Irene Dunne
American actress and singer
Acclaimed actress and singer achieved prominence in Hollywood during the 1930s and 1940s. Starred in popular films such as 'The Awful Truth', 'Love Affair', and 'Magnificent Obsession'. Displayed a wide range of skills including drama and comedy, establishing a successful career in both genres. Received five Academy Award nominations for Best Actress, showcasing exceptional talent in the film industry.
Starred in 'The Awful Truth'
Featured in 'Love Affair'
Appeared in 'Magnificent Obsession'
Received five Academy Award nominations
Other People Born on December 20th
Royal Ivey
Basketball player and coach, NBA role
Born
December 20th, 1981 44 years ago
Born in 1981, this individual played collegiate basketball at the University of Texas, helping the team reach the NCAA Tournament during his tenure. Entering the NBA in 2004, contributions came while playing for teams including the Atlanta Hawks, Milwaukee Bucks, and the New York Knicks. After retiring from playing, transitioned into coaching, taking on roles at the collegiate level and within professional organizations. The focus of coaching included player development as well as strategic on-court decision making.
Continue ReadingVäinö Linna
Finnish author, wrote 'Under the North Star'
Born
December 20th, 1920 105 years ago
Died
April 21st, 1992 33 years ago — 71 years old
A Finnish author achieved prominence for depictions of Finnish society in the 20th century. Notably, the trilogy 'Under the North Star' explored themes of Finnish history, culture, and class struggles. Linna's works often reflected the consequences of war and societal changes in Finland, providing a narrative richness that resonated with readers. Besides novels, he also contributed essays and writings about Finnish identity, aiding in the understanding of post-war Finnish literature. The author became a significant figure in Finnish literature, influencing generations of writers and readers.
Continue ReadingDavid Wright
Baseball player and team captain
Born
December 20th, 1982 43 years ago
Played third base for the New York Mets in Major League Baseball. Debuted in 2004 and became a key player for the Mets over the following years. Served as the team captain and was part of the Mets' 2015 National League Championship team. Additionally, participated in multiple All-Star Games and won Gold Glove and Silver Slugger awards during his career. Retired in 2018 due to injuries.
Continue ReadingIsrael Castro
Mexican footballer with notable league career
Born
December 20th, 1980 45 years ago
Played as a midfielder primarily in Liga MX and had a significant career with Club Universidad Nacional and Cruz Azul. Represented Mexico at international levels, including participation in the 2011 CONCACAF Gold Cup. Recognized for contributions to team dynamics and successful league campaigns.
Continue ReadingGeremi Njitap
Cameroonian footballer, World Cup player
Born
December 20th, 1978 47 years ago
A professional footballer, played primarily as a midfielder and right-back. Represented Cameroon in several international tournaments, including the FIFA World Cup in 1998 and 2002. Had significant club career playing in top leagues for teams like Real Madrid and Chelsea. Contributed to winning multiple domestic league titles and the UEFA Champions League.
Continue ReadingBouabdellah Tahri
French middle-distance runner
Born
December 20th, 1978 47 years ago
Competed in middle-distance running events, specializing in the 3000 meters steeplechase. Achieved significant success at various international competitions, securing medals and high placements. Represented France at the Olympic Games and has participated in multiple World Championships. Recorded personal bests that rank among the top times globally in his event.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on September 4th
César-François Cassini de Thury
French astronomer and cartographer
Born
June 17th, 1714 311 years ago
Died
September 4th, 1784 241 years ago — 70 years old
An astronomer and cartographer from France, contributions included significant advancements in geodesy and cartography. Developed techniques for triangulation and produced detailed maps of France. Worked on the Paris meridian and conducted extensive surveys to improve the accuracy of maps, which influenced future mapping techniques. Served as Royal Cartographer and made notable contributions to the French Academy of Sciences.
Continue ReadingJack Tworkov
Painter and educator, abstract expressionist
Born
August 15th, 1900 125 years ago
Died
September 4th, 1982 43 years ago — 82 years old
Born in Poland and later emigrating to the United States, contributed significantly to the Abstract Expressionism movement. Taught at several prestigious institutions, including the Yale University School of Art and Columbia University. Produced a wide array of works that explored the relationship between form and color, using dynamic brushwork and deep emotional resonance. Active in the New York art scene, his work reflected philosophical concepts and personal experiences, gaining recognition within the art community.
Continue ReadingE. F. Schumacher
Economist and statistician; wrote 'Small Is Beautiful'
Born
August 16th, 1911 114 years ago
Died
September 4th, 1977 48 years ago — 66 years old
An economist and statistician, contributed to development economics and sustainability. Advocated for appropriate technology and emphasized the importance of small-scale and decentralized practices. Founded the Intermediate Technology Development Group to promote such technologies in developing countries. Wrote 'Small Is Beautiful: A Study of Economics as if People Mattered', which critiqued conventional economic thought and promoted human-scale technologies. Influenced a generation of thinkers and practitioners in development economics and environmentalism.
Continue ReadingJohn Ogilby
Cartographer and theatre impresario
Born
1600 425 years ago
Died
September 4th, 1676 349 years ago — 76 years old
Scottish-born cartographer and theatre impresario. Pioneered the field of mapping in the 17th century. Published significant works, including 'Britannia', a detailed atlas of Britain that showcased innovative map-making techniques. Also established the first professional theatre in Dublin, enhancing the cultural landscape of Ireland. Contributed to the arts and sciences through detailed geographical documentation and theatrical productions.
Continue ReadingWilfred de Souza
Indian politician and chief minister
Born
1927 98 years ago
Died
September 4th, 2015 10 years ago — 88 years old
A surgeon who transitioned into politics, served as the 7th Chief Minister of Goa. Held office from 1994 to 1999 and was a member of the Indian National Congress. Played a significant role in the development of the state during tenure. Involved in healthcare reforms and governance issues, advocating for improved facilities and services in the region.
Continue ReadingFriedrich Laun
German author and literary critic
Born
June 1st, 1770 255 years ago
Died
September 4th, 1849 176 years ago — 79 years old
An author and literary critic, contributed to the fields of literature and criticism during the 19th century. Developed a reputation for insightful analyses and critiques of contemporary works. His writings often reflected the philosophical currents of his time and engaged with various cultural themes. Worked as a literary figure in Germany, influencing the discourse surrounding literature and aesthetics.
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