Carol I of Romania
King of Romania, unifier and modernizer
Born in 1839, a prominent figure in Romanian history, served as the first King of Romania from 1881 until 1914. Played a crucial role in the unification of Romanian principalities, leading to the establishment of the modern Romanian state. Through efforts for modernization, facilitated major reforms in the military, education, and infrastructure. Oversaw Romania during significant events like the War of Independence against the Ottoman Empire, securing recognition of Romanian independence in 1878. Advocated for a constitutional monarchy and strengthened the royal institution.
Established Romania as a unified kingdom
Secured independence from the Ottoman Empire
Modernized the military and infrastructure
Other People Born on April 20th
Beatrice Ask
Swedish Minister for Justice
Born
April 20th, 1956 69 years ago
Served as a member of the Swedish Parliament from 1991 to 2014. Held the position of Minister for Justice from 2006 to 2014 in the government led by Prime Minister Fredrik Reinfeldt. Played a significant role in various legal reforms and policies during tenure, focusing on justice system improvements and crime prevention initiatives.
Continue ReadingSiegmund Lubin
Businessman, founder of Lubin Company
Born
April 20th, 1851 174 years ago
Died
1923 103 years ago — 72 years old
Born in 1851, established a manufacturing company that specialized in creating and distributing motion picture equipment. Lubin's enterprise played a significant role in the early film industry and was influential during the silent film era. The company operated extensively, producing a variety of films and equipment that contributed to the growth of cinema in the United States. Lubin's work helped lay the foundation for future developments in the film industry.
Continue ReadingNapoleon III
French politician and 1st President of France
Born
April 20th, 1808 217 years ago
Died
January 9th, 1873 153 years ago — 64 years old
Served as the first President of France from 1848 to 1852. Elected following the revolution of 1848, implemented various economic and social reforms during presidency. Later declared himself Emperor of the French, ruling as Napoleon III from 1852 until 1870. His reign is marked by modernization efforts in France, including the expansion of the railway system and urban renewal of Paris. Involved in several military conflicts, including the Crimean War and the Franco-Prussian War, which led to his ultimate fall from power.
Continue ReadingDaniel Chester French
American sculptor of Lincoln statue
Born
April 20th, 1850 175 years ago
Died
1931 95 years ago — 81 years old
An American sculptor recognized for creating significant works in the field of sculpture. French's most famous work is the seated statue of Abraham Lincoln in the Lincoln Memorial located in Washington D.C. He also produced many other notable pieces, including statues of notable figures and allegorical representations. French was a prominent figure in American sculpture during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, and his artistry contributed to the memorialization of key historical events and figures.
Continue ReadingCornelius Harnett
American politician and merchant
Born
April 20th, 1723 302 years ago
Died
April 28th, 1781 244 years ago — 58 years old
Served as a prominent political figure during the American Revolution. Acted as the Speaker of the North Carolina Provincial Congress and played a significant role in advocating for independence from British rule. Involved in commerce and farming, contributing to the economic stability of his community. Held various offices, including the North Carolina Senator.
Continue ReadingKakha Bendukidze
Georgian economist and reformer
Born
April 20th, 1956 69 years ago
Died
November 13th, 2014 11 years ago — 58 years old
An economist and politician from Georgia, contributed significantly to the nation's economic reforms after the Rose Revolution. Served as the Minister of Economy and Sustainable Development, implementing policies that spurred privatization and deregulation. Advocated for free market principles, which transformed the Georgian economy. Believed in reducing the size of government and promoted entrepreneurship.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on October 10th
Gustave Whitehead
Pioneer aviator and aircraft engineer
Born
January 1st, 1874 152 years ago
Died
October 10th, 1927 98 years ago — 53 years old
Pioneered early aviation with innovative aircraft designs. Developed and demonstrated powered flight in 1901, ahead of the Wright brothers' first flight. Established the Whitehead Aircraft Company and contributed to the advancement of aeronautics through various experiments and designs. Advocated for the potential of aviation technology.
Continue ReadingGleb Wataghin
Physicist known for theoretical contributions
Born
November 3rd, 1899 126 years ago
Died
October 10th, 1986 39 years ago — 86 years old
Contributed significantly to the field of theoretical physics. Worked extensively on the electromagnetic theory and quantum physics. Had a prominent academic career, teaching and conducting research in Italy. Participated in various scientific conferences and collaborated with other physicists to advance knowledge in his field.
Continue ReadingGustave Loiseau
French painter known for landscapes
Born
October 3rd, 1865 160 years ago
Died
October 10th, 1935 90 years ago — 70 years old
A French painter active in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, contributed significantly to the Impressionist movement. Specializing in landscapes, focused on depicting the play of light and color in nature. Developed a unique style characterized by vigorous brushstrokes and vibrant colors. Produced numerous works featuring rural scenes, particularly influenced by the countryside of Normandy and Brittany. Participated in several exhibitions, achieving recognition among contemporaries and art enthusiasts.
Continue ReadingKarl Genzken
German physician and medical researcher
Born
June 8th, 1885 140 years ago
Died
October 10th, 1957 68 years ago — 72 years old
Born in Germany, contributions to medicine focused on pneumology. Instrumental in the development of therapies treating respiratory diseases, including tuberculosis. Held significant roles in various medical societies, promoting advancements in respiratory care. Published numerous articles and research papers, enhancing understanding of lung diseases and their treatments. Through dedicated work, influenced medical practices in the early to mid-20th century.
Continue ReadingLorenzo Snow
Religious leader, 5th President of LDS Church
Born
April 3rd, 1814 211 years ago
Died
October 10th, 1901 124 years ago — 87 years old
Served as the fifth president of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints from 1898 to 1901. Helped to strengthen church governance and expanded missionary work. Promoted a focus on family and temple worship during his presidency. Contributed to the development of church doctrine and organizational structure. Authored several works on theology and church history.
Continue ReadingErima Harvey Northcroft
New Zealand soldier and judge
Born
December 2nd, 1884 141 years ago
Died
October 10th, 1953 72 years ago — 68 years old
Born in 1884, a prominent soldier, lawyer, and judge in New Zealand. During World War I, served with distinction as a soldier. Returned to New Zealand post-war to continue a career in law, eventually becoming a judge in the High Court. Contributed to legal reforms and served in various legal capacities throughout the years.
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