Jim Prentice
Canadian lawyer and politician
Served as the 16th Premier of Alberta from 2014 to 2015. Held various positions within the government, including Minister of Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development. Represented the federal Conservative Party as a Member of Parliament for Edmonton—St. Albert from 2004 to 2010 and Calgary Centre-North from 2010 to 2014. Worked as a lawyer prior to entering politics, focusing on issues impacting Alberta.
Served as Premier of Alberta
Held federal cabinet minister roles
Contributed to Indigenous affairs legislation
Other People Born on July 20th
Alan Stephenson Boyd
First United States Secretary of Transportation
Born
July 20th, 1922 103 years ago
Died
2020 5 years ago — 98 years old
Served as the first United States Secretary of Transportation from 1967 to 1969. Prior to this role, held various positions within the legal and transportation sectors. Played a significant part in the establishment of the Department of Transportation. After leaving the cabinet, continued to influence transportation policies and practices in the private sector and through federal advisory roles.
Continue ReadingEdmund Hillary
Mountaineer and first to summit Everest
Born
July 20th, 1919 106 years ago
Died
January 11th, 2008 17 years ago — 88 years old
A mountaineer and explorer from New Zealand ascended Mount Everest on May 29, 1953, alongside Tenzing Norgay. This achievement marked the first successful summit of the world's highest peak. Hillary also participated in numerous expeditions to the Antarctic and took part in the first overland expedition to the South Pole from the sea. In addition to his climbing feats, he contributed to the welfare of the Sherpa people of Nepal, establishing schools and hospitals in the region. His endeavors in exploration and humanitarian efforts garnered international recognition.
Continue ReadingIan P. Howard
Psychologist and academic
Born
July 20th, 1927 98 years ago
Died
2013 12 years ago — 86 years old
A psychologist and academic contributed to the understanding of visual perception and cognitive psychology. Worked extensively on the development of theoretical models related to the perception of 3D visual images from 2D projections. Engaged in various research projects that explored spatial awareness and visual processing. Played a crucial role in the advancement of psychological methodologies and framework within the academic community.
Continue ReadingHenri Alleg
Journalist and author of "La Question"
Born
July 20th, 1921 104 years ago
Died
July 17th, 2013 12 years ago — 91 years old
Born in 1921, a journalist focused on colonial Algeria. In 1957, captured by French paratroopers during the Algerian War, subjected to torture while writing articles that condemned the use of violence against Algerians. Authored "La Question," detailing his experiences and the broader context of torture in the war. The book became influential in raising awareness about human rights abuses. After the war, continued to write about Algeria's struggle for independence and the consequences of colonialism. Later lived in France and contributed to various publications.
Continue ReadingFrantz Fanon
Psychiatrist and philosopher, 'The Wretched of the Earth'
Born
July 20th, 1925 100 years ago
Died
December 6th, 1961 64 years ago — 36 years old
A psychiatrist and philosopher, contributed significantly to post-colonial studies and critical theory. Wrote several influential works addressing the psychological effects of colonization and the struggle for liberation. 'Black Skin, White Masks' explored identity and race, while 'The Wretched of the Earth' became a foundational text for anti-colonial movements. An important figure in the Algerian War of Independence, Fanon served as a member of the Algerian National Liberation Front's (FLN) delegation to the United Nations. His thoughts on violence and decolonization have inspired various liberation movements worldwide.
Continue ReadingAlistair MacLeod
Canadian novelist and short story writer
Born
July 20th, 1936 89 years ago
Died
2014 11 years ago — 78 years old
This Canadian author gained recognition for powerful narratives that often explored themes of family and loss. His most celebrated novel, 'No Great Mischief', delves into the Scottish diaspora in Canada and the bonds of family. MacLeod's writing reflects the landscape and culture of Cape Breton, where he spent much of his life. In addition to novels, he authored numerous short stories, many of which appeared in collections that garnered critical acclaim. His stories frequently focus on the experiences and emotions of working-class characters. As an educator, he taught creative writing and literature at various institutions, influencing a generation of writers.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on October 13th
Vivian Malone Jones
Civil rights activist and educator
Born
July 15th, 1942 83 years ago
Died
October 13th, 2005 20 years ago — 63 years old
Born in 1942, an American civil rights activist focused on desegregation in education. In 1963, the individual became one of the first two black students to enroll at the University of Alabama. Despite facing significant opposition, successful enrollment took place with the protection of federal marshals. Later, worked for the U.S. Department of Justice and helped improve access to equal educational opportunities.
Continue ReadingBarbara Kent
Film actress, lead in 'The Cat and the Fiddle'
Born
December 16th, 1907 118 years ago
Died
October 13th, 2011 14 years ago — 103 years old
Born in Canada, this actress moved to the United States and became part of the early Hollywood film industry. She gained prominence during the silent film era and transitioned into talkies, showcasing her talent in various genres. Career highlights include notable performances in 'The Cat and the Fiddle' and 'The Show of Shows'. Over the years, featured in numerous films, she contributed to the evolution of film by adapting to the industry's technological advancements. Continued to be involved in entertainment well into the later years of life, embracing her legacy in cinema history.
Continue ReadingDmitry Nikolayevich Filippov
Russian banker and politician
Born
August 1st, 1944 81 years ago
Died
October 13th, 1998 27 years ago — 54 years old
Born in Russia, this individual served as a prominent banker and politician. Held the position of Minister of Finance from 1994 to 1996. Played a significant role in the economic transition of Russia during the post-Soviet era. Engaged in various reform initiatives aimed at stabilizing the national economy and fostering a more market-oriented environment.
Continue ReadingLê Đức Thọ
Vietnamese general and Nobel laureate
Born
October 14th, 1911 114 years ago
Died
October 13th, 1990 35 years ago — 78 years old
Served as a general in the Vietnam People's Army and played a key role in the Vietnam War. Represented the North Vietnamese government at the Paris Peace Accords, which aimed to establish peace in Vietnam. Received the Nobel Peace Prize in 1973, jointly with Henry Kissinger, for efforts in negotiating the end of the war. Declined to accept the award, stating that peace had not yet been achieved in Vietnam.
Continue ReadingClifton Webb
American actor and singer in films
Born
November 19th, 1889 136 years ago
Died
October 13th, 1966 59 years ago — 76 years old
Born in 1889, this individual was an accomplished American actor, singer, and dancer. Gained stardom in the early to mid-twentieth century, particularly noted for a distinctive style and sophisticated performances. Featured prominently in several classic films, including 'Laura' and 'Cheaper by the Dozen'. Transitioned from theatre to films, achieving considerable success and recognition in both mediums. Displayed a unique talent for portraying witty and charming characters, contributing to a rich legacy in American cinema. Continued to perform until late career, leaving behind an enduring influence on the performing arts.
Continue ReadingBertram Brockhouse
Canadian physicist and Nobel laureate
Born
July 15th, 1918 107 years ago
Died
October 13th, 2003 22 years ago — 85 years old
A physicist contributed significantly to the field of condensed matter physics. Developed innovative techniques in inelastic neutron scattering, which allowed for the detailed study of atomic and molecular systems. Received the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1994 for contributions to the development of the neutron scattering technique, crucial for understanding the properties of materials. Served as a professor at McMaster University, influencing future generations of physicists through teaching and research.
Continue Reading