Edmund Szoka
American cardinal and Vatican official

Born
September 14th, 1927
98 years ago
Died
August 20th, 2014
11 years ago — 86 years old
Category
Leaders & Politicians
Country
United States
Links & References
Ordained a priest in 1955, served in various capacities within the Archdiocese of Detroit. Appointed the sixth bishop of the Diocese of Kalamazoo in 1981, and subsequently became the 11th archbishop of Detroit in 1990. Elevated to cardinal in 1994, played a significant role in various Vatican congregations and councils. Instrumental in church reforms and leadership within the Catholic Church during his tenure. Retired in 2006 and continued service in various capacities until death in 2014.
Served as the archbishop of Detroit
Elevated to cardinal in 1994
Contributed to Vatican reforms
Other People Born on September 14th
Agustín Calleri
Competed professionally in tennis, achieving significant success primarily in doubles matches. Reached a career-high singles ranking of World No. 18 in April 2004. Notable for participating in the Davis Cup for Argentina, contributing to the team's efforts in the international competition over several years. Won multiple ATP doubles titles, demonstrating proficiency in team formats. Retired from professional play and continued to influence tennis through coaching and mentoring.
Continue ReadingMario Benedetti
An influential figure in Latin American literature, this individual authored numerous novels, plays, and poems. Works include 'La Tregua', which explores themes of love and loss, and 'El Hombre que Plantaba Árboles', a celebrated short story. Contributions to journalism included commentaries on social and political issues, reflecting a deep engagement with Uruguayan society. The literature often examined the human condition and the struggles of everyday life, resonating widely with readers. Active in the political landscape, this individual faced exile during periods of political unrest in Uruguay.
Continue ReadingClaudius Clavus
Claudius Clavus was a Danish geographer and cartographer, active during the late 14th to early 15th century. His work primarily focused on mapping northern regions, contributing to the understanding of Scandinavia and Arctic areas. He created several important maps, including a major world map that depicted northern parts of Europe and Greenland. Clavus's maps combined knowledge from previous sources with his explorations and accounts from other travelers, reflecting the geographic knowledge of his time. He is considered one of the last medieval cartographers, bridging the medieval world and the emerging age of exploration.
Continue ReadingGeraldine Brooks
Born in Australia, a career began in journalism, producing work for prominent publications such as The Wall Street Journal. Transitioned to fiction writing, with notable novels that explore historical themes and characters. Received the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction in 2006 for a novel that delves into the implications of war on human lives. Currently resides in the United States, continuing to write and contribute to literary discussions.
Continue ReadingMichael Crabtree
Played as a wide receiver in the National Football League (NFL) for teams including the San Francisco 49ers, Oakland Raiders, and Buffalo Bills. Achieved significant success during college at Texas Tech University, where recorded prolific receiving numbers. Won the Biletnikoff Award in 2007 and 2008 for being the top receiver in college football. Contributed to the 49ers reaching Super Bowl XLVII in 2013.
Continue ReadingAl-Ma'mun
Served as the seventh Abbasid caliph from 813 to 833. Ruled during a period marked by cultural and scientific advancements. Established the Bayt al-Hikma, or House of Wisdom, in Baghdad, which became a leading center for knowledge and learning. Patronized scholars and poets, facilitating the translation of Greek and Persian works into Arabic. His reign saw significant developments in mathematics, astronomy, and medicine, contributing to the Islamic Golden Age.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on August 20th
B. K. S. Iyengar
An influential yoga instructor and author, established a method of yoga that emphasizes precision and alignment. Founded Iyengar Yoga, which integrates a systematic approach to the practice through the use of props. Authored several books on yoga, including 'Light on Yoga', which serves as a foundational text for many practitioners. The teachings and methodologies contributed significantly to the global spread and practice of yoga.
Continue ReadingBo Jonsson
Bo Jonsson served as the royal marshal of Sweden during the late 14th century. He belonged to a prominent noble family and played a significant role in the politics and military affairs of the kingdom. Jonsson held various positions of power, including the governorship of several provinces. His influence extended to local and regional governance, where he was involved in the administration and defense of Swedish territories. His death in 1386 marked the end of a significant career in service to the Swedish crown.
Continue ReadingNarendra Dabholkar
An Indian author and activist focused on rationalism and social reform. Founded the Maharashtra Andhashraddha Nirmoolan Samiti, an organization combating superstition and promoting scientific thinking. Wrote extensively on the topics of atheism and rationalism. Authored several books addressing superstition, including 'The Myth of God' and 'Crisis of Faith'. Recognized for vigorous advocacy against black magic and fraudulent practices, leading campaigns to educate the public on rational thought and skepticism.
Continue ReadingBoris Dubin
A prominent sociologist and academic, contributions focused on post-Soviet society, political culture, and social transformation in Russia. Authored several influential works that examined public opinion, social values, and political attitudes in contemporary Russia. Served as a senior researcher at the Levada Center, a leading independent polling organization in Russia. Engaged in sociological research that provided insights into the public's response to governmental policy and social changes. Provided analysis during times of significant political change, contributing to understanding the social dynamics at play in the region.
Continue ReadingLeona Helmsley
A prominent business figure in the hotel and real estate industry, operated the Helmsley Hotels. Gained notoriety for operating high-end hotels in New York City, including the famous Parker Meridien and the Grand Hyatt. Her business strategies and controversies garnered significant media attention throughout her career. Became a key figure in the New York social scene during the 1980s, often associated with luxury living and extravagant lifestyles. Her legal troubles in the late 1980s and her eventual conviction for tax evasion, which led to a four-year prison sentence, marked significant turning points in her life.
Continue ReadingWilliam Booth
A prominent English preacher co-founded The Salvation Army in 1865 to address social issues and provide aid to the impoverished. Focused on evangelism and social reform, established various initiatives to combat poverty and promote welfare. Authored several works detailing the mission and vision of the organization. Led the movement until death in 1912.
Continue Reading