Denys Roberts

English judge and politician

Denys Roberts - English judge and politician
Born

1923
102 years ago

Died

May 20th, 2013
11 years ago — 90 years old

Category

Leaders & Politicians

Country

England

Links & References

Served as a judge in England with significant contributions to the legal field. Held various political positions, influencing local governance and legislative processes. Gained recognition for judicial decisions that shaped legal precedents. Engaged in public service and community affairs throughout a career that spanned several decades.

Appointed as a High Court Judge

Served as a Member of Parliament

Other People Who Died on May 20th

Bogd Khan

Mongolian ruler and spiritual leader
Died
May 20th, 1924 100 years ago — None years old

Born in the late 19th century, a significant political and spiritual leader in Mongolia, presiding over the country during a turbulent period. Assumed the title of Bogd Khan in 1911 following Mongolia's declaration of independence from China. Played a crucial role in promoting Mongolian autonomy and culture, functioning as the head of state and the religious leader of Tibetan Buddhism in Mongolia. His leadership spanned the formative years of Mongolian statehood amidst ongoing struggles for independence and modernization until his death in 1924.

Continue Reading

Osman II

Ottoman Sultan and military leader
Born
November 3rd, 1604 420 years ago
Died
May 20th, 1622 402 years ago — 17 years old

Sultan of the Ottoman Empire from 1618 until 1622, played a pivotal role in military campaigns against Poland and Persia. Attempted to reform the military and administrative structures, advocating for a stronger central authority. His reign was marked by tensions with the Janissaries, leading to a power struggle that resulted in his deposition and execution. This significant period in Ottoman history showed the challenges of governance and the influence of military factions.

Continue Reading

Stephen Jay Gould

Paleontologist and evolutionary biologist
Born
September 10th, 1941 83 years ago
Died
May 20th, 2002 22 years ago — 60 years old

A prominent paleontologist and evolutionary biologist contributed significantly to the field of evolutionary theory. Developed the theory of punctuated equilibrium alongside Niles Eldredge, emphasizing that evolution occurs in rapid bursts followed by long periods of stability. Authored several influential books, including 'Wonderful Life' and 'The Mismeasure of Man,' which critiqued the use of intelligence testing. Served as a professor at Harvard University, where extensive research focused on the patterns of evolution and the history of life on Earth. Engaged in public writing, making complex scientific ideas accessible to broader audiences, and published numerous essays in 'Natural History' magazine.

Continue Reading

Eugene Polley

Engineer who invented the remote control
Born
1915 110 years ago
Died
May 20th, 2012 12 years ago — 97 years old

An American engineer developed the first wireless remote control for television, known as the Zenith Space Command, in 1950. This invention transformed the way viewers interacted with their televisions, allowing them to change channels and adjust volume without getting up. Polley's design utilized ultrasonic tones and set the foundation for future remote control technology. Throughout his career, he worked on various projects related to television technology and electronic devices, contributing to advancements in home entertainment.

Continue Reading

Renzo Pasolini

Italian motorcycle racer and champion
Born
1938 87 years ago
Died
May 20th, 1973 51 years ago — 35 years old

A prominent motorcycle racer, achieved significant success in the 1960s. Secured multiple victories in Grand Prix motorcycle racing, particularly in the 250cc and 350cc classes. His racing career included notable performances with the MV Agusta factory team. Pasolini competed vigorously in the championship series and established a reputation for skill and speed on the track. Tragically, his life ended in a racing accident during the 1973 season, marking a somber moment in motorcycle racing history.

Continue Reading

William Emerson

Mathematician and academic
Born
May 14th, 1701 323 years ago
Died
May 20th, 1782 242 years ago — 81 years old

This mathematician and academic contributed significantly to the field of mathematics during the 18th century. Primarily focused on geometry and calculus, he published various works that were influential in advancing mathematical education. His textbooks were extensively used in schools and universities, helping to establish a foundation for mathematical learning. Additionally, he participated in the establishment of mathematical societies in England, promoting collaborative research and education in the discipline.

Continue Reading