Carl Djerassi - Bio, Age, Chinese Zodiac Sign & Timeline
| Born | October 29, 1923 |
|---|---|
| Died | January 30, 2015 (age 91) |
| Birthplace | Vienna, Austria |
| Zodiac Sign | Scorpio - (see also Carl Djerassi's horoscope and birth chart) |
| 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
Carl Djerassi was born the 29 October 1923.
Vienna, Austria.
On His Birth-Day
About October 29th, 1923, in brief:
- Historical events: On October 29, 1923, the musical revue 'Runnin' Wild' premiered on Broadway. The show was notable for introducing the Charleston dance craze to a wider audience.
- Day of the week: October 29th, 1923 was a Monday
- Zodiac Sign: Scorpio (in western zodiac), Pig (in Chinese zodiac)
- Moon Phase:
- #1 US song: Indiana Moon by Carl Fenton & His Orchestra
- Popular movie: Scaramouche directed by Rex Ingram
Check the link for more news and curiosities on October 29th, 1923.