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
Michael Oakes
Footballer and manager in England
Born
October 30th, 1973 53 years ago
Played as a goalkeeper for clubs including Wolverhampton Wanderers and Cardiff City. Transitioned into management, taking roles at various lower league clubs. Development of young talent and tactical management were key focuses during coaching career.
Continue ReadingKonstantinos Tsiklitiras
Greek long jumper, Olympic medalist
Born
October 30th, 1888 138 years ago
Died
February 10th, 1913 113 years ago — 24 years old
A celebrated long jumper, achieved recognition at the early 20th century Olympic Games. Competed in the 1912 Stockholm Olympics, where secured a silver medal in the long jump event. Demonstrated exceptional skill, becoming one of the leading athletes of his time. Demonstrated significant athletic talent in both the long jump and the high jump events, achieving notable national records.
Continue ReadingJessica Hynes
English actress and screenwriter
Born
October 30th, 1972 54 years ago
An English actress, producer, and screenwriter, gained prominence through a variety of television and film roles. Rose to fame with the role of Susan in 'Spaced', a cult classic television series written by Simon Pegg and Jessica Stevenson. Also starred in the British television series 'Twenty Twelve' and its sequel 'W1A', showcasing her comedic talent. In addition to acting, contributed to screenwriting, including her work on 'Spaced' and 'The Relief of Belsen'.
Continue ReadingMiguel Hernández
Spanish poet and playwright
Born
October 30th, 1910 116 years ago
Died
March 28th, 1942 84 years ago — 31 years old
A prominent figure in 20th-century Spanish literature, focused on themes of love, nature, and social justice. His literary career was marked by the turmoil of the Spanish Civil War, during which many of his works were written. Hernández's poem collection, 'Perito en Lunas', showcased his mastery of metaphor and was published in 1937. His works faced censorship under the Franco regime, leading to imprisonment. Despite this, his poetry maintained a significant cultural legacy in Spain and beyond. His untimely death in 1942 occurred while he was incarcerated, but his influence continues to resonate in the Spanish literary canon.
Continue ReadingValli Lember-Bogatkina
Soviet Baltic states politician
Born
October 30th, 1921 105 years ago
Died
2016 10 years ago — 95 years old
Born in 1921, played a significant role in the political landscape of Estonia during the Soviet era. Active in organizing local governance and community initiatives, contributed to the establishment of various cultural and educational programs. Held various political positions, including serving as a member of the Supreme Soviet of the Estonian SSR, where legislative responsibilities included advancing the interests of the local populace. Engaged in various efforts to improve social policies within the Soviet framework.
Continue ReadingFred W. Friendly
Journalist and broadcaster for CBS News
Born
October 30th, 1915 111 years ago
Died
March 3rd, 1998 28 years ago — 82 years old
Worked in journalism and broadcasting, contributing significantly to the field of television news. Played a crucial role at CBS News as a producer for programs such as 'See It Now' and 'Face the Nation.' Focused on investigative reporting and brought critical issues to public attention during the 1950s and 1960s. Later served as President of PBS, promoting educational programming.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on March 12th
Robert Ludlum
American author of spy novels
Born
May 25th, 1927 99 years ago
Died
March 12th, 2001 25 years ago — 73 years old
An author known for creating thrilling espionage narratives. Wrote the Jason Bourne series, which includes the novels 'The Bourne Identity,' 'The Bourne Supremacy,' and 'The Bourne Ultimatum.' Contributed extensively to the genre of political and espionage thrillers through numerous bestsellers. Works often depicted complex conspiracies and intricate plots, capturing the tension of the Cold War era.
Continue ReadingFriedhelm Konietzka
Footballer and manager, Bundesliga pioneer
Born
1938 88 years ago
Died
March 12th, 2012 14 years ago — 74 years old
A German-Swiss footballer and manager, played as a forward primarily for Hertha BSC. Achieved a significant milestone as the first player to score a goal in the Bundesliga during its inaugural season in 1963. Transitioned into management after retiring from professional play, leading various clubs in both Germany and Switzerland. Notable coaching tenure included managing FC Winterthur and VfL Wolfsburg.
Continue ReadingDick Harter
Basketball coach and player at a high level
Born
1930 96 years ago
Died
March 12th, 2012 14 years ago — 82 years old
Served as a college basketball coach and player. Played for the University of Maine and later transitioned into coaching. Coached at several institutions, leading teams to multiple tournament appearances. Known for a strong defensive coaching philosophy and developing players' skills. Worked at both the University of Oregon and the University of North Carolina among other schools.
Continue ReadingGanesh Pyne
Indian painter and Illustrator
Born
1937 89 years ago
Died
March 12th, 2013 13 years ago — 76 years old
A prominent painter and illustrator, contributions focused on painting, Indian mythology, and surrealism. Worked primarily with watercolors and oils, creating intricate and emotionally charged pieces. Exhibited in various national and international galleries, displaying distinct style and themes rooted in Indian culture. Received multiple accolades for artistic achievements throughout career, significantly influencing contemporary Indian art.
Continue ReadingLazare Ponticelli
Soldier and last surviving French poilu
Born
1897 129 years ago
Died
March 12th, 2008 18 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 ReadingMarianne Weber
Sociologist, suffragist, feminist
Born
August 2nd, 1870 156 years ago
Died
March 12th, 1954 72 years ago — 83 years old
A prominent German sociologist and suffragist, significant contributions included work on women's rights and social theory. In the early 20th century, played a vital role in the women's movement and advocated for gender equality. Involved with various feminist organizations and published influential texts on gender roles and the socialization of women. Conducted extensive research on the intersections of sociology and gender, shaping foundational ideas in feminist theory. Continued to be active in political and social reform discussions throughout the lifetime, until passing in 1954.
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