Gerd Binnig
Physicist, Nobel Prize laureate
A German physicist studied and contributed significantly to the field of scanning tunneling microscopy. Developed the first operational scanning tunneling microscope in 1981, which allowed the imaging of surfaces at the atomic level. Shared the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1986 for the invention of this groundbreaking technology, which has applications in various scientific fields including nanotechnology and materials science. Worked in academia and continued contributing to research and education in physics throughout a distinguished career.
Invented the scanning tunneling microscope
Received the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1986
Other People Born on July 20th
Belaid Abdessalam
Algerian Prime Minister
Born
July 20th, 1928 97 years ago
Died
2020 5 years ago — 92 years old
Belaid Abdessalam served as the Prime Minister of Algeria during a critical period in the 1990s. His tenure included navigating the country through a challenging civil conflict. Abdessalam played a significant role in political reforms and economic strategies aimed at stabilization. Prior to his role as Prime Minister, he held various governmental positions, contributing to Algeria's political landscape and governance during a time of national turmoil.
Continue ReadingHeather Chasen
English actress with stage and screen roles
Born
July 20th, 1927 98 years ago
Died
2020 5 years ago — 93 years old
An English actress, recognized for a prolific career in theatre, television, and film. Gained recognition for performances in productions such as 'The Forsyte Saga' and 'The Saint'. Appeared in various British television series and worked in repertory theatre. Spent several decades in the industry, showcasing versatility across different media.
Continue ReadingPete Hamilton
Race car driver, Daytona 500 winner
Born
July 20th, 1942 83 years ago
Died
2017 8 years ago — 75 years old
A race car driver from the United States, accomplished on the NASCAR circuit. Achieved significant success during the late 1960s and early 1970s. Won the prestigious Daytona 500 in 1970, solidifying a place in racing history. Competed for various teams throughout a career that spanned more than a decade, showing proficiency on both dirt and asphalt tracks.
Continue ReadingJim Prentice
Canadian lawyer and politician
Born
July 20th, 1956 69 years ago
Died
October 13th, 2016 9 years ago — 60 years old
Served as the 16th Premier of Alberta from 2014 to 2015. Held various positions within the government, including Minister of Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development. Represented the federal Conservative Party as a Member of Parliament for Edmonton—St. Albert from 2004 to 2010 and Calgary Centre-North from 2010 to 2014. Worked as a lawyer prior to entering politics, focusing on issues impacting Alberta.
Continue ReadingSally Ann Howes
English-American singer and actress
Born
July 20th, 1930 95 years ago
Died
December 19th, 2021 4 years ago — 91 years old
A celebrated singer and actress, this individual gained prominence in musical theatre and film. She starred in the original West End production of 'My Fair Lady' alongside Rex Harrison and received acclaim for performances in 'Brigadoon' and 'The Sound of Music.' In film, she gained recognition for her role in 'Chitty Chitty Bang Bang' as Truly Scrumptious. She had a successful career on stage and screen, showcasing a range of vocal and acting talents throughout the decades.
Continue ReadingRichard Owen
Biologist and paleontologist, Dinosaur taxonomy
Born
July 20th, 1804 221 years ago
Died
December 18th, 1892 133 years ago — 88 years old
A prominent English biologist and paleontologist, focused extensively on the study of fossilized remains. Played a pivotal role in establishing the field of vertebrate paleontology. Credited with coining the term 'Dinosauria' to categorize large extinct reptiles. Contributed significantly to the understanding of numerous prehistoric species through meticulous anatomical studies and fossil reconstructions. Served as the first director of the Natural History Museum in London, where numerous discoveries were made under his leadership.
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