Antonio Inoki
Professional wrestler and politician
A prominent figure in professional wrestling and mixed martial arts, involvement in wrestling began in the 1960s, establishing a unique style that combined traditional wrestling techniques with martial arts. Founded the New Japan Pro-Wrestling promotion in 1972, creating a platform for many future stars. Transitioned into politics, serving as a member of the Japanese House of Councillors. Engaged in numerous high-profile exhibition matches and was instrumental in the globalization of pro wrestling.
Founded New Japan Pro-Wrestling
Served as a member of the House of Councillors
Competed in a historic match against Muhammad Ali
Other People Born on February 20th
Charles Auguste de Bériot
Violinist and composer of concertos
Born
February 20th, 1802 223 years ago
Died
April 8th, 1870 155 years ago — 68 years old
A Belgian violinist and composer, this individual significantly contributed to the development of violin playing techniques in the 19th century. Focused primarily on the violin, composed numerous concertos and works for violin and orchestra. Established a renowned teaching career, influencing many violinists through his pedagogy. The individual played a crucial role in the romantic era of music, being one of the first to emphasize the expressive capabilities of the violin.
Continue ReadingClaude Miller
French film director and producer
Born
February 20th, 1942 83 years ago
Died
April 4th, 2012 13 years ago — 70 years old
A prominent French director, producer, and screenwriter contributed significantly to French cinema from the 1970s until the early 2010s. Worked on various films, many of which received critical acclaim. Notable works include 'La Meilleure Façon de marcher' and 'L'Ecole de la chair', showcasing a talent for character-driven storytelling and exploring complex human emotions. Also involved in producing and screenwriting, shaping the landscape of French film during his career.
Continue ReadingE. H. Harriman
Businessman and railroad magnate
Born
February 20th, 1848 177 years ago
Died
September 9th, 1909 116 years ago — 61 years old
A prominent American businessman and philanthropist, established a significant presence in the railroad industry. Played a critical role in transforming the Union Pacific Railroad into one of the leading railroads in the United States. Involved in various business ventures, including investments in mining and utilities. A supporter of numerous philanthropic efforts, focusing on education and the arts, significantly contributed to the endowment of cultural institutions.
Continue ReadingMariliza Xenogiannakopoulou
Greek lawyer and politician
Born
February 20th, 1963 62 years ago
Served as the Greek Minister of Health during the period of 2009 to 2012. Worked on healthcare reforms and initiatives aimed at improving public health services in Greece. Engaged in legislative processes and contributed to policy-making in the health sector. Participated in various committees focusing on health and social affairs, advocating for better healthcare access and management within the country.
Continue ReadingGloria Vanderbilt
Fashion designer and actress
Born
February 20th, 1924 101 years ago
Died
June 17th, 2019 6 years ago — 95 years old
A prominent fashion designer, socialite, and actress, contributions spanned multiple fields. In 1976, launched a successful line of jeans that became a cultural phenomenon. Created an iconic slip-on jeans style that represented luxury and comfort. Additionally, starred in the film 'The Last of Mrs. Lincoln' and appeared on television series such as 'The Love Boat'. Authored several books, including novels and memoirs, providing insight into personal experiences and life as a socialite.
Continue ReadingJohann Heinrich Voss
German poet and translator of Homer
Born
February 20th, 1751 274 years ago
Died
March 29th, 1826 199 years ago — 75 years old
Recognized as a prominent poet and translator, significant contributions included poetic works as well as the German translations of Homer's 'Iliad' and 'Odyssey'. Active in the literary circles of his time and involved with the Göttingen School of Poets, engaged in discussions about aesthetics and literature. Held a professorship at the University of Heidelberg, influencing future generations of poets and scholars through both teachings and writings.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on October 1st
Ole Danbolt Mjøs
Norwegian physician and politician
Born
1939 87 years ago
Died
October 1st, 2013 12 years ago — 74 years old
A prominent physician and academic, dedicated career in medicine and health policy. Served as the director of the Norwegian Institute of Public Health, contributing to significant advancements in public health initiatives. Held the position of Minister of Health and Social Affairs, implementing reforms in healthcare systems. Involved in various international health organizations, advocating for improved healthcare practices. Engaged in academic pursuits, focusing on health policy and medical research.
Continue ReadingImero Fiorentino
Lighting designer for Broadway productions
Born
July 12th, 1928 97 years ago
Died
October 1st, 2013 12 years ago — 85 years old
A prominent American lighting designer, played a significant role in the transformation of stage lighting. Created memorable lighting designs for various notable Broadway productions, enhancing the visual storytelling through innovative lighting techniques. Contributed to the evolution of theatrical lighting, working alongside renowned directors and designers to deliver compelling visual narratives. Also involved in the teaching of lighting design, sharing expertise with future generations of designers.
Continue ReadingMark R. Kravitz
American lawyer and federal judge
Born
1950 76 years ago
Died
October 1st, 2012 13 years ago — 62 years old
Practiced law in Connecticut after graduating from Yale Law School. Served as a United States District Judge for the District of Connecticut from 2006 until 2012. Appointed to the federal bench by George W. Bush. Held significant roles within the court system and contributed to various legal reforms during tenure.
Continue ReadingAntoine Bourdelle
French sculptor and painter
Born
October 30th, 1861 164 years ago
Died
October 1st, 1929 96 years ago — 67 years old
Late 19th and early 20th century sculptor and painter contributed significantly to the development of modern sculpture. Studied under Auguste Rodin before establishing a distinct style that combined classical forms with expressive interpretation. Became a professor at the Académie de la Grande Chaumière in Paris, influencing several generations of artists. Bourdelle's notable works, including 'Hercules the Archer' and the 'Monument to the Martyrs of the Resistance', exemplify his mastery of form and attention to detail, reflecting the human experience through sculpture. His works remain prominent in various museums and collections.
Continue ReadingSven Tumba
Swedish ice hockey player and golfer
Born
1931 95 years ago
Died
October 1st, 2011 14 years ago — 80 years old
Accomplished in both ice hockey and golf, the individual played ice hockey for Djurgårdens IF and represented Sweden in international competitions, including the IIHF World Championships. Transitioning to golf, achievements included winning the Swedish Golf Championship multiple times and competing at a professional level. The dual-sport career rendered significant contributions to both fields in Sweden.
Continue ReadingLynsey de Paul
Singer-songwriter and music producer
Born
June 11th, 1948 77 years ago
Died
October 1st, 2014 11 years ago — 66 years old
A prominent figure in the British music scene, notable for contributions as a singer-songwriter, pianist, producer, and actress. Achieved recognition for chart-topping hits during the 1970s. Gained acclaim for the song 'Sugar Me,' which reached the top of the UK Singles Chart in 1972. In addition to a successful music career, worked as a cartoonist and made appearances in television shows. Founded her own music production company, further influencing the music industry.
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