Ana Néri
Brazilian nurse and philanthropist
A pioneering nurse and philanthropist, contributions to healthcare during the 19th century significantly shaped nursing in Brazil. Established the first nursing school in Brazil, providing formal training for nurses. Dedicated efforts during the War of the Triple Alliance led to the establishment of a field hospital, where organized care for wounded soldiers took place. Advocated for improved medical care and education for women, influencing future generations of healthcare professionals.
Founded Brazil's first nursing school
Served in the War of the Triple Alliance
Pioneered women's roles in healthcare
Other People Born on December 13th
Plinio Corrêa de Oliveira
Brazilian historian and activist
Born
December 13th, 1908 117 years ago
Died
1995 30 years ago — 87 years old
A historian and activist focused on traditionalism and the influence of Christian values in society. Founded the Society for the Defense of Tradition, Family and Property in Brazil. Wrote extensively on topics related to culture, history, and politics, emphasizing the need for a return to conservative principles. Engaged in political activism and was influential in Brazilian conservative circles, advocating against communism and leftist ideologies throughout the 20th century.
Continue ReadingAga Khan IV
49th Imam of the Nizari Isma'ili community
Born
December 13th, 1936 89 years ago
Died
February 4th, 2025 0 years ago — 88 years old
Assumed leadership as the 49th Imam of the Nizari Isma'ili community in 1957. Focused on the development and education of the Isma'ili community worldwide. Established institutions such as the Aga Khan Development Network to improve health, education, and infrastructure in various countries. Engaged in philanthropic efforts across multiple sectors, including health care, education, and rural development. Advocated for pluralism and the importance of dialogue within various cultures and faiths.
Continue ReadingLaurens van der Post
Soldier and author of 'The Lost World'
Born
December 13th, 1906 119 years ago
Died
1996 29 years ago — 90 years old
Born in 1906, this individual served in the Second World War and was captured during the Battle of Java. After the war, focused on writing, producing literary works that often drew from African experiences. Authored 'The Lost World', a novel reflecting on the impact of colonialism. Additionally, became known for his writings on the Bushmen of the Kalahari Desert, which helped to bring attention to their culture and plight. Contributed significantly to the field of psychology with works linking visions and dreams to indigenous wisdom.
Continue ReadingElizabeth Alexander
Geologist and physicist, academic leader
Born
December 13th, 1908 117 years ago
Died
October 15th, 1958 67 years ago — 49 years old
Contributed significantly to the fields of geology and physics. Served as a professor and held important academic positions, influencing geological education and research. Engaged in extensive research on geological processes and contributed to the understanding of magnetic properties in geological materials.
Continue ReadingJonel Perlea
Conductor and educator with orchestras
Born
December 13th, 1900 125 years ago
Died
1970 55 years ago — 70 years old
Born in Romania, a prominent conductor and educator was influential in the music world, especially during the mid-20th century. Conducting various prestigious orchestras, worked extensively in Europe and later in the United States. Held significant positions, including music director of the National Orchestra of Romania. Dedicated a substantial part of career to teaching and mentoring young musicians, contributing to the development of future talents. Worked with various opera companies, enhancing the presentation of classical works.
Continue ReadingJane Edna Hunter
Social worker and civil rights advocate
Born
December 13th, 1882 143 years ago
Died
1971 54 years ago — 89 years old
Born in 1882, a notable African-American social worker focused on improving the lives of African-American women and children. Established the Phillis Wheatley Association in Cleveland, which provided services such as housing, education, and career training. This organization offered a safe space and essential resources that enabled many individuals to improve their social and economic standing. In addition to her work with the association, she played a significant role in civil rights activism throughout her career, advocating for issues affecting her community.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on May 20th
Ray Manzarek
Keyboardist and co-founder of The Doors
Born
February 12th, 1939 86 years ago
Died
May 20th, 2013 12 years ago — 74 years old
A prominent keyboardist and producer, contributed significantly to rock music as a co-founder of the band The Doors. Instrumental in shaping the sound of the band with distinctive keyboard melodies and innovative use of the organ. Served as the band's creative force alongside its iconic frontman. Played a key role in producing several of the band's albums and supporting the distinctive blend of rock, blues, and psychedelia that characterized their work. Frequent collaborator with other artists throughout his career, exploring various musical genres.
Continue ReadingRoger Angell
Journalist, author, and editor of The New Yorker
Born
September 19th, 1920 105 years ago
Died
May 20th, 2022 3 years ago — 101 years old
A prominent figure in American sports journalism, served as an editor and writer for The New Yorker for several decades. Focused primarily on baseball, contributed extensively to the magazine with essays and critiques. Published books that chronicled the game and its cultural significance, highlighting key moments and players in baseball history. Received several accolades for writing, including a National Magazine Award. His work often combined literary style with in-depth reporting, making notable contributions to the landscape of sports journalism.
Continue ReadingSusan Roces
Filipino actress and producer
Born
July 28th, 1941 84 years ago
Died
May 20th, 2022 3 years ago — 80 years old
An accomplished actress in the Philippine film industry, Roces began her career in the early 1950s and became a prominent figure in both movies and television. She starred in over 300 films, earning a significant following and critical acclaim. Roces also produced films, showcasing her versatility in the industry. Her performance in the film 'Pahiram ng Isang Umaga' received a Best Actress award at the 1989 Metro Manila Film Festival. Roces was also a beloved figure on television, notably portraying a matriarch in the long-running series 'Marinella'. Throughout her career, she remained influential, earning multiple awards and recognition from various organizations.
Continue ReadingFemi Robinson
Nigerian actor and playwright
Born
1940 85 years ago
Died
May 20th, 2015 10 years ago — 75 years old
An influential figure in Nigerian theater and film, contributions spanned acting and playwriting. Starred in the film 'Fried Fish' and the television series 'Village Headmaster'. Worked extensively in the cultural scene, promoting indigenous stories and narratives through performances and productions. Founded various theater groups enhancing the artistic landscape in Nigeria. Played a significant role in the renaissance of Yoruba culture through drama.
Continue ReadingClara Schumann
Pianist and composer with notable concertos
Born
September 13th, 1819 206 years ago
Died
May 20th, 1896 129 years ago — 76 years old
A prominent pianist and composer, she gained recognition during the 19th century for virtuosic piano performances and innovative compositions. As a child prodigy, she began performing publicly at the age of nine, showcasing exceptional talent. In addition to a successful career as a performer, she composed several works for piano, chamber music, and songs. Schumann was one of the first women to make a significant impact on the concert stage and often collaborated with leading musicians of her time. She was also instrumental in promoting the works of her husband, Robert Schumann, and Johannes Brahms. Throughout her life, she upheld a substantial presence in the music world, inspiring future generations of musicians.
Continue ReadingGary Wilson
Anti-pornography activist and author
Born
1956 69 years ago
Died
May 20th, 2021 4 years ago — 65 years old
An advocate against pornography and its effects on society, this individual authored significant works focused on the impact of porn on mental health and relationships. The book 'Your Brain on Porn' gained widespread attention, offering insights into the neuroscience of porn addiction. Engaging in public speaking and educational outreach, this person aimed to inform the public about the psychological consequences of pornography. Efforts included workshops and presentations across various platforms, emphasizing awareness and prevention strategies.
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