Giampiero Moretti
Race car driver and entrepreneur
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.
Competed in Mille Miglia races
Founded the Moretti automobile company
Other People Born on March 20th
Thomas Cooper
British poet and author of 'The Purgatory'
Born
March 20th, 1805 220 years ago
Died
1892 134 years ago — 87 years old
Born in 1805, this British poet gained recognition for a range of works that blend personal experience with broader human themes. He was self-educated and began his career as a coal miner, which influenced much of his poetry. The work 'The Purgatory', a long poem, reflects on the struggles of personal redemption and social justice. In addition to poetry, this individual wrote essays and other literary works that analyzed the human condition and critiqued societal norms. His literary contributions extend beyond verse into discussions that shaped cultural dialogues of his time.
Continue ReadingManny Alexander
Baseball player, 1996 MLB debut
Born
March 20th, 1971 54 years ago
Debuted in Major League Baseball in 1996. Played as an infielder for multiple teams including the Detroit Tigers, Chicago Cubs, and Seattle Mariners. Concluded MLB career after the 2000 season. Competed in professional baseball for several years often showcasing versatility on the field.
Continue ReadingMagadu
Founder of Ramanya and Hanthawady Kingdoms
Born
March 20th, 1253 772 years ago
Died
1307 719 years ago — 54 years old
Originally named Wareru, established the Ramanya Kingdom in what is now Myanmar. Later renamed the Hanthawady Kingdom of Pegu, which became influential in the region. This leader played a crucial role in the political landscape of historical Myanmar and contributed to its governance structure. Oversaw developments that shaped the kingdom's administration and territorial expansion during a vital period.
Continue ReadingPierre Messmer
French Prime Minister and politician
Born
March 20th, 1916 109 years ago
Died
August 29th, 2007 18 years ago — 91 years old
Born in 1916, a French lieutenant participated in World War II and later entered politics. Served as Minister of Defense from 1960 to 1962, focusing on military and defense policies. Became Prime Minister in 1972, leading a government during a period of economic challenges. Resigned in 1974, contributing to the political landscape of France during his tenure. Played a prominent role in the decision-making processes related to domestic and international matters.
Continue ReadingS. Arasaratnam
Sri Lankan historian and author
Born
March 20th, 1930 95 years ago
Died
October 4th, 1998 27 years ago — 68 years old
Contributed significantly to the understanding of Sri Lankan history and society through academic scholarship. Served as a professor at the University of Jaffna and engaged extensively in research on the Tamil history of Sri Lanka. Authored several important works that explored ethnic relations and colonial history, providing insights into the socio-political dynamics of the region. Involved in various academic institutions and was a respected figure in the field of historical studies.
Continue ReadingMarcos Rojo
Argentine footballer; 2014 FIFA World Cup
Born
March 20th, 1990 35 years ago
A professional footballer, primarily a defender, played for clubs including Estudiantes, Manchester United, and Sevilla. Represented Argentina in various international competitions, including the 2014 FIFA World Cup and the Copa América. Rojo contributed to Manchester United's success in the 2016 FA Cup and the 2017 EFL Cup. His career includes significant club-level achievements and influential performances on the international stage.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on January 14th
Seraphim of Sarov
Russian monk and canonized saint
Born
July 19th, 1759 266 years ago
Died
January 14th, 1833 193 years ago — 73 years old
A prominent figure in the Russian Orthodox Church, contributed to monastic life and spiritual teachings in the 18th and early 19th centuries. Established a hermitage near Sarov, where intense prayer and ascetic practices were emphasized. Engaged with the local community and offered guidance to those seeking spiritual counsel. Recognized for deep spirituality and emphasis on the importance of acquiring the Holy Spirit. Canonized in the early 20th century, became one of the most beloved saints in Russian Orthodoxy.
Continue ReadingCharles Hermite
Mathematician, Hermite polynomials creator
Born
1822 204 years ago
Died
January 14th, 1901 125 years ago — 79 years old
A prominent mathematician specialized in analysis and algebra. Contributed significantly to the theory of determinants and algebraic forms. Established the Hermite polynomials, used widely in probability and physics. Introduced concepts related to elliptic functions and transcendental numbers. Served as a professor at the University of Paris, contributing to the education of future mathematicians.
Continue ReadingDorothea Mackellar
Australian poet and author of 'My Country'
Born
July 1st, 1885 140 years ago
Died
January 14th, 1968 58 years ago — 82 years old
Born in Australia, a well-regarded poet and author played a significant role in shaping Australian literature. Best remembered for the poem 'My Country', which expresses a deep connection to the Australian landscape, the work became a defining piece of Australian identity. Apart from poetry, contributions include essays and articles that reflect on Australian life and nature. Active in advocating for women’s rights and involvement in literary circles, advocated for women's participation in literature during a time when it was often overlooked.
Continue ReadingTokugawa Mitsukuni
Japanese daimyō and historian
Born
July 11th, 1628 397 years ago
Died
January 14th, 1701 325 years ago — 72 years old
A daimyō during the Edo period, played a significant role in the governance of Japan. As the first lord of the Mito Domain, worked to expand the influence of the Tokugawa shogunate. Contributed to historical studies and compiled 'Mito Compendium', which gathered various scholarly works and historical texts. Engaged in the promotion of Confucian studies and cultural development within his domain.
Continue ReadingJim Gary
American sculptor and artist
Born
March 17th, 1939 86 years ago
Died
January 14th, 2006 20 years ago — 66 years old
An American sculptor created intricate sculptures primarily using discarded car parts. His most recognized works included whimsical, life-sized representations of animals and figures, demonstrating a unique integration of art and everyday materials. His sculptures were showcased in numerous exhibitions across the United States. Gary's prominent installations captured the attention of both art enthusiasts and the general public, highlighting the expressive potential of repurposed materials. His commitment to crafting sculptures from found objects solidified a distinctive niche within the contemporary art scene.
Continue ReadingLadislaus II of Hungary
King of Hungary and Croatia
Born
1131 895 years ago
Died
January 14th, 1163 863 years ago — 32 years old
Ruled as King of Hungary and Croatia from 1077 until death in 1163. Played a significant role in consolidating the power of the monarchy during a turbulent period in Hungarian history. Focused on the expansion of territory and influence while fostering religious reform and stability. Engaged in military campaigns to defend Hungary from external threats and strengthen its borders. His reign is often noted for its emphasis on the establishment of Christian governance in the region, reflecting the growing importance of the church in political matters.
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