Dorothy Height

Educator and civil rights activist

Dorothy Height - Educator and civil rights activist
Born

March 24th, 1912
112 years ago

Died

April 20th, 2010
14 years ago — 98 years old

Category

Activists & Humanitarians

Country

United States

Links & References

An influential educator and civil rights activist, contributions focused on race and gender equality. Played a significant role in the National Council of Negro Women, serving as president from 1962 to 1998. Organized and participated in events such as the 1963 March on Washington. Advocated for educational opportunities for African American women and played a key role in the development of standards in education, particularly for marginalized communities.

President of the National Council of Negro Women

Participation in the 1963 March on Washington

Other People Born on March 24th

Stephan Eberharter

Austrian Alpine ski racer and Olympian
Born
March 24th, 1969 55 years ago

Austrian skier achieved success in alpine skiing events during the late 1990s and early 2000s. Competed in multiple World Cup seasons, securing numerous podium finishes. Won the overall World Cup title in 2001. Participated in the 1998 and 2002 Winter Olympics, earning a gold medal in the downhill event at the Salt Lake City Olympics in 2002. Recognized for powerful and precise skiing style, contributing to a successful career in international competitions.

Continue Reading

Thomas Cushing

American politician, 1st Lt. Governor of MA
Born
March 24th, 1725 299 years ago
Died
1788 237 years ago — 63 years old

Cushing served as an American lawyer and politician during the 18th century. He held the position of 1st Lieutenant Governor of Massachusetts from 1780 to 1785, playing a significant role in the early governance of the state following the American Revolution. Cushing was also active in Massachusetts politics prior to his tenure as Lieutenant Governor, contributing to the political landscape during a formative time in American history. He was involved in the drafting of the state's constitution in 1780 and practiced law, establishing a legal foundation for the governance of Massachusetts.

Continue Reading

Muthuswami Dikshitar

Indian composer of classical music
Born
March 24th, 1775 249 years ago
Died
October 21st, 1835 189 years ago — 60 years old

Active in the 18th century, contributed significantly to the Carnatic music tradition through compositions in various languages. His works reflect a blend of devotional themes and intricate musical structures. Instrumental in codifying the modern form of kriti, a lyrical structure in Carnatic music, and incorporated elements from different religious traditions. Established a significant contribution to the genre with extensive use of ragas and talas. Also known for his deep knowledge of musicology and mythology, which informed his compositions. Continued to inspire generations of musicians and composers in South India.

Continue Reading

Hanno Drechsler

German educator and politician
Born
March 24th, 1931 93 years ago
Died
2003 22 years ago — 72 years old

Served as the Mayor of Marburg, overseeing various educational and community initiatives. Contributed significantly to local policy and governance. Active in promoting educational reforms and community engagement in Marburg, influencing many aspects of local educational practices and policies.

Continue Reading

Martin Walser

German author and playwright
Born
March 24th, 1927 97 years ago
Died
2023 2 years ago — 96 years old

An influential figure in German literature, this author and playwright gained prominence through his exploration of complex themes, often delving into post-war German society and identity. The work 'Hamburgers' received critical acclaim, showcasing a blend of realism and introspection. Contributions to literature spanned novels, essays, and plays, reflecting personal and historical narratives. Engaged in public debates surrounding culture and politics, the author maintained a profound interest in the interplay of art and society throughout his career.

Continue Reading

Gary Paffett

Racing driver and DTM champion
Born
March 24th, 1981 43 years ago

Accomplished English racing driver, active in motorsport since the late 1990s. Competed primarily in the Deutsche Tourenwagen Masters (DTM), winning the championship in 2005 and 2018. Participated in various racing series including the British Formula 3 Championship and American Champ Car series. Served as a test driver for McLaren in Formula One. Also contributed as a development driver for Aston Martin and Mercedes-Benz.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on April 20th

Peter Bartholomew

Military figure during the First Crusade
Born
1061 964 years ago
Died
April 20th, 1099 925 years ago — 38 years old

Peter Bartholomew served as a military leader during the First Crusade, participating in significant battles to reclaim Jerusalem. His prominent role in the siege of Antioch was marked by claims of divine visions that guided his actions. These visions included the discovery of the Holy Lance, believed to be the spear used to pierce the side of Jesus Christ, which rallied troops and influenced morale. Following the successful capture of Jerusalem in 1099, Bartholomew's contributions were acknowledged, although they also sparked controversy among his peers due to his prophetic assertions. His life ended during a subsequent military campaign, highlighting the perilous nature of the Crusades.

Continue Reading

Archibald MacLeish

American poet and playwright, Pulitzer Prize winner
Born
May 7th, 1892 132 years ago
Died
April 20th, 1982 42 years ago — 89 years old

A prominent poet, playwright, and lawyer significantly contributed to American literature throughout the 20th century. Won three Pulitzer Prizes for Poetry, showcasing exceptional literary talent. Served as the Librarian of Congress from 1939 to 1944, influencing public access to literature and documentation. A member of the National Institute of Arts and Letters and the American Academy of Arts and Letters, fostering artistic growth in the nation. Authored notable works including the play 'J.B.', which received acclaim for its exploration of the Job story from the Bible and the poetry collection 'Collected Poems', illustrating a profound command of the English language.

Continue Reading

Sir Cosmo Duff-Gordon

Scottish fencer and businessman
Born
1862 163 years ago
Died
April 20th, 1931 93 years ago — 69 years old

A fencer and businessman, recognized as the 5th Baronet of Halkin. Competed in the 1908 Summer Olympics, specializing in foil fencing. Established a successful career in commerce alongside an interest in the sport. Known for contributions to fencing in Scotland and England.

Continue Reading

Gavin Millar

Scottish film director, 'The Last Great Wilderness'
Born
1938 87 years ago
Died
April 20th, 2022 2 years ago — 84 years old

A Scottish film director gained prominence in the film industry through several notable works. Directed 'The Last Great Wilderness', a film exploring themes of nature and humanity. Also worked in television, contributing to series such as 'The Lost Garden' and 'The Last of the Oystermen'. His career spanned multiple decades, engaging in various projects that showcased storytelling through a visual medium.

Continue Reading

Cassie Bernall

Victim of Columbine High School massacre
Born
1981 44 years ago
Died
April 20th, 1999 25 years ago — 18 years old

A student at Columbine High School, became one of the victims during the tragic shooting on April 20, 1999. The incident drew national attention and sparked discussions about school safety, gun control, and youth violence. Bernall's story was shared widely, including claims surrounding her final words, which contributed to her recognition posthumously. Her life and the events surrounding her death remain significant in the context of school violence in the United States.

Continue Reading

Antonio Cantafora

Italian film and television actor
Born
1944 81 years ago
Died
April 20th, 2024 0 years ago — 80 years old

An actor active in film and television, performed in various genres. Gained recognition for roles in productions in the 1970s and 1980s. Contributed to cinematic works that showcased Italian culture and storytelling. Appeared in popular films and television series that have garnered a following over the years.

Continue Reading