Fredric Wertham

Psychologist and comic book critic

Fredric Wertham - Psychologist and comic book critic
Born

March 20th, 1895
130 years ago

Died

1981
44 years ago — 86 years old

Category

Thinkers & Philosophers

Country

United States

Links & References

A German-American psychologist and author, this individual played a significant role in the early discourse around comic books and their effects on children. The publication of a book in 1954, titled 'Seduction of the Innocent,' argued that comic books were contributing to juvenile delinquency and led to widespread public concern. This prompted congressional hearings on the comic book industry. The work influenced the eventual establishment of a self-regulatory body for comic books, the Comics Code Authority, which limited content in comic books for several decades. Accusations against comic books sparked a larger cultural conversation about media and its impact on youth.

Authored 'Seduction of the Innocent'

Influenced establishment of the Comics Code Authority

Other People Born on March 20th

Marian McPartland

Pianist and composer of jazz music
Born
March 20th, 1918 107 years ago
Died
August 20th, 2013 11 years ago — 95 years old

A prominent jazz pianist and composer, contributed to the jazz scene through performance and radio. Emerged as a significant figure in the world of jazz starting in the 1940s. Hosted the radio program 'Piano Jazz' on National Public Radio for over three decades, showcasing a variety of jazz talents. Recorded numerous albums, collaborating with various renowned musicians. Her compositions reflect a blend of classical and jazz influences, and her work has contributed to the evolution of modern jazz.

Continue Reading

Josephine Medina

Paralympic table tennis player
Born
March 20th, 1970 55 years ago
Died
2021 4 years ago — 51 years old

Competed in multiple Paralympic Games, achieving remarkable success in table tennis. Secured a bronze medal at the 2016 Rio Paralympics, representing the Philippines. Participated in various international tournaments, earning recognition within the sport. Advocated for sports inclusivity and served as an inspiration for aspiring athletes with disabilities.

Continue Reading

John de Lancie

Actor with roles in sci-fi series
Born
March 20th, 1948 77 years ago

Born in 1948, this American actor gained recognition for distinctive roles in science fiction series. Significant work includes portraying Q in the 'Star Trek' franchise, appearing in 'Star Trek: The Next Generation', 'Star Trek: Deep Space Nine', and 'Star Trek: Voyager'. Other notable appearances include roles in 'Breaking Bad' and providing voice work for various animated series. His contributions to the entertainment industry span several decades.

Continue Reading

Alfréd Rényi

Mathematician and academic known for probability theory
Born
March 20th, 1921 104 years ago
Died
February 1st, 1970 55 years ago — 48 years old

Contributions to mathematics included significant work in set theory and probability theory. Founded the Rényi Institute of Mathematics in Budapest. Advanced research on stochastic processes and combinatorial number theory. Authored several influential papers and books that shaped modern mathematical thought.

Continue Reading

Giampiero Moretti

Race car driver and entrepreneur
Born
March 20th, 1940 85 years ago
Died
January 14th, 2012 13 years ago — 71 years old

An Italian entrepreneur and race car driver, made significant contributions to motorsport and automotive innovation. Participated in various racing competitions during the 1960s and 1970s. Founded the Moretti automobile company, which specialized in creating unique race cars. Excelled as a competitor in the Mille Miglia, an iconic endurance race in Italy. Achievements in automotive engineering include designing vehicles that achieved notable success on the racing circuits. His efforts in enhancing performance car technology left a lasting influence in the industry.

Continue Reading

Yuri Shargin

Russian astronaut and engineer
Born
March 20th, 1960 65 years ago

Served as a colonel in the Russian Air Force and as an engineer. Participated in the Ascent-5 mission to the Mir space station. Contributed to multiple projects in aerospace technology and engineering within the Russian space program.

Continue Reading