Eva Ibbotson
Austrian-English children's book author
Born in Austria and later moving to England, an author specialized in children's and young adult literature. Popular works include 'A Company of Swans', 'The Secret of Platform 13', and 'Which Witch?'. The writing often featured elements of fantasy and whimsical storytelling. Many stories drew inspiration from personal experiences and the author's early life in Vienna. The author's works have been recognized for their imaginative plots and well-developed characters, appealing to a wide range of readers.
Wrote 'A Company of Swans'
Wrote 'The Secret of Platform 13'
Wrote 'Which Witch?'
Other People Born on January 21st
Maxime Weygand
Belgian-French military general
Born
January 21st, 1867 159 years ago
Died
January 28th, 1965 61 years ago — 98 years old
Served as a general in the French Army during World War I and World War II. Participated in significant battles such as the Battle of the Marne in 1914 and the Second Battle of the Marne in 1918. Held the position of Commander-in-Chief of the French Army in 1940 during the early stages of World War II. After the fall of France, served as the military governor of occupied Paris under the Vichy regime.
Continue ReadingJoseph Wolf
Ornithologist and wildlife illustrator
Born
January 21st, 1820 206 years ago
Died
April 20th, 1899 127 years ago — 79 years old
An ornithologist and illustrator focused on birds, contributed significantly to natural history with detailed studies of avian life. Became well recognized for works depicting birds, published various illustrations in scientific journals. Collaborated with naturalists, providing visuals for studies and enhancing the understanding of avifauna. Lived and worked primarily in England after emigrating from Germany.
Continue ReadingWolfman Jack
Radio personality and DJ
Born
January 21st, 1938 88 years ago
Died
July 1st, 1995 30 years ago — 57 years old
A prominent radio personality and DJ, notable for hosting 'The Midnight Special' and various radio shows. Achieved fame as a voice on the airwaves, combining music with a unique, engaging style. His influence spanned multiple decades, reaching a broad audience. Became a cultural icon during the 1960s and 1970s, contributing to the popularity of rock and roll music through extensive interaction with listeners.
Continue ReadingRichie Havens
Singer-songwriter and guitarist
Born
January 21st, 1941 85 years ago
Died
April 22nd, 2013 13 years ago — 72 years old
An American singer-songwriter and guitarist, gained prominence during the 1960s folk music revival. Achieved fame for a powerful performance at the Woodstock Festival in 1969. Released several albums, with notable works including 'Common Ground' and 'Richard P. Havens, 1983'. His musical style blended folk, blues, and rock elements, influencing a generation of musicians and activists.
Continue ReadingClive Donner
British film director and producer
Born
January 21st, 1926 100 years ago
Died
September 6th, 2010 15 years ago — 84 years old
Clive Donner was a British film director and producer active in the cinema since the 1950s. His career spanned several decades during which he directed a variety of notable films and television series. Significant works include 'What’s New Pussycat?' and 'The Caretaker', both showcasing his ability to adapt complex narratives for the screen. His contributions to film and television have been recognized with nominations and awards throughout his career.
Continue ReadingKarl Wallenda
Acrobat and founder of The Flying Wallendas
Born
January 21st, 1905 121 years ago
Died
March 22nd, 1978 48 years ago — 73 years old
Born in 1905, this German-American acrobat specialized in tightrope walking. He founded the circus troupe The Flying Wallendas, which became famous for intricate and dangerous aerial performances. The troupe performed high-wire acts without safety nets, gaining international acclaim. Over the years, they developed complex routines that showcased exceptional skill and bravery, pushing the boundaries of acrobatic performance. Tragically, in 1978, a performance ended in disaster, leading to multiple fatalities within the troupe, which heightened the Wallendas' notoriety in the world of circus and acrobatics.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on October 20th
Iztok Puc
Handball player, 2004 Olympic medalist
Born
September 14th, 1966 59 years ago
Died
October 20th, 2011 14 years ago — 45 years old
A prominent handball player from Croatia and Slovenia, achieved significant success in the international arena. Competed in multiple European championships and world championships during the 1990s and early 2000s. Played for renowned clubs, contributing to their titles and victories. Was part of the Slovenian national team that secured a bronze medal at the 2004 Athens Olympics, marking a historical achievement for the country in handball.
Continue ReadingJunko Tabei
Japanese mountaineer and first woman on Everest
Born
September 22nd, 1939 86 years ago
Died
October 20th, 2016 9 years ago — 77 years old
A renowned mountaineer, became the first woman to reach the summit of Mount Everest on May 16, 1975. Contributed significantly to the field of mountaineering, climbing all fourteen of the world's 8,000-meter peaks. Established the Ladies Climbing Club to encourage and support female climbers. Garnered numerous accolades throughout the climbing community for remarkable achievements and dedication to the sport.
Continue ReadingWim Kok
Dutch Prime Minister and union leader
Born
September 29th, 1938 87 years ago
Died
October 20th, 2018 7 years ago — 80 years old
A prominent union leader and politician, served as the Prime Minister of the Netherlands from 1994 to 2002. Played a significant role in shaping economic and social policies during a period of economic growth. Contributed to the development of a centrist coalition government, known as the Purple Coalition, which included the Labour Party and liberal parties. Advocated for social reforms and modernization of the Dutch economy, focusing on issues such as healthcare and education.
Continue ReadingFrancesco Maria I della Rovere
Duke of Urbino, military leader
Born
1490 536 years ago
Died
October 20th, 1538 487 years ago — 48 years old
Served as the Duke of Urbino from 1516 until 1538. Engaged in military leadership as a condottiero. Participated in various conflicts in Italy during the Italian Wars. Worked to strengthen the duchy and its governance, supporting arts and architecture in Urbino.
Continue ReadingMichael Massee
American actor, starred in 'The Crow'
Born
September 1st, 1952 73 years ago
Died
October 20th, 2016 9 years ago — 64 years old
An American actor, notable for performances in film and television. Gained prominence for a role in the film 'The Crow' in 1994, where played the character Funboy. Appeared in the TV series '24' as the character Ira Gaines. Contributed to various projects throughout a career that spanned several decades, showcasing versatility across genres.
Continue ReadingWerner Baumbach
German pilot and military strategist
Born
December 27th, 1916 109 years ago
Died
October 20th, 1953 72 years ago — 36 years old
A German pilot served as a fighter pilot during World War II. Operated primarily with the Luftwaffe, participated in combat operations throughout the war. Recognized as a leading strategist within the German air force. After the war, contributed to aviation developments in post-war Germany.
Continue Reading