Jem Finer
Banjo player and songwriter
An English banjo player and songwriter contributed significantly to the field of music. Member of the influential band The Pogues, Finer helped shape the band's distinctive sound, combining traditional Irish folk with punk rock elements. He played a vital role in the creation of the iconic song 'Fairytale of New York', co-written with Shane MacGowan. Finer also explored multimedia and installation art, demonstrating versatility beyond music.
Played banjo and co-wrote 'Fairytale of New York'
Contributed to the band's success with The Pogues
Other People Born on July 20th
Jeff Rawle
Actor and screenwriter in British television
Born
July 20th, 1951 75 years ago
Significant contributions made in British television and film. Participated in various productions, showcasing versatility and talent. Achieved recognition for roles in television series such as 'Drop the Dead Donkey' and 'Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire'. Engaged in screenwriting, further enhancing the creative landscape.
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 ReadingOlivier de Kersauson
French sailor and ocean racer
Born
July 20th, 1944 82 years ago
An accomplished sailor, participated in numerous prestigious sailing races. Competed in the Whitbread Round the World Race and the Route du Rhum. Gained high recognition for achievements in solo and crewed ocean racing. Contributed to the sailing community through various media and television appearances, sharing experiences and insights on maritime adventures.
Continue ReadingGerd Binnig
Physicist, Nobel Prize laureate
Born
July 20th, 1947 79 years ago
A German physicist studied and contributed significantly to the field of scanning tunneling microscopy. Developed the first operational scanning tunneling microscope in 1981, which allowed the imaging of surfaces at the atomic level. Shared the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1986 for the invention of this groundbreaking technology, which has applications in various scientific fields including nanotechnology and materials science. Worked in academia and continued contributing to research and education in physics throughout a distinguished career.
Continue ReadingPete Hamilton
Race car driver, Daytona 500 winner
Born
July 20th, 1942 84 years ago
Died
2017 9 years ago — 75 years old
A race car driver from the United States, accomplished on the NASCAR circuit. Achieved significant success during the late 1960s and early 1970s. Won the prestigious Daytona 500 in 1970, solidifying a place in racing history. Competed for various teams throughout a career that spanned more than a decade, showing proficiency on both dirt and asphalt tracks.
Continue ReadingMahmud 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.
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