Buenaventura Durruti
Spanish anarchist soldier and leader
An influential Spanish anarchist and soldier, Durruti played a significant role during the Spanish Civil War. He joined the anarchist movement at a young age and became a prominent figure in the fight against fascism. Durruti led the Durruti Column, a major militia group of anarchists, during the civil war. He was committed to the principles of anarchism and socialism, advocating for workers' rights and social revolution. Durruti died in battle in 1936, leaving a legacy within the anarchist movement.
Led the Durruti Column in the Spanish Civil War
Advocated for anarchism and socialism
Other People Born on July 14th
Dale Robertson
American actor in TV westerns
Born
July 14th, 1923 102 years ago
Died
February 27th, 2013 12 years ago — 89 years old
An American actor gained prominence for roles in television westerns. Featured in the series 'Tales of Wells Fargo' as Jim Hardie, which ran from 1957 to 1962. Also starred in 'The Iron Horse' portraying a railroad engineer. Acted in several films, including 'North to Alaska' alongside John Wayne. Career spanned over five decades, contributing to the western genre.
Continue ReadingMaulana Karenga
Philosopher and creator of Kwanzaa
Born
July 14th, 1941 84 years ago
An American philosopher, author, and activist developed the cultural holiday Kwanzaa in 1966 to celebrate African heritage. The holiday emphasizes the importance of community, family, and cultural values. Karenga also founded the US Organization, which sought to promote African-American identity and culture during the civil rights movement. Extensive publications on African history and culture contributed to the discourse surrounding the African-American experience. Educational initiatives and programs aimed at improving the societal status of African-Americans were implemented.
Continue ReadingWilliam Hanna
Animator and co-founder of Hanna-Barbera
Born
July 14th, 1910 115 years ago
Died
March 22nd, 2001 24 years ago — 90 years old
Co-founded Hanna-Barbera Productions, which became a significant name in American animation. Created iconic characters and series such as Tom and Jerry, The Flintstones, and Scooby-Doo. Directed many animated shows that shaped Saturday morning cartoons. Contributed to both the development of animation techniques and the popularization of animated television.
Continue ReadingRobert Bourassa
Lawyer and Premier of Quebec
Born
July 14th, 1933 92 years ago
Died
October 2nd, 1996 29 years ago — 63 years old
Served as the 22nd Premier of Quebec, notably holding office during two separate terms from 1970 to 1976 and from 1985 to 1994. Faced significant political challenges including issues related to sovereignty and economic development. Advanced major infrastructure projects and championed the modernization of the Quebec economy. Promoted the welfare of Quebecers and worked to strengthen the province's autonomy within Canada.
Continue ReadingJane Lynch
Actress and comedian (Glee)
Born
July 14th, 1960 65 years ago
An American actress, comedian, author, and game show host, gained prominence for a role as Sue Sylvester in the television series 'Glee'. With a background in improvisational comedy, became a recognizable face in entertainment. Earned critical acclaim for performances in various films and television programs. Authored a memoir detailing personal experiences and career highlights. Hosted game shows, showcasing versatility beyond acting.
Continue ReadingKarel Gott
Czech singer and actor
Born
July 14th, 1939 86 years ago
Died
October 1st, 2019 6 years ago — 80 years old
A prominent figure in Czech music and culture, he gained widespread popularity in the 1960s and continued to perform for several decades. His musical style encompassed pop and traditional folk music. He released numerous albums throughout his career, many of which achieved significant commercial success. In addition to his singing career, he also appeared in various films and television shows, becoming a household name. Gott received numerous awards for his contributions to music, including multiple Golden Nightingale awards, which honored him as the best male singer in Czechoslovakia.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on November 20th
Amintore Fanfani
Italian politician and Prime Minister
Born
February 6th, 1908 118 years ago
Died
November 20th, 1999 26 years ago — 91 years old
Served as the 32nd Prime Minister of Italy during the 1950s and 1960s. Played a significant role in the Italian political landscape, leading the Christian Democracy party. Held key governmental positions, including Minister of Education and Minister of Foreign Affairs. Instrumental in shaping post-war Italian policies and economic recovery, advocating for social welfare programs and economic reforms. Contributed to the establishment of Italy as a key player in European politics and integration.
Continue ReadingIan Smith
Prime Minister of Rhodesia
Born
April 8th, 1919 106 years ago
Died
November 20th, 2007 18 years ago — 88 years old
Served as the first Prime Minister of Rhodesia from 1965 to 1979, leading the country during its Unilateral Declaration of Independence from Britain. Played a crucial role in the Rhodesian Bush War, a conflict between the white-minority government and black nationalist movements. Advocated for minority rule and resistance against majority governance and was involved in negotiations that ultimately led to the end of white-minority rule. After leaving office, resided in South Africa.
Continue ReadingFarkas Bolyai
Hungarian mathematician and academic
Born
February 9th, 1775 250 years ago
Died
November 20th, 1856 169 years ago — 81 years old
Contributed significantly to the development of non-Euclidean geometry. Established mathematical theories alongside his son, János Bolyai. Served as a professor at the University of Marosvásárhely. Published works that laid foundational insights for later mathematical advancements, influencing both geometry and philosophy of mathematics.
Continue ReadingJames H. Billington
Librarian of Congress and academic leader
Born
June 1st, 1929 96 years ago
Died
November 20th, 2018 7 years ago — 89 years old
Served as the Thirteenth Librarian of Congress from 1987 to 2015. Played a significant role in modernizing the Library of Congress and advocating for digital access to American history and culture. Oversaw the establishment of various digital initiatives and projects, including the American Memory project, which made historical documents available online. Contributed extensively to academic discourse on American literature and culture through numerous publications.
Continue ReadingFrancis William Aston
Nobel Prize-winning chemist and physicist
Born
September 1st, 1877 148 years ago
Died
November 20th, 1945 80 years ago — 68 years old
Contributed significantly to the field of chemistry and physics through the development of the mass spectrograph. This innovation allowed for precise measurements of atomic masses and the identification of isotopes, which advanced the understanding of chemical elements. Received the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1922 for the invention of the mass spectrograph and the discovery of isotopes. Held various academic positions throughout his career and published numerous scientific papers, which furthered research in atomic structure and behavior.
Continue ReadingFaiz Ahmad Faiz
Pakistani poet, journalist, and playwright
Born
February 13th, 1911 114 years ago
Died
November 20th, 1984 41 years ago — 73 years old
Born in 1911, this poet and journalist contributed significantly to Urdu literature and progressive writing in Pakistan. His poetry often addressed issues of social justice and human rights. He served as an editor for several notable publications and was an active participant in literary and political movements. The poet's works, marked by their lyrical beauty and profound themes, earned him recognition across the subcontinent. His collection 'Nuskha-e-Wafa' remains widely celebrated, showcasing his mastery of language and ability to convey deep emotions.
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