William Standish Knowles
Nobel Prize-winning chemist
Nobel Prize-winning chemist
2012
14 years ago — 95 years old
Scientists & Innovators
United States
A prominent chemist and academic, contributed significantly to the field of asymmetric synthesis. Won the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 2001 for work on chiral catalysts. Pioneered methods that enabled the production of pharmaceuticals more efficiently and with fewer side effects. Held various academic positions and continued to advance chemical research throughout a long career.
Won the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 2001
Developed chiral catalysts for asymmetric synthesis
A prominent physicist and engineer, contributed significantly to the field of thermodynamics. Formulated the Carnot cycle, which laid the foundation for the second law of thermodynamics. Focused on the efficiency of heat engines and proposed a theoretical model for understanding heat transfer. His work established principles that influenced later scientists and engineers in the study of energy conversion.
Continue ReadingA prominent religious leader played a crucial role in the expansion of the Latter-day Saint movement during the 19th century. Served as the second president of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints from 1847 until death in 1877. Led members to the Great Salt Lake Valley, establishing Salt Lake City and influencing the settlement of the western United States. Advocated for the establishment of communities and promoted agricultural development in the region.
Continue ReadingAn American actor, singer, producer, and screenwriter, played the lead role in The Andy Griffith Show, which aired from 1960 to 1968. His character, Sheriff Andy Taylor, became a staple of American television. Later, starred in Matlock from 1986 to 1995, portraying a shrewd defense attorney. Griffith also released several albums showcasing his musical talents. With a career spanning over six decades, he made significant contributions to both television and film.
Continue ReadingBorn in 1887, this English actor gained prominence in silent films and transitioned to talkies. Achieved stardom in the 1920s and 1930s, often portraying dapper and sophisticated characters. Received critical acclaim for performances in films such as 'The Last of Mrs. Cheyney' and 'The Return of Sherlock Holmes.' Worked extensively in both theatre and film, showcasing a range of talents that defined an era of performance. Later in life, continued to perform in various productions until retirement.
Continue ReadingRuled the Kingdom of Afghanistan from 1919 to 1929. Implemented modernizations and reforms aiming to transform the country into a sovereign state. Led Afghanistan during the Third Anglo-Afghan War, successfully negotiating autonomy from British influence. Promoted education and women's rights, initiating changes in social customs and law.
Continue ReadingA linguist and philosopher contributed significantly to the study of language and meaning. Developed the Basic English language system, which aimed to simplify English for global communication. Published works on semantics and the philosophy of language, outlining concepts of meaning and reference. Engaged with various linguistic theories and was influential in the understanding of semiotics.
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