Alexander Fleck, 1st Baron Fleck facts for kids

Alexander Fleck, 1st Baron Fleck (born November 11, 1889 – died August 6, 1968) was an important British industrial chemist. He became a leader in the chemical industry and was known for his work with radioactive substances. Later in his life, he was given the special title of Baron Fleck.

Early Life and Education

Alexander Fleck was born in Glasgow, Scotland, on November 11, 1889. His father, Robert Fleck, was a coal merchant. Alexander went to school in Saltcoats and at Hillhead High School in Glasgow.

When he was just 14 years old, Alexander left school. He started working as a laboratory assistant at the University of Glasgow. This was a great opportunity for him. He became an assistant to Frederick Soddy, a famous scientist who studied radioactivity.

Alexander continued his education by taking evening classes. He worked hard and eventually became a student at Glasgow University. He earned his first degree, a Bachelor of Science (BSc), in 1911. He then continued his studies and received a higher degree, a Doctor of Science (DSc), in 1916. His research focused on the chemistry of radioactive materials. During World War I, he even studied how radium could affect cancerous growths at the Beatson Oncology Centre.

Career in Chemistry

Alexander Fleck became a very important figure in the chemical industry. In 1944, he joined the board of Imperial Chemical Industries (ICI), which was a huge chemical company. From 1953 to 1960, he served as the chairman of ICI, leading the company.

He also held many other important roles. He was chairman of Scottish Agricultural Industries, which deals with farming chemicals. He also led committees for the Coal Board and advised the government on science and nuclear safety.

In 1955, Alexander Fleck was made an Honorary Fellow of the Royal Society. This is a very high honor for scientists in the UK. He also received special degrees from many universities, including Glasgow University, Oxford University, and the University of London.

In 1960, he gave a special speech called the MacMillan Memorial Lecture. He talked about how engineering and chemistry depend on each other. From 1963 to 1968, he was the President of the Royal Institution, a famous organization that promotes science. In 1961, he was given the title of Baron Fleck, which is a special honor in the British peerage system.

Personal Life

In 1917, Alexander Fleck married Isabel Mitchell Kelly. Sadly, Isabel passed away in 1955. They did not have any children.

Lord Fleck died in London on August 6, 1968, when he was 78 years old. Since he had no children, his special title of Baron Fleck ended with him.