Franciszek Macharski
Polish Cardinal and Church leader
Served as a prominent figure within the Catholic Church in Poland. Appointed as the Archbishop of Kraków, holding this position from 1978 to 2002. Guided the archdiocese during significant historical changes in Poland, including the fall of communism. Played a key role in the establishment of the University of Cardinal Stefan Wyszyński in Warsaw and oversaw extensive renovations of important church sites.
Served as Archbishop of Kraków
Participated in multiple ecumenical dialogues
Promoted the Catholic Church's role in society
Other People Born on May 20th
Giuseppe Siri
Italian cardinal and archbishop
Born
May 20th, 1906 119 years ago
Died
May 2nd, 1989 36 years ago — 82 years old
Ordained as a priest in 1931, served in various roles within the Catholic Church, including as the Archbishop of Genoa from 1946 to 1971. Elevated to cardinal by Pope Pius XII in 1953, this individual participated in several conclaves and became a significant figure in the church during the 20th century, advocating for traditional Catholic values amidst changing societal norms. Known for his opposition to modernism within the Church, contributed to shaping the direction of Catholic doctrine during a transformative period.
Continue ReadingVladimiro Montesinos
Peruvian intelligence officer
Born
May 20th, 1945 80 years ago
Served as head of the National Intelligence Service of Peru from 1990 to 2000. Played a crucial role in the government's efforts against the Shining Path and the Tupac Amaru Revolutionary Movement. Managed intelligence operations and implemented controversial strategies that included corruption and human rights violations. His influence extended to various government decisions and policies during Alberto Fujimori's presidency. Faces multiple legal issues related to corruption and human rights abuses after the fall of Fujimori's government.
Continue ReadingRamón Hernández
Baseball catcher and MLB player
Born
May 20th, 1976 49 years ago
A professional baseball catcher, played in Major League Baseball from 1999 to 2015. Primarily associated with teams like the San Diego Padres, Cincinnati Reds, and Oakland Athletics. Contributed to multiple post-season appearances and won the National League Division Series with the Reds in 2010. Earned recognition for both offensive and defensive skills behind the plate.
Continue ReadingWilliam Redington Hewlett
Co-founder of Hewlett-Packard
Born
May 20th, 1913 112 years ago
Died
January 12th, 2001 24 years ago — 87 years old
An American engineer and businessman co-founded Hewlett-Packard in 1939, a pioneering company in the electronics industry known for quality computing and measurement devices. The company initially gained success with the production of audio oscillators. Under effective leadership, the business expanded its range of products, influencing the growth of Silicon Valley. Hewlett also served as a director of the board for several organizations and was involved in various philanthropic activities throughout his career. His contributions to the technology sector helped shape the landscape of modern computing.
Continue ReadingTed Allen
Television host and cookbook author
Born
May 20th, 1965 60 years ago
Associated with food and cooking media, this figure hosted the television show 'Queer Eye for the Straight Guy' and served as a judge on 'Chopped.' The role in 'Queer Eye for the Straight Guy' contributed to modern lifestyle programming by focusing on personal transformation. Additionally, authored several cookbooks that reflect a passion for culinary arts and entertaining.
Continue ReadingDoris Fleeson
American journalist and columnist
Born
May 20th, 1901 124 years ago
Died
August 1st, 1970 55 years ago — 69 years old
Born in 1901, this American journalist significantly contributed to political commentary and analysis through her writing. She worked for various newspapers, including the Washington Daily News. The column provided insights into political events and figures, emphasizing the dynamics of American politics during her career. The journalist also worked for the New York Herald Tribune and wrote for several prominent magazines. Her perspectives focused on the intersection of politics and society, frequently discussing the implications for everyday Americans.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on August 2nd
Julius L. Chambers
American civil rights attorney and educator
Born
October 6th, 1936 89 years ago
Died
August 2nd, 2013 12 years ago — 76 years old
An influential civil rights attorney and educator. Played a significant role in litigating landmark desegregation cases in the U.S. Founded the UNC Center for Civil Rights. Served as the Chancellor of the University of North Carolina at Charlotte. Championed education equity and civil rights throughout a legal career spanning several decades.
Continue ReadingHarvey Spencer Lewis
American mystic and author
Born
November 25th, 1883 142 years ago
Died
August 2nd, 1939 86 years ago — 55 years old
An American mystic and author, this individual contributed significantly to the field of spiritualism and esoteric studies. Founding a major mystical organization, the focus was on teaching and promoting the principles of esoteric knowledge and philosophy. Authored several books on mysticism, spiritual growth, and the philosophical aspects of the universe. Additionally, this person played a vital role in the development of a network of lodges dedicated to esoteric education and practices, influencing many through lectures and written works.
Continue ReadingDouglas Hawkes
Racing driver and engineer
Born
September 11th, 1893 132 years ago
Died
August 2nd, 1974 51 years ago — 80 years old
Engaged in automobile racing, participated in various competitions throughout the 1920s. Competed extensively in the Mille Miglia, a legendary endurance race in Italy. Contributed to engineering advancements in automotive design, influencing racing techniques during that era. The role as a driver and engineer showcased a blend of competitive spirit and technical expertise.
Continue ReadingJean-Pierre Melville
French film director and screenwriter
Born
October 20th, 1917 108 years ago
Died
August 2nd, 1973 52 years ago — 55 years old
A prominent figure in French cinema, contributions included directing influential films during the post-war era. Established a unique style that fused American noir with French storytelling, leading to the emergence of the 'nouvelle vague' movement. Key works included 'Le Samouraï', which showcased minimalistic dialogue and strong visual storytelling, and 'Les Enfants Terribles', an adaptation of Jean Cocteau's novel. Additionally, founded his own production company, which allowed for creative freedom in filmmaking.
Continue ReadingJames Thompson
Author of the Kari Vaara series
Born
October 16th, 1964 61 years ago
Died
August 2nd, 2014 11 years ago — 49 years old
An American-Finnish author, recognized for contributions to the crime fiction genre, particularly through the Kari Vaara series. This series, set in Finland, follows a detective navigating complex moral landscapes and dark undercurrents in society. With a keen eye for detail and a distinctive narrative style, the author explores themes of justice, identity, and the human condition. The works received critical acclaim, contributing to the international success of Nordic noir literature. Engagement with themes such as cultural clashes and ethical dilemmas reflects personal experiences and insights from life in two countries, enriching the narrative depth.
Continue ReadingLouis of Burgundy
Duke of Burgundy and Count of Artois
Born
1297 728 years ago
Died
August 2nd, 1316 709 years ago — 19 years old
Held the title of Duke of Burgundy and Count of Artois during the late medieval period. Served as a prominent noble in France, playing a significant role in the politics of the region. Established alliances through strategic marriages and influenced the Burgundian court's power dynamics. Passed away in 1316, leaving behind a legacy within the noble class of France.
Continue Reading