Clifton Fadiman
Game Show Host and Author
Born
Died
Category
Performers & Entertainers
Country
United States
Links & References
An American game show host and author, engaged audiences with intellectual challenges and literary insights. Hosted the popular television quiz show 'Information, Please!' from 1938 to 1958, where contestants answered questions on a wide range of subjects. Wrote several books, including 'The Lifetime Reading Plan', guiding readers towards a comprehensive literary education. Established a reputation as a prominent figure in American media, and contributed to various publications, showcasing a passion for literature and knowledge.
Hosted 'Information, Please!'
Authored 'The Lifetime Reading Plan'
Other People Born on May 15th
Viktor Vasnetsov
Russian painter and illustrator
Born
May 15th, 1848 177 years ago
Died
July 23rd, 1926 99 years ago — 78 years old
A prominent Russian painter and illustrator, active during the late 19th century. Specialized in historical and mythological themes, often depicting Slavic folklore and legends. His most celebrated works include 'The Knight at the Crossroads' and 'The Alenushka.' Vasnetsov also contributed to the decorative arts, including designing churches and creating mosaics. His work played a significant role in the development of the Russian national artistic style.
Continue ReadingSébastien Le Prestre de Vauban
French military engineer and fortification expert
Born
May 15th, 1633 392 years ago
Died
March 30th, 1707 319 years ago — 73 years old
A prominent French military engineer, contributions centered on the development of fortified cities and modern military architecture. Served as a marshal of France under Louis XIV. Advanced the art of fortification through principles that emphasized geometric design and comprehensive defensive systems. Authored several treatises on military engineering, influencing the design of fortresses in Europe for centuries.
Continue ReadingClaudio Monteverdi
Composer of operas and sacred music
Born
May 15th, 1567 458 years ago
Died
November 29th, 1643 382 years ago — 76 years old
Born in 1567, this Italian priest and composer played a pivotal role in the development of opera and sacred music during the late Renaissance. Monteverdi's work marked the transition from the Renaissance style to Baroque music. He served as a musician at the court of Mantua and later became the maestro di capella at St. Mark's Basilica in Venice. His operas, especially "L'Orfeo" and "Il ritorno d'Ulisse in patria," are regarded as foundational works of the operatic genre. Monteverdi's compositions also encompassed a variety of vocal and instrumental music, which greatly influenced future generations of composers.
Continue ReadingAngus MacLean
Canadian politician and commander
Born
May 15th, 1914 111 years ago
Died
February 15th, 2000 26 years ago — 85 years old
Served as the 25th Premier of Prince Edward Island from 1943 to 1948. Held various roles in the provincial government, including Minister of Education. Contributed to the establishment of multiple educational reforms during tenure. Involved in local politics and military service during World War II.
Continue ReadingJames Mason
English Actor in 'North by Northwest'
Born
May 15th, 1909 116 years ago
Died
July 27th, 1984 41 years ago — 75 years old
An accomplished actor, producer, and screenwriter, gained prominence in the mid-20th century. Began his career in British theater and transitioned to cinema during the 1940s. Achieved recognition for performances in films such as 'The Man in Grey', 'A Star Is Born', and 'North by Northwest'. Earned extensive acclaim for his distinct voice and commanding screen presence. Worked in both British and American film industries, appearing in a variety of genres from drama to thrillers.
Continue ReadingLevi Lincoln Sr.
American politician and Attorney General
Born
May 15th, 1749 276 years ago
Died
1820 206 years ago — 71 years old
Served as the 4th United States Attorney General from 1801 to 1805 under President Thomas Jefferson. Played a significant role in the administration, particularly in the legal matters of the federal government. Active in Massachusetts politics, served as a member of the Governor's Council and as the Lieutenant Governor. Instrumental in the establishment of several laws and policies, advocating for the rule of law and justice during early governance.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on June 20th
Manuel Belgrano
Argentinian politician and economist
Born
June 3rd, 1770 255 years ago
Died
June 20th, 1820 205 years ago — 50 years old
Contributed significantly to the Argentine War of Independence as a leader. Played a crucial role in establishing the first national flag of Argentina. Energized economic initiatives through advocacy for education and agriculture. Served in various governmental roles during the formation of the nation.
Continue ReadingRoberto Rosato
Italian footballer and World Cup champion
Born
1943 83 years ago
Died
June 20th, 2010 15 years ago — 67 years old
Played as a defender primarily for A.C. Milan and the Italian national team. Contributed to A.C. Milan's success in the Serie A, winning multiple league titles. Part of the Italian squad that won the 1968 UEFA European Championship and the 1970 FIFA World Cup, reaching the finals. Retired from professional football in the early 1970s.
Continue ReadingDonald Sutherland
Actor in film and television productions
Born
July 17th, 1935 90 years ago
Died
June 20th, 2024 1 years ago — 88 years old
Born in 1935, this Canadian actor and producer gained recognition for roles in significant films and television series. Appearances in 'M*A*S*H', 'Ordinary People', and 'The Hunger Games' series highlighted a prolific career spanning several decades. This individual also served as a producer and contributed to film production through various projects.
Continue ReadingRaphaël Salem
Mathematician and academic
Born
November 7th, 1898 127 years ago
Died
June 20th, 1963 62 years ago — 64 years old
Contributed significantly to the fields of analysis and mathematics. Worked at various academic institutions, focusing on functional analysis and providing insight into the theory of functions of real and complex variables. Published numerous research papers and helped advance mathematical education in both Greece and France. Played a pivotal role in the mathematical community through teaching and mentoring students.
Continue ReadingCaleb Swanigan
Basketball player and NCAA standout
Born
1997 29 years ago
Died
June 20th, 2022 3 years ago — 25 years old
Played college basketball at Purdue University, leading the team to significant success during the 2016-2017 season and earning the Big Ten Player of the Year award. Selected 26th overall in the 2017 NBA Draft by the Portland Trail Blazers, competed in the NBA for several seasons. Additionally, had a strong impact during his time at Purdue, showcasing notable skills both offensively and defensively. Faced various challenges throughout life, including health issues, before his passing in 2022.
Continue ReadingHijikata Toshizō
Japanese military commander and rebel leader
Born
May 31st, 1835 190 years ago
Died
June 20th, 1869 156 years ago — 34 years old
Born in 1835, he served as the vice commander of the Shinsengumi during the late Edo period. The Shinsengumi was a special police force formed to protect the Tokugawa shogunate. He played a crucial role in various battles during the Boshin War, which was a civil war between imperial and shogunate forces. Hijikata's leadership helped shape the resistance against the Meiji Restoration, aiming to preserve the samurai way of life. He died in 1869 at the Battle of Hakodate, marking the end of the Shinsengumi.
Continue Reading