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
David Tonkin
Australian politician and Premier
Born
July 20th, 1929 96 years ago
Died
October 2nd, 2000 25 years ago — 71 years old
Served as the 38th Premier of South Australia from 1979 to 1982. Led the state during a period of economic challenge and reform. Oversaw significant developments in infrastructure and education. Championed policies aimed at improving public services and governance. After his premiership, continued to be active in politics and public life.
Continue ReadingDobri Dobrev
Bulgarian philanthropist and donor
Born
July 20th, 1914 111 years ago
Died
2018 8 years ago — 104 years old
A Bulgarian philanthropist dedicated life to charitable work. Started collecting donations for various causes at a young age. Gained recognition for helping elderly residents and funding local projects in Bulgaria. Continued to live modestly in a small home, despite the considerable aid provided through donations. Maintained a simple lifestyle, often walking barefoot, and inspired many with acts of kindness.
Continue ReadingEdmund Hillary
Mountaineer and first to summit Everest
Born
July 20th, 1919 106 years ago
Died
January 11th, 2008 18 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 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 ReadingJacques Delors
French economist and European Commission President
Born
July 20th, 1925 100 years ago
Died
2023 3 years ago — 98 years old
An influential economist and politician served as the 8th President of the European Commission from 1985 to 1995. Focused on European integration, emphasizing economic and monetary union. Championed the creation of the euro, influencing monetary policy across member states. Fostered the Single European Act, promoting the establishment of a single internal market. Played a significant role in enhancing the role of the European Parliament in decision-making processes.
Continue ReadingHeinie Manush
Baseball player and manager, Hall of Famer
Born
July 20th, 1901 124 years ago
Died
May 12th, 1971 55 years ago — 69 years old
A professional baseball player and manager, contributed significantly to Major League Baseball from the 1920s to the 1940s. Played primarily as an outfielder for teams such as the Washington Senators, Detroit Tigers, and Boston Braves. Inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1964. Managed minor league teams following a successful playing career.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on October 13th
John Henley
English minister and poet
Born
August 3rd, 1692 333 years ago
Died
October 13th, 1759 266 years ago — 67 years old
Born in 1692, this individual served as a minister and gained recognition for poetry. He contributed to the literary scene of his time, blending his religious beliefs with artistic expression. The combination of ministry and poetry defined much of his career, marking a unique intersection of faith and literature. His works often reflected his strong theological viewpoints while being accessible to a wide audience. He held several religious meetings and composed numerous poems that addressed spiritual themes, demonstrating his commitment to his faith through his literary endeavors.
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 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 ReadingLouise Glück
American poet and Nobel laureate
Born
April 22nd, 1943 83 years ago
Died
October 13th, 2023 2 years ago — 80 years old
Born in New York City in 1943, a poet received numerous awards throughout the career, including the Nobel Prize in Literature in 2020. The poetry often explored themes of childhood, family, and nature, showcasing a distinctive voice in contemporary literature. Notable collections include 'The Wild Iris,' which won the Pulitzer Prize for Poetry in 1993, and 'A Village Life'. The work is characterized by a sharp emotional depth and innovative use of traditional forms.
Continue ReadingIsaac Brock
General and Lieutenant Governor of Canada
Born
October 6th, 1769 256 years ago
Died
October 13th, 1812 213 years ago — 43 years old
Served as a British Army officer and politician, contributing significantly to the defense of Upper Canada during the War of 1812. Appointed as the Lieutenant Governor of Upper Canada, developed military strategies to repel American invasions. Demonstrated leadership at notable battles, gaining recognition for tactical abilities and organizational skills. His leadership helped to secure key victories for British forces in the region.
Continue ReadingTommy Whittle
Saxophonist with notable jazz contributions
Born
October 13th, 1926 99 years ago
Died
October 13th, 2013 12 years ago — 87 years old
A prominent saxophonist with roots in both Scotland and England, significant contributions were made to the jazz genre over a lengthy career. Performance and recordings spanned several decades, showcasing talent in both live settings and studio work. Collaboration with various artists highlighted versatility and skill in improvisation. Acknowledged for ability to blend traditional jazz elements with contemporary styles.
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