Hans Langsdorff

German naval captain and U-boat commander

Hans Langsdorff - German naval captain and U-boat commander
Born

1894
131 years ago

Died

December 20th, 1939
85 years ago — 45 years old

Category

Military & Warriors

Country

Germany

Links & References

Served in the Imperial German Navy during World War I and later commanded U-boat U-61 in World War II. Led U-61 in several successful patrols against Allied shipping, sinking numerous vessels. His naval career was noted for strategic effectiveness and adherence to codes of conduct in warfare. Captured upon surrender of the U-boat and eventually died in captivity.

Commanded U-boat U-61

Sank multiple Allied ships during World War II

Other People Who Died on December 20th

Stefan Dušan

Emperor of Serbia during the 14th century
Born
1308 717 years ago
Died
December 20th, 1355 669 years ago — 47 years old

Ruled as the Emperor of Serbia from 1331 to 1355. Expanded the Serbian Empire significantly through military campaigns and strategic alliances. His reign marked the height of medieval Serbian greatness, with notable achievements in law, governance, and culture. Established the Serbian Orthodox Church's independence and promoted the development of the Serbian state.

Continue Reading

Albert Van Vlierberghe

Belgian cyclist and world champion
Born
1942 83 years ago
Died
December 20th, 1991 33 years ago — 49 years old

A professional cyclist from Belgium, achieved significant success in the 1950s and 1960s. Competed in road cycling events and distinguished himself in one-day races as well as stage races. Secured victories in national championships and earned recognition in various international competitions. Excelled in challenging terrains and demonstrated remarkable endurance and speed throughout his career.

Continue Reading

João Ferreira Sardo

Founder of Gafanha da Nazaré
Born
September 1st, 1873 152 years ago
Died
December 20th, 1925 99 years ago — 52 years old

Founded the fishing community of Gafanha da Nazaré. Actively participated in religious and social initiatives within the community. Served as Prior, leading local church activities and fostering communal growth. Contributed to the establishment of infrastructure and services that benefitted the residents of Gafanha da Nazaré.

Continue Reading

Sam Rabin

Wrestler, sculptor, and singer
Born
June 20th, 1903 122 years ago
Died
December 20th, 1991 33 years ago — 88 years old

Engaged in wrestling, competed in various promotions during the early 20th century, and was also active in the arts as a sculptor. Rabin's career in wrestling spanned over several decades, showcasing skills in the ring. Additionally, ventured into music, contributing to the entertainment landscape of the time. The intersection of wrestling, sculpture, and music defines Rabin's multifaceted career.

Continue Reading

Katharina von Bora

Reformer and Wife of Martin Luther
Born
January 29th, 1499 526 years ago
Died
December 20th, 1552 472 years ago — 53 years old

Born in 1499, a nun who fled her convent, later married Martin Luther in 1525. She managed the household and raised six children. Played a significant role in the Reformation, supporting her husband's work and promoting his ideas. Demonstrated financial acumen in managing the family's household and properties, contributing to their stability amid the tumultuous changes of the Reformation. Katharina became a prominent figure in the movement, exemplifying the role of women in the Reformation and offering a model of partnership in marriage. Died in 1552, leaving a lasting legacy in religious history.

Continue Reading

Stanley Milgram

American social psychologist, Milgram Experiment
Born
August 15th, 1933 92 years ago
Died
December 20th, 1984 40 years ago — 51 years old

A social psychologist conducted groundbreaking research on obedience to authority. The Milgram Experiment, which began in 1961, demonstrated individuals' willingness to perform actions conflicting with their personal conscience when instructed by an authority figure. The study involved participants administering electric shocks to a subject in a controlled setting, revealing alarming insights into human behavior and conformity. This influential work raised ethical questions in psychology and highlighted the complexities of authority dynamics in social situations.

Continue Reading