Georges Bernanos
French writer and author of "Diary of a Country Priest"
A French author and soldier, contributions include influential novels that explore themes of faith, morality, and the human condition. Published seminal works such as "Diary of a Country Priest" and "The Last Inquisitor," which are significant in 20th-century literature. Bernanos served in World War I, which deeply influenced his writing and philosophical outlook. His literary style combined vivid imagery with deep psychological insight, earning a place among notable French writers of the time. Throughout life, engaged with political issues and expressed strong Catholic beliefs.
Authored "Diary of a Country Priest"
Wrote "The Last Inquisitor"
Other People Born on February 20th
Charles Auguste de Bériot
Violinist and composer of concertos
Born
February 20th, 1802 223 years ago
Died
April 8th, 1870 155 years ago — 68 years old
A Belgian violinist and composer, this individual significantly contributed to the development of violin playing techniques in the 19th century. Focused primarily on the violin, composed numerous concertos and works for violin and orchestra. Established a renowned teaching career, influencing many violinists through his pedagogy. The individual played a crucial role in the romantic era of music, being one of the first to emphasize the expressive capabilities of the violin.
Continue ReadingJ. Geils
American singer-songwriter and guitarist
Born
February 20th, 1946 79 years ago
Died
April 11th, 2017 8 years ago — 71 years old
A notable figure in the music industry, contributed to the rock genre as the frontman of a successful band. Founded the J. Geils Band, which gained prominence in the 1970s and 1980s. The band released several popular albums, achieving substantial commercial success. Their single, 'Centerfold', reached number one on the Billboard Hot 100 in 1982, solidifying their place in rock history.
Continue ReadingE. H. Harriman
Businessman and railroad magnate
Born
February 20th, 1848 177 years ago
Died
September 9th, 1909 116 years ago — 61 years old
A prominent American businessman and philanthropist, established a significant presence in the railroad industry. Played a critical role in transforming the Union Pacific Railroad into one of the leading railroads in the United States. Involved in various business ventures, including investments in mining and utilities. A supporter of numerous philanthropic efforts, focusing on education and the arts, significantly contributed to the endowment of cultural institutions.
Continue ReadingGloria Vanderbilt
Fashion designer and actress
Born
February 20th, 1924 101 years ago
Died
June 17th, 2019 6 years ago — 95 years old
A prominent fashion designer, socialite, and actress, contributions spanned multiple fields. In 1976, launched a successful line of jeans that became a cultural phenomenon. Created an iconic slip-on jeans style that represented luxury and comfort. Additionally, starred in the film 'The Last of Mrs. Lincoln' and appeared on television series such as 'The Love Boat'. Authored several books, including novels and memoirs, providing insight into personal experiences and life as a socialite.
Continue ReadingIvana Trump
Czech-American socialite and model
Born
February 20th, 1949 76 years ago
Died
July 14th, 2022 3 years ago — 73 years old
Born in Czechoslovakia, this individual achieved recognition as a model and later moved to the United States. She gained prominence through her marriage to a real estate mogul and later served as the First Lady of New York City during that time. Besides modeling, she was involved in fashion design and business ventures, establishing her own clothing and accessory lines. Her autobiography provided insights into her life and experiences, showcasing aspects of celebrity culture and high society.
Continue ReadingThomas Cajetan
Italian philosopher and theologian
Born
February 20th, 1469 556 years ago
Died
August 9th, 1534 491 years ago — 65 years old
A prominent figure in the Renaissance, contributed significantly to scholastic theology and philosophy. Served as a cardinal and led the Dominican order in the 16th century. Engaged in debates regarding Reformation ideas, emphasizing the importance of faith and reason. Authored numerous works, critically analyzing the thoughts of Aristotle and St. Thomas Aquinas. His commentary on Aquinas remains a touchstone in the study of theology.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on July 5th
Yoichiro Nambu
Physicist and Nobel Prize winner
Born
January 18th, 1921 105 years ago
Died
July 5th, 2015 10 years ago — 94 years old
Born in Japan, later became a prominent American physicist. Contributed significantly to the field of theoretical physics, particularly in the development of the concept of spontaneous symmetry breaking. Held a professorship at the University of Chicago for several decades. His work laid foundational principles for particle physics and influenced various theories and models in the field.
Continue ReadingUffe Haagerup
Danish mathematician and academic
Born
1949 77 years ago
Died
July 5th, 2015 10 years ago — 66 years old
Contributed significantly to the field of mathematics, particularly in operator algebras. Worked extensively on the theory of von Neumann algebras and harmonic analysis. Held a professorship at the University of Aarhus, influencing many students and researchers in mathematical sciences. Published numerous papers and collaborated with several mathematicians worldwide, establishing a prominent presence in the academic community.
Continue ReadingCarole Landis
American actress in film and theater
Born
January 1st, 1919 107 years ago
Died
July 5th, 1948 77 years ago — 29 years old
An actress active during the 1940s, gained popularity in the Hollywood film industry. Best recognized for performances in films such as 'One Million B.C.' and 'A Night at the Opera.' Appeared in numerous comedies and musicals, providing strong entertainment performances. Also had a successful career in radio and stage productions, showcasing a talent that crossed multiple media platforms. Landis became a prominent figure during World War II, known for her support of troops through various initiatives.
Continue ReadingRaffaella Carrà
Italian singer and television presenter
Born
June 18th, 1943 82 years ago
Died
July 5th, 2021 4 years ago — 78 years old
Carrà began her career in entertainment in the late 1960s, gaining prominence for her energetic performances and distinctive style. Her contributions include music, dance, and television, where she hosted popular shows such as 'Canzonissima' and 'Carràmba! Che sorpresa!' A significant figure in Italian pop culture, she integrated music and dance in engaging ways, becoming a household name. Her songs, often characterized by catchy melodies and upbeat rhythms, gained popularity across Europe and Latin America. Carrà also acted in films, including 'The Swindlers' and 'The Cat O' Nine Tails'.
Continue ReadingBengt I. Samuelsson
Swedish biochemist, Nobel Laureate
Born
May 21st, 1934 91 years ago
Died
July 5th, 2024 1 years ago — 90 years old
Born in 1934, contributions to biochemistry included significant discoveries related to eicosanoids, which are vital hormone-like substances in the body. Research focused on lipoxygenase and cyclooxygenase, enzymes involved in the metabolism of arachidonic acid. These findings led to advancements in understanding inflammation and allergies. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1982 alongside two others for work on the chemical mediators of the immune system, leading to breakthroughs in pharmacology and therapeutics. Held academic positions and played a crucial role in promoting biochemistry in Sweden.
Continue ReadingWalter Gropius
Architect, designed John F. Kennedy Building
Born
May 18th, 1883 142 years ago
Died
July 5th, 1969 56 years ago — 86 years old
A leading architect of the 20th century, contributed significantly to modern architecture as the founder of the Bauhaus school in Germany. Emphasized functional design and the integration of art with technology. Designed multiple iconic buildings including the John F. Kennedy Federal Building in Boston and the Werkbund Exhibition in 1914. Advocated for the unity of art and industrial design, influencing generations of architects and designers.
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