E. H. Harriman
Businessman and railroad magnate
A prominent American businessman and philanthropist, established a significant presence in the railroad industry. Played a critical role in transforming the Union Pacific Railroad into one of the leading railroads in the United States. Involved in various business ventures, including investments in mining and utilities. A supporter of numerous philanthropic efforts, focusing on education and the arts, significantly contributed to the endowment of cultural institutions.
Transformed Union Pacific Railroad
Invested in various industries
Other People Born on February 20th
Jean Kennedy Smith
American diplomat, 25th Ambassador to Ireland
Born
February 20th, 1928 97 years ago
Died
June 17th, 2020 5 years ago — 92 years old
Served as the 25th United States Ambassador to Ireland from 1993 to 1998. Played a pivotal role in the Northern Ireland peace process and was instrumental in the Good Friday Agreement. Engaged in various cultural and educational initiatives to strengthen ties between the United States and Ireland. Worked on behalf of individuals with disabilities and promoted social justice causes throughout her career.
Continue ReadingKurt Cobain
Singer-songwriter and guitarist of Nirvana
Born
February 20th, 1967 58 years ago
Died
April 5th, 1994 31 years ago — 27 years old
A prominent figure in the grunge music scene, this artist co-founded the band Nirvana in 1987. The band's breakthrough album, "Nevermind," released in 1991, brought alternative rock to mainstream audiences and featured the iconic single "Smells Like Teen Spirit." The use of angst-filled lyrics and a raw sound defined a generation of music. Struggles with addiction and personal issues influenced both the band's music and the artist's life. His untimely death in 1994 marked a significant moment in music history, cementing the band's legacy as leaders of the grunge movement.
Continue ReadingJ. Geils
American singer-songwriter and guitarist
Born
February 20th, 1946 79 years ago
Died
April 11th, 2017 8 years ago — 71 years old
A notable figure in the music industry, contributed to the rock genre as the frontman of a successful band. Founded the J. Geils Band, which gained prominence in the 1970s and 1980s. The band released several popular albums, achieving substantial commercial success. Their single, 'Centerfold', reached number one on the Billboard Hot 100 in 1982, solidifying their place in rock history.
Continue ReadingBuddy Rogers
Professional wrestler and WWE Hall of Famer
Born
February 20th, 1921 104 years ago
Died
April 21st, 1999 26 years ago — 78 years old
A professional wrestler active from the 1940s to the 1960s, contributed significantly to the early days of televised wrestling. Gained popularity as the first WWE Champion, winning the title in 1963. Known for a flamboyant personality and charismatic style in the ring, which paved the way for future generations of wrestlers. Influenced the development of professional wrestling by helping elevate the sport's profile through media appearances and public engagements.
Continue ReadingThomas Cajetan
Italian philosopher and theologian
Born
February 20th, 1469 556 years ago
Died
August 9th, 1534 491 years ago — 65 years old
A prominent figure in the Renaissance, contributed significantly to scholastic theology and philosophy. Served as a cardinal and led the Dominican order in the 16th century. Engaged in debates regarding Reformation ideas, emphasizing the importance of faith and reason. Authored numerous works, critically analyzing the thoughts of Aristotle and St. Thomas Aquinas. His commentary on Aquinas remains a touchstone in the study of theology.
Continue ReadingEdward Albert
Actor in 'Switch' and 'The Heart Is Deceitful'
Born
February 20th, 1951 74 years ago
Died
September 22nd, 2006 19 years ago — 55 years old
An American actor appeared in films and television from the 1970s onwards. Achievements included notable roles in the film 'Switch' and the movie 'The Heart Is Deceitful Above All Things'. Albert also featured in numerous television series, showcasing a breadth of talent across various genres. His career spanned several decades, leading to recognition in the entertainment industry, particularly for dramatic performances.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on September 9th
John Cassaday
Comic book artist and writer, Identity Crisis
Born
1971 55 years ago
Died
September 9th, 2024 1 years ago — 53 years old
A prominent comic book artist and writer, contributed significantly to the comic book industry with a distinctive style and compelling storytelling. Gained recognition for work on major series such as 'Astonishing X-Men' and 'Identity Crisis'. Collaborated with various publishers, bringing iconic characters to life through vivid art and intricate narratives. His contributions reshaped the industry's visual aesthetic and narrative depth, garnering a substantial fanbase.
Continue ReadingStéphane Mallarmé
French Symbolist poet and critic
Born
March 18th, 1842 183 years ago
Died
September 9th, 1898 127 years ago — 56 years old
Born in 1842, a prominent figure in the Symbolist movement, produced poetry characterized by aspiration and abstraction. Worked as a literary critic and contributed significantly to French literature. Most recognized for the poem 'The Afternoon of a Faun', which has influenced both literature and music, particularly the ballet by Claude Debussy that was inspired by the poem. Engaged in the promotion of modern poetry, Mallarmé organized the first performance of 'The Theatre of Mr. Mallarmé', showcasing his belief in the importance of visual poetry and the performance aspect of literature.
Continue ReadingAntonino Votto
Italian conductor and orchestra leader
Born
October 30th, 1896 129 years ago
Died
September 9th, 1985 40 years ago — 88 years old
An influential Italian conductor, led prestigious orchestras throughout Europe. His career spanned several decades, with a focus on opera and symphonic music. Votto conducted the La Scala Orchestra and served as music director for the Metropolitan Opera in New York City. Known for precise interpretations and commitment to the art of conducting, Votto gained recognition for his ability to bring out the best in orchestras and soloists.
Continue ReadingMontserrat Abelló i Soler
Spanish poet and translator of works
Born
1918 108 years ago
Died
September 9th, 2014 11 years ago — 96 years old
A prominent figure in Spanish literature, focused on poetry and translation. Contributed significantly to bringing the works of international authors to Spanish-speaking audiences. Published multiple poetry collections, exploring themes of identity, love, and nature. Translation work included significant works from Catalan to Spanish, enriching the literary landscape. Actively engaged in promoting Catalan culture through literature.
Continue ReadingJames Earl Jones
American actor and voice artist
Born
January 17th, 1931 95 years ago
Died
September 9th, 2024 1 years ago — 93 years old
A prominent American actor and voice artist, acclaimed for a versatile career spanning several decades. Key performances include the voice of Darth Vader in the 'Star Wars' franchise and the lead role in 'The Great White Hope', which earned critical praise. Additionally, contributed to the stage with significant performances in productions such as 'Fences' and 'Othello'. Also, provided the narration for notable documentaries and projects, showcasing a powerful vocal presence.
Continue ReadingCaterina Valente
Singer and dancer, known for 'Il Mondo'
Born
January 14th, 1931 95 years ago
Died
September 9th, 2024 1 years ago — 93 years old
Born in 1931, an Italian-French singer and dancer achieved prominence in the 1950s and 1960s. Gained fame in Europe and internationally with a unique blend of music and performance styles. Recorded songs in multiple languages, showcasing versatility. Achieved significant success with the song 'Il Mondo', which became a classic. Performed on various television shows and cabarets, capturing audiences with charisma and talent. In addition to singing, excelled in dancing, further enhancing live performances. Worked with prominent orchestras and produced numerous albums throughout a long career.
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