Edward B. Lewis
American biologist and Nobel Laureate
An American biologist and geneticist contributed significantly to the understanding of genetic mechanisms through research on the fruit fly Drosophila melanogaster. Received the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1995 for discovering genes controlling the development of body plan in organisms. His academic career included teaching at the California Institute of Technology, influencing generations of scientists. Conducted groundbreaking studies elucidating the role of homeotic genes in regulating the development of body segments.
Won the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1995
Conducted pioneering research on Drosophila melanogaster
Explained genetic mechanisms of development in organisms
Other People Born on May 20th
Joel Moon
Rugby league player & representative athlete
Born
May 20th, 1988 38 years ago
Debuted in professional rugby league in 2007. Played for clubs including the Sydney Roosters and the New Zealand Warriors. Represented New South Wales Country in representative matches. Participated in the rugby league World Cup, contributing to team strategies and performance.
Continue ReadingJohn Cruickshank
Scottish lieutenant, Victoria Cross recipient
Born
May 20th, 1920 106 years ago
Served as a lieutenant in the Royal Air Force during World War II. Participated in numerous missions and displayed exceptional bravery. Received the Victoria Cross for actions in military combat, highlighting courage in the face of enemy fire. Later pursued a career in banking after the war, contributing to financial sectors in Scotland.
Continue ReadingJane Parker-Smith
English organist and composer
Born
May 20th, 1950 76 years ago
Died
2020 6 years ago — 70 years old
An influential English organist and composer, contributed significantly to the world of organ music. Served as a consultant for various churches and music organizations, focusing on the performance and promotion of organ repertoire. Performed at notable venues across the UK and internationally, showcasing both classical and contemporary works. Recorded numerous albums that feature a range of compositions, enhancing accessibility to organ music. Engaged in educational initiatives to inspire future generations of organists and promote the rich tradition of organ music.
Continue ReadingMike Havenaar
Japanese footballer, known for club success
Born
May 20th, 1987 39 years ago
This individual played as a professional footballer primarily as a forward. Made league appearances in Japan and abroad, including jLeague teams and clubs in Europe. Enjoyed stints with teams such as Ventforet Kofu and Vissel Kobe. Contributed to the team efforts in various competitions during a career spanning over a decade.
Continue ReadingVladimiro Montesinos
Peruvian intelligence officer
Born
May 20th, 1945 81 years ago
Served as head of the National Intelligence Service of Peru from 1990 to 2000. Played a crucial role in the government's efforts against the Shining Path and the Tupac Amaru Revolutionary Movement. Managed intelligence operations and implemented controversial strategies that included corruption and human rights violations. His influence extended to various government decisions and policies during Alberto Fujimori's presidency. Faces multiple legal issues related to corruption and human rights abuses after the fall of Fujimori's government.
Continue ReadingRamón Hernández
Baseball catcher and MLB player
Born
May 20th, 1976 50 years ago
A professional baseball catcher, played in Major League Baseball from 1999 to 2015. Primarily associated with teams like the San Diego Padres, Cincinnati Reds, and Oakland Athletics. Contributed to multiple post-season appearances and won the National League Division Series with the Reds in 2010. Earned recognition for both offensive and defensive skills behind the plate.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on July 21st
Angharad Rees
Actress in 'Poldark' and 'The Love Game'
Born
July 16th, 1944 82 years ago
Died
July 21st, 2012 14 years ago — 68 years old
An English-Welsh actress and jewellery designer, the individual gained prominence through roles in television series and films during the 1970s and 1980s. The performance in the BBC series 'Poldark' as Demelza made a significant impact on viewership, showcasing remarkable talent in a leading role. Additionally, starred in the film 'The Love Game', further establishing a career in the entertainment industry. Apart from acting, engaged in jewellery design, showcasing creativity and craftsmanship in creating unique pieces.
Continue ReadingTony Bennett
American singer and painter
Born
August 3rd, 1926 100 years ago
Died
July 21st, 2023 3 years ago — 96 years old
An American singer and painter gained widespread acclaim for a career spanning several decades, cementing a legacy as one of the greats in the music industry. Renowned for a smooth vocal style and a traditional pop repertoire, notably achieved commercial success with the song 'I Left My Heart in San Francisco.' Collaborated with numerous artists, blending jazz, pop, and standards. Launched a successful career in the 1940s, earning recognition during the 1950s and 1960s. Continued to perform well into the 21st century, releasing albums and maintaining a passionate fan base.
Continue ReadingRalph Houk
Baseball manager and player, Yankees
Born
August 9th, 1919 107 years ago
Died
July 21st, 2010 16 years ago — 90 years old
Played as a catcher in Major League Baseball and managed the New York Yankees. Played from 1947 to 1953. Managed the Yankees from 1961 to 1963, leading the team to a World Series championship in 1961. Also managed the Detroit Tigers and the Boston Red Sox during a career spanning several decades.
Continue ReadingBohdan Lepky
Ukrainian author and poet
Born
November 9th, 1872 153 years ago
Died
July 21st, 1941 85 years ago — 68 years old
An influential author and poet active during the early 20th century. His literary works reflected the cultural and political landscape of Ukraine. Contributed significantly to the Ukrainian literature movement, particularly in poetry and prose. His writing often explored themes of national identity, history, and the human experience. Lepky's role extended to being an important cultural figure during a time of national awakening.
Continue ReadingMako Iwamatsu
Japanese actor in 'The Sand Pebbles'
Born
December 10th, 1933 92 years ago
Died
July 21st, 2006 20 years ago — 72 years old
Born in 1933, this actor had a prominent career in film and television. Early work included performances in Japanese cinema before moving to the United States. Notably starred in the film 'The Sand Pebbles' alongside Steve McQueen, earning an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor. Also appeared in popular TV series such as 'Hawaii Five-O' and 'M*A*S*H'. His contribution to the arts extended to voice work in animated features, lending his voice to characters in 'Avatar: The Last Airbender' and 'The Last Unicorn'.
Continue ReadingClaus von Stauffenberg
German Colonel and Resistance Leader
Born
November 15th, 1907 118 years ago
Died
July 21st, 1944 82 years ago — 36 years old
A German army officer, famous for leading the July 20 plot in 1944 to assassinate Adolf Hitler. Stauffenberg joined the German Army and rose through the ranks during World War II. Dissatisfaction with the Nazi regime led to conspiracy efforts among military officers. Stauffenberg's role involved placing a bomb in Hitler's briefing room, although the attempt ultimately failed. Captured shortly after the attempt, he was executed by firing squad. His actions are often cited as a pivotal moment of resistance against the regime.
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