João de Barros

Portuguese historian and author

João de Barros - Portuguese historian and author
Born

1496
529 years ago

Died

October 20th, 1570
454 years ago — 74 years old

Category

Thinkers & Philosophers

Country

Portugal

Links & References

A prominent Portuguese historian and author, recognized for contributions to the documentation of the Age of Discovery. Focused on the history of Portugal's empire and its overseas territories. Primary work includes 'Décadas da Ásia', detailing the history of the Portuguese in Asia, which became a significant source of information for subsequent generations. Participated in the intellectual discussions of the time, influencing the scholarship of history and geography.

Authored 'Décadas da Ásia'

Chronicled Portugal's maritime exploration

Other People Who Died on October 20th

Michael Meacher

Politician, Secretary of State for the Environment
Born
November 4th, 1939 85 years ago
Died
October 20th, 2015 9 years ago — 75 years old

An academic and politician, served as Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions in the UK. Played a significant role in environmental policy and was a member of the Labour Party. Represented the Oldham West and Royton constituency in Parliament from 1970 to 2005. Advocated for sustainable development and climate change action during his tenure, often focusing on the importance of environmental protection in governmental policy.

Continue Reading

Lawrence Dale Bell

Industrialist and founder of Bell Aircraft
Born
April 5th, 1894 131 years ago
Died
October 20th, 1956 68 years ago — 62 years old

An American industrialist founded Bell Aircraft Corporation, which was pivotal in the development of aviation technology during the mid-20th century. The company gained prominence for the production of military aircraft, including the Bell P-59 Airacomet, the first jet fighter developed in the United States. The company also produced the iconic Bell X-1, the first aircraft to break the sound barrier. Bell's work significantly contributed to advancements in aerospace engineering, particularly in rocket and supersonic flight.

Continue Reading

Larri Thomas

Actress and dancer in Broadway productions
Born
January 23rd, 1932 93 years ago
Died
October 20th, 2013 11 years ago — 81 years old

Born in 1932, this American actress and dancer gained recognition for compelling performances in Broadway productions. Her work included significant roles in 'Bells Are Ringing' and 'The Pajama Game.' With a strong background in dance, she contributed to the choreography of various shows, showcasing talent in both acting and movement. Throughout her career, she participated in multiple stage productions, establishing a presence in the theatrical community.

Continue Reading

Ronnie Van Zant

Singer-songwriter and Lynyrd Skynyrd frontman
Born
January 15th, 1948 77 years ago
Died
October 20th, 1977 47 years ago — 29 years old

A prominent figure in Southern rock, contributed significantly to the genre as the lead vocalist and songwriter for the band Lynyrd Skynyrd. The band released several successful albums and became known for their anthems that captured the spirit of Southern life. Tragically, died in a plane crash in 1977, which cut short a rising career. His legacy continued to influence rock music well into the future.

Continue Reading

Anthony Quayle

English actor in 'Lawrence of Arabia'
Born
September 7th, 1913 112 years ago
Died
October 20th, 1989 35 years ago — 76 years old

An English actor participated in theatre and film from the 1940s through the 1990s. Gained recognition for performances in various productions, with significant roles in classic films and stage adaptations. Played a key role in 'Lawrence of Arabia' as General Allenby and portrayed characters in numerous Shakespearean productions. Worked extensively in British television, contributing to a legacy in the entertainment industry.

Continue Reading

Carl Ferdinand Cori

Biochemist, Nobel Prize in Physiology
Born
December 5th, 1896 128 years ago
Died
October 20th, 1984 40 years ago — 87 years old

This individual was a biochemist and pharmacologist who made significant contributions to the understanding of carbohydrate metabolism. Together with his wife, also a biochemist, conducted extensive research on the Cori cycle, describing how glycogen is converted to glucose in the body. Their work advanced knowledge in metabolic processes and laid foundations for further research in biochemistry. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1947 for discoveries in the field of carbohydrate metabolism, this individual positively influenced medical and biological research.

Continue Reading