Carl Mydans

American photographer and journalist

Carl Mydans - American photographer and journalist
Born

May 20th, 1907
118 years ago

Died

August 16th, 2004
20 years ago — 97 years old

Category

Artists & Creatives

Country

United States

Links & References

Started a career in photojournalism in the 1930s, working for the Farm Security Administration. Covered significant historical events, including World War II, capturing images of the Pacific theater, Hiroshima, and the aftermath of the war in Europe. Contributed to numerous publications, including Life magazine, documenting both war and American society. Won awards for excellence in photojournalism, including the Overseas Press Club Award in 1970.

Photographed the liberation of concentration camps

Documented World War II for Life magazine

Covered the Korean War

Other People Born on May 20th

Edin Osmanović

Footballer and coach in Slovenia
Born
May 20th, 1964 61 years ago

Born in 1964, a footballer and later a coach and manager. Played for several clubs in Slovenia, contributing to the development of the sport in the region. Transitioned into coaching roles after retirement and worked with various teams, focusing on fostering young talent and improving team performance. Significant contributions made at the managerial level, including multiple seasons in the Slovenian league.

Continue Reading

Michael Diamond

Australian Olympic shooter
Born
May 20th, 1972 53 years ago

Born in 1972, a prominent Olympic shooter excelled in skeet shooting. Competed in multiple Olympic Games, earning gold medals at the 1996 Atlanta Olympics and the 2000 Sydney Olympics. Demonstrated exceptional skill and precision, establishing a notable presence in the sport. Participated in the ISSF World Cup, securing multiple podium finishes throughout the career.

Continue Reading

José Mujica

Uruguayan political leader and president
Born
May 20th, 1935 90 years ago

A guerrilla leader during the 1960s and 1970s, served as a prominent figure in Uruguay's political landscape. Held the office of President of Uruguay from 2010 to 2015. Focused on progressive social policies, including the legalization of marijuana and same-sex marriage. Known for a humble lifestyle and commitment to social justice.

Continue Reading

Gardner Fox

American author and comic book writer
Born
May 20th, 1911 114 years ago
Died
December 24th, 1986 38 years ago — 75 years old

A prolific writer, worked in comic books and fiction. Contributed significantly to the development of the superhero genre. Co-created notable characters, including The Flash and Green Lantern, for DC Comics. Also wrote extensively for pulp magazines and science fiction, producing numerous novels and short stories throughout a long career.

Continue Reading

Cadmus M. Wilcox

Confederate Army General
Born
May 20th, 1824 201 years ago
Died
1890 135 years ago — 66 years old

Born in 1824, a military officer served in the Confederate States Army during the American Civil War. Wilcox graduated from the United States Military Academy in 1846. He held several significant posts, including commanding a brigade in the Army of Northern Virginia. Participated in major battles such as the Battle of Gettysburg and the Battle of the Wilderness. Wilcox achieved the rank of brigadier general in 1863. After the war, he worked in various business ventures and held a position in the state legislature of Florida.

Continue Reading

Emile Berliner

Inventor of the phonograph
Born
May 20th, 1851 174 years ago
Died
August 3rd, 1929 95 years ago — 78 years old

Emile Berliner was a German-American inventor and businessman credited with the invention of the phonograph, which played a pivotal role in the development of the music recording industry. Berliner developed the flat disc record, which replaced the earlier cylinder format, leading to significant advancements in audio technology. His company, the Berliner Gramophone Company, started the commercialization of recorded music. In addition to his work in sound recording, he contributed to various fields including telephony and aeronautics, holding numerous patents.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on August 16th

Carl Theodor Schulz

German-Norwegian gardener and author
Born
1835 190 years ago
Died
August 16th, 1914 110 years ago — 79 years old

A gardener and writer, contributed significantly to horticulture in Norway and Germany. Authored several influential books on gardening techniques, emphasizing practical methods and plant cultivation. Played a crucial role in the development of botanical gardens, focusing on native species and promoting sustainable gardening practices. His work encompassed both scientific approaches and artistic expressions in garden design.

Continue Reading

Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa

Indian mystic and philosopher
Born
1836 189 years ago
Died
August 16th, 1886 138 years ago — 50 years old

A mystic and philosopher from India, focused on spiritual practices and the realization of God. Engaged in profound spiritual experiences and enlightenment, contributing significantly to the understanding of religious harmony. Emphasized the importance of experiential realization over dogma, and influenced many through teachings and discourses. Established a strong following and his life story serves as a guide for spiritual seekers. His teachings laid the foundation for the Ramakrishna Order, which has been instrumental in spreading his philosophies globally.

Continue Reading

Jeff Corey

American actor and director
Born
August 10th, 1914 110 years ago
Died
August 16th, 2002 22 years ago — 88 years old

Born in 1914, an American actor and director made significant contributions to film and television. Career in acting began in the late 1930s, gaining prominence in productions during the 1940s. Accused of being a communist during the Red Scare led to a blacklisting in Hollywood. During this period, directed stage productions and taught acting at various institutions. Returned to film and television in the 1960s, appearing in notable roles in various series and movies. Gained recognition for performances in television series such as 'The Twilight Zone' and 'The Fugitive'. Also directed several television episodes and stage plays, showcasing a range of talent within the industry.

Continue Reading

Robert Johnson

American blues singer-songwriter and guitarist
Born
May 8th, 1911 114 years ago
Died
August 16th, 1938 86 years ago — 27 years old

A major figure in the development of the Delta blues genre, this artist's music influenced generations of musicians. Recording only a few songs in his lifetime, many became iconic, including pieces like 'Cross Road Blues' and 'Sweet Home Chicago.' His mysterious life and untimely death at age 27 have contributed to his legend. The guitarist's unique style incorporated various techniques, showcasing a blend of melody and rhythm that was ahead of its time. Posthumously, his work gained recognition and is considered foundational to modern blues and rock music.

Continue Reading

Duško Radović

Children's writer and poet
Born
1922 103 years ago
Died
August 16th, 1984 40 years ago — 62 years old

A Serbian children's writer, poet, journalist, aphorist, and TV editor contributed greatly to literature for young audiences. Radović's works often featured elements of folklore and fairy tales, resonating with children and adults alike. As a prominent figure in Serbian culture, extensive writings spanned poetry, stories, and television scripts aimed at children. A notable television program catered to young viewers, blending educational content with entertainment. Throughout the career, a distinct style combined humor and wisdom, offering valuable lessons through storytelling. Radović's influence extended beyond literature; his works are celebrated in schools and cultural institutions across Serbia.

Continue Reading

Mile Mrkšić

Serb general and war crimes suspect
Born
1947 78 years ago
Died
August 16th, 2015 9 years ago — 68 years old

Served as a general in the Yugoslav People's Army and later in the Serbian Army during the Yugoslav Wars. Commanded the 9th Corps during the Siege of Vukovar and was implicated in war crimes related to the conflict. Following the war, faced charges from the International Criminal Tribunal for the former Yugoslavia. Died in 2015, having been convicted in absentia and sentenced to 20 years in prison for his actions during the war.

Continue Reading