John Paul Stevens
U.S. Supreme Court Justice and jurist
A prominent lawyer and jurist served as an Associate Justice of the Supreme Court of the United States from 1975 to 2010. Appointed by President Gerald Ford, served for 35 years, making significant contributions to American jurisprudence. Focused on issues such as civil rights, campaign finance reform, and death penalty laws. Retired from the Court in 2010, continuing to write and speak on legal matters.
Served as Associate Justice from 1975 to 2010
Authored opinions on civil rights and the death penalty
Opposed the Citizens United v. FEC decision
Other People Born on April 20th
Florimond Claude
Belgian-Austrian diplomat and minister
Born
April 20th, 1727 299 years ago
Died
August 25th, 1794 231 years ago — 67 years old
Born in 1727, served as a diplomat and minister for the Austrian Empire in Belgium and was instrumental in various diplomatic negotiations throughout Europe. Led important missions during the War of Austrian Succession and played a significant role in strengthening the ties between Austria and its provinces. Held the title of Comte de Mercy-Argenteau and was involved in key political decisions impacting the region during his tenure. Contributed to the administration and stability of the Austrian Netherlands.
Continue ReadingFrances Ames
South African neurologist and psychiatrist
Born
April 20th, 1920 106 years ago
Died
November 11th, 2002 23 years ago — 82 years old
Contributed significantly to neurology and psychiatry in South Africa. Worked as a psychiatrist at various institutions and was involved in mental health advocacy. Contributed to research focused on the intersection of mental health and human rights. Actively participated in organizations addressing mental health issues during apartheid and advocated for better treatment and understanding of mental illness within the context of human rights.
Continue ReadingAlan Arnett McLeod
Canadian lieutenant, Victoria Cross recipient
Born
April 20th, 1899 127 years ago
Died
1918 108 years ago — 19 years old
Served as a pilot in the Royal Flying Corps during World War I. Demonstrated bravery in action, notably during a mission over enemy lines where attacked by German aircraft. Successfully engaged and defeated multiple enemy fighters despite being heavily outnumbered. Awarded the Victoria Cross for gallantry, becoming one of the youngest recipients of this honor during the war.
Continue ReadingJoan Miró
Spanish painter and sculptor of Surrealism
Born
April 20th, 1893 133 years ago
Died
December 25th, 1983 42 years ago — 90 years old
Born in 1893, this artist became a significant figure in modern art through the development of a unique visual language that combined elements of Surrealism and abstract expressionism. Early in his career, he painted 'The Farm', which reflects his Catalan heritage and rural life. He experimented with various mediums, including painting, sculpture, and ceramics, and was associated with the Surrealist movement. In 1937, he created the mural 'The Reaper' for the Spanish Pavilion at the International Exposition in Paris, which is acclaimed for its emotional and political depth. Throughout his career, he continually sought to innovate, creating works characterized by bold colors and playful forms.
Continue ReadingMother Angelica
Roman Catholic religious leader and founder
Born
April 20th, 1923 103 years ago
Died
March 27th, 2016 10 years ago — 92 years old
A significant figure in American Catholicism, Mother Angelica founded the Eternal Word Television Network (EWTN) in 1981, which became the largest religious television network in the world. She established a community of nuns and led various evangelistic efforts. As a host of programs on EWTN, she discussed faith and spirituality, attracting a wide audience. She authored several books and was an influential voice in contemporary Catholic discourse until her passing in 2016.
Continue ReadingKakha Bendukidze
Georgian economist and reformer
Born
April 20th, 1956 70 years ago
Died
November 13th, 2014 11 years ago — 58 years old
An economist and politician from Georgia, contributed significantly to the nation's economic reforms after the Rose Revolution. Served as the Minister of Economy and Sustainable Development, implementing policies that spurred privatization and deregulation. Advocated for free market principles, which transformed the Georgian economy. Believed in reducing the size of government and promoted entrepreneurship.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on July 16th
Carol Shields
Novelist, Pulitzer Prize winner
Born
June 2nd, 1935 90 years ago
Died
July 16th, 2003 22 years ago — 68 years old
Born in 1935, this American-Canadian writer gained acclaim for her insightful novels and short stories. The author's works often explore themes of family, relationships, and the complexities of human experience. The most notable novel, 'The Stone Diaries,' won the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction in 1995. Other significant works include 'Larry's Party' and 'Unless,' which further established a strong literary presence in both Canada and the United States.
Continue ReadingTony Taylor
Cuban baseball player and coach
Born
December 19th, 1935 90 years ago
Died
July 16th, 2020 5 years ago — 84 years old
Played second base in Major League Baseball for teams including the Philadelphia Phillies and the Chicago Cubs. Had a career spanning 1958 to 1971. Served as a coach for various teams after retirement from playing. Contributed to the development of young players and the promotion of baseball in Cuba.
Continue ReadingHerbert von Karajan
Austrian conductor and prominent orchestra manager
Born
April 5th, 1908 118 years ago
Died
July 16th, 1989 36 years ago — 81 years old
A prominent conductor, notable for leadership of the Berlin Philharmonic and Vienna State Opera. Oversaw numerous recordings that shaped classical music from the 1950s through the 1980s. Established a distinct style characterized by clarity and precision. Developed a reputation for ambitious projects, including operas and symphonic works, often collaborating with leading orchestras and soloists.
Continue ReadingKitty Wells
Country music singer-songwriter
Born
August 30th, 1919 106 years ago
Died
July 16th, 2012 13 years ago — 92 years old
A pioneering figure in country music, became the first female artist to have a number one hit on the country charts. Playlist offerings included heartfelt songs that resonated with audiences. Released the groundbreaking single "It Wasn't God Who Made Honky Tonk Angels," which addressed women's experiences and challenges. Her style blended traditional country with a unique voice that influenced future generations of musicians.
Continue ReadingJo Stafford
American singer of popular music
Born
November 12th, 1917 108 years ago
Died
July 16th, 2008 17 years ago — 90 years old
Engaged in a successful career as a popular music singer, recognized in the mid-20th century. Began as part of the Pied Pipers vocal group and later achieved solo success. Gained popularity with hits such as "You Belong to Me" and "Make Love to Me." Worked with major record labels, leading to multiple chart-topping songs. Career spanned from the 1940s to the 1960s, showcasing versatility across genres including pop and traditional pop. Appeared on various radio and television programs, further expanding public recognition.
Continue ReadingLindsay Thompson
Australian politician, 40th Premier of Victoria
Born
October 15th, 1923 102 years ago
Died
July 16th, 2008 17 years ago — 84 years old
Served as Premier of Victoria from 1981 to 1982. Engaged in various leadership roles within the Liberal Party and contributed significantly to Victorian politics. Held ministerial positions and was involved in legislative processes that shaped the state's governance and policy frameworks.
Continue Reading