Cherd Songsri
Thai director and screenwriter
A pivotal figure in Thai cinema, directed several influential films that shaped the landscape of Thai filmmaking. Worked as a screenwriter and producer, contributing significantly to the industry. Co-founded the Thai Film Association, promoting films and filmmakers in Thailand. Many films combined entertainment with social commentary, providing critical perspectives on Thai society.
Directed 'Sangthong'
Produced 'Khang Phayatoo'
Other People Born on September 20th
Maxwell Perkins
American editor of notable authors
Born
September 20th, 1884 142 years ago
Died
1947 79 years ago — 63 years old
An influential American editor, recognized for shaping the works of major literary figures in the 20th century. Played a pivotal role in the careers of authors such as F. Scott Fitzgerald and Ernest Hemingway. Edited and published several significant literary works, contributing to the development of modern American literature. Worked with the Scribner's publishing house, where editorial vision guided groundbreaking publications, leading to the establishment of enduring literary legacies.
Continue ReadingSidney Dillon Ripley
American ornithologist and academic
Born
September 20th, 1913 113 years ago
Died
2001 25 years ago — 88 years old
Contributed significantly to the field of ornithology through extensive research, field studies, and academic leadership. Served as the secretary of the Smithsonian Institution from 1964 to 1984, overseeing the institution's growth and development. Authored numerous publications, focusing on bird conservation and ecological studies. Advocated for environmental issues and contributed to the establishment of several national wildlife refuges.
Continue ReadingCaroline Flint
Politician and Minister of State for Europe
Born
September 20th, 1961 65 years ago
Served as a Member of Parliament (MP) for Don Valley from 1997 to 2019. Held the position of Minister of State for Europe and led initiatives related to the European Union during a significant period in British politics. Involved in various government roles, including Minister for Europe and Minister for Public Health, contributing to policy development on health and European affairs. Engaged in debates regarding the UK's relationship with Europe and played a part in addressing issues surrounding Brexit during the later stages of her political career.
Continue ReadingTarō Asō
Japanese politician and Prime Minister
Born
September 20th, 1940 86 years ago
A prominent figure in Japanese politics, served as the 92nd Prime Minister of Japan from 2008 to 2009. Held various positions within the government, including Minister for Foreign Affairs from 2005 to 2007. Gained recognition as a member of the Liberal Democratic Party, contributing to significant domestic and foreign policies during tenure. Additionally known for achievements in target shooting, representing Japan and competing internationally.
Continue ReadingGeorge R. R. Martin
Novelist, Game of Thrones author
Born
September 20th, 1948 78 years ago
Born in 1948, this American author gained prominence in the fantasy genre with a distinguished career as a novelist and short story writer. The series 'A Song of Ice and Fire' served as the basis for the acclaimed television series 'Game of Thrones'. Martin's intricate world-building and complex characters significantly influenced modern fantasy literature.
Continue ReadingJames Dewar
Scottish chemist and physicist
Born
September 20th, 1842 184 years ago
Died
March 27th, 1923 103 years ago — 80 years old
A chemist and physicist contributed significantly to cryogenics and spectroscopy. Invented the Dewar flask, a vacuum-insulated container. Conducted research on the liquefaction of gases, leading to the first successful liquefaction of hydrogen. Held the position of Heriot-Watt University principal. Served as a fellow of the Royal Society and received multiple awards for contributions to science.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on May 21st
Annarita Sidoti
Italian race walker, multiple champion
Born
1969 57 years ago
Died
May 21st, 2015 11 years ago — 46 years old
An accomplished race walker, achieved significant milestones in international competitions. Secured a gold medal at the 1996 European Athletics Championships in the 10 km walk. Represented Italy at multiple Olympic Games, showcasing talent in race walking events. Achieved personal bests that remained competitive in the sport. Contributed to the development of race walking in Italy through participation in various national and international events.
Continue ReadingLouis V
Elector Palatine, ruler in Germany
Born
July 2nd, 1478 548 years ago
Died
May 21st, 987 1039 years ago — -492 years old
Born in 1478, served as Elector Palatine, overseeing the Palatinate region of Germany. Held the title during a tumultuous period characterized by political conflict and the rise of the Protestant Reformation. The electoral power allowed for significant influence in the Holy Roman Empire. Engaged in several territorial disputes and had an important role in the governance of the Palatinate. His tenure featured efforts to consolidate power and navigate the complexities of regional politics.
Continue ReadingRaymond McCreesh
Irish Republican hunger striker
Born
February 25th, 1957 69 years ago
Died
May 21st, 1981 45 years ago — 24 years old
Born in 1957, a significant figure in the Irish Republican movement, engaged in political activism in Northern Ireland. Participated in the 1981 hunger strike at Long Kesh Prison, advocating for political status for Republican prisoners. Died after 61 days without food, becoming a symbol of the struggle for Irish nationalism and resistance against British rule.
Continue ReadingWang Anshi
Chinese economist and chancellor
Born
December 8th, 1021 1004 years ago
Died
May 21st, 1086 940 years ago — 64 years old
An influential Chinese economist and chancellor, focused on reforming the Sung dynasty's economic policies. Implemented the New Policies, which aimed to stabilize the economy, improve agricultural productivity, and expand state control over tax collection. These reforms included the promotion of state-sponsored loans and the establishment of a better government procurement system for grain. Writings on economic theory, governance, and philosophy contributed extensively to intellectual discourse during his time and afterward.
Continue ReadingBinyavanga Wainaina
Kenyan writer and memoirist
Born
January 18th, 1971 55 years ago
Died
May 21st, 2019 7 years ago — 48 years old
A prominent Kenyan writer, contributed significantly to contemporary African literature. Authored the acclaimed memoir 'One Day I Will Write About This Place' which explores themes of identity and belonging in post-colonial Kenya. Also served as the editor for 'Kwani?', a Kenyan literary magazine which provided a platform for emerging African voices. His literary work often reflected on the complexities of race, culture, and politics in Africa.
Continue ReadingFred Gladding
Baseball player and pitching coach
Born
1936 90 years ago
Died
May 21st, 2015 11 years ago — 79 years old
Played Major League Baseball as a pitcher for multiple teams including the Detroit Tigers, Houston Astros, and New York Mets. Transitioned to coaching, serving as a pitching coach for the Houston Astros and New York Mets. Contributed to the development of many players throughout his coaching career. Enjoyed a long tenure in professional baseball both as a player and a coach.
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