William Giauque
Chemist and Nobel Prize laureate
A prominent chemist and academic, engaged in significant research in thermodynamics, particularly at low temperatures. Contributed to the understanding of the physical behavior of substances. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1949 for pioneering work in the field of chemical thermodynamics. Served as a professor and influenced numerous students and researchers in the discipline.
Awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1949
Conducted groundbreaking research in thermodynamics
Other People Born on May 12th
Mo Bamba
Basketball player for Orlando Magic
Born
May 12th, 1998 28 years ago
A professional basketball player, played for the Orlando Magic in the National Basketball Association (NBA). Hailed from New York City, excelled in high school basketball at Harlem's Westtown School. Committed to the University of Texas, played one season of college basketball before declaring for the NBA Draft. Selected as the sixth overall pick in the 2018 Draft by the Magic, primarily recognized for shot-blocking skills and versatile defense. Developed a reputation for three-point shooting, contributing to the team's performance throughout multiple seasons.
Continue ReadingFrenkie de Jong
Dutch footballer and Barcelona midfielder
Born
May 12th, 1997 29 years ago
Born in 1997, this Dutch footballer rose through the ranks of youth football, eventually joining the senior team of Ajax. During time at Ajax, contributed significantly to the team's success in winning the Eredivisie and the KNVB Cup in 2019. His performances at Ajax caught the attention of European clubs, leading to a transfer to FC Barcelona in 2019. At Barcelona, continued to showcase exceptional skills as a midfielder, playing a key role in the team’s strategies and successes.
Continue ReadingJoseph Beuys
German sculptor and social sculptor
Born
May 12th, 1921 105 years ago
Died
January 23rd, 1986 40 years ago — 64 years old
A sculptor and painter, focused on the concept of social sculpture and the role of art in society. Developed unique techniques and theories, emphasizing the connection between creativity and social change. Contributed to the Fluxus movement in the 1960s and engaged in various performances that incorporated materials like fat and felt, highlighting his belief in transformation and healing. Participated in political activism, advocating for democracy and environmental causes. Established the Free International University for Creativity and Interdisciplinary Research in 1973.
Continue ReadingAbelardo L. Rodríguez
Substitute President of Mexico (1932–34)
Born
May 12th, 1889 137 years ago
Died
February 13th, 1967 59 years ago — 77 years old
Served as the substitute president of Mexico from 1932 to 1934, stepping in during a politically turbulent time. Rodríguez's administration focused on economic recovery and social reforms. He implemented land redistribution policies and supported infrastructure projects, which aimed to modernize the nation. His tenure included efforts to address educational needs and promote public health as part of broader initiatives to enhance the quality of life for Mexican citizens.
Continue ReadingOrélie-Antoine de Tounens
French lawyer and explorer of Patagonia
Born
May 12th, 1825 201 years ago
Died
September 17th, 1878 148 years ago — 53 years old
An individual embarked on an expedition to Patagonia in the mid-19th century. This journey led to the proclamation of a short-lived kingdom, the Kingdom of Araucania and Patagonia, in 1860. His ambitions included establishing a constitutional monarchy in the region, with himself as king. Despite facing significant challenges and resistance from Chile and Argentina, efforts to gain international recognition continued. The exploration involved territorial claims and interactions with indigenous groups, aiming to advocate for their rights and develop the region. The kingdom's existence was largely symbolic and did not achieve official recognition from foreign powers, but the venture remains a unique chapter in the history of exploration in South America.
Continue ReadingKostas Tsimikas
Greek footballer and Liverpool defender
Born
May 12th, 1996 30 years ago
A professional footballer, he plays as a left-back for Liverpool in the English Premier League. Tsimikas began his career at Olympiacos, where he won multiple Super League titles. He established himself as a key player, contributing significantly during his time at the club. In 2020, he joined Liverpool. He secured his first major trophy with Liverpool, winning the FA Cup in 2022. Tsimikas has represented Greece internationally, participating in various UEFA competitions.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on March 28th
Lomer Gouin
Quebec Premier and lawyer
Born
March 19th, 1861 165 years ago
Died
March 28th, 1929 97 years ago — 68 years old
Born in 1861, this individual served as the Premier of Quebec from 1905 to 1920. As a member of the Liberal Party, significant legislative achievements occurred during the tenure, including improvements in education and public infrastructure. Engaged in provincial politics, this individual was also a prominent lawyer, contributing to legal reforms and the development of the legal profession in Quebec.
Continue ReadingRichard Arlen
American actor in silent films
Born
September 1st, 1899 127 years ago
Died
March 28th, 1976 50 years ago — 76 years old
An American actor became prominent in the silent film era and continued to work in sound films. Achieved significant acclaim for performances in films such as 'Wings,' which won the first Academy Award for Best Picture. Transitioned to talkies and appeared in various films throughout the 1930s and 1940s, showcasing a versatile acting career. Also participated in television productions during the later years.
Continue ReadingGeorge E. P. Box
Statistician; inventor of Box-Jenkins models
Born
1919 107 years ago
Died
March 28th, 2013 13 years ago — 94 years old
Contributed significantly to the field of statistics and was a prominent educator. Developed methods for time series analysis, particularly the Box-Jenkins method, which improved forecasting in various applications. Served at the University of Wisconsin-Madison and authored several influential books on statistics, including 'Statistics as a Language'. Promoted the use of graphical methods in data analysis and emphasized the importance of model building in statistical practice.
Continue ReadingIvan the Terrible
Russian Tsar and first ruler of Russia
Born
August 25th, 1530 496 years ago
Died
March 28th, 1584 442 years ago — 53 years old
Ruled as the Tsar of Russia from 1547 until death in 1584. The first ruler to be crowned as Tsar, Ivan centralized power and expanded the territory of Russia. Through military campaigns, he expanded into Siberia, gaining significant land and resources. His reign was marked by the establishment of the Oprichnina, a policy that involved political repression and the creation of a loyal military force. His legacy is characterized by both his expansionist policies and the sociopolitical turmoil of his reign.
Continue ReadingKarol Świerczewski
Polish General during World War II
Born
February 22nd, 1897 129 years ago
Died
March 28th, 1947 79 years ago — 50 years old
Born in 1897, served in the Polish Army and later became a general. Participated in the Polish-Soviet War and was involved in resistance activities during World War II. Played a significant role as a commander of the First Polish Army during the liberation of Poland from German occupation. His military career continued in the post-war period, becoming a prominent figure in the Polish People's Army.
Continue ReadingMaria von Trapp
Austrian-American singer and composer
Born
January 26th, 1905 121 years ago
Died
March 28th, 1987 39 years ago — 82 years old
Born in Austria, a career as a singer began in the early 20th century. Joined the Trapp Family Singers in the 1930s, performing in various venues across Europe and later in the United States. This group gained fame for its performances of traditional Austrian music and for contributing to the American folk music revival. Their story was adapted into the Broadway musical 'The Sound of Music' and the 1965 film of the same name, which increased their international recognition. Later years involved philanthropic efforts and a focus on music education, emphasizing the importance of singing and musicianship.
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