Stephanie Kwolek
Chemist & inventor of Kevlar

Born
July 31st, 1923
101 years ago
Died
June 18th, 2014
10 years ago — 90 years old
Category
Scientists & Innovators
Country
United States
Links & References
An American chemist and engineer contributed to the development of high-performance fibers, particularly by inventing Kevlar, a lightweight yet strong material used in bulletproof vests and other protective gear. Graduating from Margaret Morrison Carnegie College, Kwolek joined DuPont in 1946, where research on polymeric materials led to the breakthrough discovery. Kwolek's work received multiple accolades and has been widely recognized within the textile and safety industries for its contributions to personal protection.
Invented Kevlar in 1965
Received the National Medal of Technology
Inducted into the National Inventors Hall of Fame
Other People Born on July 31st
Bill Frenzel
Served as a United States Congressman from Minnesota from 1971 to 1991. Played a significant role in economic policy, particularly during the Reagan administration. Was a member of the House Ways and Means Committee, contributing to tax reform and budgetary issues. After leaving Congress, engaged in public policy consulting and served as a senior fellow at the Brookings Institution.
Continue ReadingJohn Laurinaitis
Wrestler and producer contributed significantly to professional wrestling, participating in various promotions including WWE. Achieved recognition as a prominent figure during the 1990s in World Championship Wrestling (WCW) under the ring name 'Johnny Ace'. Transitioned to a production role, overseeing talent relations and creative direction in WWE. Played a crucial part in the development of wrestling storylines and talent management during tenures in different capacities.
Continue ReadingBilly Hitchcock
An American baseball player and manager, played in Major League Baseball primarily as a shortstop during the 1940s and 1950s. Served with teams such as the Detroit Tigers and the New York Yankees. Transitioned to coaching and managing roles after retirement, offering insights into player development.
Continue ReadingTed Baillieu
Served as the 46th Premier of Victoria from 2010 to 2014. Focused on infrastructure and economic reforms. Prior to political career, established a reputation as an architect. Engaged in various community issues throughout tenure.
Continue ReadingFergus Henderson
An English chef, recognized for elevating traditional British cuisine through a focus on nose-to-tail dining. Established St. John restaurant in London, which gained acclaim for its innovative approach to vegetable and meat dishes. Authored 'The Whole Beast: Nose to Tail Eating', which popularized the concept of using all parts of an animal in cooking. Promoted a sustainable approach to food preparation.
Continue ReadingAntonio Conte
A prominent figure in football as both a player and manager, this individual enjoyed a successful playing career, primarily with Juventus, where he won multiple Serie A titles. Transitioning to management, he led Juventus to three consecutive Serie A championships and won the Premier League with Chelsea in the 2016-2017 season. His coaching philosophy emphasizes tactical discipline and intense training regimens.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on June 18th
Djuna Barnes
Born in 1892, this American novelist and playwright gained prominence in the early 20th century. The work 'Nightwood' became a landmark in modernist literature and is recognized for its innovative narrative style. In addition to fiction, her journalism and plays contributed to her literary reputation. 'The Antiphon' showcases her playwriting skills, further establishing her presence in the arts. The complexities of her characters reflect modernist themes, particularly in relation to gender and identity.
Continue ReadingMaria Amalia
Born into the House of Bourbon, assumed the title of Duchess of Parma in 1748 after her marriage to Duke Ferdinand of Parma. Managed the duchy during a period marked by political changes and military conflicts in Europe. Fostered artistic and cultural developments in Parma, supporting various artists and architects. Held court in a fashionable palace while navigating the complexities of European nobility and alliances.
Continue ReadingAlketas Panagoulias
Played as a footballer primarily in Greece and moved on to a managerial career leading various clubs and national teams. Managed the Greek national team during the 1974 FIFA World Cup. Additionally, had a successful spell managing at club level, including a notable period with the team PAOK.
Continue ReadingAbdul Awwal Jaunpuri
An Islamic scholar and author, this individual contributed significantly to Islamic literature and education. Authored numerous books on Islamic theology and jurisprudence, focusing on the interpretation of Islamic texts and principles. Played an essential role in the scholarly development of Islamic thought in India during the early 20th century. Engaged in educational reform and established institutions for imparting Islamic knowledge.
Continue ReadingHoracio Coppola
Coppola worked primarily in photography and film, focusing on the urban landscape of Buenos Aires. His work captured the architectural essence and cultural life of the city, influencing a generation of photographers. Some works include the documentary film 'Buenos Aires' and a series of photographs that portrayed the city's daily life and historical architecture. He was also involved in teaching photography, contributing to the discipline's development in Argentina.
Continue ReadingLarry Doby
Played Major League Baseball as an outfielder, making history as the first African American player in the American League. Doby made his debut with the Cleveland Indians in 1947, just a few months after Jackie Robinson broke the color barrier in the National League. During his career, Doby was a key contributor to the Indians' 1948 World Series championship team, showcasing exceptional skills both offensively and defensively. Doby later played for the Chicago White Sox and contributed to the team's success during his tenure. After retiring as a player, he served as a coach and manager in various leagues, contributing to the development of the sport.
Continue Reading