Steve Johnston
Motorcycle racer and championship winner
Competed in motorcycle racing, achieving significant success in various competitions. Won the 1996 Australian Superbike Championship and participated in multiple international events, showcasing proficiency in road racing and superbike categories. Demonstrated talent in both national and international races, earning recognition within the motorcycle racing community.
Won the 1996 Australian Superbike Championship
Competed in various international motorcycle events
Other People Born on October 12th
Pat DiNizio
Singer-songwriter and guitarist of The Smithereens
Born
October 12th, 1955 70 years ago
Died
December 12th, 2017 8 years ago — 62 years old
Born in 1955, a singer-songwriter and guitarist achieved recognition as the frontman of the rock band The Smithereens. The group garnered a dedicated following in the 1980s and 1990s with their power pop sound. The band's hits included songs such as "Blood and Roses" and "A Girl Like You," which showcased a blend of melodic rock and lyrical depth. In addition to the band's success, contributed to various musical projects and collaborations throughout a prolific career. His songwriting reflected personal experiences and broader themes.
Continue ReadingArthur Harden
Biochemist and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
October 12th, 1865 160 years ago
Died
June 17th, 1940 85 years ago — 74 years old
Contributed significantly to the understanding of fermentation processes. Developed research on the enzymatic activity of carbohydrates, particularly with respect to yeast and its role in fermentation. Worked closely with glucose and the action of enzymes. Received the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1929 for studies of fermentation and carbohydrate metabolism.
Continue ReadingDietrich von Hildebrand
German Catholic philosopher and author
Born
October 12th, 1889 136 years ago
Died
January 26th, 1977 49 years ago — 87 years old
A prominent philosopher and author engaged in the fields of metaphysics, ethics, and aesthetics. Contributed to the Catholic philosophical tradition through works on personalism, love, and the nature of beauty. Served as a professor at the University of Munich, influencing generations of students. Emigrated to the United States during World War II, where continued to teach and write on key philosophical issues, particularly relating to faith and reason.
Continue ReadingJonathan Trumbull
Colonel and politician, 16th Governor of Connecticut
Born
October 12th, 1710 315 years ago
Died
August 17th, 1785 240 years ago — 74 years old
Served as an American colonel during the Revolutionary War and held the position of Governor of Connecticut for 14 years. Played a significant role in supporting the Continental Army through the provision of supplies and military resources. Oversaw the establishment of wartime governance and civil administration in Connecticut, contributing to the stability of the colony during a period of conflict. Established a legacy of leadership and public service that influenced the political landscape of Connecticut in the years following the Revolution.
Continue ReadingRick Parfitt
English guitarist and songwriter with Status Quo
Born
October 12th, 1948 77 years ago
Died
December 24th, 2016 9 years ago — 68 years old
A prominent guitarist and songwriter, made significant contributions to rock music as a member of the band Status Quo. The band achieved commercial success with a series of hit singles and albums throughout the 1970s and 1980s. Parfitt's guitar work and songwriting played a central role in the band’s distinctive boogie rock sound. Frequently collaborated with bandmate Francis Rossi in songwriting and performing. Continued to tour and record with Status Quo well into the 21st century, gaining international recognition.
Continue ReadingAl Held
Abstract painter and educator
Born
October 12th, 1928 97 years ago
Died
July 27th, 2005 20 years ago — 76 years old
An American painter and academic, this individual became a prominent figure in the field of abstract art. Work included large-scale canvases characterized by geometric shapes and bold colors. Held was a member of the New York School and contributed to the evolution of geometric abstraction from the 1960s onward. In addition to painting, engaged in teaching as a professor at notable institutions, influencing a new generation of artists. Exhibited widely across the United States and internationally.
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