George Griffith
British writer of science fiction
A British writer, prominent in science fiction, contributed to the genre during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Griffith's stories often explored themes of technology and society, influencing later works in the realm of speculative fiction. He penned several novels, short stories, and essays, blending adventure with futuristic ideas. One of the most notable works is 'A Honeymoon in Space', which featured interplanetary travel and was praised for its imaginative narrative.
Wrote 'A Honeymoon in Space'
Published influential science fiction stories
Other People Born on August 20th
Raymond Poincaré
French politician and President
Born
August 20th, 1860 165 years ago
Died
October 15th, 1934 91 years ago — 74 years old
Served as the 10th President of France from 1913 to 1920. Held the position of Prime Minister multiple times in the early 20th century. Contributed to post-World War I reconstruction efforts and was involved in the Treaty of Versailles negotiations. Also served as Minister of Finance and Minister of Foreign Affairs, influencing French economic and foreign policy during a critical period.
Continue ReadingStefan Aigner
Footballer with Eintracht Frankfurt
Born
August 20th, 1987 38 years ago
Played as a winger, starting professional career in 2006. Competed in Germany's Bundesliga and 2. Bundesliga. Achieved promotion to the Bundesliga with Eintracht Frankfurt during the 2011-2012 season. Contributed to the team's success in the DFB-Pokal, leading to victory in the tournament in 2018.
Continue ReadingDaniel Vladař
Czech ice hockey player, NHL goaltender
Born
August 20th, 1997 28 years ago
Born in 1997, this professional ice hockey player has played as a goaltender in the NHL. Starting his career in the Czech leagues, he was drafted into the NHL by the Boston Bruins. He made his NHL debut during the 2020-2021 season. His playing style is characterized by strong positioning and reflexes, contributing to his team's defensive efforts. As a member of both the Bruins and other teams in the American Hockey League (AHL), he has gained recognition for his skills as a reliable goaltender.
Continue ReadingFernando Poe Jr.
Filipino actor and politician
Born
August 20th, 1939 86 years ago
Died
December 14th, 2004 21 years ago — 65 years old
A prominent actor and politician from the Philippines, he gained widespread recognition through leading roles in action films during the 1970s and 1980s. Notable works include 'Ang Probinsyano' and 'Kapag Puno na ang Salop'. Transitioning into politics, he ran for president in 2004, although he did not win. His career in film spanned several decades, earning him a loyal fan base and significant box office success. He was instrumental in shaping the action genre in Philippine cinema.
Continue ReadingSky Saxon
Singer-songwriter and bassist of The Seeds
Born
August 20th, 1937 88 years ago
Died
June 25th, 2009 16 years ago — 71 years old
A prominent figure in the 1960s garage rock scene, contributed to the genre as the lead singer and bassist of the band The Seeds. The group achieved significant success with the hit single 'Pushin' Too Hard,' which reached the Billboard Hot 100. The band's psychedelic sound and distinctive style influenced many musicians and contributed to the development of punk rock. In addition to recording albums, remained active in the music scene for decades, performing at various venues and festivals. His work remains relevant in discussions of 1960s rock music.
Continue ReadingJosé Wilker
Brazilian actor and director
Born
August 20th, 1944 81 years ago
Died
April 5th, 2014 11 years ago — 69 years old
An influential actor, director, and producer in Brazilian cinema and television. Started career in the late 1960s with performances in various telenovelas and films. Gained prominence for roles in popular shows such as 'Dancing with the Stars' and films like 'Bye Bye Brazil.' Served as a director and producer, contributing significantly to the arts in Brazil. His work has played a crucial role in shaping Brazilian cultural narratives.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on June 4th
John Wooden
Basketball coach and author
Born
October 14th, 1910 115 years ago
Died
June 4th, 2010 15 years ago — 99 years old
A prominent basketball coach, made significant contributions to the sport at the collegiate level. Coached the UCLA Bruins from 1948 to 1975, leading the team to ten NCAA championships, including a record seven consecutive titles from 1967 to 1973. Developed the 'Pyramid of Success', a philosophy of leadership and personal development, which became influential beyond basketball. Authored several books on coaching and personal achievement, sharing insights on success and teamwork.
Continue ReadingDon Zimmer
Baseball manager and coach
Born
January 17th, 1931 94 years ago
Died
June 4th, 2014 11 years ago — 83 years old
A baseball player, coach, and manager, contributed significantly to Major League Baseball over several decades. Played as an infielder for teams including the Brooklyn Dodgers, Chicago Cubs, and New York Mets. Transitioned to coaching and managing, leading teams such as the Chicago Cubs and New York Yankees during various periods. Served as an important figure within the Yankees organization, particularly during the late 1990s when the team won multiple World Series titles.
Continue ReadingSerge Koussevitzky
Conductor and music patron, Boston Symphony
Born
July 26th, 1874 151 years ago
Died
June 4th, 1951 74 years ago — 76 years old
Born in Russia, a prominent conductor and music patron, contributed significantly to the world of classical music. Served as music director of the Boston Symphony Orchestra from 1924 to 1949, enhancing its reputation and expanding its repertoire. Commissioned new works from leading composers, including Aaron Copland and Sergei Prokofiev. Developed a strong educational program that supported emerging musicians. His legacy includes the establishment of the Koussevitzky Music Foundation, which continues to promote new music.
Continue ReadingTommy Ladnier
Trumpet player and jazz musician
Born
May 28th, 1900 125 years ago
Died
June 4th, 1939 86 years ago — 39 years old
An influential trumpet player and jazz musician, celebrated for contributions to the New Orleans jazz scene during the 1920s. Played with notable ensembles including the Crescent City Jazz Band and led several of his own bands. His distinctive style and improvisational skills left a lasting mark on jazz music. Recorded numerous tracks that exemplified the New Orleans jazz sound, collaborating with other prominent musicians of the era.
Continue ReadingJabe Thomas
Race car driver with notable achievements
Born
1930 95 years ago
Died
June 4th, 2015 10 years ago — 85 years old
Jabe Thomas was an American race car driver active in the 1970s and 1980s. He participated in various racing series, including the NASCAR Cup Series, where he competed in over 100 races. Thomas is recognized for his contributions to the sport and his participation in notable races, particularly in the iconic Talladega Superspeedway. His career included a notable run in the series known for high speeds and competitive fields, carving out a niche as a talented driver during a vibrant era in racing.
Continue ReadingLeonid Plyushch
Ukrainian mathematician and academic
Born
1938 87 years ago
Died
June 4th, 2015 10 years ago — 77 years old
A prominent mathematician and academic, contributed significantly to mathematical logic and foundations. Worked at various academic institutions and authored several influential papers. Engaged in the study of set theory and its applications in mathematics. Involved in educational initiatives in Ukraine, promoting mathematics and science among students.
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