Benjamin Harrison
23rd President of the United States
Served as the 23rd President of the United States from 1889 to 1893. Was the grandson of William Henry Harrison, the 9th President. Oversaw the admission of six new states into the Union. Implemented the Sherman Antitrust Act aimed at curbing monopolies. Contributed to the modernization of the United States Navy.
Signed the Sherman Antitrust Act in 1890
Oversaw the admission of six states
Participated in the first Pan-American Conference
Other People Born on August 20th
José Wilker
Brazilian actor and director
Born
August 20th, 1944 81 years ago
Died
April 5th, 2014 11 years ago — 69 years old
An influential actor, director, and producer in Brazilian cinema and television. Started career in the late 1960s with performances in various telenovelas and films. Gained prominence for roles in popular shows such as 'Dancing with the Stars' and films like 'Bye Bye Brazil.' Served as a director and producer, contributing significantly to the arts in Brazil. His work has played a crucial role in shaping Brazilian cultural narratives.
Continue ReadingKaho Minagawa
Rhythmic gymnast from Japan
Born
August 20th, 1997 28 years ago
Competed in rhythmic gymnastics, representing Japan. Achieved success in various international competitions, showcasing exceptional skill in routines with hoops, ribbons, and balls. Participated in the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, contributing to the team event and individual apparatus finals. Famed for elegance and technical precision.
Continue ReadingBunty Afoa
Rugby league player for New Zealand
Born
August 20th, 1996 29 years ago
A rugby league player, participated in the National Rugby League (NRL) with the New Zealand Warriors. Made first-grade debut in 2016 and established a reputation as a reliable forward. Contributed to the team's performance during multiple seasons in the NRL. Represented New Zealand at the international level, participating in matches that highlighted the country's prowess in rugby league.
Continue ReadingRoger Wolcott Sperry
Psychologist, Biologist, Nobel Laureate
Born
August 20th, 1913 112 years ago
Died
April 17th, 1994 31 years ago — 80 years old
A psychologist and biologist whose research contributed to the understanding of the lateralization of brain function. Worked extensively with split-brain patients, demonstrating how each hemisphere of the brain has specialized functions. Conducted experiments that illustrated how the two hemispheres communicate differently, providing insights into cognitive processes. Received the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1981 for his findings, sharing the prize with David H. Hubel and Torsten N. Wiesel. His work laid foundational knowledge in neuropsychology and the study of brain mechanisms.
Continue ReadingDemi Lovato
Singer-songwriter and actress from Disney
Born
August 20th, 1992 33 years ago
Singer-songwriter and actress rose to prominence with the Disney Channel series 'Camp Rock' and its sequel. Released multiple albums, achieving commercial success with hits such as 'Skyscraper' and 'Heart Attack'. Made contributions to the music industry as a judge on 'The X Factor' and known for advocacy on mental health issues.
Continue ReadingStefan Aigner
Footballer with Eintracht Frankfurt
Born
August 20th, 1987 38 years ago
Played as a winger, starting professional career in 2006. Competed in Germany's Bundesliga and 2. Bundesliga. Achieved promotion to the Bundesliga with Eintracht Frankfurt during the 2011-2012 season. Contributed to the team's success in the DFB-Pokal, leading to victory in the tournament in 2018.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on March 13th
Fan Noli
Albanian-American bishop and politician
Born
1882 144 years ago
Died
March 13th, 1965 60 years ago — 83 years old
An Albanian-American religious leader and politician served as the 14th Prime Minister of Albania and played a crucial role in the establishment of the Albanian Orthodox Church. Arrived in the United States in the early 20th century and became influential in the Albanian community. Returned to Albania in 1924 after a revolution and held the prime ministerial office briefly before exile. Continued to advocate for Albanian independence and cultural identity throughout life, emphasizing the importance of education and literacy.
Continue ReadingPaul Citroen
Illustrator and educator, known for modernism
Born
1896 130 years ago
Died
March 13th, 1983 42 years ago — 87 years old
An illustrator and educator engaged in modernist art, contributed to artistic movements and education in the Netherlands and Germany. Worked with various mediums, including painting and graphic design. Developed an influential pedagogical approach that combined artistic expression with technical skills. Actively participated in exhibitions, showcasing works that emphasized geometric forms and abstraction. Held teaching positions at multiple institutions, influencing generations of artists.
Continue ReadingIvo Andrić
Yugoslav novelist and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
October 9th, 1892 133 years ago
Died
March 13th, 1975 50 years ago — 82 years old
Yugoslav novelist, poet, and short story writer achieved prominence through literary contributions that explored themes of identity, culture, and history in the Balkans. The work 'The Bridge on the Drina' stands as a significant novel reflecting the socio-political landscape of the region. His literary career encompassed various genres, offering profound insights into the human condition. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1961, recognition was given for the exceptional quality of his narrative art and the exploration of cultural complexities. Andrić's writings have influenced generations of readers and writers in Yugoslavia and beyond.
Continue ReadingAdolf Anderssen
Chess player, 1851 World Chess Champion
Born
July 6th, 1818 207 years ago
Died
March 13th, 1879 146 years ago — 60 years old
A German mathematician and chess player, contributed significantly to the development of chess theory during the 19th century. Achieved recognition as one of the leading players of his time, particularly known for innovative strategies and tactics. Triumphed in numerous tournaments and is remembered for pivotal games that influenced modern chess play. Authored several writings on chess, contributing to the literature of the game.
Continue ReadingKrzysztof Kieślowski
Polish film director and screenwriter
Born
June 27th, 1941 84 years ago
Died
March 13th, 1996 29 years ago — 54 years old
One of the most significant figures in Polish cinema, this director and screenwriter gained prominence for a distinctive style characterized by philosophical themes and intricate narratives. Early works included the 'Dekalog' series, an exploration of moral dilemmas based on the Ten Commandments. The success of 'The Decalogue' led to international acclaim. The 'Three Colors' trilogy, comprising 'Blue', 'White', and 'Red', further solidified reputation, each film representing liberty, equality, and fraternity. The trilogy received multiple awards and nominations, enhancing the global perception of Polish film. This filmmaker's work often reflected on human experiences and existential questions, influencing a generation of filmmakers.
Continue ReadingMaureen Stapleton
American actress; Academy Award winner
Born
June 21st, 1925 100 years ago
Died
March 13th, 2006 19 years ago — 80 years old
Acclaimed for extensive work on stage and screen, this actress gained recognition for her role in the film 'Airport,' which earned an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress. A graduate of the Actors Studio, this performer made her Broadway debut in 1946 and went on to receive multiple Tony Awards for performances in 'The Night of the IgUana' and 'Rachel, Rachel.' Stapleton also appeared in prominent television shows, including 'Knot's Landing,' showcasing her range across different mediums. Throughout a career spanning several decades, this actress left a lasting legacy in American theater and film.
Continue Reading