Frédéric Passy
Economist and Nobel laureate
An economist and academic, contributed significantly to the field of economics and peace studies. Initiated work on the development of the concept of international arbitration. Played a pivotal role in the establishment of the Inter-Parliamentary Union, an organization fostering international cooperation. Awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1901 for longstanding dedication to peace and conflict resolution efforts.
Awarded the first Nobel Peace Prize in 1901
Contributed to the establishment of the Inter-Parliamentary Union
Promoted the concept of international arbitration
Other People Born on May 20th
Mike Havenaar
Japanese footballer, known for club success
Born
May 20th, 1987 38 years ago
This individual played as a professional footballer primarily as a forward. Made league appearances in Japan and abroad, including jLeague teams and clubs in Europe. Enjoyed stints with teams such as Ventforet Kofu and Vissel Kobe. Contributed to the team efforts in various competitions during a career spanning over a decade.
Continue ReadingOndina Valla
Italian sprinter and Olympic champion
Born
May 20th, 1916 109 years ago
Died
2006 20 years ago — 90 years old
Achieved prominence as a sprinter and hurdler in the mid-20th century. Competed in the 1936 Berlin Olympics, where secured a gold medal in the women's 80 meters hurdles. Valla also participated in other track events, setting national records and earning recognition within Italian athletics. Her athletic career spanned several years, with significant performances in various competitions.
Continue ReadingEnes Kanter
Basketball player and activist
Born
May 20th, 1992 33 years ago
Born in 1992, this basketball player gained prominence in the NBA after being selected third overall in the 2011 draft by the Utah Jazz. Throughout his career, he played for multiple teams including the Oklahoma City Thunder and Boston Celtics. As a center, he became recognized for his scoring ability and rebounding skills, leading to a successful tenure in the league. In addition to basketball, this athlete advocated for various social and political issues, particularly focusing on human rights and freedoms in Turkey. The player has also engaged in philanthropic efforts aimed at helping those in need.
Continue ReadingJoel Moon
Rugby league player & representative athlete
Born
May 20th, 1988 37 years ago
Debuted in professional rugby league in 2007. Played for clubs including the Sydney Roosters and the New Zealand Warriors. Represented New South Wales Country in representative matches. Participated in the rugby league World Cup, contributing to team strategies and performance.
Continue ReadingAlexey Maresyev
Russian soldier and pilot, WWII hero
Born
May 20th, 1916 109 years ago
Died
May 19th, 2001 24 years ago — 84 years old
Served as a pilot in the Soviet Air Force during World War II. After being shot down, endured severe injuries and amputations, yet returned to active duty despite significant physical challenges. Participated in numerous combat missions and contributed to the Soviet effort in the war. His life story inspired literature and film, including the famous novella "The Story of a Real Man".
Continue ReadingJulian Wright
Basketball player for New Orleans Hornets
Born
May 20th, 1987 38 years ago
Professional basketball player participated in the NBA and played primarily as a forward. Drafted in the second round of the 2007 NBA Draft by the New Orleans Hornets. Played college basketball at the University of Kansas, contributing to the team's success in the NCAA Tournament. Helped the Jayhawks secure the national championship title in 2008. Overall career included stints with several teams in the NBA and overseas.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on June 12th
Neil Goldschmidt
American politician and former governor
Born
June 16th, 1940 85 years ago
Died
June 12th, 2024 1 years ago — 83 years old
Served as the 33rd Governor of Oregon from 1987 to 1991. During the governorship, implemented significant education reform and economic development initiatives. Previously held the position of Mayor of Portland and served in the Oregon House of Representatives. After the governorship, worked as a consultant and in other business ventures, including significant roles in real estate and transportation.
Continue ReadingTeresa Carreño
Venezuelan-American pianist and composer
Born
December 22nd, 1853 172 years ago
Died
June 12th, 1917 108 years ago — 63 years old
Born in Venezuela, a prominent pianist and composer emerged as a major figure in the world of classical music. Carreño began performing at a young age, showcasing exceptional talent in piano and composition. The musician toured extensively in Europe and the United States, earning acclaim for performances with orchestras and recitals. Carreño's repertoire included works by classical composers, as well as her own compositions. Throughout her career, multiple musical societies and institutions recognized her contributions to music education and performance. The musician's legacy continues through the preservation of her works and influence on future generations of pianists.
Continue ReadingJames FitzJames
French general and politician
Born
August 21st, 1670 355 years ago
Died
June 12th, 1734 291 years ago — 63 years old
Born in 1670, served as a military leader in the French army. Held the title of 1st Duke of Berwick and played a key role in various battles during the War of the Spanish Succession. Appointed Lord Lieutenant of Hampshire, overseeing local governance. Recognized for efforts in military strategy and administration.
Continue ReadingGyörgy Ligeti
Hungarian-Austrian composer of avant-garde music
Born
May 28th, 1923 102 years ago
Died
June 12th, 2006 19 years ago — 83 years old
Born in 1923, this composer contributed significantly to contemporary classical music. Studied at the Franz Liszt Academy of Music in Budapest. Emigrated to the West in 1956, settling in Austria. Worked with various forms of music, including orchestral, choral, and chamber compositions. Influenced by multiple musical styles and integrated complex rhythms and textures into works. Achieved recognition for compositions such as "Atmosphères," "Lux Aeterna," and the opera "Le Grand Macabre."
Continue ReadingJason Leffler
Race Car Driver with NASCAR accomplishments
Born
September 16th, 1975 50 years ago
Died
June 12th, 2013 12 years ago — 37 years old
Engaged in professional racing, primarily in NASCAR. Secured notable achievements in various racing series throughout a career that began in the late 1990s. Competed in the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series, the NASCAR Nationwide Series, and the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series. Achieved multiple victories in the Nationwide Series and earned recognition for consistent performances at major tracks. Sadly, his career was cut short in 2013 due to a tragic accident.
Continue ReadingScott Young
Canadian journalist and author
Born
1918 108 years ago
Died
June 12th, 2005 20 years ago — 87 years old
Worked as a journalist and authored several books. Gained particular recognition for writing about his experiences as a sportswriter and covering significant sports events. Wrote extensively about hockey, including work that captured the essence of the game in Canada. Also authored a biography on hockey legend Bobby Orr, detailing Orr's career and impact in the sport. Participated in literary journalism and contributed to various publications throughout a career spanning several decades, ultimately establishing a reputation in Canadian sports writing.
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