Derrick Alston
Professional basketball player, NBA
Played college basketball at Boise State University, becoming the all-time leading scorer in the school's history. Entered the NBA through the 1994 Draft, joining the Philadelphia 76ers. Played a significant role during a tenure with the team from 1994 to 1996. Also enjoyed international playing opportunities in various leagues, further establishing a basketball career beyond the NBA.
All-time leading scorer at Boise State University
Drafted by the Philadelphia 76ers in 1994
Other People Born on August 20th
James Prinsep
English orientalist and scholar
Born
August 20th, 1799 226 years ago
Died
1840 186 years ago — 41 years old
Contributed significantly to the study of ancient Indian inscriptions and the history of Indian astronomy. Developed the art of deciphering Brahmi and Kharosthi scripts. Served as the Curator of the Asiatic Society of Bengal. Made important observations on ancient Indian coins and their inscriptions. His work laid the groundwork for subsequent research in Indology.
Continue ReadingJöns Jacob Berzelius
Swedish chemist and founder of modern chemistry
Born
August 20th, 1779 246 years ago
Died
August 7th, 1848 177 years ago — 68 years old
Contributed significantly to the field of chemistry in the early 19th century. Developed methods for chemical analysis and introduced the concept of chemical symbols and formulas. Instituted the use of the modern system of chemical notation, which simplifies the communication of chemical compositions. Held the position of professor of chemistry at the University of Uppsala and significantly advanced the study of organic compounds.
Continue ReadingHenry Every
English pirate and infamous privateer
Born
August 20th, 1659 366 years ago
Died
1696 330 years ago — 37 years old
Born in 1659, a notorious pirate led successful raids in the late 17th century. Commanded the ship 'Fancy,' conducting the significant capture of the Mughal treasure ship Ganj-i-Sawai in 1695. This act brought immense wealth and notoriety, prompting a naval frenzy to capture him.
Continue ReadingVasily Aksyonov
Russian author and physician
Born
August 20th, 1932 93 years ago
Died
July 6th, 2009 16 years ago — 76 years old
Contributed significantly to literature and medicine. Authored several novels that explored the complexities of Russian society. Gained prominence with the novel 'Generations of Winter', which provides a sweeping historical narrative of the Soviet era. Served as an influential figure in the Russian literary scene and engaged in various academic pursuits related to medicine.
Continue ReadingGeorge Griffith
British writer of science fiction
Born
August 20th, 1857 168 years ago
Died
June 4th, 1906 120 years ago — 48 years old
A British writer, prominent in science fiction, contributed to the genre during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Griffith's stories often explored themes of technology and society, influencing later works in the realm of speculative fiction. He penned several novels, short stories, and essays, blending adventure with futuristic ideas. One of the most notable works is 'A Honeymoon in Space', which featured interplanetary travel and was praised for its imaginative narrative.
Continue ReadingAndrew Greenwood
English cricketer, played for Lancashire
Born
August 20th, 1847 178 years ago
Died
1889 137 years ago — 42 years old
Played first-class cricket primarily for Lancashire between 1868 and 1885. Excelled as a bowler, achieving notable success in the sport. Participated in the historic match against the Australian team, which contributed to the establishment of The Ashes.
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