Abraham Beame
104th Mayor of New York City
Served as the 104th Mayor of New York City from 1974 to 1977. Faced significant challenges during tenure including financial crisis and urban decline. Implemented measures to tackle fiscal issues and supported city services amidst economic hardships. Prior to mayoralty, held various roles in public service including as a member of the New York City Board of Estimate. Engaged in various policies aimed at urban development and community improvement.
Led New York City during financial crisis
Served as member of the New York City Board of Estimate
Other People Born on March 20th
James P. Gordon
Physicist and engineer specializing in lasers
Born
March 20th, 1928 98 years ago
Died
June 21st, 2013 13 years ago — 85 years old
Born in 1928, this American physicist and engineer contributed significantly to the field of laser technology. He received a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering from the City College of New York and went on to earn a Ph.D. from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. His research in laser dynamics led to the development of important laser systems. He served as a professor at the University of Maryland, advancing education in applied physics and electrical engineering while mentoring numerous students throughout his career. His work laid the groundwork for various laser applications across different industries, further establishing the relevance of lasers in modern technology.
Continue ReadingHarold Weber
American Golfer with amateur championships
Born
March 20th, 1882 144 years ago
Died
November 7th, 1933 92 years ago — 51 years old
Played professional golf primarily in the early 20th century, achieving significant success in amateur tournaments. Secured the Pacific Coast Amateur title multiple times. Participated in various national championships and contributed to the sport through both gameplay and mentorship. Had a profound impact on the golfing community during his active years.
Continue ReadingGerhard Barkhorn
German Luftwaffe pilot, fighter ace
Born
March 20th, 1919 107 years ago
Died
January 8th, 1983 43 years ago — 63 years old
Served as a general and fighter pilot in the German Luftwaffe during World War II. Achieved significant success in aerial combat, becoming one of the top German aces of the war. Barkhorn flew numerous missions on the Eastern Front, demonstrating effectiveness in dogfights and contributing to air superiority for German forces. Post-war, faced challenges as a prisoner of war before eventually resuming a career in aviation and becoming involved in private industry.
Continue ReadingHenrik Ibsen
Playwright of A Doll's House
Born
March 20th, 1828 198 years ago
Died
May 23rd, 1906 120 years ago — 78 years old
A significant figure in modern drama, Ibsen wrote plays that explored themes of moral conflict, societal norms, and personal identity. During a career spanning several decades, produced notable works that challenged conventional views of 19th-century society. Ibsen's unique narrative style and dramatic dialogue have influenced playwrights worldwide. His works are characterized by a realistic portrayal of life and a focus on individual struggles. Ibsen's writings contributed to the foundation of modern theater, and his legacy endures through continued performances and adaptations of his plays.
Continue ReadingVera Lynn
Singer and actress of World War II songs
Born
March 20th, 1917 109 years ago
Died
June 18th, 2020 6 years ago — 103 years old
Born in England, a prominent singer and actress rose to fame during World War II. Became associated with uplifting music that inspired troops and civilians alike, especially through hits like 'We'll Meet Again' and 'The White Cliffs of Dover'. Her performances contributed to the morale of the British public during challenging times. After the war, continued a successful career in music and television, garnering respect for charitable work supporting veterans and aging populations. Received recognition and awards over the decades, including the title of Dame from the British monarchy for contributions to music and entertainment.
Continue ReadingEdward Gibbon Wakefield
English politician and colonization advocate
Born
March 20th, 1796 230 years ago
Died
May 16th, 1862 164 years ago — 66 years old
Contributed significantly to theories of colonization and land settlement. Advocated for systematic colonization in the 19th century, promoting the establishment of new colonies under direct government control. Instrumental in the founding of South Australia, which emphasized free settlement and the sale of land. Known for principles that aimed at balancing land availability with labor supply to create prosperous communities.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on February 10th
E. M. Antoniadi
Astronomer and chess player
Born
March 1st, 1870 156 years ago
Died
February 10th, 1944 82 years ago — 73 years old
Contributions included detailed observations of Mars, particularly during the 1909 and 1910 apparitions, which advanced knowledge of the planet's features. Published influential works on astronomy and was known for editorials in prominent journals. In addition to astronomy, engaged in chess, participating in various tournaments throughout the 20th century.
Continue ReadingLloyd Morrison
New Zealand banker and businessman
Born
1957 69 years ago
Died
February 10th, 2012 14 years ago — 55 years old
Founded H. R. L. Morrison & Co, a prominent investment firm in New Zealand. Played a significant role in the development of the New Zealand financial sector. Engaged in various business activities and was a key figure in corporate governance and strategy.
Continue ReadingRon Ziegler
14th White House Press Secretary
Born
1939 87 years ago
Died
February 10th, 2003 23 years ago — 64 years old
Served as the 14th White House Press Secretary from 1969 to 1974 under President Richard Nixon. Ziegler was involved in several critical events during his tenure, including the Watergate scandal, which significantly impacted the Nixon administration. Ziegler managed communications during a turbulent period in American politics, often facing intense scrutiny from the media. After leaving the White House, Ziegler continued his career in public relations and media consulting.
Continue ReadingCharles Wilson
American politician and lieutenant
Born
June 1st, 1933 93 years ago
Died
February 10th, 2010 16 years ago — 76 years old
Served as a lieutenant in the U.S. Navy. Elected to the U.S. House of Representatives from Texas and represented the state for multiple terms. Played a significant role in Congress as a member of the Appropriations Committee. Advocated for military and defense issues, contributing to various legislation during tenure.
Continue ReadingEdvard Kardelj
Slovene politician and economist
Born
January 27th, 1910 116 years ago
Died
February 10th, 1979 47 years ago — 69 years old
Served as a prominent Yugoslav politician and economist, holding the position of the 2nd Foreign Minister of Yugoslavia. Participated in the Yugoslav Partisan movement during World War II, contributing to the establishment of socialist policies in the post-war government. Played a significant role in the development of the self-management system in Yugoslavia, which was innovative for its time. Contributed to the formulation of Yugoslav foreign policy and worked towards strengthening the country's non-aligned stance during the Cold War.
Continue ReadingLarry Flynt
American publisher and Hustler founder
Born
1942 84 years ago
Died
February 10th, 2021 5 years ago — 79 years old
A publisher and entrepreneur, Flynt founded the adult magazine Hustler in 1974, which gained notoriety for its explicit content and portrayal of sexual topics. Through legal battles, he became a key figure in the fight for First Amendment rights related to obscenity and adult entertainment. His company, Larry Flynt Publications, expanded to include several other publications and media ventures. Flynt's provocative style and willingness to challenge censorship led to significant legal precedents regarding free speech. He also produced films and was the subject of the biographical film 'The People vs. Larry Flynt' released in 1996.
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