Aziz Nesin
Turkish author and humorist
A prolific Turkish author and humorist. Authored over 100 books including novels, short stories, and plays. Established the Nesin Foundation to support and promote education and literacy in Turkey. Often employed satire to critique social issues, reflecting personal beliefs and observations. Contributed significantly to Turkish literature, particularly in the genre of humor.
Authored 'Zübük' which satirized politics
Founded the Nesin Foundation for education
Other People Born on December 20th
Kan'ichi Asakawa
Historian and author of Japanese history
Born
December 20th, 1873 152 years ago
Died
August 10th, 1948 77 years ago — 74 years old
Contributed significantly to the study of Japanese history, focusing on the Meiji period and its implications for modern Japan. Engaged in extensive research and published several books, elevating understanding of Japan's socio-political transformations during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Worked as a professor, influencing generations of historians and scholars through teaching and mentoring. Played a pivotal role in making historical research accessible and rigorous, underpinning academic standards in the field.
Continue ReadingYvonne Arnaud
French pianist, actress, and singer
Born
December 20th, 1890 135 years ago
Died
1958 67 years ago — 68 years old
Born in France in 1890, a prominent pianist, actress, and singer, showcased talent across various performing arts. Achieved fame in both musical theatre and film. Gained recognition for performances in productions such as 'Bitter Sweet' and 'The Mikado', where musical prowess combined with acting skills. Became a celebrated figure in the entertainment industry, transitioning from concert performances to stage productions seamlessly.
Continue ReadingGabby Hartnett
Baseball player and manager with Cubs
Born
December 20th, 1900 125 years ago
Died
1972 53 years ago — 72 years old
A prominent figure in Major League Baseball, played primarily for the Chicago Cubs. Achieved recognition as a catcher and later took on the role of manager. Made significant contributions to the game during the 1920s and 1930s, becoming a key player for the Cubs as they contended in multiple seasons. Helped lead the team to a National League pennant in 1938. Inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1955, solidifying a legacy in the sport.
Continue ReadingErik Almlöf
Swedish triple jumper and Olympian
Born
December 20th, 1891 134 years ago
Died
1971 54 years ago — 80 years old
Competed in athletics specializing in the triple jump. Participated in the 1912 Summer Olympics held in Stockholm, representing Sweden. Demonstrated significant skill in the sport during competitions in the early 20th century.
Continue ReadingYevgenia Ginzburg
Russian author and Gulag survivor
Born
December 20th, 1904 121 years ago
Died
May 25th, 1977 48 years ago — 72 years old
An author renowned for writings about the Soviet regime, particularly the experiences in the Gulag system. The memoir "Journey into the Whirlwind" details personal experiences of arrest, imprisonment, and life in the labor camps. Ginzburg’s literary works reflect on totalitarianism and the importance of personal freedom. She continued to write following her release, contributing to Soviet literature and illuminating the struggles faced by those in the Soviet Union.
Continue ReadingHazel Hotchkiss Wightman
American tennis champion and entrepreneur
Born
December 20th, 1886 139 years ago
Died
1974 51 years ago — 88 years old
An accomplished tennis player and businessman, contributed notably to the sport in the early 20th century. Won numerous championships, including multiple U.S. National Championships in both singles and doubles. Co-founded the Wightman Cup, an international women's team competition. Played an instrumental role in the establishment of women's tennis organizations and advocated for the inclusion of women's events in competitive tennis.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on July 6th
Arnaldo Pambianco
Professional road racing cyclist
Born
1935 90 years ago
Died
July 6th, 2022 3 years ago — 87 years old
Competed in professional road cycling primarily during the 1970s and 1980s. Participated in prestigious races including the Giro d'Italia. Achieved multiple stage wins and was a part of competitive cycling teams during his career. Retired and later continued involvement in cycling as a coach and mentor.
Continue ReadingBabe Paley
American socialite and style icon
Born
July 5th, 1915 110 years ago
Died
July 6th, 1978 47 years ago — 63 years old
Babe Paley was an American socialite recognized for her elegance and style. Active in the mid-20th century, she became a prominent figure in New York City's social scene. Paley was married to William S. Paley, the founder of CBS, which further elevated her status in elite circles. She was photographed by renowned photographers including Richard Avedon and was featured in fashion publications for her distinctive looks. Paley was influential in the realm of fashion, often setting trends that were emulated by women of her era.
Continue ReadingKathleen E. Woodiwiss
Historical romance novelist and author
Born
1939 86 years ago
Died
July 6th, 2007 18 years ago — 68 years old
A prominent American author, this writer significantly contributed to the historical romance genre, primarily in the late 20th century. The debut novel, 'The Flame and the Flower', published in 1972, revolutionized the genre, integrating detailed historical settings with passionate romance. This work is often credited with sparking the popularity of modern romance novels. Over a career spanning several decades, the author published numerous bestsellers, captivating a large audience with compelling narratives and richly developed characters.
Continue ReadingJoaquín Rodrigo
Spanish composer and pianist, Concierto de Aranjuez
Born
November 22nd, 1901 124 years ago
Died
July 6th, 1999 26 years ago — 97 years old
Born in 1901, a prominent Spanish composer and pianist. Rodrigo lost his eyesight at a young age, yet pursued a successful career in music. His most celebrated work is the 'Concierto de Aranjuez', composed in 1939, which showcases the guitar and orchestra. The piece gained international acclaim and became a staple in both classical and popular music repertoires. Throughout his career, Rodrigo composed numerous works for various ensembles, including orchestras, chamber music, and vocal compositions.
Continue ReadingCarly Hibberd
Australian road racing cyclist
Born
1985 40 years ago
Died
July 6th, 2011 14 years ago — 26 years old
Competed in women's road cycling and represented Australia in various international events. Participated in national championships and earned recognition in road racing competitions. Held a reputation within the cycling community for both performance and sportsmanship. Also contributed to the growth of women's cycling in Australia through advocacy and participation.
Continue ReadingCharlie Daniels
English footballer with notable career
Born
September 7th, 1986 39 years ago
Died
July 6th, 2020 5 years ago — 33 years old
Played professional football primarily as a defender. Started a career at Luton Town, later transferring to clubs such as Bournemouth and Walsall. Achieved recognition for solid performances in the Championship and League One. Contributed to team successes in domestic leagues.
Continue Reading