Heinie Manush
Baseball player and manager, Hall of Famer
A professional baseball player and manager, contributed significantly to Major League Baseball from the 1920s to the 1940s. Played primarily as an outfielder for teams such as the Washington Senators, Detroit Tigers, and Boston Braves. Inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1964. Managed minor league teams following a successful playing career.
Achieved a batting average of .330 over 17 seasons
Won the 1924 American League batting title
Played in the 1925 World Series with the Pittsburgh Pirates
Other People Born on July 20th
Cindy Walker
Singer-songwriter and dancer
Born
July 20th, 1918 107 years ago
Died
March 23rd, 2006 19 years ago — 87 years old
An influential American singer-songwriter and dancer, recognized for significant contributions to country music. Rose to prominence in the 1940s and 1950s, writing songs for numerous artists, including the iconic 'You Don’t Know Me', which became widely popular. Collaborated with various notable artists throughout her career, creating a lasting legacy in the genre. Also engaged in performing, earning acclaim for her singing and dancing abilities.
Continue ReadingMichael Gielen
Austrian conductor and composer
Born
July 20th, 1927 98 years ago
Died
2019 6 years ago — 92 years old
Born in 1927, a prominent conductor and composer, significant contributions to both contemporary and classical music. Held conducting positions with the Stuttgart Radio Symphony Orchestra and the Southwest German Radio Symphony Orchestra. Played a vital role in the musical direction of multiple renowned orchestras. Engaged with various opera houses and festivals, promoting innovative repertoire and contemporary composers. Composed a number of significant works during a prolific career.
Continue ReadingNam June Paik
Video art pioneer and TV Buddha creator
Born
July 20th, 1932 93 years ago
Died
January 29th, 2006 19 years ago — 73 years old
An artist impactful in the development of video art, contributing significantly to the genre's evolution. Experimented with television as an art form and introduced innovative multimedia works. Established a career that merged technology with artistic expression, becoming a prominent figure in contemporary art. Created influential pieces such as TV Buddha, which explored themes of technology's relationship with human spirituality. Contributed to exhibitions globally, cementing a legacy that resonates in both art and media.
Continue ReadingBuddy Knox
American singer-songwriter, 'Party Doll'
Born
July 20th, 1933 92 years ago
Died
February 14th, 1999 26 years ago — 65 years old
An influential figure in the rock and roll era, one contributed significantly to the genre during the 1950s and 1960s. Released the hit single 'Party Doll' in 1957, which topped the charts and became a defining song of the era. Also gained recognition for his blend of country music influences with rock, which helped shape the sound of early rock and roll. Throughout the career, produced several successful albums and singles, earning a loyal fanbase and leaving a lasting legacy.
Continue ReadingFrantz Fanon
Psychiatrist and philosopher, 'The Wretched of the Earth'
Born
July 20th, 1925 100 years ago
Died
December 6th, 1961 64 years ago — 36 years old
A psychiatrist and philosopher, contributed significantly to post-colonial studies and critical theory. Wrote several influential works addressing the psychological effects of colonization and the struggle for liberation. 'Black Skin, White Masks' explored identity and race, while 'The Wretched of the Earth' became a foundational text for anti-colonial movements. An important figure in the Algerian War of Independence, Fanon served as a member of the Algerian National Liberation Front's (FLN) delegation to the United Nations. His thoughts on violence and decolonization have inspired various liberation movements worldwide.
Continue ReadingJudy Chicago
Feminist artist and educator, 'The Dinner Party'
Born
July 20th, 1939 86 years ago
An influential artist and educator, played a significant role in the feminist art movement. Established a degree program in feminist art at the California State University, Fresno. Created the installation artwork 'The Dinner Party', which features place settings for notable women in history. Explored themes of gender and identity through various media, including painting, sculpture, and installation.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on May 12th
Robert Reed
American actor, best known for The Brady Bunch
Born
October 19th, 1932 93 years ago
Died
May 12th, 1992 33 years ago — 59 years old
An American actor, prominent during the 1960s and 1970s, gained recognition for portraying Mike Brady in the television series The Brady Bunch. Reed's career began in the theater before transitioning to television and film. He appeared in various TV shows and movies, but The Brady Bunch became the defining aspect of his career. The show's family-centered themes resonated with audiences, ensuring its legacy. Reed also took on roles in other series, showcasing versatility in character portrayal.
Continue ReadingKai Setälä
Finnish physician and professor
Born
September 13th, 1913 112 years ago
Died
May 12th, 2005 20 years ago — 91 years old
A Finnish physician and professor with a focus on internal medicine. Contributed significantly to the field of medicine through research and education. Served as a professor at the University of Helsinki, shaping the next generation of medical professionals. Published numerous articles in medical journals reflecting expertise in the diagnosis and treatment of various diseases. Played a crucial role in advancing medical practices in Finland.
Continue ReadingJohn Smith
Scottish lawyer and Shadow Chancellor
Born
September 13th, 1938 87 years ago
Died
May 12th, 1994 31 years ago — 55 years old
A Scottish lawyer and politician served as the Shadow Chancellor of the Exchequer. Participated in the Labour Party's campaigns during the 1980s and 1990s. Elected as the Member of Parliament for the relevant constituency and became a significant figure in UK politics during tenure. Advocated for various economic policies and addressed issues concerning public spending and taxation.
Continue ReadingLambert-Sigisbert Adam
French sculptor and illustrator, notable works
Born
October 10th, 1700 325 years ago
Died
May 12th, 1759 266 years ago — 58 years old
Born in 1700, this sculptor and illustrator became a prominent figure in the French artistic landscape during the 18th century. Specializing in decorative sculptures, contributions included significant works in the Palace of Versailles, where intricate carvings enhanced the royal architecture. In addition to sculptures, created numerous illustrations for various publications and art collections, showcasing exceptional skill and artistry. His work exemplified the Baroque style, characterized by elaborate forms and emotional intensity, and established a legacy within French sculpture and design that influenced subsequent generations of artists.
Continue ReadingMarco Cé
Italian cardinal and church leader
Born
July 8th, 1925 100 years ago
Died
May 12th, 2014 11 years ago — 88 years old
Ordained a priest in 1950, served in various capacities within the Roman Catholic Church. Appointed bishop of Verona in 1986, later became a cardinal in 1998. Participated in the 2005 papal conclave that elected Pope Benedict XVI. Known for significant contributions to the church's governance and pastoral care.
Continue ReadingRobert Kerr
Sprinter and coach; Olympic athlete
Born
June 9th, 1882 143 years ago
Died
May 12th, 1963 62 years ago — 80 years old
Born in Ireland and later moving to Canada, a prominent sprinter specialized in middle-distance events. Competed in the 1908 London Olympics, finishing fourth in the 800 meters. Transitioned to coaching after retiring from competition, contributing to the development of future athletes. Served as the head coach for Canada's Olympic track and field team, focusing on enhancing training techniques and competitive strategies for Canadian sprinters.
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