Rita Levi-Montalcini
Neurologist, Nobel Prize laureate
Completed medical studies and began research in neurobiology. Conducted pioneering work on nerve growth factor, leading to significant advancements in understanding nervous system development and function. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1986 for discoveries regarding growth factors. Served as a professor of neurobiology at Washington University in St. Louis and received numerous honors and accolades throughout her career in academia and research.
Discovered nerve growth factor
Awarded Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1986
Other People Born on April 22nd
Elizabeth of York
Duchess of Suffolk, English royal
Born
April 22nd, 1444 581 years ago
Died
February 11th, 1503 522 years ago — 58 years old
Born in 1444, a key figure in the Wars of the Roses, played a significant role in the political landscape of England. Married Henry VII, uniting the warring houses of Lancaster and York. This marriage marked the beginning of the Tudor dynasty. Elizabeth's lineage included several notable monarchs, and her daughters, notably, influenced royal alliances through their marriages.
Continue ReadingRyan Stiles
Actor and comedian from 'Whose Line?'
Born
April 22nd, 1959 66 years ago
Born in 1959, this American-Canadian actor and comedian gained recognition as a prominent member of the improvisational comedy show 'Whose Line Is It Anyway?'. The career began in local theater and stand-up comedy before transitioning to television. Notable appearances included roles in the sitcom 'The Drew Carey Show' and the popular game show 'Whose Line Is It Anyway?', where quick wit and comedic timing became defining traits. The actor also voiced characters in animated series, adding to a versatile portfolio in entertainment. Through various projects, established a reputation for humor and performance skill in multiple formats, from stage to television.
Continue ReadingRóbert Bárány
Nobel Prize-winning physician
Born
April 22nd, 1876 149 years ago
Died
April 8th, 1936 89 years ago — 59 years old
An Austrian physician and academic contributed significantly to the fields of otology and neurology. Conducted pioneering research on the physiology of the inner ear, which advanced understanding of balance and hearing. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1914 for investigations of the vestibular apparatus of the inner ear.
Continue ReadingNam Duck-woo
South Korean politician, 12th Prime Minister
Born
April 22nd, 1924 101 years ago
Died
2013 12 years ago — 89 years old
Served as the 12th Prime Minister of South Korea from 1970 to 1971. Held various positions in the government throughout the 1960s and 1970s, contributing to the political landscape of South Korea during a time of significant development and change. Focused on economic policies and government reforms that aimed to modernize the country after the Korean War. Navigated complex political challenges and played a role in the shifting dynamics of South Korean governance and international relations.
Continue ReadingRichard Glücks
German SS officer overseeing concentration camps
Born
April 22nd, 1889 136 years ago
Died
May 10th, 1945 80 years ago — 56 years old
Served as an SS officer and was responsible for multiple concentration camps during World War II. Held the position of inspector of concentration camps, overseeing the conditions and operations within these facilities. Managed the camps of Auschwitz and other locations, significantly contributing to the implementation of the Nazi regime's policies regarding internment and extermination.
Continue ReadingPaul Chambers
Bassist and composer for jazz music
Born
April 22nd, 1935 90 years ago
Died
January 4th, 1969 56 years ago — 33 years old
A prominent jazz double bassist and composer, contributed to the development of the jazz genre in the 1950s and 1960s. Played with many notable musicians and was a key member of the Miles Davis Quintet. His work on the album 'Kind of Blue' is highly regarded in jazz music history. Chambers showcased exceptional skill and creativity, influencing future generations of bassists. His improvisational techniques and harmonic understanding were integral to the sound of jazz during this era.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on December 30th
Archduke Eugen of Austria
Austrian Archduke and field marshal
Born
May 21st, 1863 162 years ago
Died
December 30th, 1954 70 years ago — 91 years old
Served in the Austro-Hungarian Army and participated in World War I. Commanded the 3rd Army during the war, particularly noted for military leadership on the Italian front. Contributed to the modernization of military tactics and strategy. Also recognized for significant involvement in various cultural and scientific endeavors in Austria.
Continue ReadingIsamu Noguchi
Sculptor and architect of modern landscapes
Born
November 17th, 1904 121 years ago
Died
December 30th, 1988 36 years ago — 84 years old
A prominent sculptor and architect, contributed significantly to the field of modern sculpture and landscape design. Studied under renowned artists and incorporated elements from various cultures into work. Established a unique style that blended art and architecture, reflecting a strong connection to nature. The work includes many public sculptures and installations, with a focus on harmony between the built environment and the natural world.
Continue ReadingFrancesco Zuccarelli
Italian painter and Royal Academician
Born
August 15th, 1702 323 years ago
Died
December 30th, 1788 236 years ago — 86 years old
An Italian painter, contributed significantly to 18th-century European art. Specialized in landscapes and scenes of pastoral life, often reflecting bucolic themes. Work included collaborations with leading artists and participation in prestigious exhibitions. Received recognition as a Royal Academician, marking a prominent place within the British artistic community. Created a body of work that aligned with the period's aesthetic values, combining elements of classical tradition and contemporary tastes.
Continue ReadingWang Shenzhi
Founder of the Min Kingdom
Died
December 30th, 925 1099 years ago — None years old
Founded the Min Kingdom in 909 during the chaotic Five Dynasties and Ten Kingdoms period. Established a regime that maintained a level of independence from the central authorities of the time. Set the groundwork for the regional governance of the area now known as Fujian Province in China. Governed until death in 925, shaping local politics and culture during his reign.
Continue ReadingMary Wesley
English author of bestselling novels
Born
June 24th, 1912 113 years ago
Died
December 30th, 2002 22 years ago — 90 years old
An English author, contributed significantly to literature with a focus on human relationships and social themes. Began writing later in life and achieved commercial success after the age of seventy. Published several popular novels including 'Jumping the Queue', 'The Camomile Lawn', and 'A Vintage Affair'. Wesley's work often explored the complexities of love and family dynamics.
Continue ReadingVikram Sarabhai
Indian physicist and space program founder
Born
August 12th, 1919 106 years ago
Died
December 30th, 1971 53 years ago — 52 years old
A prominent Indian physicist and academic, contributed significantly to the development of India's space and satellite programs. Played a crucial role in establishing the Indian National Committee for Space Research, which later evolved into the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO). Instrumental in the launch of the country's first satellite, Aryabhata, in 1975. Actively supported the establishment of institutions in various scientific disciplines and promoted the application of science and technology for the development of India.
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