Ivan Mazepa
Ukrainian diplomat and military leader
Served as a prominent Ukrainian political figure and military leader during the late 17th and early 18th centuries. Became the Cossack Hetman of Left-bank Ukraine in 1687 and held the position until death in 1709. Established alliances with various powers, notably with Sweden during the Great Northern War, aiming for Ukrainian independence from Russian control. His life ended in exile after a failed uprising against Russian dominance.
Served as Cossack Hetman from 1687 to 1709
Allied with Charles XII of Sweden against Russia
Sought Ukrainian autonomy and independence
Other People Born on March 20th
Amalie Sara Colquhoun
Landscape and portrait painter
Born
March 20th, 1894 131 years ago
Died
June 16th, 1974 51 years ago — 80 years old
Born in 1894, significant contributions to Australian art were made through landscape and portrait painting. Colquhoun studied at prestigious institutions and developed a unique style that captured the essence of the Australian landscape and the human form. Works were displayed in numerous exhibitions, gaining recognition in artistic circles. Life-long dedication to painting highlighted a commitment to the craft, with many pieces remaining influential in Australian art history.
Continue ReadingJack Barry
Game show host and producer
Born
March 20th, 1918 107 years ago
Died
May 2nd, 1984 41 years ago — 66 years old
Co-founded Barry & Enright Productions, a successful television production company. Hosted several popular game shows including 'The Joker's Wild' and 'Twenty-One'. Played a significant role in the game show genre of the 20th century. Contributed to the format and creation of many television programs, impacting the landscape of entertainment programming during his era.
Continue ReadingPatrick Jennings
Politician, 11th Premier of New South Wales
Born
March 20th, 1831 194 years ago
Died
July 11th, 1897 128 years ago — 66 years old
Northern Irish-Australian politician served as the 11th Premier of New South Wales from 1883 to 1885. His tenure focused on economic reforms and public works projects. Jennings took a leading role in advocating for the development of railways and other infrastructure, contributing to the growth of the state. Prior to his term as Premier, he held various positions in the New South Wales Parliament, where he made significant contributions to legislative initiatives.
Continue ReadingLois Lowry
American author of children's books
Born
March 20th, 1937 88 years ago
Writer of children's literature, notable for exploring complex themes through engaging narratives. Published the acclaimed novels 'The Giver,' 'Number the Stars,' and 'The Silent Boy.' 'The Giver' received the 1994 Newbery Medal, and 'Number the Stars' earned the 1990 Newbery Medal, highlighting significant moments in history through the eyes of young characters. Authored over thirty books spanning various genres and audiences, receiving recognition for contributions to literature.
Continue ReadingBraulio Carrillo Colina
Costa Rican politician and president
Born
March 20th, 1800 225 years ago
Died
May 15th, 1845 180 years ago — 45 years old
Served as President of Costa Rica from 1835 to 1836 and again from 1837 to 1838. Played a pivotal role in the creation of the country's constitution in 1841. Worked to establish a more centralized government during a period of political turbulence. Engaged in efforts to promote economic development and infrastructure improvements.
Continue ReadingBrian Mulroney
Prime Minister of Canada
Born
March 20th, 1939 86 years ago
Died
February 29th, 2024 1 years ago — 84 years old
Served as the 18th Prime Minister of Canada from 1984 to 1993. Played a key role in the Canada-US Free Trade Agreement, promoting trade between the two nations. His government implemented significant economic reforms and was involved in the negotiations that led to the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA). Mulroney also focused on environmental issues, introducing policies aimed at protecting natural resources. After leaving office, continued to engage in various business and legal ventures, as well as maintaining a presence in Canadian political discourse.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on October 2nd
Brian Friel
Irish playwright and author of 'Translations'
Born
January 9th, 1929 96 years ago
Died
October 2nd, 2015 10 years ago — 86 years old
Significant contributions to theatre and literature occurred through writing and directing. Notable works include 'Translations', 'Dancing at Lughnasa', and 'The Faith Healer'. Friel's plays often explored themes of language, identity, and community, rooted in Irish culture and history. Friel received numerous awards, including several Tony Awards and the Laurence Olivier Award for Best New Play.
Continue ReadingPaul Halmos
Mathematician & author of 'Naive Set Theory'
Born
March 3rd, 1916 109 years ago
Died
October 2nd, 2006 19 years ago — 90 years old
Born in Hungary, a mathematician emigrated to the United States where significant contributions to mathematical logic, statistics, and functional analysis were made. Authored several influential texts, including 'Naive Set Theory', which provided accessible insights into the foundations of mathematics. Served as a professor at various institutions, including the University of Illinois and the University of Michigan. His work in mathematical writing emphasized clarity and precision, influencing generations of mathematicians.
Continue ReadingAugust Wilson
American playwright of notable plays
Born
April 27th, 1945 80 years ago
Died
October 2nd, 2005 20 years ago — 60 years old
An influential author and playwright, this individual focused on the African American experience across a series of ten plays, collectively titled 'The Pittsburgh Cycle.' The works explore themes of race, identity, and community, often set in different decades of the 20th century. Major plays include 'Fences,' which won a Tony Award and the Pulitzer Prize for Drama, and 'The Piano Lesson,' which also secured the Pulitzer Prize. Contributions to American theater have been recognized for their profound cultural relevance and textual richness.
Continue ReadingGeorge Grizzard
American actor in stage and film
Born
1928 97 years ago
Died
October 2nd, 2007 18 years ago — 79 years old
Achieved recognition on Broadway and in film productions. Starred in the original Broadway production of 'Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf?' and received a Tony Award for Best Featured Actor in a Play for the role. Made notable appearances in films such as 'The Group' and 'The Day of the Dolphin'. Gained critical acclaim for performances in television series, including 'George Washington' and 'The Old Man Who Cried'. Received multiple Emmy nominations for roles in television, showcasing talent across various platforms. Continued performing until his later years, leaving a legacy in theater and film.
Continue ReadingJohn Thomas Dunlop
Labor scholar and administrator
Born
July 5th, 1914 111 years ago
Died
October 2nd, 2003 22 years ago — 89 years old
An American administrator and labor scholar who played a significant role in the development of labor relations and economic policies. Contributed to several academic works that advanced the understanding of labor economics. Served as a professor at Harvard University, influencing many students and future scholars. Was involved with various labor organizations, impacting policy discussions during crucial periods of labor history.
Continue ReadingRobert Bourassa
Lawyer and Premier of Quebec
Born
July 14th, 1933 92 years ago
Died
October 2nd, 1996 29 years ago — 63 years old
Served as the 22nd Premier of Quebec, notably holding office during two separate terms from 1970 to 1976 and from 1985 to 1994. Faced significant political challenges including issues related to sovereignty and economic development. Advanced major infrastructure projects and championed the modernization of the Quebec economy. Promoted the welfare of Quebecers and worked to strengthen the province's autonomy within Canada.
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