Vincent du Vigneaud
Nobel Prize-winning biochemist
Born
Died
Category
Scientists & Innovators
Country
United States
Links & References
An American biochemist and academic conducted extensive research on proteins and peptides, contributing significantly to the understanding of chemical structures and biological functions. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1955 for work on biochemically important sulfur compounds, particularly for the synthesis of the hormone oxytocin. His research laid a foundation for further developments in peptide and protein chemistry, influencing multiple areas of bioscience and medicine.
Received the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1955
Synthesized the hormone oxytocin
Other People Born on May 18th
Bertrand Russell
Philosopher and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
May 18th, 1872 154 years ago
Died
February 2nd, 1970 56 years ago — 97 years old
A prominent British mathematician and philosopher, contributed significantly to a variety of fields including logic, philosophy, and social criticism. Authored numerous influential works, including 'Principia Mathematica' co-written with Alfred North Whitehead, which laid the groundwork for much of modern mathematics. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1950 for varied and significant writings, advocating for humanitarian ideals and nuclear disarmament. Engaged actively in political discourse throughout his career, participating in various anti-war movements and promoting social reform.
Continue ReadingJay Wells
Ice Hockey Player and Coach
Born
May 18th, 1959 67 years ago
Played as a defenseman in the National Hockey League (NHL) for multiple teams including the New York Rangers, Los Angeles Kings, and Buffalo Sabres. Transitioned to coaching after retirement from professional play, contributing to various junior and minor league teams. Participated in a total of over 700 NHL games during a career spanning more than a decade.
Continue ReadingBrad Friedel
Soccer player and sportscaster
Born
May 18th, 1971 55 years ago
Played as a goalkeeper in Major League Soccer and the English Premier League. Became the first American to play in 450 Premier League matches. Represented the United States in three FIFA World Cups, specifically in 1994, 1998, and 2002. Transitioned to coaching and sportscasting after retirement from professional soccer.
Continue ReadingDon Martin
Cartoonist of MAD magazine fame
Born
May 18th, 1931 95 years ago
Died
2000 26 years ago — 69 years old
Raised in New Jersey, a prominent cartoonist created a unique style characterized by exaggerated characters and humorous situations. Contributed to MAD magazine for over four decades, becoming a vital part of its identity. Developed a signature brand of slapstick humor and absurdity evident in recurring gags and inventive illustrations. Also produced his own series in comic format, further showcasing his distinctive artistic approach and storytelling. Influenced a generation of cartoonists and left a lasting mark on the genre of humor comics.
Continue ReadingRay Nagel
American football player and coach
Born
May 18th, 1927 99 years ago
Died
January 15th, 2015 11 years ago — 87 years old
Played football at the University of Iowa and served as a quarterback before entering the coaching profession. Coached teams including the University of Utah and the University of Hawaii. Held a position as head coach at the University of Hawaii from 1970 to 1972. Contributed to player development and team strategies throughout coaching career.
Continue ReadingPriscilla Pointer
American actress in television and film
Born
May 18th, 1924 102 years ago
An actress with a career spanning several decades, she achieved recognition for roles in television and film. Early performances included appearances in classic series and movies. Voiced various characters in animated productions, showcasing versatility and talent. In addition to acting, she contributed to theater and taught drama.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on December 11th
G. A. Kulkarni
Indian author and academic
Born
July 10th, 1923 103 years ago
Died
December 11th, 1987 38 years ago — 64 years old
An Indian author and academic with a significant focus on literature and education. Contributed extensively to Marathi literature and served in various educational institutions. Played a pivotal role in shaping literary discourse and academic standards in the region. Engaged in writing novels, essays, and critiques that explored cultural and social themes, thereby enriching Marathi literature. Held esteemed positions in academia, fostering a generation of students and scholars.
Continue ReadingArthur Lydiard
New Zealand runner and coach
Born
July 6th, 1917 109 years ago
Died
December 11th, 2004 21 years ago — 87 years old
A prominent runner and coach, contributed significantly to the field of distance running. Developed a training methodology that emphasized aerobic conditioning and long-distance runs. Coached numerous athletes, many of whom achieved international success. Influenced coaching practices around the world and became a key figure in the sport of athletics.
Continue ReadingCharles Fabry
French physicist and academic
Born
June 11th, 1867 159 years ago
Died
December 11th, 1945 80 years ago — 78 years old
Contributed significantly to the field of optics and spectroscopy. Developed the technique of Fabry-Perot interferometry, which enhanced the analysis of light waves. Held a position as a professor at the University of Paris, where research on the interaction of light with matter was conducted. Engaged with various scientific societies and contributed to numerous publications in the field of physics.
Continue ReadingMyron Grimshaw
American baseball player with Red Sox
Born
November 30th, 1875 150 years ago
Died
December 11th, 1936 89 years ago — 61 years old
Played as a professional baseball player primarily for the Boston Red Sox. Made his Major League Baseball debut in 1901, contributing to the team's performance in the early years of the league. Played as an outfielder and participated in various games during his career, which spanned several seasons in the early 20th century. Concluded baseball activities with a reputation as a team player and effective contributor.
Continue ReadingLee Wiley
American jazz singer with major recordings
Born
October 9th, 1908 117 years ago
Died
December 11th, 1975 50 years ago — 67 years old
Born in 1908, a significant figure in American jazz music. Began singing at a young age and gained prominence in the 1930s. Recorded a series of popular albums during the 1940s and 1950s, showcasing a unique style that blended traditional jazz with a modern sensibility. Collaborated with notable musicians of the time, helping to shape the genre. Performed at various clubs and events, establishing a strong fan base. The career spanned several decades, and performances remained a vital part of the jazz scene until the late 20th century.
Continue ReadingShaista Suhrawardy Ikramullah
Indian-Pakistani politician and diplomat
Born
July 22nd, 1915 111 years ago
Died
December 11th, 2000 25 years ago — 85 years old
Born in 1915, served as a prominent figure in Indian and Pakistani politics. Played a pivotal role in women's rights advocacy and was a vocal supporter of female education. Became the first Muslim woman to be elected to the Pakistan Constituent Assembly and later held various diplomatic positions. Contributed to the establishment of the Women's National Guard in Pakistan. Participated in significant political events during the transition from British India to Pakistan.
Continue Reading