in a predominantly Orthodox region. Led military campaigns against the Kingdom of Hungary and maintained regional power through strategic alliances.
Continue ReadingLazare Ponticelli
Soldier and last surviving French poilu
Born
1897 128 years ago
Died
March 12th, 2008 17 years ago — 111 years old
Born in Italy, Ponticelli migrated to France and served in the French Army during World War I. After the war, he worked as a laborer and lived a long life, becoming the last verified French combat veteran of World War I. Ponticelli reached the age of 110 and became widely recognized for his status as a supercentenarian, providing insights into the experiences of soldiers during the war.
Continue ReadingVěra Chytilová
Czech film director, notably Daisies
Born
February 2nd, 1929 96 years ago
Died
March 12th, 2014 11 years ago — 85 years old
An influential figure in the Czechoslovak New Wave, contributions as a director included acclaimed films that challenged traditional narratives. Daisies, released in 1966, became a landmark of feminist cinema, exploring themes of female identity and rebellion. The director's innovative techniques and social critique garnered attention both domestically and internationally. Other significant works include The Fruit of Paradise and The Apple Game, which further established a distinct voice in filmic storytelling.
Continue ReadingRonald DeFeo Jr.
American criminal and mass murderer
Born
1951 74 years ago
Died
March 12th, 2021 4 years ago — 70 years old
In 1974, committed the mass murder of six members of the DeFeo family in Amityville, New York. The gruesome crime led to his arrest and subsequent conviction in 1975. The case received nationwide attention and inspired the horror film 'The Amityville Horror' and numerous books detailing the events. DeFeo served time in prison until his death in 2021.
Continue ReadingVictor Westhoff
Dutch botanist and academic researcher
Born
1916 109 years ago
Died
March 12th, 2001 24 years ago — 85 years old
Contributed extensively to the field of botany, focusing on the flora of the Netherlands and the ecology of plant communities. Worked as a professor at several universities, where teaching and mentoring students formed a major part of the academic career. Conducted significant research on the classification and distribution of various plant species. Played a pivotal role in conservation efforts, particularly in preserving natural habitats and promoting sustainable practices in botany. Authored numerous publications, contributing valuable knowledge to the scientific community.
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