Kurt Schwitters

German painter and graphic designer

Kurt Schwitters - German painter and graphic designer
Born

June 20th, 1887
138 years ago

Died

January 8th, 1948
77 years ago — 60 years old

Category

Artists & Creatives

Country

Germany

Links & References

A significant figure in modern art, this individual was involved in various artistic movements, primarily Dada and Constructivism. Developed a unique style known as Merz, combining found objects and collage techniques. Created a wide range of works, from paintings to poetry and sound art. Contributed to the avant-garde scene in Europe, particularly in Germany and later in Norway.

Pioneered the Merz artistic movement

Created the Merzbau installation

Developed innovative collage techniques

Other People Born on June 20th

Pierfrancesco Chili

Motorcycle racer and 1997 champion
Born
June 20th, 1964 61 years ago

Competed in the World Superbike Championship and MotoGP. Achieved notable success in the 1997 World Superbike Championship, securing several podium finishes throughout the career. Gained recognition for exceptional skill in motorcycle racing and represented various teams during his tenure in racing circuits across Europe.

Continue Reading

MaliVai Washington

Tennis player and sportscaster
Born
June 20th, 1969 56 years ago

Accomplished American tennis player excelled during the 1990s, reaching the finals of Wimbledon in 1996. Secured a career-high ATP singles ranking of World No. 11. Transitioned to sportscasting, providing commentary and analysis for tennis events. Founded a non-profit organization focused on youth education and tennis.

Continue Reading

Jim Barker

American politician, served in congress
Born
June 20th, 1935 90 years ago
Died
April 25th, 2005 20 years ago — 69 years old

Served as a U.S. Congressman representing the state of Pennsylvania. Played a significant role in various legislative efforts during the tenure from 1980 to 1983. Engaged in both local and national politics, contributing to public policy discussions and initiatives. Participated actively in the Republican Party, shaping political strategies and community outreach efforts.

Continue Reading

Robert Crais

American author of crime fiction
Born
June 20th, 1953 72 years ago

An author and screenwriter, wrote the Elvis Cole and Joe Pike series. Began career in screenwriting for television before transitioning to novels. Gained recognition with the publication of 'The Monkey's Raincoat' in 1987, the first in the Cole series. The series blends elements of mystery and thriller, leading to multiple bestsellers and adaptations.

Continue Reading

Nouri al-Maliki

Iraqi politician, former Prime Minister
Born
June 20th, 1950 75 years ago

Served as the 76th Prime Minister of Iraq from 2006 to 2014. During this tenure, focused on national reconciliation and combating terrorism. Faced significant challenges including sectarian violence and opposition from various political groups. Oversaw military operations against insurgents and aimed to stabilize the country following years of conflict. Played a key role in shaping post-Saddam Iraq's political landscape.

Continue Reading

Aurélien Chedjou

Professional footballer and defender
Born
June 20th, 1985 40 years ago

A professional footballer from Cameroon played as a defender. Advanced through the youth ranks in his home country before moving to France, where started a career in Ligue 1. Made significant contributions to clubs such as Lille OSC, winning the Ligue 1 title, and later played for Galatasaray in Turkey, winning multiple Süper Lig championships. Represented the national team in several international tournaments, including the Africa Cup of Nations and the FIFA World Cup.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on January 8th

Grégoire Aslan

Actor and screenwriter in film and television
Born
1908 117 years ago
Died
January 8th, 1982 43 years ago — 74 years old

Born in 1905, an actor and screenwriter with Swiss and English heritage, contributed to both European and American cinema. Achievements include performances in significant films during the mid-20th century, showcasing versatility across various genres. Gained recognition for roles in classic titles, embodying characters that resonated with audiences. Collaborated with notable filmmakers and participated in prominent productions that remain influential.

Continue Reading

Dave Alexander

Singer and pianist with The Stooges
Born
1938 87 years ago
Died
January 8th, 2012 13 years ago — 74 years old

A singer and pianist associated with the influential rock band The Stooges. Contributed to the development of punk music during the late 1960s and early 1970s. The Stooges gained notoriety for their energetic performances and raw sound. Played a significant role in the band's self-titled album, 'The Stooges,' which is considered a landmark in the genre. Continued to influence musicians and bands in the years following the band's early disbandment.

Continue Reading

Celestine III

Pope and leader of the Catholic Church
Born
1106 919 years ago
Died
January 8th, 1198 827 years ago — 92 years old

Served as pope from 1191 until 1198, guiding the Catholic Church during a period marked by political and ecclesiastical challenges. Issued several papal decrees and sought to consolidate the authority of the papacy. Notable for mediating disputes involving the Holy Roman Empire and for promoting the interests of the Church in various regions. Aimed to strengthen the papal system and maintain the governance of Church lands amidst external pressures.

Continue Reading

Lawrence Giustiniani

Italian bishop and saint
Born
1381 644 years ago
Died
January 8th, 1456 569 years ago — 75 years old

Served as the Bishop of Castello in Venice during the early 15th century. Played a significant role in the spiritual life of the region, emphasizing pastoral care and devotion. Established several religious institutions and was renowned for his pious lifestyle. Canonized as a saint, recognition was given to his dedication to the church and the community. Various miracles were attributed to him after his death, which contributed to his legacy.

Continue Reading

Antonino P. Roman

Filipino lawyer and politician
Born
1939 86 years ago
Died
January 8th, 2014 11 years ago — 75 years old

A lawyer and politician who served in various capacities in the Philippine government. Notably served as a member of the House of Representatives from 1992 to 1995. Also held the position of Provincial Governor of Bataan. Focused on legislative measures while in office, contributing to the development of his constituents and his province. Advocated for reforms in the legal and political systems during his tenure.

Continue Reading

Melvin Calvin

Chemist, Nobel Prize in Chemistry winner
Born
April 8th, 1911 114 years ago
Died
January 8th, 1997 28 years ago — 85 years old

A prominent chemist and academic contributed to the understanding of the photosynthetic carbon fixation process. Research led to significant advancements in biochemistry and plant physiology. Served as a professor and researcher, influencing many students and future scientists through teaching and mentorship. Received the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1961 for work on the Calvin cycle, a crucial biochemical pathway in photosynthesis.

Continue Reading