Josef Priller
German colonel and pilot in WWII
Served as a Luftwaffe pilot during World War II. Achieved the rank of colonel and gained prominence for his role in the Battle of Britain. Participated in numerous aerial operations, demonstrating significant skill in fighter combat. Credited with being one of the notable Luftwaffe aces and recognized for his contributions to air warfare strategies. After the war, transitioned to military aviation roles, contributing to training and operational planning.
Achieved the rank of colonel in the Luftwaffe
Participated in the Battle of Britain
Recognized as a Luftwaffe ace
Other People Born on July 27th
Neil Harbisson
Painter, composer, and activist
Born
July 27th, 1982 43 years ago
Born in 1982, this English-Catalan individual pioneered the field of cyborg art. Through the use of a device called the Eyeborg, sound frequencies translate into colors for this artist, breaking traditional boundaries between sight and sound. This innovation led to collaboration on various art projects, performances, and exhibitions across the globe. With a focus on color perception, contributions extend into the realms of music and technology, exploring the intersection of these disciplines. Advocacy efforts center on the recognition of cyborg rights and fostering conversations around identity in the digital age.
Continue ReadingErnst May
Architect and urban planner in Germany
Born
July 27th, 1886 139 years ago
Died
1970 55 years ago — 84 years old
Born in Germany, an architect and urban planner specialized in modernist architecture. Played a key role in urban planning during the Weimar Republic. Instrumental in the development of the Frankfurt Kitchen, which revolutionized kitchen design. Overseen numerous housing projects aimed at addressing the post-World War I housing crisis in Germany. Advocated for the principles of functionalism in architecture. His work during the 1920s significantly influenced residential building design in Germany.
Continue ReadingDiane Webber
Model and actress from 'The Naked City'
Born
July 27th, 1932 93 years ago
Died
2008 17 years ago — 76 years old
Engaged in modeling, dancing, and acting from the mid-20th century. Featured as a pin-up and appeared in several publications. Gained recognition for the role in the television series 'The Naked City'. Worked with various filmmakers and contributed to the entertainment industry during her career.
Continue ReadingArmas Taipale
Finnish discus thrower and shot putter
Born
July 27th, 1890 135 years ago
Died
November 9th, 1976 49 years ago — 86 years old
Competed in discus and shot put events, representing Finland in various international competitions. Achieved significant success during the 1920s and 1930s, securing medals at European and Olympic levels. Participated in the 1920 and 1924 Summer Olympics, showcasing remarkable skill in both sports.
Continue ReadingCharlotte Corday
French revolutionary figure and assassin
Born
July 27th, 1768 257 years ago
Died
July 17th, 1793 232 years ago — 24 years old
An assassin participated in the French Revolution, targeting Jean-Paul Marat. Corday believed that eliminating Marat would help restore peace to France during a time of intense political turmoil. Corday gained access to Marat under the pretense of delivering important information. Upon meeting him in his bath, she fatally stabbed him on July 13, 1793. Following her capture, she was tried and executed by guillotine just four days later. This act has been interpreted as a statement against the violent revolutionary fervor and has made Corday a historical figure in discussions about the revolution's moral complexities.
Continue ReadingVladimir Korolenko
Ukrainian journalist and author.
Born
July 27th, 1853 172 years ago
Died
December 25th, 1921 103 years ago — 68 years old
Born in 1853, a Ukrainian journalist, author, and activist contributed significantly to literature and social issues. Writings often focused on themes of justice and human rights. An advocate for the oppressed, engaged in political and social reforms throughout life. Wrote several notable works, addressing societal challenges and advocating for personal freedoms.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on May 20th
Władysław IV Vasa
King of Poland and Grand Duke of Lithuania
Born
June 9th, 1595 430 years ago
Died
May 20th, 1648 377 years ago — 52 years old
Born in 1595, this monarch reigned over the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth from 1632 until 1648. His rule focused on strengthening the military and pursuing foreign alliances. Significant efforts were made to modernize the naval fleet and expand trade. Under his leadership, the Commonwealth engaged in the wars against Sweden and Russia, navigating complicated political landscapes. He sought to stabilize the internal politics of the Commonwealth and was involved in various diplomatic negotiations, especially with the Habsburgs and the Ottoman Empire.
Continue ReadingJacob Ellehammer
Danish mechanic and engineer
Born
June 14th, 1871 154 years ago
Died
May 20th, 1946 79 years ago — 74 years old
An engineer and mechanic, contributions centered around aeronautical design. Designed and constructed early aircraft, including a pioneering monoplane and a unique glider. Established significant advancements in aviation and received recognition for innovative engineering approaches.
Continue ReadingJean-Pierre Rampal
Flute player and classical musician
Born
January 7th, 1922 103 years ago
Died
May 20th, 2000 25 years ago — 78 years old
Renowned for contributions to the classical music scene, distinguished in the field of flute performance. Achieved a celebrated career by collaborating with various orchestras and artists worldwide. Rampal recorded over 100 albums and expanded the solo flute repertoire through innovative arrangements and compositions. Known for pioneering the flute as a solo instrument in concert settings and increasing its popularity in classical music circles.
Continue ReadingDamaskinos of Athens
Greek Archbishop and ecclesiastical leader
Born
March 3rd, 1891 134 years ago
Died
May 20th, 1949 76 years ago — 58 years old
Occupied the position of Archbishop of Athens from 1938 to 1941 and again from 1944 to 1949. Played a significant role in religious and political life in Greece during turbulent times, including World War II. Led efforts to protect Jewish citizens during the Nazi occupation of Greece. Contributed to the restoration of the Orthodox Church after the war, emphasizing educational and social initiatives.
Continue ReadingPaul Ricœur
Philosopher and author of 'Oneself as Another'
Born
February 27th, 1913 112 years ago
Died
May 20th, 2005 20 years ago — 92 years old
Contributed significantly to the fields of philosophy and hermeneutics. Explored themes of narrative identity and the human experience. Worked extensively on ethics, political theory, and the philosophy of language. Authored several influential books, including 'Freud and Philosophy' and 'Oneself as Another'. Engaged with various philosophical traditions and integrated elements of existentialism and phenomenology into writings.
Continue ReadingClara Schumann
Pianist and composer with notable concertos
Born
September 13th, 1819 206 years ago
Died
May 20th, 1896 129 years ago — 76 years old
A prominent pianist and composer, she gained recognition during the 19th century for virtuosic piano performances and innovative compositions. As a child prodigy, she began performing publicly at the age of nine, showcasing exceptional talent. In addition to a successful career as a performer, she composed several works for piano, chamber music, and songs. Schumann was one of the first women to make a significant impact on the concert stage and often collaborated with leading musicians of her time. She was also instrumental in promoting the works of her husband, Robert Schumann, and Johannes Brahms. Throughout her life, she upheld a substantial presence in the music world, inspiring future generations of musicians.
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