Edmonde Charles-Roux
French journalist and author, wrote 'Oublier Piaf'
A journalist and author with significant contributions to literature and cultural commentary. Worked for various publications including 'Le Figaro' and 'L'Express'. Authored several novels, with 'Oublier Piaf' gaining notable recognition. Served as a member of the Académie Goncourt, which awards prestigious literary prizes in France. Engaged in uncovering social issues and highlighting cultural stories through journalism and fiction.
Authored 'Oublier Piaf'
Served on Académie Goncourt
Other People Born on April 17th
Lagle Parek
Estonian architect and politician
Born
April 17th, 1941 85 years ago
An architect and politician contributed significantly to Estonia's administrative framework. Held the position of Estonian Minister of the Interior, overseeing policies related to internal security and administration. Involved in the restoration of Estonia's independence and played a role in shaping modern Estonian governance.
Continue ReadingA. Thiagarajah
Sri Lankan educator and politician
Born
April 17th, 1916 110 years ago
Died
1981 45 years ago — 65 years old
An educator and politician from Sri Lanka, significantly contributed to the field of education and the political landscape. Served as a member of the parliament, influencing legislative decisions and educational reforms. Played a pivotal role in promoting education in the Tamil community and advocating for educational rights. Worked on various committees and was involved in efforts to enhance educational policy and access.
Continue ReadingHarry Reasoner
American journalist and television anchor
Born
April 17th, 1923 103 years ago
Died
August 6th, 1991 34 years ago — 68 years old
A prominent journalist, contributed significantly to American television news. Anchored CBS Evening News alongside Dan Rather and was a founding anchor of ABC's 20/20. Gained recognition for in-depth reporting and investigative journalism. Played an instrumental role in covering major events, including the Vietnam War and the Watergate scandal. Worked at various major news outlets, leaving a substantial legacy in broadcast journalism.
Continue ReadingUrs Wild
Swiss chemist and researcher
Born
April 17th, 1936 90 years ago
Died
2022 4 years ago — 86 years old
A prominent Swiss chemist, contributed significantly to the field of synthetic and organic chemistry. Conducted extensive research in the development of new chemical compounds and materials. Developed innovative methodologies for chemical synthesis, enhancing efficiency and safety in laboratory processes. Authored numerous publications that advanced scientific understanding within the discipline.
Continue ReadingMargot Honecker
East German politician and First Lady
Born
April 17th, 1927 99 years ago
Died
2016 10 years ago — 89 years old
Served as the First Lady of East Germany from 1971 to 1989, playing a significant role in the German Democratic Republic's educational policies. Advocated for the promotion of socialist ideology within the educational system. Active in the Socialist Unity Party, she contributed to political discourse and policy-making in East Germany.
Continue ReadingJoan Lorring
British actress with notable film roles
Born
April 17th, 1926 100 years ago
Died
May 30th, 2014 12 years ago — 88 years old
An actress celebrated for appearances in films during the mid-20th century. Received an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress for the role in 'The Corn Is Green'. Featured in productions such as 'The Man in the Grey Flannel Suit' and 'The Best Years of Our Lives'. Lived and worked primarily in the United Kingdom, with a career spanning several decades, including performances on stage and in film.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on January 20th
Jean-François Millet
Painter of rural life and 'The Gleaners'
Born
October 4th, 1814 211 years ago
Died
January 20th, 1875 151 years ago — 60 years old
A prominent French painter and educator, Millet specialized in the depiction of peasant life and agricultural scenes. Throughout his career, he aimed to portray the dignity of rural labor. His most celebrated work, 'The Gleaners', showcases three women gleaning wheat, emphasizing the importance of their labor. Millet's style evolved from realism to a more impressionistic approach, highlighting the natural beauty of the countryside. He was a key figure in the Barbizon School, which focused on realistic portrayals of rural scenes and landscapes. In addition to painting, he contributed to the education of other artists, influencing the development of modern art.
Continue ReadingJørgen Jørgensen
Danish explorer of Greenland
Born
March 29th, 1780 246 years ago
Died
January 20th, 1841 185 years ago — 60 years old
Embarked on significant exploratory missions to Greenland during the early 19th century. Jørgensen contributed to the mapping and understanding of Greenland's geography and natural resources. His expeditions provided valuable insights into the region's terrain, climate, and Inuit culture. Jørgensen's work in the Arctic demonstrated his commitment to exploration and knowledge acquisition, laying the groundwork for future studies and expeditions in Greenland.
Continue ReadingCarrie Hamilton
American actress and singer
Born
December 5th, 1963 62 years ago
Died
January 20th, 2002 24 years ago — 38 years old
An actress and singer, contributed to the entertainment industry through performances in various shows and music. Gained recognition for starring in the television series 'Fame' and appeared in stage productions. Collaborated with well-known artists and participated in musical performances, showcasing vocal talent. Had a successful career in the 1980s and continued to engage in creative endeavors until her passing.
Continue ReadingAl Hirschfeld
American caricaturist and illustrator
Born
June 21st, 1903 123 years ago
Died
January 20th, 2003 23 years ago — 99 years old
Acclaimed for his distinctive line drawings, this artist specialized in caricatures and illustrations, particularly in the realm of theater. Worked extensively with major publications including The New York Times, where his work became a staple. Produced over 3,000 drawings over his lifetime, capturing a wide array of Broadway stars and cultural figures. His art was characterized by its simplicity and elegance, conveying the essence of his subjects with fluid lines. An influential figure in American art, he gained recognition for his innovative techniques and ability to encapsulate personality through caricature.
Continue ReadingJohn Levy
Bassist and music manager
Born
April 11th, 1912 114 years ago
Died
January 20th, 2012 14 years ago — 99 years old
A prominent bassist and music manager, contributions spanned several decades. Managed the careers of several notable jazz musicians, including George Shearing and Sarah Vaughan. Played bass for many major jazz acts and participated in numerous recording sessions. His expertise in both performance and management helped shape the careers of many artists during the mid-20th century.
Continue ReadingJames McKeen Cattell
Psychologist and academic leader
Born
May 25th, 1860 166 years ago
Died
January 20th, 1944 82 years ago — 83 years old
Pioneered the field of psychology as an academic discipline and emphasized the importance of empirical research. Developed the first psychological laboratory in the United States at Columbia University. Contributed to the establishment of psychology as a science through his work on mental testing and measurement. Advocated for the application of psychology in educational and industrial settings. Engaged in various scholarly activities, including publishing influential research and serving in significant academic roles.
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