Balu Mahendra
Sri Lankan-Indian filmmaker and cinematographer
A filmmaker and cinematographer, with roots in both Sri Lanka and India, contributed significantly to Indian cinema. Directed critically acclaimed films primarily in Tamil cinema. Known for innovative techniques in cinematography, shaping visual storytelling. His work often integrated traditional narratives with modern cinematic expressions. Influenced a generation of filmmakers and artists and helped popularize regional films on global platforms. Passed away on February 13, 2014.
Directed the film 'Moondram Pirai'
Cinematographer for 'Sathi Leelavathi'
Scriptwriter for multiple acclaimed films
Other People Born on May 20th
R. J. Mitchell
English engineer, designer of the Spitfire
Born
May 20th, 1895 130 years ago
Died
June 11th, 1937 88 years ago — 42 years old
An English engineer specializing in aircraft design, contributed significantly to aviation technology. Designed the Supermarine Spitfire, a fighter aircraft used extensively during World War II. Spitfire gained a reputation for its performance and effectiveness in aerial combat. Mitchell's engineering leadership and innovative designs advanced the field of aeronautics and played a crucial role in the Battle of Britain.
Continue ReadingGeorge Prendergast
Australian politician, 28th Premier of Victoria
Born
May 20th, 1854 171 years ago
Died
August 28th, 1937 88 years ago — 83 years old
Served as the 28th Premier of Victoria from 1900 to 1901. Prendergast was a member of the Australian Labor Party and held various political positions throughout his career. His leadership contributed to significant legislative reforms within the state, focusing on workers' rights and education. He was involved in the development of infrastructure projects aimed at improving the state's economy. His tenure as Premier marked a critical period in Victorian politics during the early 1900s.
Continue ReadingDave Thomas
Canadian actor and director of SCTV
Born
May 20th, 1949 76 years ago
Died
August 27th, 2013 12 years ago — 64 years old
An actor, director, producer, and screenwriter, involved with the sketch comedy show SCTV, which gained critical acclaim. Also co-created and starred in the film Strange Brew, which became a cult classic. Contributed to television and film projects throughout career, winning accolades for comedic performances and writing skills.
Continue ReadingJohn Strasberg
Actor and teacher associated with acting
Born
May 20th, 1941 84 years ago
An American actor and teacher, contributed significantly to the field of acting through teachings based on the methods developed by Lee Strasberg. Engaged in numerous productions, both on stage and in film, and played a critical role in directing and mentoring a new generation of actors. Operated in various theater companies and continued the legacy of the Actors Studio, focusing on emotional authenticity and character development in performances.
Continue ReadingTeodoro Fernández
Peruvian footballer and top goal scorer
Born
May 20th, 1913 112 years ago
Died
1996 29 years ago — 83 years old
Played as a forward in professional football. Primarily represented Alianza Lima during the 1930s and 1940s. Achieved success in the Peruvian league, becoming one of its all-time leading scorers. Represented Peru in international competitions, including the Copa América, contributing significantly to the team's performance.
Continue ReadingGeorge Gobel
American actor and comedian
Born
May 20th, 1919 106 years ago
Died
February 24th, 1991 34 years ago — 71 years old
Achieved prominence in the entertainment industry, particularly through television and film in the mid-20th century. Gained a significant audience with the television show 'The George Gobel Show', which aired from 1954 to 1955. Featured in movies such as 'The Seven Little Foys', showcasing comedic talent. Received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame for contributions to television.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on February 13th
Zelimkhan Yandarbiyev
Chechen politician, 2nd President of Ichkeria
Born
1952 73 years ago
Died
February 13th, 2004 21 years ago — 52 years old
A politician served as the second President of the Chechen Republic of Ichkeria from 1997 to 1998. Yandarbiyev played a significant role during the Chechen conflicts, advocating for Chechnya's independence from Russia. Following the conflicts, he became an opponent of Russian policies regarding Chechnya, contributing to the Chechen separatist movement. Exiled in various countries due to political tensions, his leadership was marked by a commitment to Chechen self-determination and governance. Yandarbiyev was assassinated in Qatar in 2004.
Continue ReadingMurtala Mohammed
Nigerian General and President
Born
1938 87 years ago
Died
February 13th, 1976 49 years ago — 38 years old
Served as a Nigerian general and the fourth president of Nigeria from 1975 until assassination in 1976. Oversaw a period of military rule known for political action, economic reform, and efforts to combat corruption. Established a policy of immediate return to civilian rule, which laid the groundwork for Nigeria's eventual transition to democracy. Focused on infrastructural development and aimed to control the economy more effectively, taking steps that included a nationalization policy affecting several sectors.
Continue ReadingPieter Kooijmans
Dutch politician and Foreign Minister
Born
1933 92 years ago
Died
February 13th, 2013 12 years ago — 80 years old
Served as a prominent Dutch judge and politician. Held the position of Minister of Foreign Affairs from 1973 to 1977, contributing to the Netherlands' international diplomatic efforts. Participated in numerous international organizations and was influential in shaping foreign policy during tenure. Later served as a judge at the International Court of Justice, emphasizing commitment to international law and justice.
Continue ReadingHenrik
Danish Prince Consort, author, poet
Born
1934 91 years ago
Died
February 13th, 2018 7 years ago — 84 years old
Born in France, became Prince Consort of Denmark through marriage to Queen Margrethe II. Actively engaged in cultural affairs, supported arts and literature, and authored several books. Focused on the welfare of Danish cultural institutions and worked to strengthen ties between Denmark and France. Contributed to the modern image of the Danish monarchy. Passed away in 2018.
Continue ReadingMark Krasnosel'skii
Mathematician and academic in functional analysis
Born
April 27th, 1920 105 years ago
Died
February 13th, 1997 28 years ago — 76 years old
A Russian-Ukrainian mathematician contributed significantly to functional analysis, topology, and differential equations. Emphasized the study of nonlinear functional analysis and applied these principles in various fields. Served as a professor at several institutions and published numerous papers and books that have been referenced widely. Engaged in educating future mathematicians and influenced several branches of mathematics through original theories and solutions. His research led to advancements in understanding fixed-point theorems, which are essential in various areas of mathematics and applied sciences.
Continue ReadingFaith Bandler
Australian activist and author
Born
1918 107 years ago
Died
February 13th, 2015 10 years ago — 97 years old
An Australian activist and author, played a major role in advocating for the rights of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. Contributed to the 1967 referendum that facilitated the inclusion of Indigenous Australians in the census. Authored several influential works, including 'Wrestling with the Angel', which examines her experiences and the struggles for rights. Worked with various organizations to promote social justice and equality throughout her career.
Continue Reading