Bryan Budd
Victoria Cross recipient and soldier
Born in Northern Ireland, an English soldier served in the British Army with great distinction. Demonstrated exceptional bravery during combat in Afghanistan in 2006. The soldier's actions during a firefight resulted in the saving of comrades' lives at great personal risk. Posthumously awarded the Victoria Cross, the highest military honor for valor in the UK, in recognition of extraordinary courage in the face of the enemy. His service is commemorated for its exemplary leadership and dedication.
Received the Victoria Cross
Served in the British Army
Displayed extraordinary bravery in Afghanistan
Other People Born on July 16th
Andros Townsend
Professional footballer and winger
Born
July 16th, 1991 34 years ago
A professional footballer with a career primarily as a winger. Played for several clubs in the English Premier League, including Tottenham Hotspur, Newcastle United, and Crystal Palace. Gained prominence for speed and crossing ability. Represented the England national team, making his debut in 2013. Notably scored on his debut against Montenegro in a World Cup qualifier, contributing to the team's success.
Continue ReadingLuke Hemmings
Singer and musician from 5 Seconds of Summer
Born
July 16th, 1996 29 years ago
A prominent Australian singer and musician, contributed as the lead vocalist of the band 5 Seconds of Summer, formed in 2011. The band gained international recognition with their self-titled debut album, which topped charts in multiple countries. They achieved significant success with hit singles such as "She Looks So Perfect" and "Youngblood." In addition to group accomplishments, ventured into a solo career, releasing a debut album in 2021.
Continue ReadingWizkid
Nigerian singer and songwriter
Born
July 16th, 1990 35 years ago
A prominent Nigerian singer and songwriter, achieved recognition for contributions to the Afrobeats genre. Gained widespread acclaim with the album 'Made in Lagos' released in 2020. Collaborated with several international artists, increasing global awareness of African music. The track 'Essence' garnered significant attention and placed high on various music charts, solidifying a reputation as a leading figure in contemporary music.
Continue ReadingShirley Hughes
Author and illustrator of children's books
Born
July 16th, 1927 98 years ago
Died
February 25th, 2022 4 years ago — 94 years old
An English author and illustrator specialized in children's literature. Created beloved characters and stories, focusing on everyday life experiences and vivid illustrations. Illustrated works include the iconic 'Dogger' and the popular 'Alfie' series. Contributed significantly to children's literature from the 1970s onwards. Received multiple awards during a lengthy career, including the Kate Greenaway Medal.
Continue ReadingSafiya Nygaard
YouTuber with a focus on beauty content
Born
July 16th, 1992 33 years ago
A YouTuber gained recognition for innovative beauty videos and unique fashion experiments. Created content that combined humor and detailed product reviews, leading to a substantial following. Developed a distinct brand through engaging with viewers on various beauty topics, including makeup transformations and style challenges. Collaborated with numerous brands and contributed to trends within the beauty community. Transitioned into vlogging, sharing insights into personal life and experiences.
Continue ReadingGuy Béart
Singer-songwriter and lyricist
Born
July 16th, 1930 95 years ago
Died
September 16th, 2015 10 years ago — 85 years old
A prominent figure in French music, recognized for contributions to the chanson genre. Initiated a musical career in the 1950s, often incorporating poetic lyrics reflecting personal and social themes. Gained popularity through hits like 'L'eau vive,' which showcased mastery in songwriting and sensitivity in vocal delivery. Throughout the career, collaborated with various artists and participated in numerous musical festivals, enhancing the French music scene. Continued to write and perform until the end of life, inspiring new generations of musicians.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on August 20th
Ram Sharan Sharma
Indian historian and academic
Born
November 26th, 1919 106 years ago
Died
August 20th, 2011 14 years ago — 91 years old
An Indian historian and academic specialized in ancient Indian history. Participated in various archaeological expeditions across India, contributing significantly to the field of historical research and education. Held the position of Professor of History at the University of Delhi and served as the Director of the Indian Council of Historical Research. Authored several influential books on Indian history, particularly focusing on the Gupta period and the socio-economic conditions of ancient India. Played a role in shaping modern historical narratives through rigorous scholarship and teaching.
Continue ReadingLarry Knechtel
Session musician and The Wrecking Crew member
Born
August 4th, 1940 85 years ago
Died
August 20th, 2009 16 years ago — 69 years old
A prominent American bass player and pianist, became a leading session musician in the 1960s and 1970s. Contributed to numerous iconic recordings across various genres. Notably played on tracks for The Beach Boys, including the seminal album 'Pet Sounds'. Collaborated with artists such as Elvis Presley and Simon & Garfunkel, contributing to the classic hit 'Bridge Over Troubled Water'. Won a Grammy Award for his work with the band Bread. Knechtel's expertise in both bass and keyboard instruments solidified his reputation in the music industry as a highly sought-after session musician.
Continue ReadingFred Hoyle
Astronomer, author, and creator of the term 'Big Bang'
Born
June 24th, 1915 110 years ago
Died
August 20th, 2001 24 years ago — 86 years old
An English astronomer and author contributed significantly to the field of cosmology and astrophysics. Developed the theory of stellar nucleosynthesis, explaining how elements are formed within stars. Authored several influential books, including 'The Black Cloud' and 'Astronomy'. Coined the phrase 'Big Bang' in 1949 to describe a competing cosmological model, although he favored a different steady-state theory. His work spanned topics such as quasars, nucleosynthesis, and the origins of life in the universe.
Continue ReadingMartin Opitz
German poet and composer of Baroque era
Born
December 23rd, 1597 428 years ago
Died
August 20th, 1639 386 years ago — 41 years old
A prominent poet and composer during the Baroque period, contributions to the German literary landscape included a significant role in establishing the German language in poetry. Opitz published 'Buch von der deutschen Poeterey', which laid theoretical foundations for German poetry and advocated for the use of the German language in literature. His works reflected a blend of classical influences and new forms of expression and played an essential role in the development of German drama and lyrical poetry.
Continue ReadingJohan de Witt
Dutch politician and mathematician
Born
September 24th, 1625 400 years ago
Died
August 20th, 1672 353 years ago — 46 years old
Born in 1625, a prominent figure in the Dutch Republic, this individual served as Grand Pensionary of Holland, leading the Republic during the Second Anglo-Dutch War. In addition to political leadership, contributions included advancements in mathematics, specifically in the field of probabilities and geometry. Advocated for the establishment of an effective government and was instrumental in creating a stable financial system. His tenure was marked by efforts to maintain peace and promote trade in a period of conflict.
Continue ReadingThomas Herrion
American football player and offensive lineman
Born
December 15th, 1981 44 years ago
Died
August 20th, 2005 20 years ago — 23 years old
Played professional American football as an offensive lineman. Drafted by the San Francisco 49ers in 2004. Featured in the 2004 season with San Francisco, contributing to the team's offensive line. Played for multiple teams in the NFL including the 49ers and the Oakland Raiders. His career was marked by his dedication to the sport until untimely death in 2005.
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