Uldis Bluķis, born on February 19, 1933, in Jelgava, Latvia, dedicated his life to the advancement of Latvia’s international relations following the country’s regaining of independence. After moving to the United States in 1951, he received his education at the University of Illinois and the University of California, Berkeley, earning a PhD in physical chemistry. He later became an emeritus professor at Brooklyn College, teaching subjects including chemistry, the history of science, and general science up until 1991. His contributions to academia were complemented by his active role in diplomatic circles, particularly as a longstanding advisor in the Latvian permanent representation to the United Nations in New York.