Selman Waksman

Biochemist, Nobel Prize in Physiology

Selman Waksman - Biochemist, Nobel Prize in Physiology
Born

July 22nd, 1888
136 years ago

Died

August 16th, 1973
51 years ago — 85 years old

Category

Scientists & Innovators

Country

United States

Links & References

A Jewish-American biochemist and microbiologist contributed significantly to the field of antibiotics. Developed streptomycin, the first effective treatment for tuberculosis. Conducted extensive research on soil microbes, leading to the discovery of numerous other antibiotics. His work laid the foundation for modern antibiotic therapies and enhanced the understanding of microbial ecology.

Developed streptomycin in 1943

Awarded the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1952

Discovered over twenty antibiotics

Other People Born on July 22nd

Sahaphap Wongratch

Thai actor, model, singer known for TV dramas
Born
July 22nd, 1998 26 years ago

Born in 1998, an actor and model gained recognition through various Thai television dramas. Achievements include significant roles in popular series that contributed to his rise in the entertainment industry. Also ventured into music, showcasing versatility across different art forms.

Continue Reading

Hella Wuolijoki

Author and politician from Estonia-Finland
Born
July 22nd, 1886 138 years ago
Died
February 2nd, 1954 71 years ago — 67 years old

Born in Estonia, transitioned to Finland and became a prominent author and politician. Active in political life during the interwar period, contributed significantly to Finnish literature with works that reflected the cultural and political landscape of the time. After the Second World War, engaged in activities promoting Finnish cultural identity. Played a notable role in leftist politics, aligning with socialist ideologies and advocating for workers' rights. Wuolijoki's literary contributions included plays and novels that explored themes of identity, societal issues, and personal experiences.

Continue Reading

Dave Stieb

Baseball pitcher, seven-time All-Star
Born
July 22nd, 1957 67 years ago

A professional baseball pitcher excelled in Major League Baseball. Spent the majority of a career with the Toronto Blue Jays, contributing to the team's success in the American League East. Achieved seven All-Star selections and earned recognition for consistent performance on the mound throughout the 1980s and early 1990s. Played a pivotal role in securing the Blue Jays' first division title in 1985. Inducted into the Canadian Baseball Hall of Fame in 2005, solidifying legacy within the sport.

Continue Reading

Bobby Sherman

Singer-songwriter and actor
Born
July 22nd, 1943 81 years ago

Singer-songwriter and actor gained prominence during the late 1960s and early 1970s. Received recognition for musical hits such as 'Little Woman' and 'Julie, Do Ya Love Me?' Also starred in the television series 'Here Come the Brides' as Jeremy Bolt. His contributions to pop music and television established a significant presence in entertainment during that era.

Continue Reading

Anand Satyanand

New Zealand Governor-General and lawyer
Born
July 22nd, 1944 80 years ago

Practiced law before serving as a judge. Appointed as the 19th Governor-General of New Zealand, holding office from 2006 to 2011. Contributed to various legal and judicial reforms during tenure. Played a significant role in enhancing the ceremonial duties and representing New Zealand internationally.

Continue Reading

Scott Sanderson

Baseball player and sportscaster
Born
July 22nd, 1956 68 years ago
Died
2019 6 years ago — 63 years old

Played professional baseball as a pitcher from 1978 to 1995. Appeared in Major League Baseball for several teams, including the Chicago Cubs, Montreal Expos, and New York Yankees. Contributed to multiple teams with a solid win-loss record and worked as a sportscaster after retirement, sharing insights and analysis on the sport. Participated in over 400 games during the career, earning respect in both player and commentator roles.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on August 16th

Spyros Skouras

Businessman and movie studio executive
Born
March 28th, 1893 131 years ago
Died
August 16th, 1971 53 years ago — 78 years old

A Greek-American businessman played a significant role in the film industry as an executive at 20th Century Fox. He oversaw production during the studio's peak, contributing to the success of numerous iconic films. Under his leadership, the studio saw growth and innovation in filmmaking and distribution. His influence extended beyond operational successes, as he navigated the complexities of Hollywood, dealing with changing market demands and competition. The expansion of the studio's library of films during his tenure solidified its importance in cinema history.

Continue Reading

Irving Langmuir

Chemist and physicist, Nobel Prize winner
Born
January 31st, 1881 144 years ago
Died
August 16th, 1957 67 years ago — 76 years old

Contributions to physical chemistry and surface chemistry defined a career that included development of the Langmuir isotherm. Achievements in the field of chemistry were recognized with the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1932. Significant work included investigations of high-temperature chemical processes and the discovery of the phenomena of plasma. Langmuir's research into chemical bonding and reactions greatly influenced the understanding of chemical systems.

Continue Reading

Idi Amin

Ugandan politician and military leader
Born
1928 97 years ago
Died
August 16th, 2003 21 years ago — 75 years old

A military officer and politician, served as the 3rd President of Uganda from 1971 to 1979. Amin rose to power after a coup that deposed the previous president. His presidency was marked by widespread human rights abuses, political repression, and economic turmoil. Under his rule, thousands of Ugandans were killed or exiled. Amin's policy choices led to significant economic decline and loss of foreign investment. He was eventually overthrown and fled to exile, living in several countries before his death.

Continue Reading

Wenceslaus IV of Bohemia

King of Bohemia and Holy Roman Emperor
Born
1361 664 years ago
Died
August 16th, 1419 605 years ago — 58 years old

Ruled as King of Bohemia from 1378 until death in 1419 and served as Holy Roman Emperor from 1376 to 1400. His reign was marked by political instability and conflicts with the nobility. Attempts to consolidate power faced resistance, leading to challenges from rival claimants and factions within the kingdom. Advocated for a strong monarchy while struggling to maintain control over the various territories within the Holy Roman Empire. The Hussite movement gained momentum during his reign, exacerbating tensions within the realm. Ultimately, failure to effectively govern and address the grievances of his subjects weakened his authority, resulting in his deposition and diminished political power.

Continue Reading

John Diefenbaker

Canadian politician, 13th Prime Minister
Born
September 18th, 1895 129 years ago
Died
August 16th, 1979 45 years ago — 83 years old

Served as the 13th Prime Minister of Canada from 1957 to 1963. Instrumental in implementing the Canadian Bill of Rights in 1960, which was the first federal statutory bill of rights in Canada. Promoted the construction of the Trans-Canada highway and the development of northern Canada. Oversaw the establishment of the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation's television service during his tenure. Advocated for a strong national identity and played a significant role in international relations during the Cold War.

Continue Reading

Ronnie Drew

Irish singer-songwriter and guitarist
Born
September 16th, 1934 90 years ago
Died
August 16th, 2008 16 years ago — 73 years old

A significant figure in Irish folk music, contributed greatly to the genre through songwriting and performance. Co-founded the Dubliners, a seminal folk music group, which popularized traditional Irish songs. Drew's distinctive voice and storytelling captured the essence of Irish culture. His work also included solo projects and collaborations with other artists, enhancing the richness of Irish music.

Continue Reading