Carl Djerassi - Bio, Age, Chinese Zodiac Sign & Timeline
| Born | October 29, 1923 |
|---|---|
| Died | January 30, 2015 (age 91) |
| Birthplace | Vienna, Austria |
| Zodiac Sign | Scorpio |
| Chinese Zodiac | Pig |
| Generation | Greatest Generation |
| Known For | Development of the first oral contraceptive pill (birth control pill); contributions to organic chemistry and science communication. |
Intro
Carl Djerassi was a renowned Austrian-American chemist, inventor, and author, best known for his pioneering role in developing norethindrone, a key component of the first oral contraceptive pill. His scientific achievements revolutionized reproductive health and had a major impact on women's rights and society worldwide.
Early Life & Background
Carl Djerassi was born to Jewish parents in Vienna, Austria, in 1923. He and his mother fled Nazi-occupied Austria for Bulgaria and later emigrated to the United States in 1939 to escape persecution during World War II. He attended Newark Junior College and then received a scholarship to Brooklyn College, graduating summa cum laude in 1942.
Career Highlights
- Synthesized norethindrone in 1951, a key ingredient in the first successful oral contraceptive pill.
- Worked at CIBA and then Syntex, where he led pharmaceutical research with major advances in steroids and antihistamines.
- Authored influential scientific papers and held over 200 patents.
- Pioneered the use of scientific themes in literature as a novelist and playwright.
- Received numerous awards, including the National Medal of Science (1973) and induction into the National Inventors Hall of Fame.
Trivia
- Djerassi was sometimes referred to as 'the father of the pill' for his work on hormonal contraception.
- He also became a notable author, publishing novels and plays that explore scientific ethics and culture.
- Founded an artists' colony, the Djerassi Resident Artists Program, in California.
- He held professorships at several leading universities, including Stanford University.
FAQs
People also ask
When was Carl Djerassi born?
Carl Djerassi was born the 29 October 1923.
Where is Carl Djerassi from?
Vienna, Austria.
On His Birth-Day
About October 29th, 1923, in brief:
- Historical events: The Republic of Turkey is officially declared, marking the end of the Ottoman Empire and establishing a new modern nation-state under the leadership of Mustafa Kemal Ataturk. This pivotal moment represents a significant political transformation, transitioning from an imperial system to a secular, democratic republic.
- Day of the week: October 29th, 1923 was a Monday
- Zodiac Sign: Scorpio (in western zodiac), Pig (in Chinese zodiac)
- Moon Phase: Waning gibbous
- #1 US song: Indiana Moon by Carl Fenton & His Orchestra
- Popular movie: Our Hospitality directed by John G. Blystone, Buster Keaton
Check the link for more news and curiosities on October 29th, 1923.