Fred Rogers
Television host of 'Mister Rogers' Neighborhood
An American minister and television host created and hosted the children's television series 'Mister Rogers' Neighborhood' for over three decades. The show focused on themes of kindness, emotional intelligence, and understanding. With a gentle demeanor and thoughtful discussions, addressed children's feelings, fears, and experiences through puppet characters and simple storytelling. Advocated for educational television and received recognition for contributions to children's media.
Created 'Mister Rogers' Neighborhood'
Received a Presidential Medal of Freedom
Inducted into the Television Hall of Fame
Other People Born on March 20th
Jack Barry
Game show host and producer
Born
March 20th, 1918 107 years ago
Died
May 2nd, 1984 41 years ago — 66 years old
Co-founded Barry & Enright Productions, a successful television production company. Hosted several popular game shows including 'The Joker's Wild' and 'Twenty-One'. Played a significant role in the game show genre of the 20th century. Contributed to the format and creation of many television programs, impacting the landscape of entertainment programming during his era.
Continue ReadingJames P. Gordon
Physicist and engineer specializing in lasers
Born
March 20th, 1928 97 years ago
Died
June 21st, 2013 12 years ago — 85 years old
Born in 1928, this American physicist and engineer contributed significantly to the field of laser technology. He received a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering from the City College of New York and went on to earn a Ph.D. from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. His research in laser dynamics led to the development of important laser systems. He served as a professor at the University of Maryland, advancing education in applied physics and electrical engineering while mentoring numerous students throughout his career. His work laid the groundwork for various laser applications across different industries, further establishing the relevance of lasers in modern technology.
Continue ReadingPat Corrales
Baseball player and manager
Born
March 20th, 1941 84 years ago
Died
2023 3 years ago — 82 years old
Played as a catcher in Major League Baseball from 1964 to 1980, representing teams such as the Philadelphia Phillies, the St. Louis Cardinals, and the Cleveland Indians. Managed several teams, including the Texas Rangers and the Philadelphia Phillies. Coached for the San Diego Padres and contributed to various organizations in a managerial capacity. Transitioned into scouting and team advisement roles after retirement from active play.
Continue ReadingWillie Brown
American politician and mayor of SF
Born
March 20th, 1934 91 years ago
A prominent figure in California politics, served as the 41st Mayor of San Francisco from 1996 to 2004. Held the position of Speaker of the California State Assembly, promoting various legislative initiatives. Brown's political career began in the early 1960s with significant involvement in the Democratic Party and civil rights advocacy. He was instrumental in advancing legislation on issues such as housing and education during his tenure. Also, contributed to the legal field as a practicing attorney.
Continue ReadingPatrick Jennings
Politician, 11th Premier of New South Wales
Born
March 20th, 1831 194 years ago
Died
July 11th, 1897 128 years ago — 66 years old
Northern Irish-Australian politician served as the 11th Premier of New South Wales from 1883 to 1885. His tenure focused on economic reforms and public works projects. Jennings took a leading role in advocating for the development of railways and other infrastructure, contributing to the growth of the state. Prior to his term as Premier, he held various positions in the New South Wales Parliament, where he made significant contributions to legislative initiatives.
Continue ReadingBraulio Carrillo Colina
Costa Rican politician and president
Born
March 20th, 1800 225 years ago
Died
May 15th, 1845 180 years ago — 45 years old
Served as President of Costa Rica from 1835 to 1836 and again from 1837 to 1838. Played a pivotal role in the creation of the country's constitution in 1841. Worked to establish a more centralized government during a period of political turbulence. Engaged in efforts to promote economic development and infrastructure improvements.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on February 27th
Orry-Kelly
Costume designer for Hollywood films
Born
1897 129 years ago
Died
February 27th, 1964 61 years ago — 67 years old
An Australian-American costume designer became prominent in Hollywood during the Golden Age of Cinema. Contributed to over 300 films and was integral in shaping the visual identities of many characters. Received three Academy Awards for Best Costume Design for 'The Heiress', 'Les Girls', and 'Some Like It Hot'. His work spanned various genres, and collaborations with major studios established him as a key figure in the film industry.
Continue ReadingBernd Freytag von Loringhoven
German General and military strategist
Born
1914 112 years ago
Died
February 27th, 2007 18 years ago — 93 years old
Served in the German Army during World War II, eventually attaining the rank of general. Participated in key battles on the Eastern Front and was involved in military planning and strategy. After the war, worked in military history and provided insights into the conflict's tactics and operations. Held various roles in military institutions and contributed to discussions on warfare. Authored several works on military subjects, which are studied by military historians and strategists.
Continue ReadingJulio César Strassera
Argentinian lawyer; Chief Prosecutor of the Trials of the Juntas
Born
1933 93 years ago
Died
February 27th, 2015 10 years ago — 82 years old
A prominent figure in the judiciary, served as Chief Prosecutor during the Trials of the Juntas in Argentina, addressing human rights violations committed during the military dictatorship from 1976 to 1983. Strassera's legal efforts were crucial in holding military leaders accountable for their actions. The trials were notable for examining the crimes against humanity perpetrated during this period. He faced significant challenges and threats but persevered in seeking justice for victims and their families. Strassera contributed to the restoration of democratic legal principles in Argentina, emphasizing the importance of accountability and rule of law.
Continue ReadingMyron Cope
Sportscaster and journalist for Pittsburgh
Born
January 23rd, 1929 97 years ago
Died
February 27th, 2008 17 years ago — 79 years old
Myron Cope contributed significantly to sports journalism and broadcasting. Cope worked as a sportscaster for the Pittsburgh Steelers, providing play-by-play commentary and analysis for over three decades. His unique style and use of colloquial language won him a loyal audience. Cope also wrote for various publications, including the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. In 1975, Cope created the 'Terrible Towel,' an iconic symbol of Steelers' fandom, which has been used at games ever since. His innovative approach to sports commentary influenced future generations of sportscasters. Cope received numerous accolades for his contributions to sports broadcasting.
Continue ReadingFrankie Lymon
Singer-songwriter of 'Why Do Fools Fall in Love'
Born
September 30th, 1942 83 years ago
Died
February 27th, 1968 57 years ago — 25 years old
A prominent American singer-songwriter rose to fame as the lead singer of the Teenagers, a rock and roll group. Achieved commercial success with the hit single 'Why Do Fools Fall in Love,' which topped the charts in 1956. Lymon's music career began at a young age, and his distinct voice contributed significantly to the doo-wop genre. He later pursued a solo career but faced challenges in achieving similar acclaim. Struggled with personal issues, including substance abuse, which affected his life and career. Passed away at a young age, leaving behind a legacy in music history.
Continue ReadingJohann Faber of Heilbronn
controversial Catholic preacher
Born
1504 522 years ago
Died
February 27th, 1558 467 years ago — 54 years old
A Catholic preacher who became significant in the Reformation period. Faber engaged in disputes with Protestant reformers, particularly challenging their views on religious practices and church authority. His sermons and writings advocated for traditional Catholic doctrine and positioned him against the rising tide of Protestantism. He played a role in the Catholic response to the Reformation and worked to maintain the Catholic faithful amid growing dissent. Faber's efforts included participating in various ecclesiastical gatherings aimed at addressing the challenges posed by reformers. His work contributed to the discourse surrounding religious reform in the 16th century.
Continue Reading