Alfred Gwynne Vanderbilt

American businessman and racing enthusiast

Alfred Gwynne Vanderbilt - American businessman and racing enthusiast
Born

October 20th, 1877
148 years ago

Died

1915
110 years ago — 38 years old

Category

Leaders & Politicians

Country

United States

Links & References

Engaged in the family shipping and railroad businesses, Vanderbilt played a significant role in the expansion of various transportation companies. He also became an influential figure in horse racing, owning and breeding thoroughbreds. Notably, Vanderbilt participated in the 1915 New York Yacht Club’s race, further showcasing his passion for sports. His life was tragically cut short in the sinking of the RMS Lusitania in 1915.

Expanded family shipping and railroad businesses

Owned and bred thoroughbred racehorses

Participated in the 1915 New York Yacht Club’s race

Other People Born on October 20th

Virender Sehwag

Cricketer and India's Test captain
Born
October 20th, 1978 47 years ago

A prominent Indian cricketer, played for the national team from 1999 to 2013. Primarily an opener, Sehwag revolutionized the role with his aggressive batting style, leading to numerous records in both One Day Internationals (ODIs) and Test matches. His notable innings include a 300 against Sri Lanka in 2004, making him one of the few players to score a triple century in Tests. Sehwag also played a crucial role in India's victory in the 2011 ICC Cricket World Cup. After retiring from international cricket, he pursued a career as a cricket commentator and analyst.

Continue Reading

Adelaide Hall

American-English singer and actress
Born
October 20th, 1901 124 years ago
Died
November 7th, 1993 32 years ago — 92 years old

Born in 1901, one of the prominent figures in the Harlem Renaissance, showcasing her talent as a singer and actress. Hall began her career in the 1920s, gaining recognition for her performances in various musical revues and stage productions. She became particularly well-known for her role in the musical show "Cabin in the Sky". Hall also made significant contributions to the jazz genre, recording with notable musicians. Throughout her career, she performed in both the United States and the United Kingdom, earning a reputation as a versatile entertainer. Hall's work spanned several decades, from the Roaring Twenties to the 1970s, maintaining a dedicated following.

Continue Reading

Enolia McMillan

American educator and civil rights activist
Born
October 20th, 1904 121 years ago
Died
October 24th, 2006 19 years ago — 102 years old

Significant contributions to education and civil rights characterized a career dedicated to promoting equity and justice. Established the first African American Parent Teacher Association in Washington D.C., advocating for the rights of African American children in public schools. Played a key role in the integration of public schools during the civil rights movement. Worked alongside various organizations to improve educational opportunities for minority students and to fight against segregation policies.

Continue Reading

Giovanni di Bernardo Rucellai

Italian poet and playwright, On the Nature of Things
Born
October 20th, 1475 550 years ago
Died
1525 500 years ago — 50 years old

Born in Florence in 1475, an Italian poet and playwright affiliated with the Renaissance movement. Rucellai contributed to the literary scene with original works that explored themes of humanism and classical antiquity. His most notable works include 'On the Nature of Things' and various plays that often drew inspiration from classical sources. Engaged in the cultural and social life of Florence, he became a prominent figure among the intellectual elites of his time. Rucellai's writings reflected the transition from medieval to modern perspectives in literature, contributing to the development of the Italian language in poetry and drama.

Continue Reading

Robert Craft

Conductor and musicologist with Stravinsky
Born
October 20th, 1923 102 years ago
Died
2015 10 years ago — 92 years old

Associated with 20th-century classical music, this conductor and musicologist made significant contributions to the performance and interpretation of Igor Stravinsky's works. Collaborated closely with Stravinsky, conducting premiere performances and providing insights into the composer's music and techniques. Held various positions with prestigious orchestras and institutions, and engaged in teaching and lecturing on musicology. Authored books that explored the details of Stravinsky's life and his creative processes.

Continue Reading

Dominic McGuire

Basketball player for Charlotte Bobcats
Born
October 20th, 1985 40 years ago

A basketball player emerged from the University of California, Berkeley. Played as a forward and had a career in the NBA primarily with the Charlotte Bobcats. Notable in defensive strategies and versatility on the court. Transitioned to various teams in the NBA throughout a career spanning several years.

Continue Reading