Edward Poynter
English painter and curator
Born in 1836, this individual became a prominent painter and illustrator in England. Initially trained at the Royal Academy Schools, the work featured historical and mythological subjects, showcasing a fluid and detailed style. The contribution as an illustrator included contributions to various publications, enhancing storytelling through visual art. Later roles included serving as the president of the Royal Academy, influencing the direction of British art during the late 19th century.
served as president of the Royal Academy
created the painting 'The Eve of the Deluge'
Other People Born on March 20th
James P. Gordon
Physicist and engineer specializing in lasers
Born
March 20th, 1928 97 years ago
Died
June 21st, 2013 12 years ago — 85 years old
Born in 1928, this American physicist and engineer contributed significantly to the field of laser technology. He received a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering from the City College of New York and went on to earn a Ph.D. from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. His research in laser dynamics led to the development of important laser systems. He served as a professor at the University of Maryland, advancing education in applied physics and electrical engineering while mentoring numerous students throughout his career. His work laid the groundwork for various laser applications across different industries, further establishing the relevance of lasers in modern technology.
Continue ReadingAlfréd Rényi
Mathematician and academic known for probability theory
Born
March 20th, 1921 104 years ago
Died
February 1st, 1970 55 years ago — 48 years old
Contributions to mathematics included significant work in set theory and probability theory. Founded the Rényi Institute of Mathematics in Budapest. Advanced research on stochastic processes and combinatorial number theory. Authored several influential papers and books that shaped modern mathematical thought.
Continue ReadingWillie Brown
American politician and mayor of SF
Born
March 20th, 1934 91 years ago
A prominent figure in California politics, served as the 41st Mayor of San Francisco from 1996 to 2004. Held the position of Speaker of the California State Assembly, promoting various legislative initiatives. Brown's political career began in the early 1960s with significant involvement in the Democratic Party and civil rights advocacy. He was instrumental in advancing legislation on issues such as housing and education during his tenure. Also, contributed to the legal field as a practicing attorney.
Continue ReadingCarl Reiner
Actor and director of The Dick Van Dyke Show
Born
March 20th, 1922 103 years ago
Died
June 29th, 2020 5 years ago — 98 years old
Born in 1922, this American actor, director, producer, and screenwriter played a significant role in the entertainment industry through both performance and behind-the-scenes contributions. Best recognized for creating and starring in 'The Dick Van Dyke Show', his work shaped television comedy. Over the years, this individual directed numerous films, including 'Oh, God!' and became associated with the 'Ocean's' film series. Additionally, collaborations with other prominent comedians, particularly Mel Brooks, were significant in the development of comedy sketches that influenced future generations of entertainers.
Continue ReadingHenrik Ibsen
Playwright of A Doll's House
Born
March 20th, 1828 197 years ago
Died
May 23rd, 1906 119 years ago — 78 years old
A significant figure in modern drama, Ibsen wrote plays that explored themes of moral conflict, societal norms, and personal identity. During a career spanning several decades, produced notable works that challenged conventional views of 19th-century society. Ibsen's unique narrative style and dramatic dialogue have influenced playwrights worldwide. His works are characterized by a realistic portrayal of life and a focus on individual struggles. Ibsen's writings contributed to the foundation of modern theater, and his legacy endures through continued performances and adaptations of his plays.
Continue ReadingPatrick Jennings
Politician, 11th Premier of New South Wales
Born
March 20th, 1831 194 years ago
Died
July 11th, 1897 128 years ago — 66 years old
Northern Irish-Australian politician served as the 11th Premier of New South Wales from 1883 to 1885. His tenure focused on economic reforms and public works projects. Jennings took a leading role in advocating for the development of railways and other infrastructure, contributing to the growth of the state. Prior to his term as Premier, he held various positions in the New South Wales Parliament, where he made significant contributions to legislative initiatives.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on July 26th
Fred Duesenberg
Co-founder of Duesenberg Automobile Company
Born
December 6th, 1876 149 years ago
Died
July 26th, 1932 93 years ago — 55 years old
A German-American businessman co-founded the Duesenberg Automobile & Motors Company, which gained recognition for producing high-performance luxury cars in the early 20th century. The Duesenberg Model J, introduced in 1928, became a symbol of wealth and sophistication during its time. The company's vehicles were characterized by their engineering excellence and innovative design, appealing to the elite market. Duesenberg's commitment to quality and performance helped establish a legacy in the automotive industry.
Continue ReadingRobert Todd Lincoln
American lawyer, 35th U.S. Secretary of War
Born
August 1st, 1843 182 years ago
Died
July 26th, 1926 99 years ago — 82 years old
Served as a lawyer and politician, holding the position of the 35th Secretary of War under President James Garfield. Appointed to the position in 1881 and served until 1885. Contributed to military policies and reforms during a time of significant change in the U.S. Armed Forces. Also held various roles including serving as the president of the Pullman Company. Involved in the management of labor relations during a tumultuous period in American industry, particularly during the Pullman Strike of 1894. His lineage includes being the eldest son of Abraham Lincoln.
Continue ReadingSam Houston
American soldier and Texas President
Born
March 2nd, 1793 232 years ago
Died
July 26th, 1863 162 years ago — 70 years old
Born in 1793, played a significant role in the Texas Revolution, leading Texan forces at the Battle of San Jacinto in 1836. Served as the first and third President of the Republic of Texas from 1836 to 1838 and 1841 to 1844. Also held positions as Governor of Texas and a U.S. Senator. Advocated for annexation of Texas into the United States, supporting a peaceful approach to Native American relations. His leadership and political actions were instrumental in shaping Texas during its early years.
Continue ReadingNikolaos Plastiras
General and Prime Minister of Greece
Born
November 4th, 1883 142 years ago
Died
July 26th, 1953 72 years ago — 69 years old
A Greek general and politician served as the 135th Prime Minister of Greece. He participated in the Greco-Italian War and was a key figure in the Greek Civil War. Plastiras led significant political reforms during his tenure and worked towards resolving national issues, including land reform and agricultural improvements. Throughout his career, he was involved in various political movements and struggled with the complexities of post-war Greece, seeking a stable governance framework.
Continue ReadingDiane Arbus
Photographer of unconventional portraits
Born
March 14th, 1923 102 years ago
Died
July 26th, 1971 54 years ago — 48 years old
An influential American photographer, notable for capturing striking and unconventional portraits of marginalized individuals and communities. Arbus's work often featured subjects such as circus performers, trans individuals, and the mentally ill, challenging societal norms regarding representation and beauty. Her photographs explored themes of identity, difference, and the human condition, often eliciting strong emotional responses. Arbus's notable exhibitions include 'Diane Arbus: A Chronology' and her posthumous feature in the Museum of Modern Art in New York. Arbus's legacy continues to influence contemporary photography.
Continue ReadingOlivia de Havilland
Actress and Academy Award winner
Born
July 1st, 1916 109 years ago
Died
July 26th, 2020 5 years ago — 104 years old
Born in 1916, this British-American actress gained prominence in Hollywood during the Golden Age of cinema. Renowned for roles in classics, she starred in 'Gone with the Wind' as Melanie Hamilton and in 'The Heiress', for which she received an Academy Award for Best Actress. The actress broke barriers in the film industry, becoming a notable advocate for performers' rights, challenging studio contracts that restricted actors. Her career spanned several decades, with performances that showcased a range of characters and emotional depth. Later in life, she received further recognition for her contributions to cinema, earning multiple honors and a lasting legacy in film history.
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