Robert Andrews Millikan
Physicist and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
March 22nd, 1868
156 years ago
Died
December 19th, 1953
71 years ago — 85 years old
Category
Scientists & Innovators
Country
United States
Links & References
Contributions to physics included precision measurements of the electric charge of the electron and oil-drop experiment in 1909. Worked on the photoelectric effect, providing critical evidence for the quantum theory of light. Served as a prominent educator and administrator, leading the California Institute of Technology as president. Published multiple scientific papers and books, influencing future generations in the field of physics.
Won the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1923
Conducted the oil-drop experiment
Contributed to the understanding of the photoelectric effect
Other People Born on March 22nd
Arne Gabius
Competed in long-distance running, specializing in the marathon. Set a personal best in the marathon with a time of 2:08:33 at the 2015 Frankfurt Marathon, establishing a national record for Germany. Participated in the 2016 Summer Olympics in Rio de Janeiro, representing Germany in the marathon event. Regularly competed in various national and international events throughout the career.
Continue ReadingAgnes Martin
An influential painter and educator, this individual contributed significantly to the field of abstract art. Early life included experiences in both Canada and the United States, leading to the development of a unique artistic style characterized by subtle color palettes and grid-like compositions. Influenced by various philosophical ideals, particularly Zen Buddhism, the work emphasizes simplicity and serenity. Achievements include numerous solo exhibitions and a lasting legacy in contemporary art education.
Continue ReadingEd Macauley
Played professional basketball in the NBA from 1949 to 1960. Spent time with the St. Louis Hawks and the Boston Celtics. Selected as a 6-time NBA All-Star. Coached at the collegiate level after retirement. Later served as a priest.
Continue ReadingUlugh Beg
A prominent Persian astronomer and mathematician, he ruled the Timurid Empire and established an observatory in Samarkand, which became a center for astronomical research. The observatory housed advanced instruments for observing celestial bodies and played a critical role in the development of trigonometry. Notable for compiling the 'Zij-i Sultani,' an influential astronomical zij that provided precise tables for the position of stars. His contributions significantly advanced the field of astronomy during the 15th century, influencing subsequent scholars in the region and beyond.
Continue ReadingAdam Sedgwick
Contributed significantly to the field of geology through extensive fieldwork and publications. Developed important geological classifications that laid the groundwork for modern geological science. Served as a professor of geology at the University of Cambridge, where teachings and research advanced understanding of earth sciences. Worked on the theory of the geological time scale and contributed to the study of the Cambrian period. Mentored numerous students and collaborated with other prominent scientists in the field.
Continue ReadingEnrico Gasparotto
Born in 1982, a professional cyclist participated in various cycling events. Competed in the Giro d'Italia and the Tour de France, achieving recognition in one-day races. Secured victory in the 2012 edition of the Amstel Gold Race. Contributed to multiple teams throughout career, including Liquigas and Astana, showcasing talent in both road racing and classic events.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on December 19th
Agnes of France
Daughter of King Louis IX of France, played a significant role in the early 14th century as the Duchess of Burgundy. Married to Philip I, her union strengthened ties between France and Burgundy. Managed local affairs and supported the development of the duchy during a period marked by political challenges. The marriage brought legitimacy to Philip's claims and enhanced stability within the region.
Continue ReadingPope Urban V
Ascended to the papacy in 1362, serving until death in 1370. Focused on reforming the church and returning the papacy to Rome from Avignon. Initiated efforts to reinforce ecclesiastical discipline and fostered peace in Italy through diplomatic means. Actively opposed the growing influence of secular rulers over church affairs. Worked to enhance the educational standards within the clergy. Promoted the construction of churches and monasteries, emphasizing the importance of education in faith.
Continue ReadingJames Bevel
Played a significant role in the American civil rights movement. Served as a leader of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference and organized initiatives to promote voting rights and desegregation. Advocated for nonviolent protest and played a key role in the Selma to Montgomery marches. Worked closely with influential civil rights leaders and focused on grassroots organizing to achieve legislative change.
Continue ReadingHerbert C. Brown
Born in England and later moving to the United States, a chemist made significant contributions to the fields of organic chemistry and boron chemistry. The development of the hydroboration reactions provided new pathways for synthetic organic chemists. In 1979, awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry for pioneering work with boron compounds. Served as a professor at Purdue University, contributing to academic research and education.
Continue ReadingWill Hoy
A race car driver from England gained prominence in the British Touring Car Championship. Achieved significant success during the early 1990s. Secured the British Touring Car Championship title in 1991 while driving for the BMW team. Competed in various other series, contributing to the development of touring car racing in the UK. After retiring from competitive racing, remained involved in motorsport as a commentator and analyst, sharing insights from a notable racing career.
Continue ReadingKyösti Kallio
A Finnish farmer, banker, and politician, served as the 4th President of Finland from 1937 to 1940. Played a crucial role in Finland's defense during World War II and addressed national needs during the challenging times of the war. Prior to the presidency, held various governmental roles, including Minister of Agriculture and Minister of Social Affairs. Contributed to the establishment of Finland's post-war reconstruction and modernization efforts.
Continue Reading