Edmund Hillary
Mountaineer and first to summit Everest
A mountaineer and explorer from New Zealand ascended Mount Everest on May 29, 1953, alongside Tenzing Norgay. This achievement marked the first successful summit of the world's highest peak. Hillary also participated in numerous expeditions to the Antarctic and took part in the first overland expedition to the South Pole from the sea. In addition to his climbing feats, he contributed to the welfare of the Sherpa people of Nepal, establishing schools and hospitals in the region. His endeavors in exploration and humanitarian efforts garnered international recognition.
First successful ascent of Mount Everest in 1953
Led expeditions in Antarctica
Established schools and hospitals in Nepal
Other People Born on July 20th
Cristian Pasquato
Footballer with notable Serie A appearances
Born
July 20th, 1989 36 years ago
Professional footballer played as an attacking midfielder, primarily in Italy. Started youth career at Juventus, later making senior appearances for the club. Competed in Serie A with clubs such as Udinese and Bologna, contributing to team efforts with assists and goals. Had a successful stint with various lower-tier clubs and gained experience in prominent leagues. Transitioned to playing in foreign leagues, showcasing versatility and skill. Additionally represented the Italian national youth teams during formative years.
Continue ReadingStephen Strasburg
Professional baseball pitcher and World Series MVP
Born
July 20th, 1988 37 years ago
This individual played as a pitcher in Major League Baseball, primarily for the Washington Nationals. Drafted first overall in the 2009 MLB Draft, significant achievements included winning the World Series in 2019 and being named the World Series Most Valuable Player. The pitching style showcased a high velocity fastball and an effective curveball, contributing to a successful career in the sport.
Continue ReadingJohn Francis Daley
Actor and screenwriter of 'Freaks and Geeks'
Born
July 20th, 1985 40 years ago
This individual gained recognition as an actor through the role of Sam Weir in the television series 'Freaks and Geeks.' Later, transitioned into screenwriting, contributing to projects such as 'Spider-Man: Homecoming' and 'Game Night.' Also, featured in the series 'Bones' as Dr. Lance Sweets, which further established a prominent career in both acting and writing. In addition to performing and writing, engaged in directing, showcasing versatility in the entertainment industry.
Continue ReadingJulianne Hough
American actress, dancer, and singer.
Born
July 20th, 1988 37 years ago
An accomplished actress, dancer, and singer, received mainstream recognition through performances in 'Dancing with the Stars.' Achieved success in both dance and music, released several singles, including 'Want to Know What You're Thinkin'.' Starred in films such as 'Footloose' and 'Dirty Dancing: Havana Nights.'
Continue ReadingAlex Yoong
Race car driver and Formula One participant
Born
July 20th, 1976 49 years ago
Competed in Formula One in 2001 as a driver for the Minardi team. Participated in various other international racing events, including A1 Grand Prix and Super GT Championship. Has a background in karting, leading to a successful career in motorsport that spans over two decades. Also served as a commentator and presenter in the motorsport domain.
Continue ReadingShahram Mahmoudi
Iranian volleyball player, 2014 AVC Champion
Born
July 20th, 1988 37 years ago
A prominent figure in volleyball, achieved significant success with the Iranian national team. Played a crucial role in the 2014 Asian Volleyball Championship, where the team secured the gold medal. Participated in numerous international competitions, contributing to the development of the sport in the country. Competed in various leagues, showcasing talent and skill, enhancing the profile of Iranian volleyball on the international stage.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on January 11th
Louis-François Roubiliac
Sculptor of notable memorials and statues
Born
1695 330 years ago
Died
January 11th, 1762 263 years ago — 67 years old
An influential French-English sculptor active during the 18th century, Roubiliac specialized in creating busts and monumental sculptures. He was trained in France before relocating to England, where he gained recognition for his intricate and expressive marble works. Roubiliac's sculptures often captured the essence of his subjects, showcasing remarkable detail and emotive quality. His most famous works include the marble statue of Handel located in Westminster Abbey and the memorial for Sir Isaac Newton. His style contributed to the evolving narrative of sculpture during this period.
Continue ReadingRobert Anton Wilson
Psychologist and author of Cosmic Trigger
Born
January 18th, 1932 93 years ago
Died
January 11th, 2007 18 years ago — 74 years old
Significant contributions in psychology, fiction, and philosophy characterized a career spanning several decades. Best known for the 'Illuminatus!' Trilogy, which blends conspiracy theories, metaphysics, and science fiction. Authored 'Cosmic Trigger: The Final Secret of the Illuminati', exploring altered states of consciousness and the nature of reality. Engaged in various forms of media, including essays, poetry, and plays, fostering intellectual exploration and skepticism. A central figure in promoting ideas around consciousness expansion and libertarianism, founded the Undiscovering America series and expressed views on social and political issues through literature and public talks.
Continue ReadingChashi Nazrul Islam
Bangladeshi director and producer
Born
1941 84 years ago
Died
January 11th, 2015 10 years ago — 74 years old
A prominent director and producer in Bangladesh, contributions spanned over four decades. Began career in the film industry during the 1970s and directed numerous films. Pioneered the genre of films that blended social issues with entertainment, producing works that resonated with the Bangladeshi audience. Received several awards for contributions to cinema, reflecting the evolution of the country's film industry.
Continue ReadingBetty Archdale
Cricketer and educator, WWII veteran
Born
1907 118 years ago
Died
January 11th, 2000 25 years ago — 93 years old
Excelled in cricket and education, contributing significantly to both fields. Played for the England women's cricket team during the 1930s and 1940s and participated in the inaugural Women's Cricket World Cup in 1973. Served in the British Army during World War II as a driver. Worked as a teacher and later became an influential figure in promoting women's cricket.
Continue ReadingJean de Lattre de Tassigny
French general and military leader
Born
February 2nd, 1889 136 years ago
Died
January 11th, 1952 73 years ago — 62 years old
A prominent French general, this military leader played a significant role during World War II and the First Indochina War. He commanded the French forces during the liberation of France and had a strategic impact on military operations in North Africa and Europe. In the aftermath of World War II, this general was appointed as the commander of French forces in Vietnam, where he sought to reestablish French control over the region amid growing nationalist movements. His leadership was marked by both tactical engagements and efforts to strengthen French military presence.
Continue ReadingGustavus Vaughan Brooke
Irish actor with acclaimed performances
Born
1818 207 years ago
Died
January 11th, 1866 159 years ago — 48 years old
An Irish actor, notable for significant contributions to the theatre. Achieved acclaim for performances in roles such as Hamlet and Othello. His career in the mid-19th century included appearances in various prestigious venues across England and Ireland. Gained recognition for his powerful portrayals and dramatic presence on stage, influencing theatrical norms of the period.
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