Guy Favreau
Canadian lawyer and 28th Minister of Justice
A lawyer and politician, served as the 28th Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada from 1963 to 1965. Played a significant role in the introduction of the Canadian Bill of Rights in 1960. Worked as a judge of the Superior Court of Quebec and as a member of the House of Commons, representing the Liberal Party. Encouraged legislative changes aimed at modernizing Canada's legal framework.
Served as the 28th Canadian Minister of Justice
Introduced the Canadian Bill of Rights
Other People Born on May 20th
John Strasberg
Actor and teacher associated with acting
Born
May 20th, 1941 84 years ago
An American actor and teacher, contributed significantly to the field of acting through teachings based on the methods developed by Lee Strasberg. Engaged in numerous productions, both on stage and in film, and played a critical role in directing and mentoring a new generation of actors. Operated in various theater companies and continued the legacy of the Actors Studio, focusing on emotional authenticity and character development in performances.
Continue ReadingGeorge Gobel
American actor and comedian
Born
May 20th, 1919 106 years ago
Died
February 24th, 1991 35 years ago — 71 years old
Achieved prominence in the entertainment industry, particularly through television and film in the mid-20th century. Gained a significant audience with the television show 'The George Gobel Show', which aired from 1954 to 1955. Featured in movies such as 'The Seven Little Foys', showcasing comedic talent. Received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame for contributions to television.
Continue ReadingHieronymus Fabricius
Italian anatomist and embryologist
Born
May 20th, 1537 488 years ago
Died
May 21st, 1619 406 years ago — 82 years old
An influential figure in the field of anatomy, contributions to anatomical knowledge included detailed studies of the structure of various organs. His work laid the foundation for modern embryology and described numerous anatomical features with precision. Published 'De Formato Foetu', which presented groundbreaking ideas about embryonic development and the formation of organs. Fabricius held the chair of anatomy and surgery at the University of Padua, where he trained many notable anatomists and physicians.
Continue ReadingJohn Cruickshank
Scottish lieutenant, Victoria Cross recipient
Born
May 20th, 1920 105 years ago
Served as a lieutenant in the Royal Air Force during World War II. Participated in numerous missions and displayed exceptional bravery. Received the Victoria Cross for actions in military combat, highlighting courage in the face of enemy fire. Later pursued a career in banking after the war, contributing to financial sectors in Scotland.
Continue ReadingR. J. Mitchell
English engineer, designer of the Spitfire
Born
May 20th, 1895 130 years ago
Died
June 11th, 1937 88 years ago — 42 years old
An English engineer specializing in aircraft design, contributed significantly to aviation technology. Designed the Supermarine Spitfire, a fighter aircraft used extensively during World War II. Spitfire gained a reputation for its performance and effectiveness in aerial combat. Mitchell's engineering leadership and innovative designs advanced the field of aeronautics and played a crucial role in the Battle of Britain.
Continue ReadingFranciszek Macharski
Polish Cardinal and Church leader
Born
May 20th, 1927 98 years ago
Died
August 2nd, 2016 9 years ago — 89 years old
Served as a prominent figure within the Catholic Church in Poland. Appointed as the Archbishop of Kraków, holding this position from 1978 to 2002. Guided the archdiocese during significant historical changes in Poland, including the fall of communism. Played a key role in the establishment of the University of Cardinal Stefan Wyszyński in Warsaw and oversaw extensive renovations of important church sites.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on July 11th
Charlie Haden
Bassist and composer of jazz music
Born
August 6th, 1937 88 years ago
Died
July 11th, 2014 11 years ago — 76 years old
A prominent American bassist and composer, contributed significantly to the jazz genre. Haden gained recognition for his work in the 1960s as a founding member of the Ornette Coleman Quartet, which helped pioneer free jazz. Collaborated with numerous artists, including Keith Jarrett and Pat Metheny, showcasing a versatile style that emphasized emotional depth. Haden also had a successful solo career and was involved in various projects that explored traditional and contemporary jazz. His compositions reflected influences from folk music and social issues, earning respect within the music community. Received multiple Grammy Awards for his contributions to music over several decades.
Continue ReadingJohn Spencer
Snooker player and sportscaster
Born
September 18th, 1935 90 years ago
Died
July 11th, 2006 19 years ago — 70 years old
An English snooker player and sportscaster. Achievements in the sport included winning the World Snooker Championship three times during the 1970s. Successfully transitioned into broadcasting, providing commentary and analysis for snooker tournaments. Influenced and popularized the game through both competitive play and media presence.
Continue ReadingMarc Angelucci
Men's rights attorney and activist
Born
1968 58 years ago
Died
July 11th, 2020 5 years ago — 52 years old
An attorney focused on men's rights issues, served as Vice-President of the National Coalition for Men. Advocated for legal recognition and reform in areas affecting men's rights, including family law and discrimination. Engaged in public speaking and education on men's issues, contributing to discussions about gender and justice. Worked on multiple legal cases related to men's rights, aiming to address perceived inequalities in the legal system.
Continue ReadingAlfonso López Michelsen
Colombian politician and president
Born
June 30th, 1913 112 years ago
Died
July 11th, 2007 18 years ago — 94 years old
Served as the 24th President of Colombia from 1974 to 1978. Focused on economic reforms and social development during tenure. Advocated for a mixed economy and encouraged private sector participation in state projects. Contributed to peace negotiations with guerrilla groups and aimed to address issues of inequality in the nation. Prior to presidency, held various political positions including Minister of Agriculture and was a member of the Colombian Senate.
Continue ReadingRobert Runcie
Archbishop and religious leader
Born
October 2nd, 1921 104 years ago
Died
July 11th, 2000 25 years ago — 78 years old
Served as the Archbishop of Canterbury from 1980 to 1991. Runcie played a key role in addressing issues within the Church of England and became an influential figure in the Anglican Communion. He engaged in dialogues on social justice, interfaith relations, and the role of the church in modern society. His tenure included significant events such as the ordination of women as priests, a topic which generated considerable discussion within the church. Runcie advocated for peace during the Cold War and sought ecumenical relationships among different Christian denominations. His leadership emphasized pastoral care and the importance of faith in public life.
Continue ReadingMichael E. DeBakey
Heart surgeon and medical innovator
Born
September 7th, 1908 117 years ago
Died
July 11th, 2008 17 years ago — 99 years old
A prominent American surgeon and educator, contributions included advancements in cardiovascular surgery and medical education. Developed the first successful coronary artery bypass graft procedure and played a key role in the development of the ventricular assist device. Served as a professor of surgery and held several leadership positions in various medical institutions. Involved in military surgery during World War II, contributing to surgical techniques in trauma care.
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