Ronald Ross
Physician who discovered malaria's vector
A physician and mathematician emerged as a prominent figure in the study of malaria. Conducted groundbreaking research on mosquito-borne diseases while working in India. Received the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1902 for discovering the life cycle of the malaria parasite within Anopheles mosquitoes. The work laid the foundation for malaria control and prevention methods, significantly influencing public health efforts worldwide. His contributions extended to various aspects of disease transmission and vector control, marking a milestone in the understanding of infectious diseases.
Discovered malaria's transmission by mosquitoes
Awarded the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1902
Other People Born on May 13th
Pope Pius IX
Pope with the longest reign in history
Born
May 13th, 1792 233 years ago
Died
February 7th, 1878 148 years ago — 85 years old
Became pope in 1846 and served until death in 1878, leading the Catholic Church through significant events such as the First Vatican Council which defined papal infallibility. Oversaw the loss of the Papal States, leading to a decrease in temporal power. Advocated for the dogma of the Immaculate Conception of Mary, declared in 1854. His reign was marked by political turmoil in Italy and Europe, which shaped the Church's modern role.
Continue ReadingSteve Mildenhall
English footballer and goalkeeper
Born
May 13th, 1979 46 years ago
Played as a goalkeeper in English football, beginning his career at Southampton. Had successful spells at various clubs, including a notable tenure at Grimsby Town. Contributed to the team's promotion to League One during the 2011-2012 season. Also played for other clubs, showcasing consistent performances.
Continue ReadingJoe Forshaw
American runner, competed in the Olympics
Born
May 13th, 1881 144 years ago
Died
1964 62 years ago — 83 years old
Competed in long-distance running events during the early 20th century. Participated in the 1908 Summer Olympics held in London, representing the United States. Specialized in the 10,000 meters and cross-country races, achieving notable rankings in national competitions. Contributed to the sport's development by inspiring future generations of athletes through participation in prestigious events.
Continue ReadingSebastião José de Carvalho e Melo
1st Marquis of Pombal, Portuguese Prime Minister
Born
May 13th, 1699 326 years ago
Died
May 8th, 1782 243 years ago — 82 years old
Held the office of Prime Minister of Portugal from 1750 to 1777. Implemented significant reforms in education, economics, and administration following the 1755 Lisbon earthquake. Advocated for the reduction of the power of the Church and centralized royal authority, thereby modernizing the state. Initiated infrastructure projects and promoted trade, contributing to Portugal's recovery and growth in the 18th century.
Continue ReadingJoe Louis
Professional boxer and world heavyweight champion
Born
May 13th, 1914 111 years ago
Died
April 12th, 1981 44 years ago — 66 years old
A professional boxer and wrestler gained international fame as a heavyweight champion. Held the world heavyweight boxing title from 1937 to 1949, defending it 25 times, a record at the time. Became a significant figure in sports history, transcending athletics to influence social issues during his career. Fought in several iconic bouts, most notably defeating Max Schmeling in 1938, a match symbolizing the racial tensions of the era. Transitioned to wrestling later in his career, continuing to engage audiences nationwide until retirement.
Continue ReadingNico Hoerner
Baseball player with Chicago Cubs
Born
May 13th, 1997 28 years ago
Born in 1997, this American baseball player played for the Chicago Cubs in Major League Baseball. A versatile infielder, he reached the major leagues in 2019. Over the years, he developed a reputation for strong defensive skills and an ability to contribute offensively. In 2020, he showcased his talents in the postseason, helping the team compete at a high level.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on September 16th
Charles Cochrane-Baillie
English politician and governor
Born
July 29th, 1860 165 years ago
Died
September 16th, 1940 85 years ago — 80 years old
Served as the 8th Governor of Queensland from 1895 to 1901. Engaged in various public service roles throughout his career, including as a member of the House of Lords. Focused on improving local infrastructure and promoting educational initiatives during tenure as governor. Actively participated in community development efforts in Queensland, fostering a connection between the local populace and the British government.
Continue ReadingJulien J. LeBourgeois
Admiral in the United States Navy
Born
November 23rd, 1923 102 years ago
Died
September 16th, 2012 13 years ago — 88 years old
Served in the United States Navy, achieving the rank of admiral. Played a significant role in naval operations during the Vietnam War. Commanded several naval vessels and held key leadership positions within the Navy throughout a distinguished career. Engaged in strategic planning and operational command, contributing to the advancement of naval tactics and technology.
Continue ReadingVíctor Jara
Chilean singer-songwriter and poet
Born
September 28th, 1932 93 years ago
Died
September 16th, 1973 52 years ago — 40 years old
A singer-songwriter and poet, this individual played a key role in the Nueva Canción Chilena movement during the 1960s and early 1970s, which combined folk music with political themes. The individual was also a theater director and participated in social and political movements supporting the leftist government of Salvador Allende. The works often addressed social justice and the struggles of the Chilean people. After the military coup in 1973, the individual was arrested and later killed, solidifying the legacy as an emblematic figure of resistance against dictatorship in Chile.
Continue ReadingJean-Baptiste Charcot
French physician and polar explorer
Born
July 15th, 1867 158 years ago
Died
September 16th, 1936 89 years ago — 69 years old
A physician and explorer specialized in oceanography, focused on polar regions. Established a research program in the Antarctic and conducted extensive studies in the Mona Lisa Project, contributing to the understanding of the Ross Sea. Led numerous expeditions aboard the ship Pourquoi Pas?, enhancing knowledge of marine biology and the area's geology. Contributed significantly to French scientific research and exploration in the early 20th century, emphasizing the relationship between the ocean and atmospheric conditions.
Continue ReadingCarlo Azeglio Ciampi
Italian politician, 10th President of Italy
Born
December 9th, 1920 105 years ago
Died
September 16th, 2016 9 years ago — 95 years old
Born in 1920, this individual served as the 10th President of Italy from 1999 to 2006. Before the presidency, held various key positions in the Italian government, including Prime Minister and Minister of Economy and Finance. Focused on economic reforms and European integration while leading the country during a pivotal period. Instrumental in promoting the euro as Italy's national currency during his tenure as Minister of Economy and Finance in the 1990s.
Continue ReadingDaniel Gabriel Fahrenheit
Polish-Dutch physicist and engineer, inventor
Born
May 24th, 1686 339 years ago
Died
September 16th, 1736 289 years ago — 50 years old
A physicist and engineer, contributions included the invention of the mercury-in-glass thermometer and the Fahrenheit temperature scale. The mercury thermometer provided a more accurate and reliable means of measuring temperature compared to previous devices. Fahrenheit also developed the first reliable alcohol thermometer. His work advanced the fields of thermometry and temperature measurement significantly during the 18th century.
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