Hu Yaobang

Chinese politician, General Secretary of CPC

Hu Yaobang - Chinese politician, General Secretary of CPC
Born

November 20th, 1915
109 years ago

Died

April 15th, 1989
36 years ago — 73 years old

Category

Leaders & Politicians

Country

China

Links & References

A prominent Chinese politician served as General Secretary of the Chinese Communist Party from 1982 to 1987. During this time, initiated economic reforms that aimed to modernize China’s economy. His leadership style emphasized open political discourse and a departure from dogmatic Marxism. Resigned amid pressures related to student protests and was viewed as a reformist. Posthumously honored as a symbol of political reform during subsequent demonstrations.

Served as General Secretary of the Chinese Communist Party

Promoted economic and political reforms

Resigned in 1987 amid student protests

Other People Born on November 20th

John Merle Coulter

American botanist and author of plants
Born
November 20th, 1851 173 years ago
Died
1928 97 years ago — 77 years old

A prominent botanist, focused on the study and classification of North American flora. Contributed significantly to the understanding of plant species through research and publications. Served as a professor of botany and curator of the herbarium at the Indiana University, where extensive work on plant taxonomy was conducted. Authored several influential botanical texts, enriching the field of botany and education.

Continue Reading

Jill Thompson

Author and Illustrator of Graphic Novels
Born
November 20th, 1966 58 years ago

An author and illustrator focused on graphic novels, noted for contributions to the comic book industry. Created the series 'Scary Godmother' and contributed artwork to 'The Sandman' series. Work includes both writing and illustrating stories that appeal to a wide audience. Thompson's style combines whimsical illustrations with engaging narratives, appealing to children and adults alike.

Continue Reading

Karl von Frisch

Ethologist and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
November 20th, 1886 138 years ago
Died
June 12th, 1982 43 years ago — 95 years old

Contribution to the field of ethology revealed complex communication methods among bees. Conducted groundbreaking research on the waggle dance, demonstrating how bees convey information about food sources. Served as a professor of behavioral biology, influencing the study of animal behavior and earning international recognition for academic achievements. His work laid foundations for understanding patterns of animal communication.

Continue Reading

Ed Benes

Comic Book Artist known for Justice League
Born
November 20th, 1972 52 years ago

A comic book artist specializing in superhero comics, worked on prominent titles such as 'Justice League' and 'Birds of Prey'. His distinctive style gained recognition in the industry, leading to collaborations with major publishers. Contributed to various story arcs and series, showcasing an ability to blend dynamic action with character-driven narratives.

Continue Reading

Otto von Guericke

Physicist and politician in Germany
Born
November 20th, 1602 422 years ago
Died
May 21st, 1686 339 years ago — 83 years old

Born in 1602, a pioneering physicist and politician contributed significantly to the development of vacuum technology. Designed an air pump that demonstrated the existence of vacuum. Served as the mayor of Magdeburg, focusing on public projects and governance. Engaged in scientific experiments that laid the foundation for future studies in atmospheric pressure and electrostatics.

Continue Reading

Freya Lim

Singer and radio host with hit albums
Born
November 20th, 1978 46 years ago

Born in 1978, this Taiwanese-Malaysian singer gained prominence in the Mandopop scene. Known for a melodic voice, released several popular albums, becoming a household name in the music industry. Also hosted various radio programs, contributing to the entertainment landscape. Frequent performances across Taiwan and Malaysia showcased vocal talent and stage presence.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on April 15th

Greta Garbo

Swedish-American actress and filmmaker
Born
September 18th, 1905 119 years ago
Died
April 15th, 1990 35 years ago — 84 years old

An influential actress of the silent film era, she transitioned to sound films with equal success. Renowned for her roles in classics such as 'Camille' and 'Ninotchka', she often portrayed enigmatic and strong-willed characters. Her unique on-screen presence, coupled with a distinctive voice, set her apart in Hollywood. After retiring from acting in the late 1940s, she led a reclusive life, away from the public eye, and became a significant figure in cinematic history.

Continue Reading

Sylvester Jordan

Austrian-German lawyer and politician.
Born
December 30th, 1792 232 years ago
Died
April 15th, 1861 164 years ago — 68 years old

Graduated in law and practiced as a lawyer. Held significant political positions within the German Confederation. Contributed to legal and administrative reforms during the mid-19th century. Advocated for legal consistency and modernization in governance. Played a key role in legislative discussions and was involved in efforts promoting justice and legal equality.

Continue Reading

Clifton James

American actor in James Bond films
Born
May 29th, 1920 105 years ago
Died
April 15th, 2017 8 years ago — 96 years old

An actor specialized in film roles, notable appearances included Sheriff J.W. Pepper in the James Bond films 'Live and Let Die' and 'The Man with the Golden Gun'. His career spanned several decades, featuring diverse performances in both dramatic and comedic roles. James also made guest appearances in various television shows, contributing to his recognition in the entertainment industry.

Continue Reading

Manuel Chrysoloras

Greek philosopher and translator
Born
1355 670 years ago
Died
April 15th, 1415 610 years ago — 60 years old

A prominent figure in the Renaissance, contributed significantly to the revival of Greek literature and philosophy in Western Europe. Served as a professor at the University of Florence, where teachings focused on Greek grammar and philosophy. Translated key works of ancient Greek philosophers, including those of Plato and Aristotle, which played a crucial role in the development of humanist thought. His efforts helped bridge the intellectual gap between the Byzantine and Western traditions during a time of cultural transformation.

Continue Reading

Emma Morano

Italian supercentenarian, last 1800s born
Born
November 29th, 1899 125 years ago
Died
April 15th, 2017 8 years ago — 117 years old

Lived from November 29, 1899, to April 15, 2017. Emigrated from Italy and resided in Verbania. Achieved recognition as the last verified person born in the 1800s. Over the years, detailed experiences of life spanning over a century, including surviving both World Wars and the changes in society throughout her lifetime. Lived independently for many years, maintaining a diet that included raw eggs and various foods. The longevity of life sparked interest in studies related to aging.

Continue Reading

Vittorio Taviani

Italian film director and screenwriter
Born
September 20th, 1929 95 years ago
Died
April 15th, 2018 7 years ago — 88 years old

Taviani was an Italian film director and screenwriter recognized for contributions to cinema from the 1960s onward. His works often explored themes of social justice and human rights, frequently collaborating with his brother Paolo. Highlights include 'Padre Padrone', which won the Palme d'Or at the Cannes Film Festival in 1977, and 'Kaos', an acclaimed film that adapts stories from Luigi Pirandello. The Taviani brothers established a distinctive style that blended realism and poetic imagery, leaving a significant mark on Italian filmmaking. Their films gained recognition for their artistic merit and often reflected historical and political contexts.

Continue Reading