Francisco Franco

Spanish General and Dictator

Francisco Franco - Spanish General and Dictator
Born

December 4th, 1892
132 years ago

Died

November 20th, 1975
49 years ago — 82 years old

Category

Leaders & Politicians

Country

Spain

Links & References

Born in 1892, a Spanish military leader rose through the ranks during the Spanish Civil War. He led Nationalist forces to victory, becoming head of state and implementing a totalitarian regime. Franco ruled Spain for nearly four decades, establishing policies centered on conservative Catholic values and nationalism. His government faced significant opposition, resulting in various political repression and censorship. Following World War II, the regime gradually transitioned toward more moderate policies but maintained an authoritarian structure until Franco's death in 1975. The legacy of his rule continues to influence Spanish society and politics.

Led Nationalist forces in the Spanish Civil War

Ruled Spain as a dictator for nearly 40 years

Implemented a totalitarian regime

Other People Born on December 4th

Roh Tae-woo

South Korean politician and president
Born
December 4th, 1932 92 years ago
Died
October 26th, 2021 3 years ago — 88 years old

Served as the 6th President of South Korea from 1988 to 1993. Before this, held the position of Chief of Staff of the Army and played a significant role in the military government of the 1970s. Implemented major political reforms that transitioned South Korea from a military dictatorship to a civilian-led democracy. Oversaw the hosting of the 1988 Seoul Olympic Games, which marked a pivotal moment in the country's global standing. Involved in diplomatic efforts to improve relations with North Korea.

Continue Reading

André Campra

Composer and conductor of French opera
Born
December 4th, 1660 364 years ago
Died
June 29th, 1744 280 years ago — 83 years old

Born in France, a prominent composer and conductor during the Baroque period. Worked primarily in the realm of opera, contributing significantly to the genre with a style that blended the Italian and French musical traditions. Served as the conductor at the Académie Royale de Musique in Paris, where numerous operas premiered. His operas, such as 'Les Fêtes Vénitiennes' and 'Tancrède', showcased innovative orchestration and rich melodies. Campra's compositions were influential in shaping the future of French opera and were characterized by their dramatic expression and melodic inventiveness.

Continue Reading

Diogo Jota

Professional footballer, UEFA Euro 2020
Born
December 4th, 1996 28 years ago

A professional footballer from Portugal, competing primarily as a forward. Played for clubs including FC Porto and Wolverhampton Wanderers before joining Liverpool FC in 2020. Contributed to Liverpool's success in domestic and European competitions, winning the Premier League and the UEFA Champions League. Also represented the national team at UEFA Euro 2020 and the 2022 FIFA World Cup.

Continue Reading

Deanna Durbin

Canadian actress and singer in film musicals
Born
December 4th, 1921 103 years ago
Died
2013 12 years ago — 92 years old

A prominent actress and singer, achieved fame during the 1930s and 1940s primarily through film musicals. Rose to stardom with the role in 'Three Smart Girls'. Her work in films contributed significantly to the popularity of musical cinema. Durbin's exceptional vocal talent and charming screen presence captured the audience's attention in many successful movies. She transitioned into adult roles while continuing to showcase musical abilities, solidifying her status in Hollywood. With a thriving career that consisted of several well-received films, she became one of the highest-paid actresses of her time.

Continue Reading

Hannes Hafstein

Icelandic poet and first Prime Minister
Born
December 4th, 1861 163 years ago
Died
December 13th, 1922 102 years ago — 61 years old

Born in 1861, contributed significantly to Icelandic literature and politics. Served as the first Prime Minister of Iceland from 1904 to 1907. Actively engaged in promoting Iceland's cultural identity through poetry and political advocacy.

Continue Reading

Bernard King

Basketball player and sportscaster
Born
December 4th, 1956 68 years ago

A professional basketball player excelled in the NBA, particularly with the New York Knicks and the Washington Bullets. Played as a small forward, recognized for scoring prowess and explosive playing style. Secured a place in the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2013. Transitioned into a successful career in sportscasting following retirement from professional basketball, providing analysis and commentary on various sports networks.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on November 20th

Numerian

Roman Emperor during a tumultuous era
Died
November 20th, 284 1740 years ago — None years old

Served as Roman Emperor from 283 to 284 AD. Ascended to the throne after the death of Carinus. Guided the Roman Empire through challenges, including conflict with the Sassanian Empire. Conducted military campaigns to secure borders and maintain stability. Died under mysterious circumstances while on a military campaign in the East.

Continue Reading

Ian Smith

Prime Minister of Rhodesia
Born
April 8th, 1919 106 years ago
Died
November 20th, 2007 17 years ago — 88 years old

Served as the first Prime Minister of Rhodesia from 1965 to 1979, leading the country during its Unilateral Declaration of Independence from Britain. Played a crucial role in the Rhodesian Bush War, a conflict between the white-minority government and black nationalist movements. Advocated for minority rule and resistance against majority governance and was involved in negotiations that ultimately led to the end of white-minority rule. After leaving office, resided in South Africa.

Continue Reading

Ancel Keys

Physiologist and Nutritionist, created K-rations
Born
January 26th, 1904 121 years ago
Died
November 20th, 2004 20 years ago — 100 years old

Contributions to the field of nutrition included extensive research on dietary fats and heart disease. Developed the Mediterranean diet concept based on studies conducted in different countries. Conducted the Seven Countries Study, which examined the correlation between diet, lifestyle, and cardiovascular health across various populations. Designed K-rations for the U.S. military during World War II to provide soldiers with nutrient-dense food.

Continue Reading

Marcel Dalio

French actor, notable for 'La Grande Illusion'
Born
1900 125 years ago
Died
November 20th, 1983 41 years ago — 83 years old

A prominent French actor and playwright, contributed significantly to French cinema during the early 20th century. Featured in the acclaimed film 'La Grande Illusion' directed by Jean Renoir, which critiques war and class differences. Also appeared in other notable films such as 'The Rules of the Game' and 'The Children of Paradise'. Worked extensively in theater, showcasing skills in both performance and writing. Emigrated to the United States during World War II due to the rise of the Nazi regime, where continued involvement in theater and film was maintained.

Continue Reading

Mstislav Dobuzhinsky

Painter and illustrator of Russian scenes
Born
August 14th, 1875 149 years ago
Died
November 20th, 1957 67 years ago — 82 years old

Born in 1875, this artist contributed significantly to the visual arts through painting and illustration. Primarily active in the early 20th century, the work focused on impressions of urban and rural scenes, particularly in Russia and Lithuania. This individual became associated with the Mir Iskusstva (World of Art) movement, which emphasized the importance of fine arts. The engagement with stage design was also notable, providing artistic direction for several theatrical productions. Eventually, circumstances led to emigration, influencing the work's themes and style while in the countries of residence.

Continue Reading

August Ahlqvist

Finnish professor and Finno-Ugric scholar
Born
August 7th, 1826 198 years ago
Died
November 20th, 1889 135 years ago — 63 years old

Ahlqvist served as a professor and was prominent in the study of Finno-Ugric languages. Contributions included poetry and literary criticism. Authored important works that explored the intricacies of these languages and their literature. Engaged in the cultural and educational development of Finland during the 19th century, focusing on the significance of the Finnish language and literature. Influenced the preservation and promotion of Finno-Ugric heritage through academic and literary efforts.

Continue Reading