Robert Andrews Millikan
Physicist and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
Died
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
Anton Raphael Mengs
German painter and theorist of Neoclassicism
Born
March 22nd, 1728 298 years ago
Died
June 29th, 1779 246 years ago — 51 years old
Born in 1728, this artist contributed significantly to the development of Neoclassicism in painting. He studied in Rome and became the first painter in the modern era to emphasize the importance of academic principles in art. His works often reflected classical themes and were noted for their clear composition and harmonious color palette. Mengs served as court painter to Charles III of Spain, demonstrating the high regard for his artistry. His influence extended into art theory, particularly through his writings on aesthetics which emphasized balance and ideal beauty. His legacy endures in both his artistic output and his theoretical contributions.
Continue ReadingMatthew Modine
Actor in Full Metal Jacket and Stranger Things
Born
March 22nd, 1959 67 years ago
A film and television actor, director, producer, and screenwriter. Gained prominence through roles in film and television, particularly in the Stanley Kubrick film Full Metal Jacket and the Netflix series Stranger Things. Modine began his acting career in the late 1970s and achieved early success with the film Vision Quest. In addition to acting, he directed several projects, including the film If I Had Known I Was a Genius. Active in various philanthropic efforts, he has supported causes related to mental health and education.
Continue ReadingArtis Pabriks
Latvian politician and Minister of Defence
Born
March 22nd, 1966 60 years ago
An academic and politician, served as the 11th Minister for Defence of Latvia from 2019 to 2022. Held various positions in the government, including as the Minister of Education and Science. Contributed to the development of defence policies and international military cooperation. Engaged in political discourse regarding security issues in the Baltic region and NATO.
Continue ReadingJustin Masterson
Baseball pitcher and All-Star selection
Born
March 22nd, 1985 41 years ago
This individual was a professional baseball pitcher. Drafted by the Boston Red Sox in 2006, played in Major League Baseball (MLB) for several teams, including the Red Sox, Cleveland Indians, St. Louis Cardinals, and the Philadelphia Phillies. Achieved an All-Star selection in 2013 while with the Indians. Noted for a successful career characterized by a strong ability to strike out batters. Retired after the 2015 season, contributing to various teams over multiple years.
Continue ReadingPiá
Brazilian footballer and midfielder
Born
March 22nd, 1982 44 years ago
Born in 1982, this Brazilian footballer played primarily as a midfielder. He started his professional career with Guarani in 2000, transitioning to various teams in Brazil and abroad. His tenure at Atlético Mineiro was significant, contributing to their success in domestic leagues. Additionally, he was a part of the team that won the Copa do Brasil in 2014, marking a highlight in his career. This player also had stints in Japan and the United States, showcasing diverse experiences internationally before retiring from professional play.
Continue ReadingFrank Pulli
Baseball umpire and player
Born
March 22nd, 1935 91 years ago
Died
August 28th, 2013 12 years ago — 78 years old
Played as a professional baseball player before becoming an umpire in Major League Baseball. Officiated in several significant seasons, including the 1985 season when he was part of the crew at the World Series. After retiring, continued to contribute to the sport through various roles, including appearing in spring training camps and engaging in educational initiatives about umpiring.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on December 19th
Elizabeth of Luxembourg
Medieval Queen of Bohemia
Born
October 7th, 1409 616 years ago
Died
December 19th, 1442 583 years ago — 33 years old
Elizabeth of Luxembourg served as the queen consort of Charles IV and played a significant role in the politics of the Holy Roman Empire during the 14th century. Born into the prominent Luxembourg family, she married Charles IV in 1334, strengthening the ties between the Luxembourg dynasty and the Bohemian crown. Elizabeth became the mother of several children, including Wenceslaus IV of Bohemia. She held considerable influence over her husband's reign and participated actively in the governance of the realm, especially during Charles's absences. Her legacy continued through her children, contributing to the political landscape of Central Europe after her death in 1442.
Continue ReadingJoy Ridderhof
Missionary and founder of Voice of Prophecy
Born
March 30th, 1903 123 years ago
Died
December 19th, 1984 41 years ago — 81 years old
A missionary established extensive radio networks for evangelism. Focused on reaching diverse audiences through innovative programs. Pioneered the use of radio to spread religious teachings, facilitating the creation of numerous broadcasts across multiple languages. Actively engaged in producing religious content that emphasized hope and spirituality.
Continue ReadingEmily Brontë
English novelist and poet
Born
July 30th, 1818 207 years ago
Died
December 19th, 1848 177 years ago — 30 years old
Born in 1818, this author wrote one of the most significant works in English literature. The novel, published under a pseudonym, explores complex themes of love, nature, and the human condition. The solitary life spent in the Yorkshire moors greatly influenced writing style and subject matter. Poetry also played a crucial role, with verses expressing deep emotion and introspection. This author remained relatively unknown during her lifetime, with recognition growing posthumously.
Continue ReadingBernabò Visconti
Lord of Milan, ruled in the 14th century
Born
1319 707 years ago
Died
December 19th, 1385 640 years ago — 66 years old
A ruling lord who governed Milan during the late 14th century. Bernabò Visconti was known for his authoritarian rule and efforts to expand the power of the Visconti family. Through strategic marriages and military conquests, he strengthened the family's influence in northern Italy. His reign was marked by conflict with rival powers and internal strife, leading to his eventual downfall. Bernabò's rule ended with his capture and imprisonment by his nephew Gian Galeazzo Visconti, who ultimately seized control of Milan.
Continue ReadingAmnon Lipkin-Shahak
Israeli general and Transportation Minister
Born
March 18th, 1944 82 years ago
Died
December 19th, 2012 13 years ago — 68 years old
Born in 1944, a significant figure in Israeli military and political spheres, served as an IDF general and held the position of 22nd Transportation Minister of Israel. Participated in several key military operations, contributing to national defense strategies. In the political arena, engaged in transportation policies aiming to enhance infrastructure and connectivity across the nation.
Continue ReadingAshfaqulla Khan
Indian activist and revolutionary leader
Born
October 1st, 1900 125 years ago
Died
December 19th, 1927 98 years ago — 27 years old
Born in 1900, contributed significantly to the Indian independence movement. Actively participated in revolutionary activities against British colonial rule. Joined the Hindustan Socialist Republican Association, focusing on armed struggle for independence. His efforts culminated in involvement in the Kakori train robbery in 1925, which aimed to raise funds for the revolutionary cause. Captured, tried, and executed in 1927, became a martyr and symbol of resistance against oppression.
Continue Reading