Elliot Richardson
American politician and defense secretary
This individual served as the 11th United States Secretary of Defense from 1973 to 1975. Prior to this role, contributions included serving as the United States Attorney for the District of Massachusetts and as the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare. During the Watergate scandal, this individual played a significant role in the resignation of Richard Nixon. Later, involvement in various legal and political activities continued, reflecting a commitment to public service throughout a lengthy career.
Served as United States Secretary of Defense
Resigned during the Watergate scandal
Other People Born on July 20th
Ersilio Tonini
Italian cardinal and church leader
Born
July 20th, 1914 111 years ago
Died
July 28th, 2013 12 years ago — 99 years old
Ersilio Tonini served as a cardinal in the Roman Catholic Church and held various ecclesiastical positions throughout his career. He was ordained as a priest in 1939 and became the bishop of Faenza in 1975. In 1985, he was elevated to the cardinalate by Pope John Paul II. Tonini actively participated in the Second Vatican Council and contributed to the church's modernization efforts. His pastoral work focused on youth, education, and social issues within the church's mission. He retired in 1997 and continued to be involved in church activities until his death in 2018.
Continue ReadingLoda Halama
Polish dancer and actress with stage fame
Born
July 20th, 1911 114 years ago
Died
1996 29 years ago — 85 years old
Born in Poland, a prominent dancer and actress gained recognition in the 1930s for performances in musical theatre. Known for elegant dance routines and theatrical charisma, showcased talents in shows across Europe. Made appearances in films during the same era, contributing to Polish cinema.
Continue ReadingHeather Chasen
English actress with stage and screen roles
Born
July 20th, 1927 98 years ago
Died
2020 5 years ago — 93 years old
An English actress, recognized for a prolific career in theatre, television, and film. Gained recognition for performances in productions such as 'The Forsyte Saga' and 'The Saint'. Appeared in various British television series and worked in repertory theatre. Spent several decades in the industry, showcasing versatility across different media.
Continue ReadingMort Garson
Songwriter and composer of electronic music
Born
July 20th, 1924 101 years ago
Died
2008 17 years ago — 84 years old
Born in Canada, this songwriter and composer gained prominence in the 1960s and 1970s. He is recognized for pioneering the use of synthesizers in popular music, blending genres and creating unique soundscapes. Notable works include the albums 'Plantasia' and 'Music for Plants', which showcased innovative electronic compositions aimed at the natural world. Collaborations with artists across various genres further established a distinct style that resonated with audiences.
Continue ReadingPete Hamilton
Race car driver, Daytona 500 winner
Born
July 20th, 1942 83 years ago
Died
2017 8 years ago — 75 years old
A race car driver from the United States, accomplished on the NASCAR circuit. Achieved significant success during the late 1960s and early 1970s. Won the prestigious Daytona 500 in 1970, solidifying a place in racing history. Competed for various teams throughout a career that spanned more than a decade, showing proficiency on both dirt and asphalt tracks.
Continue ReadingOlivier de Kersauson
French sailor and ocean racer
Born
July 20th, 1944 81 years ago
An accomplished sailor, participated in numerous prestigious sailing races. Competed in the Whitbread Round the World Race and the Route du Rhum. Gained high recognition for achievements in solo and crewed ocean racing. Contributed to the sailing community through various media and television appearances, sharing experiences and insights on maritime adventures.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on December 31st
Per Oscarsson
Swedish actor, director, screenwriter
Born
January 28th, 1927 98 years ago
Died
December 31st, 2010 14 years ago — 83 years old
An actor, director, producer, and screenwriter, recognized for contributions to European cinema. Gained prominence in the 1960s and 1970s. Appeared in notable films such as 'The Uninvited' and 'The Nothing Factory'. Beyond acting, directed several stage productions and spent time developing screenplays. Received acclaim for performance in 'The Man on the Roof', which showcased versatility in both dramatic and comedic roles. Awarded the Guldbagge Award for Best Actor.
Continue ReadingRichard Montgomery
Irish-American Revolutionary War general
Born
December 2nd, 1738 287 years ago
Died
December 31st, 1775 249 years ago — 37 years old
Born in 1738, played a pivotal role in the early stages of the American Revolutionary War. Commanded the Continental Army forces during the invasion of Canada in 1775. Led troops in the Siege of Montreal and was instrumental in the early military efforts against British forces. Montgomery died during the Battle of Quebec in December 1775, where he was fatally wounded, becoming a martyr for the American cause. His contributions to military strategies and leadership were recognized posthumously.
Continue ReadingDudley North
Economist and politician in England
Born
May 16th, 1641 384 years ago
Died
December 31st, 1691 333 years ago — 50 years old
Born in 1641, this individual contributed to economic thought and practice during the late 17th century. Associated with the mercantilist school of economics, he argued against government regulation of the economy. He served in Parliament and held various positions, including the post of Commissioner of Customs. His significant work, 'Discourses upon Trade', addressed trade policies, economic theory, and the effects of taxation, showcasing his understanding of commerce and economics during a time of change in England.
Continue ReadingRaoul Walsh
Actor and director of 'High Sierra'
Born
March 11th, 1887 138 years ago
Died
December 31st, 1980 44 years ago — 93 years old
An American actor and director with a prolific career in the film industry. Started as an actor in silent films before transitioning to directing. Directed over 100 films throughout a career that spanned five decades. Created notable works in various genres, including westerns and film noir. 'High Sierra' served as a significant film that contributed to the rise of the film noir genre, featuring a young Humphrey Bogart. The career included collaborations with major studios and involvement in the development of early Hollywood.
Continue ReadingDonald E. Westlake
Author and screenwriter of crime novels
Born
July 12th, 1933 92 years ago
Died
December 31st, 2008 16 years ago — 75 years old
An American author and screenwriter contributed significantly to the literary world through over 100 published works. Primarily recognized for writing crime and mystery novels, influenced the genre with clever plots and sharp wit. His most notable work includes the Parker series, featuring the character Parker, a professional thief. Westlake also achieved acclaim in screenwriting, particularly for writing the screenplay for the film adaptation of Richard Stark's novel. He received the Edgar Award multiple times, solidifying his reputation in crime fiction. His writing style combined humor and suspense, appealing to a broad audience.
Continue ReadingGeorge Sisler
Baseball player and scout, Hall of Famer
Born
March 24th, 1893 132 years ago
Died
December 31st, 2006 18 years ago — 113 years old
An American baseball player and scout, garnered fame in Major League Baseball primarily as a first baseman. Played for the St. Louis Browns from 1915 to 1927 and had a remarkable career, achieving a batting average of .340 over 15 seasons. In 1922, led the league in batting average and hits, earning the American League MVP award. After retirement, served as a scout for various teams, contributing to the development of future talent in the sport.
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