John Dowland

English lute player and composer

John Dowland - English lute player and composer
Born

1563
462 years ago

Died

February 20th, 1626
399 years ago — 63 years old

Category

Artists & Creatives

Country

England

Links & References

A prominent lute player and composer from England, contributed significantly to the Renaissance music scene. Dowland's compositions include a wealth of lute songs and instrumental pieces. His well-known works, such as "Flow My Tears," became popular in both vocal and instrumental forms. Additionally, Dowland held the position of lutenist to Queen Elizabeth I and later served King James I, which placed him prominently in the royal courts of his time. His innovative approach to music and mastery of the lute enhanced the repertoire and popularity of the instrument in 16th-century England.

Composed the famous lute song 'Flow My Tears'

Served as a court lutenist for Queen Elizabeth I

Published several collections of lute music

Other People Who Died on February 20th

David S. McKay

American biochemist and geologist
Born
1936 89 years ago
Died
February 20th, 2013 12 years ago — 77 years old

A biochemist and geologist, contributed to the understanding of extraterrestrial life's potential by studying Martian meteorites. Worked at NASA's Johnson Space Center and participated in the analysis of samples brought back from the Moon during the Apollo missions. His research focused on recognizing biological signatures in ancient rocks, enhancing the search for life beyond Earth.

Continue Reading

King John of Denmark

King of Denmark and Norway
Born
1455 570 years ago
Died
February 20th, 1513 512 years ago — 58 years old

Ruled as King of Denmark from 1481 to 1513 and King of Norway from 1483 to 1513. Oversaw a union between Denmark and Norway. Participated in conflicts to solidify his reign and faced internal power struggles. Sought to strengthen royal authority and promote stability during his reign. The Kalmar Union, a series of treaties, was a significant aspect of his rule, aiming to unite the three kingdoms of Denmark, Norway, and Sweden under a single monarch.

Continue Reading

A. J. Casson

Canadian painter of landscape art
Born
May 17th, 1898 126 years ago
Died
February 20th, 1992 33 years ago — 93 years old

This individual contributed significantly to Canadian art as a landscape painter. Associated with the Group of Seven, a collective of artists dedicated to depicting the Canadian wilderness, this painter focused on capturing the essence of the Ontario countryside. Influenced by the natural beauty of Canada, the works feature bold colors and distinctive brushwork. This artist's career spanned several decades, with exhibitions showcasing the interplay of light and shadow in natural settings. The works continue to be celebrated for their representation of the Canadian landscape.

Continue Reading

Klas Pontus Arnoldson

Swedish journalist and Nobel laureate
Born
October 27th, 1844 180 years ago
Died
February 20th, 1916 109 years ago — 71 years old

Contributed to peace efforts as a politician and journalist. Arnoldson played a significant role in the establishment of international arbitration. His work in the Swedish Parliament focused on disarmament and peace initiatives. The Nobel Peace Prize was awarded in 1908 in recognition of efforts to promote dialogue and understanding among nations.

Continue Reading

Andreas Hofer

Tyrolean rebel leader
Born
1767 258 years ago
Died
February 20th, 1810 215 years ago — 43 years old

A leader in the Tyrolean struggle for independence, played a significant role in the resistance against Napoleonic rule in the early 19th century. Hofer led local militias and coordinated efforts to liberate Tyrol from French control. His leadership was marked by a series of confrontations, including the notable Battle of Bergisel. After several victories, penal measures from occupying forces led to his eventual capture. Following a trial, he was executed in 1810.

Continue Reading

Leo of Catania

Bishop and Saint of Catania
Died
February 20th, 789 1236 years ago — None years old

Served as the bishop of Catania during the 8th century. His leadership contributed to the early Christian community in Sicily. Guided the faithful and provided spiritual support amid political and social changes in the region. Contributed to the establishment of Christian practices and beliefs in Catania. Canonized as a saint shortly after death, he remains an important figure in the local church.

Continue Reading