Avvakum
Russian priest and saint
A priest in the Russian Orthodox Church, played a significant role in the 17th-century church schism known as the Old Believers' movement. Advocated for traditional practices and resisted reforms introduced by the Patriarch of Moscow. Imprisoned multiple times due to opposition to the church leadership and reforms. Canonized as a saint after death, leading to recognition among the Old Believers.
Led the Old Believers' movement
Authored a well-known autobiography
Opposed church reforms by Patriarch Nikon
Other People Born on November 20th
Dušan Tadić
Professional Footballer with notable club success
Born
November 20th, 1988 37 years ago
A Serbian footballer who primarily plays as a winger and attacking midfielder. Began professional career at Vojvodina before moving to play for Groningen in the Netherlands. Gained prominence at Twente, where a successful tenure included winning the Eredivisie title in 2010. Later joined Southampton in the Premier League, contributing to the team for four seasons. Currently serves as captain of Ajax in the Eredivisie, leading the team to domestic and European competitions, including winning multiple league and cup titles. A key player for the Serbian national team, participating in the 2018 FIFA World Cup.
Continue ReadingAgon Mehmeti
Swedish footballer with professional career
Born
November 20th, 1989 36 years ago
A professional footballer, played as a forward. Initiated a career in the Allsvenskan with Örebro SK, contributing to the team's performance in top-tier Swedish football. Played for various clubs in Sweden and abroad, showcasing skills in several competitive leagues. Competed in international fixtures representing Sweden at youth levels.
Continue ReadingAndrew Driver
Professional footballer and winger
Born
November 20th, 1987 38 years ago
A footballer who played as a winger, primarily representing clubs in England. Began his career with the youth team of the English club, Hearts, and made his first-team debut in 2005. Achieved notable success in the Scottish Premier League during his time with Hearts, including winning the Scottish Cup in 2006. Moved to England and played for Brentford, where he contributed to the team’s performance in the League One. Also played for the Houston Dynamo in Major League Soccer, marking his transition to North American football. His playing style was characterized by pace and creativity on the flanks, contributing to various goals and assists throughout his career.
Continue ReadingHu Yaobang
Chinese politician, General Secretary of CPC
Born
November 20th, 1915 110 years ago
Died
April 15th, 1989 36 years ago — 73 years old
A prominent Chinese politician served as General Secretary of the Chinese Communist Party from 1982 to 1987. During this time, initiated economic reforms that aimed to modernize China’s economy. His leadership style emphasized open political discourse and a departure from dogmatic Marxism. Resigned amid pressures related to student protests and was viewed as a reformist. Posthumously honored as a symbol of political reform during subsequent demonstrations.
Continue ReadingMax Pacioretty
Professional ice hockey player with NHL
Born
November 20th, 1988 37 years ago
An ice hockey player primarily played as a left winger in the National Hockey League (NHL). Started professional career with the Montreal Canadiens after being selected 22nd overall in the 2007 NHL Entry Draft. Served as team captain for the Canadiens, contributing significantly to the team's performance during tenure. Later played for the Vegas Golden Knights, helping the team reach the Stanley Cup Final in 2018. Concluded career with the Carolina Hurricanes, having established a reputation for scoring ability and leadership on the ice.
Continue ReadingBen Hamer
English footballer and goalkeeper
Born
November 20th, 1987 38 years ago
A footballer began career in the youth system at Portsmouth before moving to Bromley. Transitioned to professional football with an impressive spell at Charlton Athletic and made significant contributions while on loan at other clubs. Joined Leicester City where won the Premier League title in the 2015-2016 season. Later played for clubs including Huddersfield Town and Cardiff City, known for solid performances in goal. Continued to play in various leagues, showcasing skills and experience throughout career.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on April 14th
Bartholomew de Badlesmere
English soldier and politician
Born
1275 751 years ago
Died
April 14th, 1322 703 years ago — 47 years old
Served as the 1st Baron Badlesmere and held the position of Lord Warden of the Cinque Ports. Participated in the political and military affairs during the late medieval period in England. Engaged in conflicts associated with the ongoing struggles of baronic power during the reign of Edward II. Actively involved in various military campaigns.
Continue ReadingRandolfo Pacciardi
Italian politician and minister
Born
January 1st, 1899 127 years ago
Died
April 14th, 1991 34 years ago — 92 years old
Pacciardi served as an influential centre-left politician in Italy. He held multiple governmental positions, including Minister of Defense and Minister of Justice. Active in politics from the early 20th century, he was a member of the Italian Socialist Party and later co-founded the Italian Democratic Socialist Party. Engaged in significant political reforms, he played a role in the transition of Italy to a republic after World War II. His political career extended into various legislative reforms that aimed to modernize Italian society.
Continue ReadingGirolamo Riario
Italian Noble and Military Leader
Born
1443 583 years ago
Died
April 14th, 1488 537 years ago — 45 years old
Held titles as Lord of Imola and Forli during the late 15th century. Served as a military commander and was involved in various political alliances and conflicts of the era. Played a significant role in the power struggles of the Italian city-states. Controlled considerable territories and was a prominent figure in the political landscape of Renaissance Italy.
Continue ReadingGeorge Frideric Handel
Composer of Messiah and Water Music
Born
February 23rd, 1685 341 years ago
Died
April 14th, 1759 266 years ago — 74 years old
Born in Germany, Handel became a prominent composer who settled in England. His work encompassed various musical forms, including operas, oratorios, and instrumental compositions. Handel's most acclaimed piece, the oratorio Messiah, premiered in 1742 and has since become a cornerstone of classical choral music. His contributions to the development of English opera were notable, with productions such as Rinaldo and Giulio Cesare. Handel's Water Music suite, originally performed on the Thames River for King George I in 1717, remains popular in concert repertoire. Handel's influence extended beyond his lifetime, significantly shaping the evolution of Western classical music.
Continue ReadingJames Hepburn
Earl of Bothwell, husband of Mary Stuart
Born
1534 492 years ago
Died
April 14th, 1578 447 years ago — 44 years old
Served as the 4th Earl of Bothwell and became the husband of Mary, Queen of Scots. Played a significant role in the political dynamics of 16th-century Scotland. Involved in contentious political schemes and faced allegations of involvement in the death of Mary’s former husband, Henry Stuart. Engaged in a tumultuous relationship with Mary which led to significant political unrest and her eventual abdication. His life ended in exile in 1578.
Continue ReadingMick Staton
American soldier and politician
Born
1940 86 years ago
Died
April 14th, 2014 11 years ago — 74 years old
Served as a soldier in the United States Army. Transitioned into politics, representing Virginia's 31st House District as a Republican. Held office from 2002 until 2004, during which time focused on legislative issues affecting the community and military personnel. Engaged in local governance and contributed to policy-making initiatives that addressed various state matters. Passed away in 2014.
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