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
Gerhard Domagk
German bacteriologist and pathologist
Born
October 30th, 1895 130 years ago
Died
April 24th, 1964 62 years ago — 68 years old
Contributions to bacteriology included the discovery of the drug Prontosil, which became the first sulfa drug used in treatment of bacterial infections. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1939 for this groundbreaking work. Conducted research on other antibiotics and their applications. Developed significant techniques in the study of infectious diseases and their control.
Continue ReadingDick Vermeil
American football coach and Super Bowl winner
Born
October 30th, 1936 89 years ago
Born in 1936, a prominent figure in American football, served as head coach for the Philadelphia Eagles, St. Louis Rams, and Kansas City Chiefs. Achieved notable success with the St. Louis Rams, leading the team to a Super Bowl victory in the 1999 season. Additionally, took the Eagles to their first Super Bowl appearance in 1980. Transitioned to coaching after a brief stint as a successful college football coach.
Continue ReadingJoe Adcock
Baseball player, 1957 All-Star
Born
October 30th, 1927 98 years ago
Died
May 3rd, 1999 27 years ago — 71 years old
Played in Major League Baseball from 1950 to 1966, primarily as a first baseman. Adcock spent the majority of his career with the Milwaukee Braves and later played for the Cincinnati Reds and the Atlanta Braves. Achieved notable success during the 1957 season, earning a selection to the All-Star Game and contributing to the Braves' victory in the World Series that year. After retiring as a player, transitioned into coaching and management roles within the sport.
Continue ReadingJane Randolph
Actress and singer in early film
Born
October 30th, 1915 110 years ago
Died
2009 17 years ago — 94 years old
An American-Swiss actress and singer, gained recognition in the 1940s. Appeared in several films, including the classic horror movie 'Cat People' and the comedy 'Ghosts on the Loose.' Her performances contributed to the popularity of these films during that era. Transitioned in her career to include singing, showcasing versatility in entertainment.
Continue ReadingIgnace Bourget
Canadian bishop and church leader
Born
October 30th, 1799 226 years ago
Died
June 8th, 1885 141 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 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
Lloyd Shapley
Mathematician and economist, Nobel laureate
Born
June 2nd, 1923 103 years ago
Died
March 12th, 2016 10 years ago — 92 years old
Contributions included the development of game theory and economic allocation mechanisms. Authored many influential papers and co-created the Shapley value, a solution concept for cooperative games that allocates payouts fairly among players based on their contributions. Worked on matching theory, which has applications in various fields including economics and market design. Shapley was awarded the Nobel Prize in Economic Sciences in 2012 for contributions to the analysis of economic processes.
Continue ReadingRafiq Azad
Bangladeshi poet and author
Born
1942 84 years ago
Died
March 12th, 2016 10 years ago — 74 years old
A significant figure in Bengali literature and poetry. Azad's work is characterized by emotional depth and exploration of themes like love, nature, and human experience. His poetry often reflects personal and social struggles. He contributed to various literary and cultural movements in Bangladesh. In addition to poetry, he authored essays and critiques that enriched the Bengali literary scene. He was also engaged in public discussions about literature and culture.
Continue ReadingFelix Ibru
Nigerian architect and Delta State governor
Born
1935 91 years ago
Died
March 12th, 2016 10 years ago — 81 years old
An architect and politician, served as the Governor of Delta State in Nigeria from 1992 to 1993. Played a crucial role in architectural development and urban planning in the region. After leaving office, continued to influence political landscapes and contributed to the development of his community through various initiatives.
Continue ReadingJosé Policarpo
Portuguese cardinal and church leader
Born
February 26th, 1936 90 years ago
Died
March 12th, 2014 12 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 ReadingRobert 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 ReadingRonald DeFeo Jr.
American criminal and mass murderer
Born
1951 75 years ago
Died
March 12th, 2021 5 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 Reading