Linus Pauling was born on February 28, 1901, in Portland, Oregon. He grew up in a financially unstable household, as his father's business struggled and eventually led to his early death. Despite these challenges, Pauling showed an early interest in science and excelled in his studies.
Pauling attended Oregon State University, where he studied chemical engineering. He later pursued a Ph.D. in chemistry at the California Institute of Technology. He went on to become one of the most influential chemists in history, known for his groundbreaking work in molecular biology.
In 1954, Pauling was awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry for his research on the nature of the chemical bond. He became one of only four individuals to win two Nobel Prizes, also receiving the Nobel Peace Prize in 1962 for his peace activism.
Pauling was a dedicated peace activist who spoke out against the use of nuclear weapons. He declined a position on the Manhattan Project and instead joined the Emergency Committee of Atomic Scientists in 1946, working alongside Albert Einstein to raise awareness of the dangers of nuclear proliferation.
Throughout his career, Pauling authored numerous books and articles on chemistry, peace activism, and health. He was a vocal advocate for vitamin C supplementation and its potential health benefits, leading to controversy within the scientific community.
In 1923, Pauling married Ava Helen Miller, with whom he had three sons and one daughter. The couple shared a passion for social justice and activism, often working together on various causes.
Linus Pauling's contributions to science, peace activism, and education continue to inspire generations of researchers and scholars. His innovative approach to chemistry and his commitment to promoting world peace have left a lasting impact on the world.
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