Lazar Branković

Serbian Despot during the Ottoman Wars

Lazar Branković - Serbian Despot during the Ottoman Wars
Born

None
None years ago

Died

February 20th, 1458
567 years ago — None years old

Category

Leaders & Politicians

Country

Serbia

Links & References

Acted as the Despot of Serbia during a turbulent period marked by conflicts with the Ottoman Empire. Governed from 1456 until death in 1458. Sought to strengthen Serbian resistance against Ottoman advances. His reign followed the notable leadership of his predecessor, Stefan Lazarević. Worked to consolidate power and maintain Serbian sovereignty amidst external pressures. Received support from the Serbian Orthodox Church in his efforts to unify the region against foreign domination.

Defended Serbian interests during Ottoman expansion

Strengthened alliances with neighboring powers

Other People Who Died on February 20th

John Dowland

English lute player and composer
Born
1563 462 years ago
Died
February 20th, 1626 399 years ago — 63 years old

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.

Continue Reading

Al-Musta'sim

Iraqi caliph during the Abbasid era
Born
1213 812 years ago
Died
February 20th, 1258 767 years ago — 45 years old

Ruled as the last Abbasid caliph from 1242 until 1258. Faced significant challenges during a time of decline for the caliphate. His reign was marked by the Mongol invasion, which resulted in the siege of Baghdad. Ultimately captured and executed by Hulagu Khan, contributing to the fall of Baghdad and the end of the Abbasid dynasty in the city.

Continue Reading

Sarah Kane

Playwright and screenwriter
Born
February 3rd, 1971 54 years ago
Died
February 20th, 1999 26 years ago — 28 years old

An influential English playwright, recognized for her exploration of intense emotional themes and provocative subject matter in theater. Contributions to contemporary drama include works that challenged traditional narratives and form. 'Blasted', premiered in 1995, received critical acclaim for its stark portrayal of violence and human suffering. Subsequent works such as 'Cleansed', 'Crave', and '4.48 Psychosis' continued to explore the complexities of mental illness, relationships, and existential despair, establishing a distinct voice in modern theater. Kane's works often featured elements of shock and raw emotion, prompting discussions on censorship and the representation of trauma.

Continue Reading

Sadri Maksudi Arsal

Turkish scholar and politician
Born
1878 147 years ago
Died
February 20th, 1957 68 years ago — 79 years old

Contributed to Turkish nationalism and education reform through scholarly work and political activity. Advocated for the modernization of Turkey and the integration of Western ideas into Turkish education. Served as a deputy in the Grand National Assembly. Actively participated in discussions regarding national identity and cultural development in the early Republican era.

Continue Reading

Toru Takemitsu

Composer and musician renowned for 'Corona'
Born
October 8th, 1930 94 years ago
Died
February 20th, 1996 29 years ago — 65 years old

A prominent Japanese composer, pianist, and guitarist, this individual contributed significantly to contemporary classical music. Born in 1930, began composing in the 1950s, incorporating elements of traditional Japanese music and Western classical forms. Collaborated with various notable musicians and artists throughout the career, including conducting performances of own compositions. The work 'Corona for Strings' received particular acclaim, showcasing innovative orchestration and the blending of styles. Additionally, composed film scores, enhancing cinematic storytelling in numerous Japanese films. Earned a distinguished reputation in both the national and international music scenes before passing in 1996.

Continue Reading

Michał Waszyński

Film director and producer in Poland
Born
September 29th, 1904 120 years ago
Died
February 20th, 1965 60 years ago — 60 years old

A prominent figure in Polish cinema, this individual directed and produced films primarily during the interwar period and post-World War II. Contributions include work on notable films such as 'The Last Day of Summer' and 'The Broken Hearts'. The individual also produced several successful adaptations and collaborated with many influential Polish artists of the time. His career spanned various genres, showcasing a commitment to exploring complex themes within society through cinema, becoming a respected figure in the industry.

Continue Reading