Bonne of Luxembourg
Queen consort of John II of France
Born into the House of Luxembourg, this queen consort married John II of France, becoming an influential figure in the French court. The marriage was part of political alliances aimed at securing the interests of the kingdom during a turbulent period. As queen, she supported her husband's reign and was involved in royal activities until her death in 1349. Her legacy is tied to the royal lineage and the complexities of medieval European politics.
Marriage to John II of France
Role in French royal politics
Other People Born on May 20th
Peter Copley
English Actor in Theatre & Television
Born
May 20th, 1915 110 years ago
Died
2008 18 years ago — 93 years old
A prominent English actor with a career spanning several decades, contributions included performances in both theatre and television. Acted extensively at the Royal Shakespeare Company and gained recognition for roles in popular TV shows. Featured in series such as 'Doctor Who' and 'Midsomer Murders'. Also known for performances in films and stage productions.
Continue ReadingCate Campbell
Swimmer and Olympic gold medalist
Born
May 20th, 1992 33 years ago
Competed in international swimming events, winning multiple medals. Achieved Olympic success at the 2016 Rio de Janeiro Games, securing gold in the 4x100 meter freestyle relay. Set numerous national records and was part of the Australian swimming team that excelled in World Championships.
Continue ReadingNam Nguyen
Canadian figure skater and champion
Born
May 20th, 1998 27 years ago
A figure skater represented Canada in various international competitions. Achieved notable success on the junior circuit, winning the 2014 World Junior Figure Skating Championships. Competed at several senior-level championships, showcasing talent in artistry and technical skills. Known for performances combining intricate footwork and a strong presence on the ice. Participated in events such as the Grand Prix series and the Canadian Championships, earning recognition in the figure skating community.
Continue ReadingFaisal I of Iraq
Iraqi King and Arab nationalist leader
Born
May 20th, 1883 142 years ago
Died
September 8th, 1933 92 years ago — 50 years old
Born on May 20, 1883, played a pivotal role in the Arab Revolt against Ottoman rule during World War I. Assumed leadership in Greater Syria post-war before becoming the King of Iraq in 1921. Advocated for constitutional reforms and sought to unify various factions in Iraq during his reign. His leadership coincided with efforts to modernize the country and establish a national identity amidst regional tensions. Held the throne until death in 1933, leaving a legacy within Iraqi governance.
Continue ReadingBalu Mahendra
Sri Lankan-Indian filmmaker and cinematographer
Born
May 20th, 1939 86 years ago
Died
February 13th, 2014 12 years ago — 74 years old
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.
Continue ReadingOndina Valla
Italian sprinter and Olympic champion
Born
May 20th, 1916 109 years ago
Died
2006 20 years ago — 90 years old
Achieved prominence as a sprinter and hurdler in the mid-20th century. Competed in the 1936 Berlin Olympics, where secured a gold medal in the women's 80 meters hurdles. Valla also participated in other track events, setting national records and earning recognition within Italian athletics. Her athletic career spanned several years, with significant performances in various competitions.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on September 11th
Joseph Nicollet
Mathematician and explorer of North America
Born
July 24th, 1786 239 years ago
Died
September 11th, 1843 182 years ago — 57 years old
Born in France in 1786, Nicollet became a prominent mathematician and explorer. He emigrated to the United States, where he contributed to the mapping of the Upper Mississippi Valley. Nicollet undertook extensive explorations in the region, producing detailed maps that included rivers, lakes, and topographical features. His work improved understanding of the geography of North America. Nicollet's explorations provided valuable information for future settlers and explorers. He also conducted scientific studies on meteorology and Native American cultures, leaving a lasting legacy in cartography and exploration.
Continue ReadingChad McQueen
Actor and race car driver, featured in 'Bullitt'
Born
December 28th, 1960 65 years ago
Died
September 11th, 2024 1 years ago — 63 years old
Engaged in acting and professional racing, gaining recognition as an actor in the film 'Bullitt' alongside Steve McQueen. Also participated in racing, achieving success in various competitions. Pursued a career in motorsports, contributing to both film and racing fields, leveraging a family legacy in automotive sports.
Continue ReadingAlexis Arquette
Actress in The Wedding Singer
Born
July 28th, 1969 56 years ago
Died
September 11th, 2016 9 years ago — 47 years old
Started a career in acting in the late 1980s, appearing in various films and television series. Gained prominence for roles in film, especially in 'The Wedding Singer'. Also worked in theater, contributing to several productions. Transitioned between gender identities throughout life, becoming an influential figure in discussions of gender and identity.
Continue ReadingSalvador Allende
Chilean President and Socialist leader
Born
June 26th, 1908 117 years ago
Died
September 11th, 1973 52 years ago — 65 years old
An influential physician and politician, served as the 29th President of Chile from 1970 until 1973. Implemented significant social and economic reforms aimed at improving the lives of the working class. His government faced opposition from both conservative factions and the military, leading to a coup d'état in 1973. During the coup, Allende died in the presidential palace, marking a pivotal moment in Chilean history and the onset of a military dictatorship.
Continue ReadingLouis Godin
French astronomer and academic.
Born
February 28th, 1704 322 years ago
Died
September 11th, 1760 265 years ago — 56 years old
Contributed significantly to the fields of astronomy and geography. Participated in the French Geodesic Mission to Peru in the 18th century, aimed at measuring the degree of meridian curvature. Worked on improving methods for calculating geographical positions using celestial observations. Published various scientific works, enhancing understanding of planetary motion and Earth sciences.
Continue ReadingAlberto Fujimori
Peruvian politician and former president
Born
July 28th, 1938 87 years ago
Died
September 11th, 2024 1 years ago — 86 years old
Born in Peru, this individual served as the 90th President of the country from 1990 to 2000. Initially elected on a platform of economic reform, policies implemented during this period included stabilization measures that helped to curb hyperinflation. A controversial figure, this individual also faced criticism for authoritarian practices, including human rights abuses during the fight against terrorism. The presidency ended in a scandal involving corruption, leading to exile in Japan. After years abroad, a return to Peru occurred in 2005, resulting in a controversial arrest in 2007. Legal battles and additional allegations followed, culminating in a conviction for human rights violations.
Continue Reading