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
Dušan Tadić
Professional Footballer with notable club success
Born
November 20th, 1988 37 years ago
A Serbian footballer who primarily plays as a winger and attacking midfielder. Began professional career at Vojvodina before moving to play for Groningen in the Netherlands. Gained prominence at Twente, where a successful tenure included winning the Eredivisie title in 2010. Later joined Southampton in the Premier League, contributing to the team for four seasons. Currently serves as captain of Ajax in the Eredivisie, leading the team to domestic and European competitions, including winning multiple league and cup titles. A key player for the Serbian national team, participating in the 2018 FIFA World Cup.
Continue ReadingBabita Kumari
Indian Wrestler and 2012 Olympic Medalist
Born
November 20th, 1989 36 years ago
An accomplished wrestler, this individual competed in the freestyle wrestling category, primarily in the 55 kg weight class. Achievements include winning a bronze medal at the 2012 Summer Olympics in London and a silver medal at the 2010 Commonwealth Games. With numerous national and international titles, this wrestler has represented India on various platforms, showcasing talent and skill in the sport.
Continue ReadingAndrew Driver
Professional footballer and winger
Born
November 20th, 1987 38 years ago
A footballer who played as a winger, primarily representing clubs in England. Began his career with the youth team of the English club, Hearts, and made his first-team debut in 2005. Achieved notable success in the Scottish Premier League during his time with Hearts, including winning the Scottish Cup in 2006. Moved to England and played for Brentford, where he contributed to the team’s performance in the League One. Also played for the Houston Dynamo in Major League Soccer, marking his transition to North American football. His playing style was characterized by pace and creativity on the flanks, contributing to various goals and assists throughout his career.
Continue ReadingAgon Mehmeti
Swedish footballer with professional career
Born
November 20th, 1989 36 years ago
A professional footballer, played as a forward. Initiated a career in the Allsvenskan with Örebro SK, contributing to the team's performance in top-tier Swedish football. Played for various clubs in Sweden and abroad, showcasing skills in several competitive leagues. Competed in international fixtures representing Sweden at youth levels.
Continue ReadingDariga Shakimova
Kazakhstani Boxer, World Championships Medalist
Born
November 20th, 1988 37 years ago
A competitive boxer who represented Kazakhstan in various international competitions. Achieved significant success at the AIBA Women's World Boxing Championships, securing a bronze medal in 2016. Participated in the 2016 Rio Olympics, showcasing talent on an Olympic level. Has competed in multiple national championships and contributed to the growth of women's boxing in Kazakhstan.
Continue ReadingHu Yaobang
Chinese politician, General Secretary of CPC
Born
November 20th, 1915 110 years ago
Died
April 15th, 1989 36 years ago — 73 years old
A prominent Chinese politician served as General Secretary of the Chinese Communist Party from 1982 to 1987. During this time, initiated economic reforms that aimed to modernize China’s economy. His leadership style emphasized open political discourse and a departure from dogmatic Marxism. Resigned amid pressures related to student protests and was viewed as a reformist. Posthumously honored as a symbol of political reform during subsequent demonstrations.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on August 20th
Adolf 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 ReadingMartin Opitz
German poet and composer of Baroque era
Born
December 23rd, 1597 428 years ago
Died
August 20th, 1639 386 years ago — 41 years old
A prominent poet and composer during the Baroque period, contributions to the German literary landscape included a significant role in establishing the German language in poetry. Opitz published 'Buch von der deutschen Poeterey', which laid theoretical foundations for German poetry and advocated for the use of the German language in literature. His works reflected a blend of classical influences and new forms of expression and played an essential role in the development of German drama and lyrical poetry.
Continue ReadingUlla Jacobsson
Swedish-Austrian actress in 'The Seventh Seal'
Born
May 23rd, 1929 96 years ago
Died
August 20th, 1982 43 years ago — 53 years old
Born in 1929, a Swedish-Austrian actress gained prominence in the film industry through notable performances. Featured in the iconic film 'The Seventh Seal' directed by Ingmar Bergman, showcased remarkable talent. Throughout the career, appeared in various European films and television productions, achieving recognition for versatile roles and strong screen presence. Continued to act until the late 1990s, leaving a lasting legacy in European cinema.
Continue ReadingThomas Herrion
American football player and offensive lineman
Born
December 15th, 1981 44 years ago
Died
August 20th, 2005 20 years ago — 23 years old
Played professional American football as an offensive lineman. Drafted by the San Francisco 49ers in 2004. Featured in the 2004 season with San Francisco, contributing to the team's offensive line. Played for multiple teams in the NFL including the 49ers and the Oakland Raiders. His career was marked by his dedication to the sport until untimely death in 2005.
Continue ReadingFred Hoyle
Astronomer, author, and creator of the term 'Big Bang'
Born
June 24th, 1915 110 years ago
Died
August 20th, 2001 24 years ago — 86 years old
An English astronomer and author contributed significantly to the field of cosmology and astrophysics. Developed the theory of stellar nucleosynthesis, explaining how elements are formed within stars. Authored several influential books, including 'The Black Cloud' and 'Astronomy'. Coined the phrase 'Big Bang' in 1949 to describe a competing cosmological model, although he favored a different steady-state theory. His work spanned topics such as quasars, nucleosynthesis, and the origins of life in the universe.
Continue ReadingRam Sharan Sharma
Indian historian and academic
Born
November 26th, 1919 106 years ago
Died
August 20th, 2011 14 years ago — 91 years old
An Indian historian and academic specialized in ancient Indian history. Participated in various archaeological expeditions across India, contributing significantly to the field of historical research and education. Held the position of Professor of History at the University of Delhi and served as the Director of the Indian Council of Historical Research. Authored several influential books on Indian history, particularly focusing on the Gupta period and the socio-economic conditions of ancient India. Played a role in shaping modern historical narratives through rigorous scholarship and teaching.
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