Benjamin Witten was an American chemist whose work in chemical research helped shape the development of the US Army's binary weapons system.
15 Facts About Benjamin Witten
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Benjamin Witten was born on October 4,1916, in Baltimore, Maryland, into a family that would later be known for its contributions to science and the arts.
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Benjamin Witten's childhood was rooted in the Jewish community of Baltimore, where he attended local schools before enrolling at City College, one of the city's premier high schools.
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Benjamin Witten completed his doctorate in organic chemistry in 1940, at the age of 24.
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Benjamin Witten's research demonstrated the practicality of this system, earning him a second Meritorious Civilian Service Award.
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Benjamin Witten was a member of several organizations, including the American Chemical Society, the American Association for Cancer Research, the New York Academy of Sciences, and the American Defense Preparedness Association.
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In 1966, Benjamin Witten was selected for a Secretary of the Army fellowship, which allowed him to spend a year conducting research at Hebrew University of Jerusalem.
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Benjamin Witten came from a family known for its intellectual achievements.
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Benjamin Witten's brother, Louis Witten, was a prominent physicist specializing in the study of gravitation and general relativity.
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Benjamin Witten was married to Dorothea Benjamin Witten, an active member of the Baltimore Jewish community and a life member of the American Mizrachi Women.
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Together, they had a son, David Benjamin Witten, who became a classical pianist.
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Benjamin Witten served as a board member of the Anshe Emunah-Aitz Chaim-Tiffereth Israel Congregation in Baltimore.
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Benjamin Witten died at his home in Baltimore on May 2,1976, at the age of 59.
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Benjamin Witten's synagogue published an obituary following his death, recognizing his contributions to the congregation.
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The American Mizrachi Women's Sarah Ribakow Chapter paid tribute to Benjamin Witten, noting his support for the organization through his wife's active involvement.