Henri Alleg
Journalist and author of "La Question"
Born in 1921, a journalist focused on colonial Algeria. In 1957, captured by French paratroopers during the Algerian War, subjected to torture while writing articles that condemned the use of violence against Algerians. Authored "La Question," detailing his experiences and the broader context of torture in the war. The book became influential in raising awareness about human rights abuses. After the war, continued to write about Algeria's struggle for independence and the consequences of colonialism. Later lived in France and contributed to various publications.
Wrote "La Question" about torture during the Algerian War
Worked as a journalist in post-colonial Algeria
Other People Born on July 20th
Mahmud II
Ottoman Sultan and reformer
Born
July 20th, 1789 237 years ago
Died
July 1st, 1839 187 years ago — 49 years old
Sultan during a significant period of change in the Ottoman Empire. Ruled from 1808 to 1839, initiating extensive military, administrative, and social reforms aimed at modernizing the empire. Effectively abolished the Janissary corps in 1826, which was a powerful military group. Established new educational institutions and promoted Western-style reforms within the empire. His reign also involved military campaigns that expanded and consolidated Ottoman territory.
Continue ReadingBo Rein
American football player and coach
Born
July 20th, 1945 81 years ago
Died
1980 46 years ago — 35 years old
Played college football at North Dakota State University, where he gained recognition as a standout quarterback. Transitioned to coaching, leading multiple high school teams and eventually serving as head coach for the Louisiana State University football team. During the coaching tenure, focused on team development and strategy, contributing to the growth of the program. Faced challenges before an untimely passing in a plane crash.
Continue ReadingBelaid Abdessalam
Algerian Prime Minister
Born
July 20th, 1928 98 years ago
Died
2020 6 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 ReadingDon Chuy
American football player, two-time Pro Bowler
Born
July 20th, 1941 85 years ago
Died
2014 12 years ago — 73 years old
Born in 1941, a professional American football player excelled as an offensive lineman in the National Football League. Played primarily for the Cleveland Browns, contributing to the team's success during the 1960s. Displayed exceptional skills that led to selection as a two-time Pro Bowler. After retirement, involvement in coaching and mentoring young athletes continued.
Continue ReadingChris Amon
New Zealand Formula One driver with Ferrari
Born
July 20th, 1943 83 years ago
Died
2016 10 years ago — 73 years old
A race car driver from New Zealand competed in Formula One from 1963 to 1976. Achieved a reputation for skill behind the wheel, driving for teams such as Ferrari and Matra. Participated in 96 Grand Prix races and secured a total of 11 podium finishes during his career. Notably raced in the renowned 24 Hours of Le Mans, showcasing endurance racing capabilities. After retiring from professional racing, contributed to the sport through various roles, including team management and engineering.
Continue ReadingEdward Leigh
English politician and lawyer
Born
July 20th, 1950 76 years ago
Served as a member of the House of Commons representing Gainsborough since 1997. Educated at Magdalene College, Cambridge, obtained a degree in law. Worked in private legal practice before entering politics. Contributed to debates on various issues, including finance and public expenditure. Actively participated in parliamentary committees.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on July 17th
Juan Manuel Fangio
Race car driver, five-time champion
Born
June 24th, 1911 115 years ago
Died
July 17th, 1995 31 years ago — 84 years old
A race car driver achieved prominence in the 1950s, competing primarily in Formula One. Fangio secured five World Championships, a record that stood for 46 years. His racing career spanned from 1938 to 1958, where he drove for teams such as Alfa Romeo, Maserati, Mercedes-Benz, and Ferrari. Known for exceptional skill and control in high-speed racing, Fangio's legacy rests on his remarkable ability to navigate various circuits and conditions.
Continue ReadingJean-Charles Chapais
Canadian politician, 1st Minister of Agriculture
Born
December 2nd, 1811 214 years ago
Died
July 17th, 1885 141 years ago — 73 years old
Born in 1811, a prominent Canadian farmer and politician played a significant role in the early development of agricultural policy in Canada. Served as the first Minister of Agriculture, focusing on promoting agricultural development and supporting farmers' interests. Held various political positions throughout a career dedicated to enhancing the agricultural landscape in Canada during a time of growth and change.
Continue ReadingMaud Menten
Canadian physician and biochemist
Born
March 20th, 1879 147 years ago
Died
July 17th, 1960 66 years ago — 81 years old
Contributions to biochemistry included work on enzyme kinetics and histochemistry. Collaborated with Leonor Michaelis to describe the Michaelis-Menten equation, a foundational principle in enzyme kinetics. Menten's research also advanced understanding of enzyme reactions and tissue staining techniques. Held a faculty position at the University of Toronto and published many scientific papers throughout a career spanning several decades.
Continue ReadingJadwiga
Queen of Poland and Saint
Born
1374 652 years ago
Died
July 17th, 1399 627 years ago — 25 years old
Ascended to the throne of Poland in 1384, ruling as a powerful monarch. Introduced significant legal and educational reforms in the kingdom. Played a crucial role in the union between Poland and Lithuania, which shaped the future of Eastern Europe. Renowned for promoting Christianity and establishing the University of Kraków. Recognized as a saint by the Catholic Church in 1997.
Continue ReadingHenri Poincaré
Mathematician and physicist, celestial mechanics
Born
April 29th, 1854 172 years ago
Died
July 17th, 1912 114 years ago — 58 years old
Contributions covered various areas including topology, dynamical systems, and celestial mechanics. Developed the qualitative theory of differential equations and made significant advancements in the field of mathematical physics. Contributed to the foundations of topology through work that explored the properties of geometrical figures under continuous transformations. Proposed the Poincaré conjecture, a fundamental problem in topology. Worked extensively on the three-body problem in celestial mechanics and formulated the Poincaré recurrence theorem, which has implications in statistical mechanics and chaos theory.
Continue ReadingKarl Tausig
Pianist and composer, concert performances
Born
1841 185 years ago
Died
July 17th, 1871 155 years ago — 30 years old
A Polish virtuoso pianist, arranger, and composer made significant contributions to the piano repertoire in the 19th century. Tausig studied under Franz Liszt and became noted for his technical proficiency and interpretative skills. He expanded upon the works of composers like Chopin and Beethoven, providing arrangements that showcased the piano's capabilities. His performances garnered critical acclaim, and he was recognized as one of the leading pianists of his time. Tausig also founded the 'Tausig School of Music' in Berlin, influencing a generation of musicians. His untimely death at a young age curtailed a promising career.
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