Alexandre Stavisky
Ukrainian-French financier
A financier active in France during the early 20th century, engaged in various business ventures and schemes. Involved in schemes around the bond market, contributed to significant financial fraud that drew considerable attention. The financial scandals led to political upheaval and public outrage in France. The events surrounding these activities and his subsequent death played a role in igniting political tensions in the country.
Engaged in large-scale financial fraud
Created a financial empire based on deceit
Drew significant media attention and public scrutiny
His death triggered political instability
Other People Born on November 20th
Artak Dashyan
Armenian footballer and midfielder
Born
November 20th, 1989 36 years ago
Played as a midfielder, contributing to various clubs in Armenia. Had a notable stint with FC Banants, showcasing skills in both domestic leagues and international competitions. Represented the Armenian national team in international fixtures, further elevating presence in the sport. His career continued with involvement in other clubs, cementing a role in Armenian football history.
Continue ReadingHu Yaobang
Chinese politician, General Secretary of CPC
Born
November 20th, 1915 110 years ago
Died
April 15th, 1989 36 years ago — 73 years old
A prominent Chinese politician served as General Secretary of the Chinese Communist Party from 1982 to 1987. During this time, initiated economic reforms that aimed to modernize China’s economy. His leadership style emphasized open political discourse and a departure from dogmatic Marxism. Resigned amid pressures related to student protests and was viewed as a reformist. Posthumously honored as a symbol of political reform during subsequent demonstrations.
Continue ReadingNzuzi Toko
Congolese footballer, Alki Larnaca player
Born
November 20th, 1990 35 years ago
Born in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, a professional footballer played as a midfielder. Began career in the youth system of FC Saint-Étienne in France. Played for various clubs, including AS Vita Club, where contributed to the team's domestic success. Later moved to Europe, playing for several teams in lower divisions and eventually joined Alki Larnaca in Cyprus, furthering his career in international football.
Continue ReadingAgon Mehmeti
Swedish footballer with professional career
Born
November 20th, 1989 36 years ago
A professional footballer, played as a forward. Initiated a career in the Allsvenskan with Örebro SK, contributing to the team's performance in top-tier Swedish football. Played for various clubs in Sweden and abroad, showcasing skills in several competitive leagues. Competed in international fixtures representing Sweden at youth levels.
Continue ReadingDmitry Zhitnikov
Russian handball player and champion
Born
November 20th, 1989 36 years ago
Competed in handball at the professional level, representing Russia in international competitions. Achieved significant success at the club level, particularly with the Russian team Chekhovskie Medvedi. Contributed to Russia's national handball team during various championships, including the European Handball Championship.
Continue ReadingDariga Shakimova
Kazakhstani Boxer, World Championships Medalist
Born
November 20th, 1988 37 years ago
A competitive boxer who represented Kazakhstan in various international competitions. Achieved significant success at the AIBA Women's World Boxing Championships, securing a bronze medal in 2016. Participated in the 2016 Rio Olympics, showcasing talent on an Olympic level. Has competed in multiple national championships and contributed to the growth of women's boxing in Kazakhstan.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on January 8th
Peter Sarstedt
Singer-songwriter with 'Where Do You Go To?'
Born
1941 84 years ago
Died
January 8th, 2017 8 years ago — 76 years old
A singer-songwriter and guitarist, contributed significantly to the music scene in the 1960s and 1970s. Achieved fame with the hit single 'Where Do You Go To (My Lovely)' in 1969, which reached the top of the charts in several countries. Released multiple albums, showcasing a blend of folk and pop styles. Continued to perform and record music throughout his career, maintaining a loyal following.
Continue ReadingGeorge Bellows
American painter of boxing scenes
Born
1882 143 years ago
Died
January 8th, 1925 100 years ago — 43 years old
A prominent American painter, noted for contributions to the Ashcan School, which focused on depicting daily life in early 20th century America. Worked primarily with oil on canvas, capturing scenes of urban life and sports. Gained acclaim for boxing paintings that illustrated the intensity and drama of the sport. Participated in exhibitions at the National Academy of Design and was a member of the influential Society of American Artists. His style is characterized by vigorous brushwork and bold colors, revealing a raw energy that resonated with contemporary audiences. Held a significant influence on American art and left a lasting legacy through his explorations of realism and expressionism in various social settings.
Continue ReadingHarvey Haddix
Baseball player and coach, 1959 All-Star
Born
September 18th, 1925 100 years ago
Died
January 8th, 1994 31 years ago — 68 years old
Played as a left-handed pitcher in Major League Baseball for teams including the Pittsburgh Pirates and the St. Louis Cardinals. Achieved notable success during the 1959 season, earning an All-Star selection. Coached several teams after retirement, contributing to the development of players and pitching strategies. Finished a distinguished career with over 130 wins and recognized for a nearly perfect game against the Milwaukee Braves in 1959.
Continue ReadingKurt Schwitters
German painter and graphic designer
Born
June 20th, 1887 138 years ago
Died
January 8th, 1948 77 years ago — 60 years old
A significant figure in modern art, this individual was involved in various artistic movements, primarily Dada and Constructivism. Developed a unique style known as Merz, combining found objects and collage techniques. Created a wide range of works, from paintings to poetry and sound art. Contributed to the avant-garde scene in Europe, particularly in Germany and later in Norway.
Continue ReadingGerhard Barkhorn
German Luftwaffe pilot, fighter ace
Born
March 20th, 1919 106 years ago
Died
January 8th, 1983 42 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 ReadingAndrei Bely
Russian novelist and poet, 'Petersburg'
Born
October 26th, 1880 145 years ago
Died
January 8th, 1934 91 years ago — 53 years old
Significant contributions to Russian literature included the novel 'Petersburg,' exploring the themes of identity and revolution in early 20th-century Russia. Active in the Symbolist movement, involved in the literary avant-garde, and contributed to various journals and literary circles. A prominent figure in the Russian literary scene, influenced modernist literature through innovative use of language and form. His works often reflected personal and political turmoil, addressing the complexities of the Russian psyche amidst societal changes.
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