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
Joel Moon
Rugby league player & representative athlete
Born
May 20th, 1988 38 years ago
Debuted in professional rugby league in 2007. Played for clubs including the Sydney Roosters and the New Zealand Warriors. Represented New South Wales Country in representative matches. Participated in the rugby league World Cup, contributing to team strategies and performance.
Continue ReadingWilliam Redington Hewlett
Co-founder of Hewlett-Packard
Born
May 20th, 1913 113 years ago
Died
January 12th, 2001 25 years ago — 87 years old
An American engineer and businessman co-founded Hewlett-Packard in 1939, a pioneering company in the electronics industry known for quality computing and measurement devices. The company initially gained success with the production of audio oscillators. Under effective leadership, the business expanded its range of products, influencing the growth of Silicon Valley. Hewlett also served as a director of the board for several organizations and was involved in various philanthropic activities throughout his career. His contributions to the technology sector helped shape the landscape of modern computing.
Continue ReadingGeorge Gobel
American actor and comedian
Born
May 20th, 1919 107 years ago
Died
February 24th, 1991 35 years ago — 71 years old
Achieved prominence in the entertainment industry, particularly through television and film in the mid-20th century. Gained a significant audience with the television show 'The George Gobel Show', which aired from 1954 to 1955. Featured in movies such as 'The Seven Little Foys', showcasing comedic talent. Received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame for contributions to television.
Continue ReadingBobby Murcer
Baseball player and sportscaster
Born
May 20th, 1946 80 years ago
Died
July 12th, 2008 18 years ago — 62 years old
A baseball player, coach, and sportscaster, the individual played primarily for the New York Yankees. Career in Major League Baseball spanned 17 seasons, debuting in 1965. As an outfielder, achieved 1,400 hits, 175 home runs, and 1,000 runs batted in. Transitioned to sportscasting after retirement, becoming a prominent Yankees broadcaster and earning recognition in the field.
Continue ReadingVladimiro Montesinos
Peruvian intelligence officer
Born
May 20th, 1945 81 years ago
Served as head of the National Intelligence Service of Peru from 1990 to 2000. Played a crucial role in the government's efforts against the Shining Path and the Tupac Amaru Revolutionary Movement. Managed intelligence operations and implemented controversial strategies that included corruption and human rights violations. His influence extended to various government decisions and policies during Alberto Fujimori's presidency. Faces multiple legal issues related to corruption and human rights abuses after the fall of Fujimori's government.
Continue ReadingHenry Bolte
Politician and Premier of Victoria
Born
May 20th, 1908 118 years ago
Died
January 4th, 1990 36 years ago — 81 years old
Served as the 38th Premier of Victoria from 1955 to 1972, holding office for a notable 17 years. Led the Victorian Liberal Party and promoted extensive economic development and infrastructure projects. Played a significant role in shaping the state's policies during a period of growth and change.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on May 19th
Phil Lamason
New Zealand soldier and pilot with a heroic role
Born
September 15th, 1918 108 years ago
Died
May 19th, 2012 14 years ago — 93 years old
Served as a pilot in the Royal New Zealand Air Force during World War II. Participated in missions in the Pacific theater and became a prisoner of war after being shot down. During captivity, led a group of Allied airmen in escape efforts from a Japanese prison camp. Post-war, received recognition for bravery and leadership. Contributed to veterans' organizations, supporting fellow servicemen.
Continue ReadingArthur Shrewsbury
English cricketer and rugby player
Born
April 11th, 1856 170 years ago
Died
May 19th, 1903 123 years ago — 47 years old
Played first-class cricket for Nottinghamshire from 1877 to 1902. Served as captain of Nottinghamshire and achieved significant success in the sport, including being part of the team that won the County Championship in 1880 and 1888. Also represented England in Test cricket and participated in rugby matches, showcasing versatility in sports during the late 19th century.
Continue ReadingJean Rey
Belgian politician, 2nd President of EC
Born
July 15th, 1902 124 years ago
Died
May 19th, 1983 43 years ago — 80 years old
A prominent Belgian lawyer and politician held the position of the second President of the European Commission from 1967 to 1970. Played a crucial role in developing European integration during this tenure. Also served as the Minister of Transport and Communications in Belgium. Contributed significantly to various legal reforms and policies that shaped Belgium's participation in the European community. After leaving the European Commission, continued involvement in European affairs as a public figure and advocate for European unity.
Continue ReadingJeffrey Catherine Jones
Comics and fantasy artist
Born
January 10th, 1944 82 years ago
Died
May 19th, 2011 15 years ago — 67 years old
An influential figure in the world of comic book art and fantasy illustration. Contributed significantly to the field with a unique style characterized by ethereal landscapes and striking character designs. Worked on projects for major publishing companies, particularly known for contributions to "Creepy" and "Eerie" magazines. Involved with the production of the comic book "The Secret Adventures of Houdini". Engaged in personal projects that explored gender identity and the human experience, leaving a lasting mark on the art community.
Continue ReadingClaude Henri de Rouvroy
Economist and philosopher, Saint-Simon
Born
October 17th, 1760 265 years ago
Died
May 19th, 1825 201 years ago — 64 years old
Born in France, one of the prominent figures in early socialism. Developed theories on industrial society and the role of the industrial class in social progress. Advocated for a new social order that emphasized the importance of productive work and the coordination of industry. Founded the Saint-Simonian movement, which influenced socialist thought and later socialist movements across Europe. Writings included 'The New Christianity' and 'The Industrial System', which emphasized scientific and industrial development as key to societal advancement.
Continue ReadingAlan Young
Actor and voice of Scrooge McDuck
Born
November 19th, 1919 106 years ago
Died
May 19th, 2016 10 years ago — 96 years old
Born in England and later moved to Canada, an actor and director gained prominence in the mid-20th century. Best known for starring in the television sitcom 'Mr. Ed', which showcased a talking horse. He also provided the voice of Scrooge McDuck in Disney productions, bringing to life the character in various animated series and films. In addition to acting, he pursued singing and directing, contributing to both film and television.
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