Tom Parry Jones

Welsh chemist, inventor of the breathalyzer

Tom Parry Jones - Welsh chemist, inventor of the breathalyzer
Born

1935
90 years ago

Died

January 11th, 2013
12 years ago — 78 years old

Category

Scientists & Innovators

Country

Wales

Links & References

A chemist from Wales, contributed significantly to analytical chemistry through the invention of the breathalyzer, a device used to measure blood alcohol content from breath samples. The breathalyzer has had a profound effect on law enforcement and public safety practices. This invention has influenced legislation and practices regarding drinking and driving, leading to extensive use across various countries. The official breathalyzer device has undergone numerous advancements since its initial creation, but the foundational concept originated with the contributions made by this chemist.

Invented the breathalyzer

Influenced DUI enforcement practices

Other People Who Died on January 11th

Cao

Empress of Later Tang dynasty
Died
January 11th, 937 1088 years ago — None years old

Served as the empress of the Later Tang dynasty. Her reign occurred during a tumultuous period of Chinese history marked by political strife and military struggle. As empress, played a significant role in court politics and governance, influencing the administration of the dynasty. Work focused on stabilizing the empire and managing the complexities of power dynamics within the royal family.

Continue Reading

François Joseph Paul de Grasse

French admiral and naval commander
Born
1722 303 years ago
Died
January 11th, 1788 237 years ago — 66 years old

Served as a French admiral during the American Revolutionary War. Commanded the French fleet at the Battle of the Chesapeake in 1781, which played a crucial role in the victory of American and French forces over the British. His strategic leadership contributed to the successful Siege of Yorktown, leading to the surrender of British General Cornwallis. Returned to France after the war and continued to serve in various naval capacities until death.

Continue Reading

Chai Trong-rong

Taiwanese educator and politician
Born
1935 90 years ago
Died
January 11th, 2014 11 years ago — 79 years old

Significant contributions to education policy and reform in Taiwan led to a stronger foundation for national education. Engaged in governmental efforts to improve the educational environment and curriculum standards. Played a key role in implementing educational reforms that emphasized quality and accessibility for all students.

Continue Reading

Éric Rohmer

Film director and screenwriter
Born
March 21st, 1920 104 years ago
Died
January 11th, 2010 15 years ago — 89 years old

A prominent French director, screenwriter, and critic, made significant contributions to the French New Wave movement. Directed films characterized by their focus on moral dilemmas and complex character studies. Gained attention for a series of films based on the seasons, including 'Claire's Knee' and 'Summer'. Involved in film criticism, writing extensively for publications and showcasing insights into cinema. Received an Academy Award nomination for Best Foreign Language Film for 'The Green Ray'.

Continue Reading

Hans Sloane

Physician and founder of the British Museum
Born
April 16th, 1660 364 years ago
Died
January 11th, 1753 272 years ago — 92 years old

An Irish-English physician and academic, played a crucial role in advancing natural history and medicine during the 18th century. Served as the physician to the royal family and contributed to the establishment of the British Museum. Collected over 71,000 items during his lifetime, enriching the cultural and scientific heritage of Britain. His notes and collections laid the groundwork for systematic categorization in biology and anthropology.

Continue Reading

Mostafa Ahmadi-Roshan

Iranian physicist and academic
Born
1980 45 years ago
Died
January 11th, 2012 13 years ago — 32 years old

Contributed to the field of nuclear physics and served as a researcher at the Natanz uranium enrichment facility. Played a significant role in advancing nuclear science in Iran. Engaged in academic pursuits and published research works related to nuclear technology. Discussed the implications of nuclear energy for Iran's development and energy independence.

Continue Reading