Jerry Lewis
Comedian and actor from 'The Nutty Professor'
An American actor and comedian, prominent during the mid-20th century. Achievements include co-starring with Dean Martin in a successful comedy duo. Transitioned to a solo career, featuring in numerous films. A well-regarded work includes 'The Nutty Professor,' showcasing his talent for physical comedy and character transformation. In addition to film, significant contributions were made to television, with several successful specials and shows. Lewis also directed several of his films, further establishing his influence in film production and comedy.
Co-starred with Dean Martin in a comedy duo
Directed and starred in 'The Nutty Professor'
Hosted multiple television specials
Other People Born on March 16th
Aladár Gerevich
Hungarian fencer with Olympic gold medals
Born
March 16th, 1910 115 years ago
Died
May 14th, 1991 34 years ago — 81 years old
Competitor in fencing, specializing in the foil and sabre events. Achieved remarkable success during the mid-20th century, securing seven Olympic gold medals across three different Olympic Games. Active in numerous World Championships, contributing to Hungary's dominance in the sport during that era. Served as a key member of the Hungarian national fencing team, influencing the development of the sport. Retired from competitive fencing in the early 1960s, leaving a lasting legacy in the world of fencing.
Continue ReadingPat Nixon
First Lady of the United States
Born
March 16th, 1912 113 years ago
Died
June 22nd, 1993 32 years ago — 81 years old
An American educator who served as the First Lady of the United States from 1969 to 1974. Played a significant role in various initiatives focused on volunteerism and the arts. Engaged in public service through her work with numerous organizations, including the American Red Cross and the Girl Scouts. Contributed to the Nixon administration's efforts to support women's rights and health issues. Actively participated in the White House decoration and restoration projects.
Continue ReadingFred Neil
Folk Singer-Songwriter of 'Everybody's Talkin'
Born
March 16th, 1936 89 years ago
Died
July 7th, 2001 24 years ago — 65 years old
Born in 1936, this American folk singer-songwriter and guitarist gained prominence in the 1960s music scene. The artist's poignant lyrics and unique vocal style resonated with audiences, leading to a successful career in music. 'Everybody's Talkin'' became a significant hit after being featured in the film 'Midnight Cowboy', contributing to its enduring legacy. The musician's contributions to folk music have influenced many artists while remaining a respected figure within the genre. Later in life, the artist shifted focus towards marine life, advocating for the conservation of dolphins and other sea creatures.
Continue ReadingJohn Addison
Soldier and film score composer
Born
March 16th, 1920 105 years ago
Died
December 7th, 1998 27 years ago — 78 years old
Served in the British Army during World War II, contributing to several military campaigns. Transitioned to a career in music, composing scores for films and television. Achieved recognition for work in film scores and developed a reputation for blending orchestral and contemporary elements. Notable for collaborations with various filmmakers, particularly in the early television industry.
Continue ReadingEthel Anderson
Australian poet and painter
Born
March 16th, 1883 142 years ago
Died
August 4th, 1958 67 years ago — 75 years old
Born in 1883, this individual made significant contributions to literature and the visual arts. A prominent poet, she published several collections, gaining recognition in literary circles. As a painter, her works showcased a blend of impressionism and modernism, reflecting the landscapes and culture of Australia. This individual was involved in the Australian art community and participated in exhibitions that highlighted her artistic talent. The combination of poetic and artistic endeavors marked a substantial presence in the Australian arts scene during the early to mid-20th century.
Continue ReadingNapoléon
Prince Imperial of France
Born
March 16th, 1856 169 years ago
Died
June 1st, 1879 146 years ago — 23 years old
Born in 1856, he served as the Prince Imperial of the French Empire. The singular son of Emperor Napoleon III and Empress Eugénie, he was designated to continue the Bonaparte legacy. He moved to England following the fall of the Second Empire in France. During the Franco-Prussian War, he enlisted in the British Army and later joined the 1st Battalion of the 60th Rifles. He participated in the Zulu War in 1879, where he met his end during the Battle of Isandlwana.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on August 20th
Narendra Dabholkar
Indian author and rationalist activist
Born
1945 81 years ago
Died
August 20th, 2013 12 years ago — 68 years old
An Indian author and activist focused on rationalism and social reform. Founded the Maharashtra Andhashraddha Nirmoolan Samiti, an organization combating superstition and promoting scientific thinking. Wrote extensively on the topics of atheism and rationalism. Authored several books addressing superstition, including 'The Myth of God' and 'Crisis of Faith'. Recognized for vigorous advocacy against black magic and fraudulent practices, leading campaigns to educate the public on rational thought and skepticism.
Continue ReadingRio Reiser
German singer-songwriter and musician
Born
1950 76 years ago
Died
August 20th, 1996 29 years ago — 46 years old
A prominent singer-songwriter and musician in Germany, recognized for contributions to rock and pop music. Founded the band Ton Steine Scherben, which became influential in the late 1960s and 1970s. Achieved solo success with a string of hits and maintained a strong poetic and activist presence in lyrics. The music often addressed social and political issues, resonating with many in the German-speaking world. Released several albums that showcased a blend of rock, folk, and political commentary.
Continue ReadingHua Guofeng
Chinese politician, 2nd Premier of China
Born
1921 105 years ago
Died
August 20th, 2008 17 years ago — 87 years old
Served as a prominent political figure in China during the late 1970s and early 1980s. Held the position of Premier from 1976 to 1980, succeeding Zhou Enlai, and served as Chairman of the Communist Party of China. Played a significant role in the transition following Mao Zedong's death, promoting policies that continued the direction of economic reform initiated by Deng Xiaoping. Advocated for agricultural and economic improvements as part of the modernization agenda. Oversaw China's state affairs during a critical period in its history, influencing political stability and reforms.
Continue ReadingStephanie Tubbs Jones
American politician and lawyer
Born
1949 77 years ago
Died
August 20th, 2008 17 years ago — 59 years old
A prominent figure in American politics, served as a U.S. Representative for Ohio's 11th congressional district from 1999 until passing in 2008. Elected as the first African American woman to represent Ohio in Congress, advocated for education, healthcare, and civil rights. Prior to congressional service, held positions including the first female assistant county prosecutor in Cuyahoga County and judge in the Cuyahoga County Common Pleas Court. Active in numerous local and national organizations, focused efforts on promoting social justice and economic equality.
Continue ReadingNorris Bradbury
Physicist and soldier influential in weapons.
Born
1909 117 years ago
Died
August 20th, 1997 28 years ago — 88 years old
Served in the U.S. Army during World War II. Played a significant role in the Manhattan Project, contributing to the development of atomic weapons. Became a prominent physicist and served as the director of Los Alamos National Laboratory from 1945 to 1970. Focused on nuclear research and oversaw various projects, including advancements in weapons technology and nuclear policy. Also contributed to academic fields as a professor at several institutions.
Continue ReadingIgor Vovkovinskiy
Tallest person in America
Born
1982 44 years ago
Died
August 20th, 2021 4 years ago — 39 years old
Born in Ukraine, an individual immigrated to the United States at a young age. Studied law while also pursuing a career in acting. Gained attention for being the tallest man in America, reaching a height of 7 feet 8.33 inches. Featured in various media and made appearances on television shows, highlighting unique height with a notable appearance on 'The Oprah Winfrey Show'. Advocated for awareness regarding Marfan syndrome, a condition that contributed to extraordinary stature.
Continue Reading