Diego Abad de Santillán
Economist and author of 'La Lucha'
Born in 1897, contributed significantly to economic thought in Spain. Worked as a proponent of Marxist economics and was involved in leftist politics. Emigrated to France during the Spanish Civil War, where further developed economic theories and published numerous works that discussed the implications of socio-economic policies. Continued to influence economic discussions until his death.
Authored 'La Lucha'
Promoted Marxist economic theory
Other People Born on May 20th
Emile Berliner
Inventor of the phonograph
Born
May 20th, 1851 174 years ago
Died
August 3rd, 1929 96 years ago — 78 years old
Emile Berliner was a German-American inventor and businessman credited with the invention of the phonograph, which played a pivotal role in the development of the music recording industry. Berliner developed the flat disc record, which replaced the earlier cylinder format, leading to significant advancements in audio technology. His company, the Berliner Gramophone Company, started the commercialization of recorded music. In addition to his work in sound recording, he contributed to various fields including telephony and aeronautics, holding numerous patents.
Continue ReadingJohn Cruickshank
Scottish lieutenant, Victoria Cross recipient
Born
May 20th, 1920 105 years ago
Served as a lieutenant in the Royal Air Force during World War II. Participated in numerous missions and displayed exceptional bravery. Received the Victoria Cross for actions in military combat, highlighting courage in the face of enemy fire. Later pursued a career in banking after the war, contributing to financial sectors in Scotland.
Continue ReadingPedro Trebbau
Zoologist and conservationist
Born
May 20th, 1929 96 years ago
Died
January 16th, 2021 4 years ago — 91 years old
German-born Venezuelan zoologist focused on the study and conservation of amphibians and reptiles in Venezuela. Conducted extensive research in national parks and was instrumental in conservation efforts. Played a significant role in the establishment of the Parque Nacional Henri Pittier, contributing to the protection of native species and ecosystems.
Continue ReadingAli Sami Yen
Turkish footballer and Galatasaray founder
Born
May 20th, 1886 139 years ago
Died
July 29th, 1951 74 years ago — 65 years old
A prominent figure in Turkish football, founded Galatasaray S.K. in 1905, which evolved into one of Turkey's most successful football clubs. Served as the first president of the club and contributed significantly to its growth and development. Played a crucial role in establishing the club's identity and presence in Turkish sports. His leadership and vision helped shape the foundations of football in Turkey, leading to the club's enduring legacy.
Continue ReadingR. J. Mitchell
English engineer, designer of the Spitfire
Born
May 20th, 1895 130 years ago
Died
June 11th, 1937 88 years ago — 42 years old
An English engineer specializing in aircraft design, contributed significantly to aviation technology. Designed the Supermarine Spitfire, a fighter aircraft used extensively during World War II. Spitfire gained a reputation for its performance and effectiveness in aerial combat. Mitchell's engineering leadership and innovative designs advanced the field of aeronautics and played a crucial role in the Battle of Britain.
Continue ReadingGeorge Prendergast
Australian politician, 28th Premier of Victoria
Born
May 20th, 1854 171 years ago
Died
August 28th, 1937 88 years ago — 83 years old
Served as the 28th Premier of Victoria from 1900 to 1901. Prendergast was a member of the Australian Labor Party and held various political positions throughout his career. His leadership contributed to significant legislative reforms within the state, focusing on workers' rights and education. He was involved in the development of infrastructure projects aimed at improving the state's economy. His tenure as Premier marked a critical period in Victorian politics during the early 1900s.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on October 18th
Sancho III of Pamplona
King of Pamplona, united Navarre
Died
October 18th, 1035 990 years ago — None years old
Ruled as king from 1004 to 1035, significantly expanded and consolidated the Kingdom of Pamplona, which later formed part of modern-day Navarre, Spain. Under leadership, the kingdom experienced a period of stability and growth, affirming its importance in the region. Played a crucial role in the Reconquista, taking military actions against Muslim territories. Developed alliances with other Christian kingdoms, which strengthened Pamplona's position in Iberia.
Continue ReadingAntonio Meucci
Italian-American engineer; telephone inventor
Born
April 13th, 1808 217 years ago
Died
October 18th, 1889 136 years ago — 81 years old
An engineer, inventor, and entrepreneur contributed significantly to the development of voice communication technology. Born in Italy, migrated to the United States in the mid-1800s, established a workshop in Staten Island. Designed a prototype of a device for transmitting voice messages, demonstrating its functionality with the 'telettrofono'. Faced financial difficulties, including legal battles over patent rights, which hindered recognition of the invention. Recieved a U.S. patent caveat in 1871 for the telegraph device. Recognized posthumously for achievements in telecommunications and regarded as a pioneer in the field.
Continue ReadingBill King
American sportscaster for the A's
Born
October 6th, 1927 98 years ago
Died
October 18th, 2005 20 years ago — 78 years old
A prominent sportscaster, provided play-by-play commentary for Major League Baseball, particularly for the Oakland Athletics. Began broadcasting career in 1958, becoming the voice of the Athletics in 1970. Renowned for distinctive style and ability to capture the excitement of the game. Also covered college football and basketball, building a legacy in sports media.
Continue ReadingEmperor Ming of Jin
Ruler of the Jin dynasty
Died
October 18th, 325 1700 years ago — None years old
Ruled as the second emperor of the Jin dynasty from 323 until death in 325. Ascended the throne after the death of the founding emperor, recognized for consolidating central authority and seeking to stabilize the empire. Undertook measures to strengthen political control and manage military concerns during a time of internal strife. Expanded the administrative framework to address challenges faced by the dynasty.
Continue ReadingEtienne Nicolas Méhul
Composer of operas and symphonies
Born
1763 262 years ago
Died
October 18th, 1817 208 years ago — 54 years old
Born in 1763, a prominent French composer during the Revolutionary and Napoleonic eras, contributed significantly to the development of French opera and symphonic music. Focused on creating dramatic and expressive compositions, shaped the style of French opera with works that included operas, symphonies, and sacred music. Established a reputation as a leading figure in the transition from Baroque to Romantic music. Contributed to the formation of the French opera's identity through innovative melodic and harmonic techniques. Strived to integrate French folk elements into classical music structures, influencing future composers.
Continue ReadingPope Gregory XII
Pope during the Western Schism
Born
1326 699 years ago
Died
October 18th, 1417 608 years ago — 91 years old
Served as Pope from 1406 to 1415 during a period marked by the Western Schism, where multiple claimants contested the papacy. Resigned in 1415 to help resolve this schism, leading to the election of Pope Martin V at the Council of Constance. His papacy was characterized by efforts to restore unity in the church and to address challenges from rival popes and factions within Christendom.
Continue Reading