Alexey Maresyev
Russian soldier and pilot, WWII hero
Served as a pilot in the Soviet Air Force during World War II. After being shot down, endured severe injuries and amputations, yet returned to active duty despite significant physical challenges. Participated in numerous combat missions and contributed to the Soviet effort in the war. His life story inspired literature and film, including the famous novella "The Story of a Real Man".
Flew over 100 combat missions
Received the title of Hero of the Soviet Union
Inspired the novella 'The Story of a Real Man'
Other People Born on May 20th
Sadaharu Oh
Baseball player with 868 home runs
Born
May 20th, 1940 85 years ago
A distinguished baseball player and manager, achieved a record 868 home runs during a prolific career in Nippon Professional Baseball. Played primarily for the Yomiuri Giants, rapidly became one of the most celebrated figures in Japanese baseball. Transitioned to a managerial role after retirement, leading teams to multiple championships. Represented Japan internationally, contributing to the sport's growth within the country.
Continue ReadingBoudewijn de Groot
Dutch singer-songwriter and guitarist
Born
May 20th, 1944 81 years ago
This Indonesian-Dutch musician gained prominence in the 1960s and 1970s with a unique blend of folk and pop music. Significant works include albums such as 'Voor de Overlevenden' and 'Mag ik dan bij jou'. His songwriting often reflected social and political themes, resonating with audiences across generations. The artist collaborated with various musicians, contributing to the Dutch music scene.
Continue ReadingBud Grant
Football coach, led Vikings to four Super Bowls
Born
May 20th, 1927 98 years ago
Died
2023 3 years ago — 96 years old
A significant figure in American football, Grant served as head coach of the Minnesota Vikings for multiple tenures, including a period from 1967 to 1983. Under Grant's leadership, the Vikings reached the Super Bowl four times, although they did not secure a championship victory. Prior to coaching, Grant played as a wide receiver for the Philadelphia Eagles and the Los Angeles Rams. He also made a mark in Canadian football, coaching the Winnipeg Blue Bombers to multiple Grey Cup championships. In addition to coaching, Grant was an influential figure in sports administration and served in various capacities, helping shape the future of football in Minnesota.
Continue ReadingSteve Currie
English bass player, famous for role in glam rock band
Born
May 20th, 1947 78 years ago
Died
1981 45 years ago — 34 years old
A prominent English bass player, contributed significantly to the glam rock genre in the 1970s. Achieved recognition as a member of the band T. Rex, known for its chart-topping hits. Played on some of the band’s most successful albums, enhancing their distinctive sound. Participated in live performances that showcased the band's dynamic stage presence, contributing to their popularity during the height of the glam rock era.
Continue ReadingConstance Towers
Actress and singer in film and television
Born
May 20th, 1933 92 years ago
An accomplished actress and singer, career began in the 1950s with notable stage performances. Gained recognition for roles in films such as 'The Horse Soldiers' and 'The Naked and the Dead'. Also starred in various television series, including 'General Hospital' and 'The Bold and the Beautiful'. Her talents extended to Broadway, showcasing versatility in both acting and singing. Received accolades for performances that highlighted skill in both dramatic and musical roles.
Continue ReadingKen Boyer
Baseball player and manager, World Series champ
Born
May 20th, 1931 94 years ago
Died
September 7th, 1982 43 years ago — 51 years old
A baseball player and manager, achieved significant success in Major League Baseball. Played primarily for the St. Louis Cardinals, where a standout career spanned from 1955 to 1965. Excelled as a third baseman and earned the National League Most Valuable Player award in 1964. Contributed to the Cardinals' victory in the 1964 World Series. Later transitioned to manage teams including the New York Mets and the Cardinals, further influencing the game behind the scenes.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on May 19th
Coleman Hawkins
American jazz saxophonist and bandleader
Born
November 21st, 1904 121 years ago
Died
May 19th, 1969 56 years ago — 64 years old
A prominent figure in jazz music, contributions to the genre included pioneering the tenor saxophone as a solo instrument. Initially played with the Fletcher Henderson Orchestra in the 1920s and became a central figure in the jazz scene. Recorded the landmark album 'Body and Soul' in 1939, which is considered one of the defining works of jazz improvisation. Collaborated with numerous renowned musicians and participated in the bebop movement in the 1940s.
Continue ReadingLuis Ocaña
Cyclist with Tour de France success
Born
1945 81 years ago
Died
May 19th, 1994 31 years ago — 49 years old
A prominent Spanish cyclist who excelled in road racing. Achieved significant success during the early 1970s, particularly in the Tour de France. Won the Tour de France in 1973 while riding for the Moulin-Laurance team. Also secured victories in the Spanish National Road Championships and was a notable competitor in the Vuelta a España, finishing as a runner-up.
Continue ReadingGarcía Hurtado de Mendoza
Royal Governor of Chile
Born
July 21st, 1535 490 years ago
Died
May 19th, 1609 416 years ago — 73 years old
Born in 1535, served as the Royal Governor of Chile from 1557 to 1561. Oversaw the consolidation of Spanish power in the region and the establishment of various settlements. Led military campaigns against indigenous Mapuche populations, particularly noted for the Battle of Valdivia. Instrumental in the development of agriculture and trade in colonial Chile.
Continue ReadingJohn Beradino
Baseball player and actor in The Doctors
Born
May 1st, 1917 108 years ago
Died
May 19th, 1996 29 years ago — 79 years old
Played as a major league baseball infielder for the St. Louis Cardinals and the Pittsburgh Pirates from 1939 to 1945. After his baseball career, transitioned into acting, securing a role in the soap opera The Doctors, where he portrayed Dr. Steve Hardy for over 30 years. Also appeared in various films during the 1940s, contributing to both sports and entertainment industries.
Continue ReadingJimmy Lyons
American saxophonist with notable works
Born
December 1st, 1931 94 years ago
Died
May 19th, 1986 39 years ago — 54 years old
A prominent figure in the free jazz movement, contributed significantly to the genre through innovative saxophone performances. Collaborated with influential musicians, most notably as a member of the Cecil Taylor Unit from the 1960s until the end of the 1970s. Lyons' style blended improvisation with avant-garde elements, shaping the sound of contemporary jazz. Released several albums that showcased his artistic vision and technical prowess, leaving a lasting mark on jazz music.
Continue ReadingBooth Tarkington
American novelist and dramatist
Born
July 29th, 1869 156 years ago
Died
May 19th, 1946 79 years ago — 76 years old
A prominent American novelist and dramatist, contributed significantly to early 20th-century literature. Authored several famous works, most notably "The Magnificent Ambersons" and "Alice Adams," both of which won Pulitzer Prizes. Engaged in the literary scene of his time, engaging with themes of social status and the complexities of American life. Besides fiction, also wrote plays that were performed on Broadway, further showcasing versatility in storytelling.
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