Derek Dougan
Footballer and journalist, Blackburn Rovers
Born in 1938, a footballer played as a center-forward for several clubs including Wolverhampton Wanderers and Blackburn Rovers. Achieved significant success in the Football League, contributing to his teams with both goals and leadership on the field. Post-retirement, transitioned into journalism, providing insights on football and analysis in various media platforms. Had a notable career that spanned several decades, both as a player and as a pundit, establishing a respected position within the football community.
Played for Wolverhampton Wanderers
Played for Blackburn Rovers
Contributed to Northern Ireland national team
Other People Born on January 20th
U Razak
Burmese educator and politician
Born
January 20th, 1898 128 years ago
Died
July 19th, 1947 78 years ago — 49 years old
An influential figure in the education sector in Myanmar, played a pivotal role in shaping educational policies. Contributed to the establishment of several institutions aimed at enhancing the quality of education. Engaged actively in the political landscape, advocating for educational reforms and policies that aimed to foster a more inclusive educational environment.
Continue ReadingSebastian Münster
German cartographer and cosmographer
Born
January 20th, 1488 538 years ago
Died
May 26th, 1552 473 years ago — 64 years old
A prominent 16th-century German scholar, played a crucial role in the fields of cartography and cosmography. Published the influential work 'Cosmographia' in 1544, which served as one of the first comprehensive descriptions of the world. Contributed significantly to mapping by producing multiple maps and atlases, including the 'Karte von Deutschland' which illustrated German territories. Held a position as a professor at the University of Basel, and engaged in various scholarly activities that advanced geographic knowledge during the Renaissance period.
Continue ReadingGiovanni Vincenzo Gravina
Italian lawyer and jurist, legal scholar
Born
January 20th, 1664 362 years ago
Died
January 6th, 1718 308 years ago — 53 years old
Contributed significantly to the field of law through writings and legal theory. Focused on civil law and its applications, emphasizing the importance of legal certainty and the role of custom in law. Engaged in scholarly debates on the nature of law and ethics, influencing future generations of legal thinkers. Served as a professor of law, disseminating knowledge and shaping legal education in Italy during the early 18th century.
Continue ReadingR. A. Salvatore
Fantasy author of the Drizzt series
Born
January 20th, 1959 67 years ago
An American author focused on fantasy literature, particularly known for the creation of the character Drizzt Do'Urden. Salvatore's work in the Dungeons & Dragons universe has garnered a significant readership, becoming a prominent figure in contemporary fantasy writing. The series features themes of morality, friendship, and adventure, set in the expansive Forgotten Realms. Salvatore graduated from the University of Massachusetts with a degree in communications and began writing in the late 1980s. The Drizzt series began with 'The Crystal Shard,' published in 1988, which introduced readers to the world of the dark elf. Subsequent novels in the series continued to explore Drizzt's journey through challenges and conflicts in a richly developed universe.
Continue ReadingColin Clive
English actor, starred in horror films
Born
January 20th, 1900 126 years ago
Died
June 25th, 1937 88 years ago — 37 years old
An English actor prominent in the 1930s, recognized for performances in horror films. Played Dr. Henry Frankenstein in the original 1931 film 'Frankenstein' and its sequel 'Bride of Frankenstein' in 1935. Contributed to the evolution of the horror genre through gripping portrayals and dynamic characterizations. His career was characterized by memorable roles that left a lasting legacy in cinematic history. Clive's performances established a foundation for future horror films, influencing a generation of actors and filmmakers.
Continue ReadingGuillaume Lekeu
Belgian composer and pianist
Born
January 20th, 1870 156 years ago
Died
1894 132 years ago — 24 years old
Born in Belgium in 1870, this composer and pianist became a notable figure in late Romantic music. Lekeu studied under the guidance of famous musicians like Vincent d'Indy and his work reflected complex harmonies and rich orchestration. Despite a short life, with his passing in 1894 at the age of 24, Lekeu left behind significant compositions. His music includes symphonic works, chamber music, and songs, showcasing a mature style reminiscent of the Impressionists and late Romantics. The Symphony in C and the String Quartet are particularly recognized.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on June 24th
George Leake
Politician, 3rd Premier of Western Australia
Born
December 3rd, 1856 169 years ago
Died
June 24th, 1902 123 years ago — 45 years old
Held the position of Premier during a crucial period in Western Australia's development. Advocated for various infrastructural projects aimed at boosting the state's economy and improving public services. His tenure was marked by efforts to enhance education and transport within Western Australia. Oversaw policies that affected land distribution and immigration, impacting the growth of the population and settlement in the region.
Continue ReadingSarah Orne Jewett
American novelist and short story writer
Born
September 3rd, 1849 176 years ago
Died
June 24th, 1909 116 years ago — 59 years old
An American novelist and short story writer emerged in the late 19th century. She wrote predominantly about New England life, capturing the experiences of women and rural communities. Works include "The Country of the Pointed Firs," a prominent novella that showcases her detailed character studies and descriptions of rural Maine. Jewett's writing reflects her fascination with the landscape and the intricate connections between people and the environment.
Continue ReadingEdward de Vere
17th Earl of Oxford, courtier and chamberlain
Born
April 12th, 1550 475 years ago
Died
June 24th, 1604 421 years ago — 54 years old
The 17th Earl of Oxford served as a prominent English courtier in the late 16th century. Active in the royal court, held the position of Lord Great Chamberlain, overseeing the royal household. Associated with the Elizabethan era's literary circles, linked to discussions regarding authorship of works attributed to William Shakespeare. Engaged in various political and social activities, contributing to the cultural landscape of the time.
Continue ReadingEdith Södergran
Swedish-Finnish poet
Born
April 4th, 1892 133 years ago
Died
June 24th, 1923 102 years ago — 31 years old
A prominent figure in the early 20th-century Finnish literature, this poet contributed significantly to the modernist movement. Creating poetry that often explored themes of nature, existentialism, and femininity, works included 'Främmande' and 'Det Går An.' The writing style broke from traditional forms, reflecting the influence of European avant-garde literature. The poet's collection, 'Gösta Berling,' received recognition and remains essential in the study of Finnish literature. The poet passed away in 1923, leaving a lasting legacy.
Continue ReadingJackie Gleason
American actor and comedian from 'The Honeymooners'
Born
February 26th, 1916 109 years ago
Died
June 24th, 1987 38 years ago — 71 years old
An influential actor and comedian, Gleason rose to fame with the television series 'The Honeymooners', which first aired in the 1950s. The show became a cultural touchstone, showcasing his comedic talent and larger-than-life personality. In addition to television, he had a successful career in film, earning acclaim for roles in movies such as 'The Hustler' and 'Smokey and the Bandit'. Gleason also pursued a career in music, releasing multiple albums that showcased his smooth voice and orchestral arrangements. Throughout his career, he maintained a significant presence in popular culture and left an enduring legacy in comedy.
Continue ReadingLonesome George
Last known Pinta Island tortoise
Died
June 24th, 2012 13 years ago — None years old
Lonesome George was the last known individual of the Pinta Island tortoise species, which was native to the Galápagos Islands. Discovered in 1971, he became a symbol of conservation efforts to save endangered species. Stemming from the Charles Darwin Research Station, he attracted global attention. Lonesome George lived in captivity until his death in 2012, and efforts to find a mate for him were unsuccessful, leading to his recognition as the last of his kind.
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