Ed Freeman
Medal of Honor recipient and soldier
Served as a soldier and helicopter pilot during the Vietnam War. Participated in the Battle of Ia Drang, where he made multiple rescue flights to evacuate wounded soldiers under enemy fire. Demonstrated exceptional bravery and dedication, which led to the awarding of the Medal of Honor for actions during this conflict. Later had a career in various roles, including leadership positions within the military. His legacy is honored through the recognition of his courage and service.
Received the Medal of Honor for bravery
Served in the Vietnam War as a helicopter pilot
Other People Born on November 20th
Arnold Gartmann
Swiss bobsledder Olympic medalist
Born
November 20th, 1904 121 years ago
Died
1980 46 years ago — 76 years old
A Swiss bobsledder competed in the 1920s and 1930s. Achieved considerable success in the sport, particularly during the 1928 Winter Olympics held in St. Moritz, where secured a gold medal in the four-man bobsleigh event. Also participated in the 1932 Winter Olympics in Lake Placid, where earned a bronze medal. Contributed to the development and popularity of bobsledding in Switzerland.
Continue ReadingEdwin Hubble
Astronomer known for Hubble's Law
Born
November 20th, 1889 136 years ago
Died
September 28th, 1953 72 years ago — 63 years old
An American astronomer and cosmologist developed the field of extragalactic astronomy. This individual provided evidence that the universe is expanding, leading to the formulation of Hubble's Law. The use of the 100-inch telescope at Mount Wilson Observatory facilitated groundbreaking observations of distant galaxies. The discovery of the redshift-distance relationship significantly advanced the understanding of the universe's structure and dynamics.
Continue ReadingRobert Armstrong
American actor in classic films
Born
November 20th, 1890 135 years ago
Died
1973 53 years ago — 83 years old
Birth occurred in 1890, leading to a career in acting that spanned several decades. Active during the early to mid-20th century, performed in numerous films and gained prominence for roles in iconic productions. Played a significant role in the adventure film genre and became recognized for performances in major motion pictures. Contributed to early sound films and was involved in several notable film series.
Continue ReadingGermaine Krull
Photographer and political activist
Born
November 20th, 1897 128 years ago
Died
1985 41 years ago — 88 years old
Originated from Germany, this photographer contributed significantly to the field of photography, particularly in the 1920s and 1930s. Emphasizing a modernist approach, work included photojournalism and avant-garde techniques. A notable project involved documenting the lives of diverse social classes, reflecting social issues of the time. Additionally, engaged in political activism, actively promoting socialist ideas and defending workers' rights, particularly during turbulent periods in Germany. The dynamic works often captured the spirit of activism and the human condition, making a lasting imprint in the world of photography.
Continue ReadingLauri Tanner
Finnish gymnast and Olympic participant
Born
November 20th, 1890 135 years ago
Died
1950 76 years ago — 60 years old
Competed in gymnastics at the 1912 Summer Olympics in Stockholm. Secured two bronze medals in team events. Contributed to the development of gymnastics in Finland and impacted the sport's popularity. Involved in coaching and promoting gymnastics throughout the country.
Continue ReadingJosé Leandro Andrade
Uruguayan footballer and World Cup champion
Born
November 20th, 1901 124 years ago
Died
1957 69 years ago — 56 years old
Played professional football primarily as a left back, contributing significantly to club and national team successes. Represented Uruguay in the 1924 and 1928 Olympics, securing gold medals in both tournaments. Participated in the inaugural FIFA World Cup in 1930, where Uruguay triumphed as the first World Cup champions. Played for clubs including Peñarol and the French club Racing Club de Paris.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on August 20th
Charles Lilley
Politician, 4th Premier of Queensland
Born
August 27th, 1827 198 years ago
Died
August 20th, 1897 128 years ago — 69 years old
Served as the 4th Premier of Queensland from 1868 to 1870. Contributed to the development of the colony through various reforms in land use and public education. Advocated for the establishment of the Queensland University. Played a significant role in the separation of Queensland from New South Wales.
Continue ReadingJohan de Witt
Dutch politician and mathematician
Born
September 24th, 1625 400 years ago
Died
August 20th, 1672 353 years ago — 46 years old
Born in 1625, a prominent figure in the Dutch Republic, this individual served as Grand Pensionary of Holland, leading the Republic during the Second Anglo-Dutch War. In addition to political leadership, contributions included advancements in mathematics, specifically in the field of probabilities and geometry. Advocated for the establishment of an effective government and was instrumental in creating a stable financial system. His tenure was marked by efforts to maintain peace and promote trade in a period of conflict.
Continue ReadingMarian McPartland
Pianist and composer of jazz music
Born
March 20th, 1918 107 years ago
Died
August 20th, 2013 12 years ago — 95 years old
A prominent jazz pianist and composer, contributed to the jazz scene through performance and radio. Emerged as a significant figure in the world of jazz starting in the 1940s. Hosted the radio program 'Piano Jazz' on National Public Radio for over three decades, showcasing a variety of jazz talents. Recorded numerous albums, collaborating with various renowned musicians. Her compositions reflect a blend of classical and jazz influences, and her work has contributed to the evolution of modern jazz.
Continue ReadingAdolf von Baeyer
Chemist and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
October 31st, 1835 190 years ago
Died
August 20th, 1917 108 years ago — 81 years old
A prominent chemist and academic, major contributions included the synthesis of indigo and the development of several significant reactions in organic chemistry. Baeyer served as a professor at the University of Munich and influenced the study of organic compounds, especially aromatic compounds. He received the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1905 for his work in organic chemical research. His findings laid groundwork for the modern understanding of chemical structures and reactions.
Continue ReadingGeorg von Frundsberg
German Knight, military commander
Born
September 24th, 1473 552 years ago
Died
August 20th, 1528 497 years ago — 54 years old
Born in 1473, this figure served as a prominent knight and landowner in the Holy Roman Empire. He gained recognition for his significant role in the Landsknecht mercenary army and became one of the foremost military commanders of his time. Active during the early 16th century, he contributed to various military campaigns and played a key role in the defense of the Empire against external threats. His leadership in battles led to a notable influence on military tactics and the structure of mercenary forces throughout Europe.
Continue ReadingGene Upshaw
American football player and executive
Born
1945 81 years ago
Died
August 20th, 2008 17 years ago — 63 years old
A professional American football player, played as a guard for the Oakland Raiders in the National Football League (NFL) from 1967 to 1981. Contributed to the team's victory in Super Bowl XI, Super Bowl XV, and Super Bowl XVIII. After retirement, served as the executive director of the NFL Players Association, advocating for players' rights and welfare throughout the league. Inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1987, recognized for exceptional performance and leadership on and off the field.
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