Felix Dzerzhinsky
Politician and founder of the Cheka
Born in 1877, pursued a career in politics and became an influential figure in the Soviet Union. Played a pivotal role in the establishment of the Cheka, the first Soviet secret police organization, overseeing its operations during a critical period of the Russian Civil War. Advocated for state security measures to consolidate Bolshevik power and combat opposition. Developed policies related to labor and social issues, contributing to early Soviet governance. Served as the head of the All-Russian Extraordinary Commission for Combating Counter-Revolution and Sabotage until his death in 1926.
Founded the Cheka in 1917
Served as head of Soviet state security
Other People Born on September 11th
Paul Heyman
Wrestling promoter and manager
Born
September 11th, 1965 60 years ago
In the world of professional wrestling, contributions included managing numerous high-profile wrestlers and promoting major events. Played a significant role in the rise of Extreme Championship Wrestling (ECW) in the 1990s, transforming it into a major alternative to mainstream wrestling. Served as a manager for well-known wrestlers in WWE, enhancing their personas and drawing significant fan engagement. Worked as a journalist, providing insights into the wrestling industry and influencing perceptions.
Continue ReadingD. H. Lawrence
English novelist and poet, 'Sons and Lovers'
Born
September 11th, 1885 140 years ago
Died
March 2nd, 1930 96 years ago — 44 years old
A significant figure in early 20th-century literature, contributions include novels, poems, and plays. Through exploration of human relationships, sexuality, and emotional struggles, created a distinct voice in literature. Works frequently reflected experiences in England and the American Southwest, merging nature and psychology. Notable works encompass 'Sons and Lovers', 'Women in Love', and 'Lady Chatterley's Lover', each contributing to deep discussions on society and intimacy. Engaged in literary criticism and social commentary, influencing contemporary thought.
Continue ReadingJoseph Fahnbulleh
Liberian-American sprinter and Olympian
Born
September 11th, 2001 24 years ago
A sprinter specialized in the 100 meters and 200 meters events. Competed for the University of Florida, achieving significant success in collegiate athletics. Participated in the 2020 Summer Olympics, representing Liberia in track and field. Established personal bests that positioned among the top sprinters globally. Continues to contribute to the sport through training and competition.
Continue ReadingAlvar Lidell
Journalist and radio announcer
Born
September 11th, 1908 117 years ago
Died
January 7th, 1981 45 years ago — 72 years old
A prominent journalist and radio announcer, contributed significantly to British broadcasting. Served as the principal newsreader for the BBC during World War II, delivering critical updates to the public. His calm demeanor and clear articulation gained trust among listeners during turbulent times. Post-war, continued work with the BBC, taking on various roles in broadcasting and journalism, and became a respected figure in media. Contributed to the development of news reading standards in radio.
Continue ReadingPavel Landovský
Czech actor and playwright
Born
September 11th, 1936 89 years ago
Died
October 10th, 2014 11 years ago — 78 years old
Gained recognition as a Czech actor and playwright with significant contributions to film and theater. Achieved prominence in the 1960s and 1970s, frequently collaborating with noted directors and appearing in archive television productions. Involved in the Prague Spring and faced repercussions after the Warsaw Pact invasion of Czechoslovakia in 1968, which led to a ban on acting in Czechoslovakia. Continued to create impactful works in exile, returning to prominence later in his career.
Continue ReadingZay Flowers
American football player, NFL rookie
Born
September 11th, 2000 25 years ago
Played college football at Boston College, where amassed over 3,000 receiving yards and 29 touchdowns during three seasons. Entered the NFL draft following a successful college career. Selected in the first round of the 2023 NFL Draft by the Baltimore Ravens. Regarded for speed and route-running ability, contributing to offensive plays.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on July 20th
Jerry Miller
Musician and guitarist, co-founded Moby Grape
Born
July 10th, 1943 82 years ago
Died
July 20th, 2024 1 years ago — 81 years old
An American singer-songwriter and guitarist, contributed to the music scene in the 1960s as a founding member of the band Moby Grape. Moby Grape's self-titled debut album, released in 1967, featured a blend of rock, country, and blues, garnering critical acclaim. The band's innovative sound and harmonies placed them among the influential groups of the era. After Moby Grape, pursued a solo career and collaborated with various artists, continuing to perform live and record music, showcasing a commitment to artistic expression throughout the decades.
Continue ReadingChester Bennington
American rock singer of Linkin Park
Born
March 20th, 1976 50 years ago
Died
July 20th, 2017 8 years ago — 41 years old
A prominent singer-songwriter and producer, he led the rock band Linkin Park, achieving global success with the album 'Hybrid Theory', which was certified diamond by the RIAA. This album featured hits including 'In the End' and 'Crawling', contributing to the nu-metal genre's mainstream popularity. In addition to his work with Linkin Park, he was also the lead vocalist for the band Dead by Sunrise and briefly performed with Stone Temple Pilots. His contributions to music extended to charitable work, including performances for causes like the Music for Relief foundation.
Continue ReadingRené Bazin
French author and academic of literature
Born
December 26th, 1853 172 years ago
Died
July 20th, 1932 93 years ago — 78 years old
This individual was a prominent French author and academic, recognized for contributions to literature in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. As a member of the Académie Française, this figure achieved prominence through a range of works that explored themes of nature, spirituality, and social issues. Works included 'L'Invasion' and 'Notre-Dame de Paris', which showcased narrative depth and literary skill. In addition to writing, served in academia, influencing a generation of writers and readers.
Continue ReadingBernhard Riemann
Mathematician and creator of Riemann surfaces
Born
September 17th, 1826 199 years ago
Died
July 20th, 1866 159 years ago — 39 years old
A mathematician contributed significantly to the fields of analysis, differential geometry, and number theory. Riemann introduced concepts such as Riemann surfaces and Riemannian geometry, which laid the groundwork for modern mathematical analysis and theoretical physics. The Riemann Hypothesis, a conjecture regarding the distribution of prime numbers, remains one of the most important unsolved problems in mathematics. Riemann's methods also influenced later developments in complex analysis and topology.
Continue ReadingKarl Bernhard Zoeppritz
Geophysicist and seismologist
Born
October 22nd, 1881 144 years ago
Died
July 20th, 1908 117 years ago — 26 years old
Contributed significantly to the field of geophysics and seismology. Developed Zoeppritz equations, which describe the reflection of seismic waves at an interface between two different elastic materials, essential for exploration geophysics. Made substantial advancements in understanding how seismic waves interact with geological structures. Conducted research that laid foundational work for future studies in seismic analysis and petroleum exploration.
Continue ReadingSandra Gould
American actress notable for sitcom roles
Born
1916 110 years ago
Died
July 20th, 1999 26 years ago — 83 years old
An American actress gained recognition for her work in television, particularly for role in 'The Dick Van Dyke Show' and 'Bewitched'. Made numerous guest appearances in various television series throughout the 1960s and 1970s. Contributed to the entertainment industry with her performances in different comedic television shows. Had a career spanning several decades, earning a solid reputation for her ability to portray humorous characters.
Continue Reading