Joe Rosenthal
Photographer best known for iconic Iwo Jima image
An American photographer, recognized for capturing the famous image of U.S. Marines raising the American flag on Mount Suribachi during the Battle of Iwo Jima in World War II. This photograph, taken on February 23, 1945, became one of the most reproduced images in history and played a pivotal role in boosting American morale during the war. The photograph won the Pulitzer Prize for Photography in 1945, solidifying its place in American cultural history. Rosenthal's work has been exhibited in various prestigious galleries and is part of the permanent collection of the U.S. National Archives.
Captured the iconic Iwo Jima flag raising photo
Won the Pulitzer Prize for Photography in 1945
Other People Born on October 9th
Olga Guillot
Cuban-American singer with bolero hits
Born
October 9th, 1922 103 years ago
Died
July 12th, 2010 15 years ago — 87 years old
A prominent singer, regarded as one of the leading figures in the bolero genre. Born in Cuba, her career flourished after relocating to the United States. Released numerous popular albums throughout the 1950s and 1960s, showcasing her powerful voice and emotive delivery. Performed in various countries, earning both critical acclaim and a dedicated fanbase. In 1989, became the first woman to receive the Latin Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award, highlighting her contributions to music, particularly in Latin American genres. She influenced many artists and remains a significant figure in Cuban music history.
Continue ReadingAlastair Sim
Scottish-English actor in 'Scrooge' (1951)
Born
October 9th, 1900 125 years ago
Died
August 19th, 1976 49 years ago — 75 years old
An actor and academic with a significant career in film and theatre. Gained prominence in the British film industry during the mid-20th century. Achieved acclaim for performances in classic films, particularly in the role of Ebenezer Scrooge in 'Scrooge' released in 1951. Worked extensively in stage productions, showcasing versatility across genres. Contributed to the art of acting through both performances and teaching.
Continue ReadingReginald Dyer
British brigadier general, Jallianwala Bagh
Born
October 9th, 1864 161 years ago
Died
July 23rd, 1927 98 years ago — 62 years old
A British brigadier general served in the Indian Army during the early 20th century. Dyer commanded British forces during the Jallianwala Bagh Massacre in Amritsar in 1919, which resulted in significant casualties and attracted international attention. The event played a role in shaping public opinion regarding British colonial rule in India. Dyer's actions at Amritsar led to a controversial inquiry and divided opinions in Britain and India regarding the use of military force against civilians. Dyer retired from the army after a contentious career but remained a figure of public debate regarding military ethics and colonial policy.
Continue ReadingJohann Andreas Segner
German mathematician and physicist
Born
October 9th, 1704 321 years ago
Died
October 5th, 1777 248 years ago — 72 years old
A mathematician, physicist, and physician contributed significantly to several areas of science during the 18th century. Developed the concept of the Segner wheel, an early water turbine, providing a foundation for the study of hydraulics and fluid mechanics. Published works in mathematics that included the 'Mathematica' and served as a professor in various universities, influencing education and research in physics. Engaged in the scientific discourse of his time and contributed to the understanding of various scientific principles.
Continue ReadingMário de Andrade
Brazilian author and modernist pioneer
Born
October 9th, 1893 132 years ago
Died
February 25th, 1945 81 years ago — 51 years old
A key figure in Brazilian modernism, contributed significantly to the development of Brazilian literature. Authored notable works including 'Macunaíma', a landmark novel that reflects Brazilian culture and folklore. Also engaged in music and was a prominent musicologist, promoting Brazilian folk music. His literary and musical efforts shaped the identity of Brazilian art in the 20th century.
Continue ReadingIvo Andrić
Yugoslav novelist and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
October 9th, 1892 133 years ago
Died
March 13th, 1975 51 years ago — 82 years old
Yugoslav novelist, poet, and short story writer achieved prominence through literary contributions that explored themes of identity, culture, and history in the Balkans. The work 'The Bridge on the Drina' stands as a significant novel reflecting the socio-political landscape of the region. His literary career encompassed various genres, offering profound insights into the human condition. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1961, recognition was given for the exceptional quality of his narrative art and the exploration of cultural complexities. Andrić's writings have influenced generations of readers and writers in Yugoslavia and beyond.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on August 20th
B. K. S. Iyengar
Yoga Instructor and Iyengar Yoga founder
Born
1918 108 years ago
Died
August 20th, 2014 11 years ago — 96 years old
An influential yoga instructor and author, established a method of yoga that emphasizes precision and alignment. Founded Iyengar Yoga, which integrates a systematic approach to the practice through the use of props. Authored several books on yoga, including 'Light on Yoga', which serves as a foundational text for many practitioners. The teachings and methodologies contributed significantly to the global spread and practice of yoga.
Continue ReadingJean-Baptiste Pigalle
French sculptor famous for 'Voltaire'
Born
January 26th, 1714 312 years ago
Died
August 20th, 1785 240 years ago — 71 years old
A prominent French sculptor and educator, notable contributions to the art world occurred during the 18th century. Renowned for a significant neoclassical style, approach included both monumental sculptures and smaller works in marble and plaster. Most recognized work, the statue of Voltaire, showcased the elegance of the period. Served as a member of the French Academy of Sculpture, contributing to artistic education and the progression of sculpture in France. Produced several other notable pieces, including 'The Statue of the King' and works for the royal courts. Teaching shaped the careers of many future artists, establishing a legacy in the education of sculpture in France.
Continue ReadingPaul Ehrlich
Physician and biologist, Nobel laureate
Born
March 14th, 1854 172 years ago
Died
August 20th, 1915 110 years ago — 61 years old
Contributions to immunology and chemotherapy marked significant advancements in medicine. Developed the first effective treatment for syphilis, employing Salvarsan, a compound that showed efficacy against the disease. Conducted pioneering work in the field of serology, and established concepts of antibodies and antigens, which laid the foundation for modern immunology. Received the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1908, along with Emil von Behring, for work on immunity. His research influenced the development of vaccines and therapeutic agents.
Continue ReadingPope Pius X
Pope and church reformer
Born
June 2nd, 1835 190 years ago
Died
August 20th, 1914 111 years ago — 79 years old
Served as the Pope of the Roman Catholic Church from 1903 until death in 1914. Focused on updating church practices and emphasized frequent communion. Initiated reforms in liturgy and catechism, seeking to counter modernist interpretations of the faith. Canonized saints and promoted devotion to the Eucharist. Advocated for the establishment of a new code of canon law and addressed issues of social justice and poverty.
Continue ReadingJohn W. Morris
American general, World War II veteran
Born
September 10th, 1921 104 years ago
Died
August 20th, 2013 12 years ago — 91 years old
A general in the United States Army, distinguished military career included service in World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War. Played significant roles in various military operations and leadership positions. Achieved the rank of brigadier general, showcasing extensive experience and dedication to military service. Contributed to strategic planning and execution of operations during critical periods of conflict.
Continue ReadingPercy Williams Bridgman
Physicist and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
April 21st, 1882 144 years ago
Died
August 20th, 1961 64 years ago — 79 years old
A prominent American physicist and academic, he contributed significantly to experimental physics and high-pressure research. Bridgman developed methods to achieve extreme pressures and studied their effects on various materials. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1946 for his work on the properties of matter under high pressures, he became a professor at Harvard University where he mentored future scientists. His research advanced the understanding of physical phenomena in solid state physics.
Continue Reading