Anne Bradstreet
Puritan American poet of the 17th century
Born in 1612, this individual became the first published female poet in America. Most of the poetry reflected personal experiences, faith, and the challenges faced as a woman in a patriarchal society. The collection 'The Tenth Muse Lately Sprung Up in America' published in 1650, served as a significant milestone in American literature. The work included themes of love, family, and the Puritan experience. Throughout the life, writings offered insights into both the public and private dimensions of life in colonial New England, influencing future generations of poets and writers.
Published 'The Tenth Muse Lately Sprung Up in America' in 1650
Pioneered female literary voice in America
Other People Born on March 20th
Patrick Jennings
Politician, 11th Premier of New South Wales
Born
March 20th, 1831 195 years ago
Died
July 11th, 1897 128 years ago — 66 years old
Northern Irish-Australian politician served as the 11th Premier of New South Wales from 1883 to 1885. His tenure focused on economic reforms and public works projects. Jennings took a leading role in advocating for the development of railways and other infrastructure, contributing to the growth of the state. Prior to his term as Premier, he held various positions in the New South Wales Parliament, where he made significant contributions to legislative initiatives.
Continue ReadingBrian Mulroney
Prime Minister of Canada
Born
March 20th, 1939 87 years ago
Died
February 29th, 2024 2 years ago — 84 years old
Served as the 18th Prime Minister of Canada from 1984 to 1993. Played a key role in the Canada-US Free Trade Agreement, promoting trade between the two nations. His government implemented significant economic reforms and was involved in the negotiations that led to the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA). Mulroney also focused on environmental issues, introducing policies aimed at protecting natural resources. After leaving office, continued to engage in various business and legal ventures, as well as maintaining a presence in Canadian political discourse.
Continue ReadingGerhard Barkhorn
German Luftwaffe pilot, fighter ace
Born
March 20th, 1919 107 years ago
Died
January 8th, 1983 43 years ago — 63 years old
Served as a general and fighter pilot in the German Luftwaffe during World War II. Achieved significant success in aerial combat, becoming one of the top German aces of the war. Barkhorn flew numerous missions on the Eastern Front, demonstrating effectiveness in dogfights and contributing to air superiority for German forces. Post-war, faced challenges as a prisoner of war before eventually resuming a career in aviation and becoming involved in private industry.
Continue ReadingOzzie Nelson
American bandleader and actor
Born
March 20th, 1906 120 years ago
Died
June 3rd, 1975 50 years ago — 69 years old
Bandleader and actor gained fame through the radio and television series The Adventures of Ozzie and Harriet. Featured prominently alongside wife Harriet Hilliard and sons David and Ricky in the show. The series ran from 1952 to 1966, becoming one of the longest-running sitcoms in American television history. Throughout the show's duration, maintained a successful music career while contributing to the television landscape of the era.
Continue ReadingEdward Gibbon Wakefield
English politician and colonization advocate
Born
March 20th, 1796 230 years ago
Died
May 16th, 1862 163 years ago — 66 years old
Contributed significantly to theories of colonization and land settlement. Advocated for systematic colonization in the 19th century, promoting the establishment of new colonies under direct government control. Instrumental in the founding of South Australia, which emphasized free settlement and the sale of land. Known for principles that aimed at balancing land availability with labor supply to create prosperous communities.
Continue ReadingPaul Junger Witt
Television director and producer of 'The Golden Girls'
Born
March 20th, 1943 83 years ago
Died
2018 8 years ago — 75 years old
A director and producer, this individual contributed significantly to the television landscape. Active in the industry from the 1970s to the 2000s, work included production roles on various hit series. The most notable achievement includes producing the iconic sitcom 'The Golden Girls', which became a cultural touchstone. Other successful productions included 'Empty Nest' and 'The Golden Palace'. A graduate of the University of California, Berkeley.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on September 16th
Louis Réard
Fashion Designer, Created the Bikini
Born
1897 129 years ago
Died
September 16th, 1984 41 years ago — 87 years old
An engineer and fashion designer originally from France, revolutionized swimwear by introducing the bikini in 1946. This two-piece bathing suit challenged traditional designs and quickly became a defining symbol of women's beachwear. The design was initially controversial but eventually gained widespread popularity, influencing fashion and culture significantly. Réard’s innovations extended beyond the bikini, as he contributed to the evolution of swimwear aesthetics throughout his career, reflecting the changing attitudes towards body image and femininity.
Continue ReadingGordon Gould
Physicist and laser inventor
Born
July 17th, 1920 105 years ago
Died
September 16th, 2005 20 years ago — 85 years old
An American physicist and academic, contributed to the field of optics and photonics. Invented the laser in the 1950s and coined the term 'laser', standing for Light Amplification by Stimulated Emission of Radiation. Although the invention faced patent disputes, secured a patent in 1977 after several legal battles. Served as a professor and held various academic positions throughout his career.
Continue ReadingMarcelo Rezende
Brazilian journalist and television host
Born
1951 75 years ago
Died
September 16th, 2017 8 years ago — 66 years old
A prominent Brazilian journalist and television host, gained recognition for investigative reporting and hosting popular news programs. Worked at television networks such as TV Record and Rede Globo, contributing significantly to the field of journalism in Brazil. Also hosted programs focused on crime and social issues, drawing large viewership and public interest. Published books on crime and investigated various cases, reflecting the complexities of Brazilian society.
Continue ReadingCatherine Jagiellon
Queen consort of John III of Sweden
Born
1526 500 years ago
Died
September 16th, 1583 442 years ago — 57 years old
Catherine Jagiellon served as the queen consort of John III of Sweden from 1568 until 1583. Born into the Jagiellonian dynasty, her marriage to John III was rooted in political alliances. Catherine played an integral role in the promotion of Catholicism in Sweden during a time of religious transformation. She contributed to the cultural landscape of the court and oversaw various influences in education and the arts. Following her husband's ascension to the throne, she became a central figure in political matters, navigating the complexities of a Protestant kingdom as a Catholic queen.
Continue ReadingThomas Davis
Irish poet and publisher
Born
1814 212 years ago
Died
September 16th, 1845 180 years ago — 31 years old
A prominent figure in Irish literature, this poet significantly contributed to the literary revival of the 19th century. He co-founded the 'Nation' newspaper, which became a platform for nationalist ideas and cultural expression. His poetry often reflected themes of nationalism and identity, resonating with the aspirations of the Irish people. Additionally, his work as an editor promoted the Irish language and literature, fostering a renewed interest in Ireland's cultural heritage.
Continue ReadingH. S. Dillon
Indonesian politician and human rights defender
Born
1945 81 years ago
Died
September 16th, 2019 6 years ago — 74 years old
Served as a prominent Indonesian politician with a focus on human rights advocacy. Engaged actively in promoting democratic governance and civil liberties. Contributed significantly to discussions and initiatives surrounding legal reforms and social justice in Indonesia. Played a pivotal role in various organizations aimed at protecting the rights of marginalized communities.
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