Elmer Gedeon

Baseball player and bomber pilot

Elmer Gedeon - Baseball player and bomber pilot
Born

April 15th, 1917
108 years ago

Died

April 20th, 1944
81 years ago — 27 years old

Category

Athletes & Sports Figures

Country

United States

Links & References

An American baseball player and bomber pilot, played for the Washington Senators in Major League Baseball. After his baseball career, served as a pilot in the United States Army Air Forces during World War II. Gedeon was killed in action in 1944, becoming one of the few professional athletes to lose their life in the conflict.

Played for the Washington Senators

Served as a bomber pilot in World War II

Died in action during World War II

Other People Born on April 15th

Matt Cardle

Singer-songwriter and guitarist
Born
April 15th, 1983 42 years ago

Born in 1983 in England, a singer-songwriter and guitarist gained prominence after winning the seventh series of a popular television music competition show. Released a debut album that reached number one on the UK Albums Chart, achieving commercial success. Subsequent albums explored various musical styles, including pop, rock, and acoustic genres. Participation in live performances and tours showcased musical talent, leading to a dedicated fan base.

Continue Reading

Bessie Smith

Blues singer and actress, 'Empress of the Blues'
Born
April 15th, 1894 131 years ago
Died
September 26th, 1937 87 years ago — 43 years old

Emergence as a leading figure in the blues genre occurred during the 1920s. Recorded over 160 songs, blending emotional depth and vocal strength. Achieved significant acclaim through notable recordings such as 'Downhearted Blues' and 'St. Louis Blues'. Also performed in theater productions that showcased musical talent. Influence extended beyond her time, shaping the development of jazz and rhythm and blues.

Continue Reading

Dara Torres

Swimmer and Olympic medalist
Born
April 15th, 1967 58 years ago

An accomplished swimmer, achieved significant success in competitive swimming over a career spanning five Olympic Games from 1984 to 2008. Competed primarily in freestyle and butterfly events. After retirement, transitioned into journalism, contributing to various media outlets while remaining involved in the swimming community. Achievements include setting multiple world records and being the first American female swimmer to compete in five Olympics.

Continue Reading

Antonio Cromartie

American football player and Pro Bowler
Born
April 15th, 1984 41 years ago

A cornerback in American football, played for several teams including the New York Jets and the San Diego Chargers. Participated in the Pro Bowl multiple times. Achieved notable success with interceptions and played key roles in playoff games. Recognized for agility and defensive strategies throughout a lengthy NFL career, demonstrating significant skill in tackling and coverage.

Continue Reading

Luis Fonsi

Singer-songwriter and dancer, 'Despacito'
Born
April 15th, 1978 47 years ago

A Puerto Rican-American singer-songwriter and dancer achieved global success with the 2017 hit single 'Despacito', featuring Daddy Yankee. The song topped charts worldwide and became one of the most streamed songs in history. Fonsi began his career in the late 1990s and gained popularity with his early albums, including 'Comenzaré'. Collaborations with other artists further expanded his reach in the music industry. Fonsi's musical style blends Latin pop with reggaeton and ballad influences, earning numerous awards throughout his career, including Latin Grammy Awards.

Continue Reading

Blake Ayshford

Rugby league player; played for Wests Tigers
Born
April 15th, 1988 37 years ago

Born in Australia in 1988, a professional rugby league player had a career spanning several years in the National Rugby League (NRL). Primarily played as a centre and winger, contributing significantly to the teams representing in various competitive matches. Made his debut in 2008 with the Wests Tigers and played a pivotal role in the club during his tenure. Also played for the New Zealand Warriors, showcasing skills that helped the teams in various championship pursuits.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on April 20th

Rachel Scott

Victim of Columbine High School massacre
Born
August 5th, 1981 44 years ago
Died
April 20th, 1999 26 years ago — 17 years old

A student at Columbine High School in Colorado, became one of the first victims in the tragic school shooting on April 20, 1999. Prior to the incident, expressed a desire to spread kindness and compassion through various writings. After the event, her story resonated with many, leading to the establishment of a foundation that promotes Rachel's ideals and engages in anti-bullying initiatives. Her legacy endures through the influence of her writings and the ongoing discussions about school safety.

Continue Reading

Bram Stoker

Novelist and creator of Count Dracula
Born
1847 178 years ago
Died
April 20th, 1912 113 years ago — 65 years old

An Anglo-Irish novelist and critic, this individual published the novel 'Dracula' in 1897, which became a landmark work in the horror genre. 'Dracula' introduced the character of Count Dracula and established many conventions of subsequent vampire fantasy. Stoker's career included serving as the business manager of the Lyceum Theatre in London, where he worked with noted actor Henry Irving. His body of work extends beyond 'Dracula', including several other novels and short stories focused on gothic elements and supernatural themes.

Continue Reading

Elizabeth Barton

English nun and martyr
Born
1506 519 years ago
Died
April 20th, 1534 491 years ago — 28 years old

Barton was an English nun who became a prominent figure during the English Reformation. She entered the convent at Dartford and was reported to have visions. Her prophecies gained attention, leading to her opposition to King Henry VIII's separation from the Catholic Church. She advocated for the Pope’s authority and encouraged followers to remain loyal to the Catholic faith. In 1534, after being accused of treason, Barton was executed by hanging. Her martyrdom is remembered within the Catholic Church.

Continue Reading

Pope Clement V

Pope and Judge of the Knights Templar
Born
1264 761 years ago
Died
April 20th, 1314 711 years ago — 50 years old

Served as Pope from 1305 until death in 1314, presiding over the Church during significant events such as the suppression of the Knights Templar. Relocated the papal residence to Avignon, France, beginning a period known as the Avignon Papacy, which lasted for nearly 70 years. His papacy was marked by political challenges, conflicts with the French crown, and decisions that shaped the trajectory of the Catholic Church in the early 14th century.

Continue Reading

Ivanoe Bonomi

Italian politician, Prime Minister
Born
October 18th, 1873 151 years ago
Died
April 20th, 1951 74 years ago — 77 years old

An Italian politician served as the 25th Prime Minister of Italy. Bonomi held the office from 1944 to 1945 during the transitional period following World War II. His leadership was significant during the reconstruction and establishment of the Italian Republic after the fall of Fascism. Bonomi was a member of the Italian Socialist Party and participated in various governmental roles throughout his career including Minister of Defence. His involvement in the post-war government influenced Italy's political landscape.

Continue Reading

Monica Lovinescu

Romanian journalist and author
Born
1923 102 years ago
Died
April 20th, 2008 17 years ago — 85 years old

A prominent journalist and author, contributions to Romanian literature and opposition to the communist regime were significant. Engaged in political discourse and cultural criticism, highlighted the restrictions on freedom of expression in Romania. Writings often reflected the challenges faced during authoritarian governance. Worked as a broadcaster for Radio Free Europe, providing a platform for dissident voices and promoting democratic values. The role in disseminating independent journalism played a crucial part in informing the Romanian public during a pivotal historical period.

Continue Reading