Alp Arslan
Seljuk Sultan and military leader
Ruled as the second sultan of the Seljuk Empire from 1063 until 1072. Expanded the empire's territory significantly, securing victories against both Byzantine and Fatimid forces. His leadership during the Battle of Manzikert in 1071 led to a decisive defeat of Byzantium, paving the way for Turkish settlement in Anatolia. Alp Arslan was characterized by a commitment to Islamic unity and governance based on justice and equity.
Defeated the Byzantine Empire at the Battle of Manzikert in 1071
Expanded the Seljuk Empire into Anatolia
Promoted the Sunni faith and supported scholars and poets
Other People Born on January 20th
Walter Piston
Composer and music theorist
Born
January 20th, 1894 131 years ago
Died
November 12th, 1976 49 years ago — 82 years old
A prominent American composer and theorist, contributions spanned both the realms of composition and music education. Served as a professor at Harvard University and influenced future generations of musicians. Composed symphonies, concertos, and chamber music that demonstrated a deep understanding of harmony and form. Works often incorporated elements of American folk music while maintaining a classical structure, reflecting the evolving musical landscape of the 20th century.
Continue ReadingPatrick K. Kroupa
Computer hacker and co-founder of MindVox
Born
January 20th, 1969 56 years ago
Born in 1969, this individual played a significant role in the early days of online culture and computer hacking. As a co-founder of MindVox, a pioneering online community and bulletin board system, contributions included facilitating discussions on technology and hacking. The platform became a hub for hackers and computer enthusiasts during the early internet era. This individual was also associated with various activist movements, advocating for digital rights and the freedom of information.
Continue ReadingGeorge Burns
American actor and comedian in vaudeville
Born
January 20th, 1896 129 years ago
Died
March 9th, 1996 29 years ago — 100 years old
Born in 1896, this individual gained fame as a comedian and actor, particularly through a successful partnership with Gracie Allen in vaudeville. The duo's radio show, 'The George Burns and Gracie Allen Show,' became a staple of American entertainment in the 1940s and 1950s. The transition to television further solidified popularity, showcasing their comedic talents and unique dynamic. Later years included performance in film, with significant roles in 'The Sunshine Boys' and 'Oh, God!.' Recognition included winning multiple Emmy Awards and an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor. This individual continued to perform and entertain into advanced age, demonstrating lasting appeal and significant contributions to the entertainment industry.
Continue ReadingAshikaga Yoshimasa
Japanese shōgun and cultural patron
Born
January 20th, 1436 589 years ago
Died
January 27th, 1490 535 years ago — 54 years old
Born in 1436, served as the 8th shōgun of the Ashikaga shogunate from 1449 until 1473. Oversaw a period marked by cultural flourishing in Japan, particularly during the Muromachi period. Established the Ginkaku-ji, a Zen temple in Kyoto, and supported the development of the tea ceremony and ink painting. His reign faced political turmoil and civil strife, culminating in the Onin War, which significantly affected the governance of Japan. Although governance waned, the cultural heritage initiated during his tenure later influenced various art forms and Japanese aesthetics.
Continue ReadingIra Newble
Professional basketball player in NBA
Born
January 20th, 1975 50 years ago
Professional basketball player participated in the NBA and international leagues. Played for the Cleveland Cavaliers and the Seattle SuperSonics in the NBA. Had a significant career in European basketball, competing in various leagues and achieving success with multiple teams. Represented the United States in international competitions and was part of the team that won the gold medal at the 2003 Pan American Games.
Continue ReadingHennie Aucamp
South African poet and author
Born
January 20th, 1934 91 years ago
Died
March 20th, 2014 11 years ago — 80 years old
Born in 1934, this individual was a poet, author, and academic in South Africa. A significant contributor to Afrikaans literature, numerous works were published including poetry collections and novels. Academic roles included teaching literature at universities, influencing a generation of writers and poets. The literary community recognized contributions through various awards.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on December 15th
Crawford Vaughan
Australian politician, 27th Premier
Born
July 14th, 1874 151 years ago
Died
December 15th, 1947 78 years ago — 73 years old
Served as the 27th Premier of South Australia from 1930 to 1933. Held various positions in government including Minister for Education and Minister for Industry. Contributed to the development of public education policies and worked towards improving infrastructure in the state. Engaged in active politics throughout the early to mid-20th century, shaping the legislative landscape of South Australia.
Continue ReadingWolfgang Pauli
Physicist, Nobel Prize winner
Born
April 25th, 1900 125 years ago
Died
December 15th, 1958 67 years ago — 58 years old
A physicist and academic contributed significantly to quantum mechanics and theoretical physics. Pauli formulated the Pauli exclusion principle, which states that no two fermions can occupy the same quantum state within a quantum system. In 1945, awarded the Nobel Prize in Physics for the discovery of the exclusion principle. Worked at institutions such as the University of Zurich and the Institute for Advanced Study in Princeton, where influences in physics were widely acknowledged. His theories have had lasting implications in quantum theory and particle physics.
Continue ReadingEliza Atkins Gleason
American librarian and educator
Born
December 15th, 1909 116 years ago
Died
December 15th, 2009 16 years ago — 100 years old
Contributed significantly to library science and education in the United States. Worked as an educator and librarian in various institutions. Published widely on library science, history, and education practices. Served as the first African American librarian at the Los Angeles Public Library. Focused on the importance of libraries in urban education and community service.
Continue ReadingAnatole Litvak
Film director of 'The Snake Pit'
Born
May 21st, 1902 123 years ago
Died
December 15th, 1974 51 years ago — 72 years old
Born in Ukraine, a significant figure in American cinema, directing a variety of influential films. Early career included work in European theater and cinema before relocating to the United States. Gained recognition for directing 'The Snake Pit', which addressed mental health issues and featured a groundbreaking performance by the lead actress. Also directed various other successful films throughout the 1940s and 1950s, contributing to the film noir genre and creating works that incorporated social themes.
Continue ReadingPaul Lévy
Mathematician and theorems in probability
Born
September 15th, 1886 139 years ago
Died
December 15th, 1971 54 years ago — 85 years old
Contributions to probability theory included foundational work on stochastic processes and Brownian motion. Developed concepts that bear his name, such as Lévy processes. Served as a professor at the Collège de France and influenced the field through published works. In addition, introduced Lévy-Cramér theorem and Lévy continuity theorem, impacting theoretical and practical applications in mathematics.
Continue ReadingLouis Victor de Rochechouart de Mortemart
French nobleman and courtier
Born
1636 389 years ago
Died
December 15th, 1698 327 years ago — 62 years old
Served as a prominent figure in the French court during the reign of King Louis XIV. Played a significant role in the political and social life of France in the late 17th century. Held the title of Governor of the Province of Île-de-France. Engaged in various diplomatic missions and was involved in several court intrigues.
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