Ersilio Tonini
Italian cardinal and church leader
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.
Served as cardinal and bishop
Participated in the Second Vatican Council
Other People Born on July 20th
Mort Garson
Songwriter and composer of electronic music
Born
July 20th, 1924 102 years ago
Died
2008 18 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 ReadingAntoine Vermette
Canadian ice hockey player with Cup win
Born
July 20th, 1982 44 years ago
Born in 1982, one played as a centerman in the National Hockey League (NHL) for teams including the Ottawa Senators, Phoenix Coyotes, and Chicago Blackhawks. Achieved significant success during time with the Blackhawks, winning the Stanley Cup in 2015. Known for strong faceoff skills and contributions in playoff situations, one was also part of the Senators team that reached the Eastern Conference Finals in 2007. One retired from professional hockey after the 2018 season, concluding a career that spanned over a decade.
Continue ReadingChris Amon
New Zealand Formula One driver with Ferrari
Born
July 20th, 1943 83 years ago
Died
2016 10 years ago — 73 years old
A race car driver from New Zealand competed in Formula One from 1963 to 1976. Achieved a reputation for skill behind the wheel, driving for teams such as Ferrari and Matra. Participated in 96 Grand Prix races and secured a total of 11 podium finishes during his career. Notably raced in the renowned 24 Hours of Le Mans, showcasing endurance racing capabilities. After retiring from professional racing, contributed to the sport through various roles, including team management and engineering.
Continue ReadingSteven Adams
Basketball player and Oklahoma City Thunder center
Born
July 20th, 1993 33 years ago
Born in New Zealand, a professional basketball player specialized in playing as a center. Drafted by the Oklahoma City Thunder in the 2013 NBA Draft. Played several seasons with the Thunder, earning recognition for his rebounding and screen-setting abilities. Later joined the New Orleans Pelicans in 2020. Represented New Zealand in international competitions, such as the FIBA Basketball World Cup.
Continue ReadingJeff Rawle
Actor and screenwriter in British television
Born
July 20th, 1951 75 years ago
Significant contributions made in British television and film. Participated in various productions, showcasing versatility and talent. Achieved recognition for roles in television series such as 'Drop the Dead Donkey' and 'Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire'. Engaged in screenwriting, further enhancing the creative landscape.
Continue ReadingNikolaes Heinsius the Elder
Dutch poet and scholar of literature
Born
July 20th, 1620 406 years ago
Died
1681 345 years ago — 61 years old
Born in 1620, this individual contributed significantly to Dutch literature as a poet and scholar. Prominent in the literary scene, Heinsius engaged with classical works, translating and interpreting them for contemporary audiences. Extensive writings included poetry and critical essays, which influenced the poetic landscape of the time. He served as a member of the Amsterdam literary society, fostering connections among writers and intellectuals. His scholarly pursuits also included philological studies, enhancing the appreciation and understanding of classical texts in the Dutch language.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on July 28th
Otto Hahn
German chemist, Nobel Prize laureate
Born
March 8th, 1879 147 years ago
Died
July 28th, 1968 58 years ago — 89 years old
Contributed to the field of radiochemistry. Discovered nuclear fission of uranium in 1938, which led to the development of nuclear energy. Conducted significant research on radioactivity and isotopes. Played a pivotal role in the advancement of chemistry through numerous publications and academic contributions.
Continue ReadingFlinders Petrie
Archaeologist, founded field archaeology
Born
June 3rd, 1853 173 years ago
Died
July 28th, 1942 84 years ago — 89 years old
Pioneered systematic methodology in archaeology, establishing rigorous excavation techniques and scientific approaches to the study of ancient artifacts and sites. Conducted extensive research in Egypt, contributing vital insights into the history and culture of ancient civilizations. Published numerous scholarly works, including 'Egyptian Tales' and 'The Ten Gold Hoards'. Developed the concept of sequence dating, revolutionizing the way archaeological timeframes were understood. His educational efforts led to the establishment of the British School of Archaeology in Egypt, which facilitated continued archaeological research in the region.
Continue ReadingCyrano de Bergerac
French author and playwright
Born
March 6th, 1619 407 years ago
Died
July 28th, 1655 371 years ago — 36 years old
An author and playwright from France, produced significant works in the 17th century. Notably contributed to the genre of science fiction with writings that explored themes of space travel and philosophical ideas. The works featured sharp wit and social commentary. The most recognized play, 'Cyrano de Bergerac', revolves around the complexities of love and the struggles of an eloquent swordsman. These literary contributions highlighted both romantic and satirical elements.
Continue ReadingShi Jingtang
Emperor of Later Jin dynasty
Born
March 30th, 892 1134 years ago
Died
July 28th, 942 1084 years ago — 50 years old
Ruled as the emperor of the Later Jin dynasty from 936 until his death in 942. Ascended the throne after overthrowing the Later Tang dynasty, which marked a significant transition in Chinese history during the Five Dynasties and Ten Kingdoms period. His reign is characterized by military maneuvers and consolidation of power, as well as struggles against rival states. Shi established the dynasty as a key player in regional politics, although it faced numerous challenges from other factions.
Continue ReadingMaggie Gripenberg
Finnish dancer and choreographer
Born
June 11th, 1881 145 years ago
Died
July 28th, 1976 50 years ago — 95 years old
Became a prominent figure in Finnish dance and choreography in the early 20th century. Contributed significantly to the development of modern dance in Finland. Established a dance school in Helsinki and served as a choreographer for the Finnish National Opera. Worked to integrate national elements into dance, emphasizing Finnish folk traditions.
Continue ReadingKarl W. Richter
American lieutenant and pilot
Born
October 4th, 1942 83 years ago
Died
July 28th, 1967 59 years ago — 24 years old
Served as a lieutenant in the United States Air Force. Distinguished for piloting the F-4 Phantom II during the Vietnam War. Contributed to significant air operations in the region. Achieved various accolades for expertise in navigational and aerial strategies.
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