Charles Plumier
French botanist and author of Plant Catalogs
A prominent botanist, contributed significantly to the field of botany in the 17th century. Conducted extensive explorations in the Caribbean, documenting various plant species. Published several works, including 'Nova Plantarum Americanarum Genera', which described previously unknown plants. His detailed illustrations and writings greatly advanced botanical knowledge and classification. Developed a systematic approach to the study of plants, influencing future botanical research and exploration.
Conducted botanical expeditions in the Caribbean
Published 'Nova Plantarum Americanarum Genera'
Other People Born on April 20th
Nina Foch
Actress in 'An American in Paris'
Born
April 20th, 1924 101 years ago
Died
December 5th, 2008 17 years ago — 84 years old
Born in the Netherlands, this actress had a prolific career in film and television. The debut in the film industry occurred in the early 1940s, leading to appearances in notable films. A significant performance came in the 1951 musical film 'An American in Paris', showcasing talent and versatility. Additionally, involvement in television included roles in various series, significantly contributing to the entertainment landscape. This actress also worked as a drama instructor and directed theater productions, influencing many aspiring actors throughout the years.
Continue ReadingRyan O'Neal
American actor from 'Love Story'
Born
April 20th, 1941 84 years ago
Died
December 8th, 2023 2 years ago — 82 years old
Born in 1941, this American actor gained prominence in the late 1960s and 1970s. Achieved stardom with the film 'Love Story' in 1970, which became a cultural phenomenon. Starred in the film 'Paper Moon' in 1973, earning an Academy Award nomination for Best Actor. Appeared in several television series, including 'Bones', showcasing a successful transition from film to television. Known for a distinctive on-screen presence and engaging performances.
Continue ReadingRose of Lima
Peruvian mystic and canonized saint
Born
April 20th, 1586 439 years ago
Died
August 24th, 1617 408 years ago — 31 years old
Born in 1586, this individual became a prominent mystic and a saint within the Catholic Church. Recognized for exceptional piety and devotion, she dedicated her life to prayers and charity in Lima, Peru. Her commitment to serving the less fortunate included caring for the sick and poor, often undertaking severe austerities. In 1617, she was the first person in the Americas to be canonized as a saint, reflecting her importance in Catholic devotion. This individual’s feast day is celebrated on August 23.
Continue ReadingBeatrice 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 ReadingDaniel Chester French
American sculptor of Lincoln statue
Born
April 20th, 1850 175 years ago
Died
1931 94 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 ReadingBruce Cabot
American actor in classic films
Born
April 20th, 1904 121 years ago
Died
May 3rd, 1972 53 years ago — 68 years old
This individual was an American actor, active primarily during the early to mid-20th century. Featured prominently in the Hollywood film scene, he gained considerable recognition for performances in adventure and horror genres. Major film credits include roles in 'King Kong' (1933) and 'The Last of the Mohicans' (1936). Throughout a career spanning several decades, he collaborated with various prominent filmmakers and actors, reinforcing his position in the industry during its golden age.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on November 20th
Kalle Päätalo
Finnish soldier and author of novels
Born
November 11th, 1919 106 years ago
Died
November 20th, 2000 25 years ago — 81 years old
Served in the Finnish army during World War II. Authored an extensive series of novels based on personal experiences and the life of a Finnish laborer. Gained widespread recognition for the 'Iijoki Series', which consists of numerous volumes depicting the struggles and triumphs of rural life in Finland. The work captures the social and historical context of Finnish society and remains influential in Finnish literature.
Continue ReadingLeopold Wilhelm
Austrian duke and governor
Born
1614 411 years ago
Died
November 20th, 1662 363 years ago — 48 years old
Served as the governor of the Habsburg Netherlands in the 17th century. Played a significant role in the political and military affairs during the Dutch War of Independence. Oversaw military campaigns and contributed to the fortifications of cities under Habsburg control. Engaged in cultural patronage, especially in the arts and architecture, promoting Baroque style in the region.
Continue ReadingJosé Antonio Primo de Rivera
Spanish lawyer and politician
Born
April 24th, 1903 122 years ago
Died
November 20th, 1936 89 years ago — 33 years old
Involved in the political landscape of Spain, served as a lawyer and was a prominent politician during the early 20th century. Founded the Falange Española, a fascist political party, in 1933. Engaged in nationalist and legal discourse, contributing to the ideological foundations of right-wing politics in Spain. Arrested after the outbreak of the Spanish Civil War and executed in 1936. His legacy remains significant in discussions of Spanish history and politics.
Continue ReadingGalina Starovoytova
Russian ethnographer and political leader
Born
1946 79 years ago
Died
November 20th, 1998 27 years ago — 52 years old
An ethnographer and politician focused on ethnic relations and rights in Russia. Starovoytova held a seat in the State Duma after the collapse of the Soviet Union. Advocated for the welfare of various ethnic minorities and worked on issues related to human rights. She founded the group 'For Human Rights' and was involved in numerous scholarly and governmental initiatives aimed at improving ethnic understanding and policy. Starovoytova's political career was marked by her commitment to democratic reforms and civil liberties.
Continue ReadingMaria Jacobini
Italian actress known for silent films
Born
1892 133 years ago
Died
November 20th, 1944 81 years ago — 52 years old
Active during the silent film era, this actress gained recognition in Italy for performances in a range of productions. Many roles showcased talent in dramatic and comedic settings. The most notable works include appearances in pivotal silent films that contributed to the foundation of Italian cinema. Subsequently, the actress faced challenges with the advent of sound films but continued to work in the industry until the decline of her active career. Jacobini's contributions to early cinema left a lasting impact on the film landscape in Italy.
Continue ReadingRichard Loo
Chinese-American actor in film and television
Born
1903 122 years ago
Died
November 20th, 1983 42 years ago — 80 years old
An actor primarily active in the mid-20th century, contributed to numerous film and television projects. Loo participated in various productions during the Golden Age of Hollywood. Frequently cast in supporting roles, portrayed characters that reflected Asian stereotypes of the time. Featured in films such as 'The Sands of Iwo Jima' and television series including 'Hawaii Five-O'.
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