Leo Tolstoy
Russian author of War and Peace
One of the most prominent authors in world literature, contributions include novels, plays, and essays. War and Peace, published in 1869, illustrated the impact of the Napoleonic Wars on Russian society and is widely regarded as a literary masterpiece. Another major work, Anna Karenina, explores themes of love and morality. Tolstoy's later life involved a strong focus on philosophy and spirituality, culminating in an embrace of nonviolent resistance and a critique of established institutions.
Authored War and Peace
Wrote Anna Karenina
Other People Born on September 9th
Waite Hoyt
Baseball pitcher and sportscaster
Born
September 9th, 1899 126 years ago
Died
August 25th, 1984 41 years ago — 84 years old
Born in 1899, one of the notable baseball pitchers achieved success in Major League Baseball. Played primarily for the New York Yankees and recorded significant victories during his career. Transitioned to broadcasting after retirement, becoming a sportscaster, where his commentary captured the attention of many baseball fans. Worked in broadcasting for several decades, contributing insights into the game and its players.
Continue ReadingJay Ward
Baseball player and manager
Born
September 9th, 1938 87 years ago
Died
October 12th, 1989 36 years ago — 51 years old
A baseball player, coach, and manager. Played as a catcher in Major League Baseball from 1960 to 1963 for the Chicago White Sox. Transitioned into coaching, serving various roles in the minor leagues and eventually as a manager. Highlighted the ability to develop young talent and foster team dynamics. Contributed to baseball through coaching positions in several farm systems.
Continue ReadingVáclav Drobný
Czech football goalkeeper
Born
September 9th, 1980 45 years ago
Died
December 28th, 2012 13 years ago — 32 years old
A professional football goalkeeper, played primarily in the Czech Republic and later in Germany. Began a career with Sigma Olomouc, before moving to play for notable teams such as 1. FC Kaiserslautern and SC Freiburg. Achieved recognition in international competitions representing the Czech national team. Competed in various championships across Europe, showcasing skills as a reliable and skilled guardian of the goal.
Continue ReadingLouise Abeita
Native American writer and educator
Born
September 9th, 1926 99 years ago
Died
July 21st, 2014 11 years ago — 87 years old
Born in Isleta Pueblo, a Native American community, a prominent writer, poet, and educator focused on Native American issues and culture. Contributions to literature include the poetry collection 'The Moon in the Water', which reflects Indigenous themes and experiences. Held teaching positions influencing young Indigenous writers and advocated for preserving Native languages and culture through education.
Continue ReadingJohnson Righeira
Italian singer-songwriter and actor
Born
September 9th, 1960 65 years ago
Originated as a singer-songwriter, Righeira achieved prominence in the 1980s within the Italo disco genre. Collaborated with various artists and contributed to the Italian music scene through songwriting and production. Gained popularity with the hit single "Vamos a la Playa" which topped charts and became emblematic of the era. In addition to music, pursued a career in acting, appearing in films and television series. His contributions have left a lasting influence on contemporary Italian pop music.
Continue ReadingAlf Landon
American politician and governor of Kansas
Born
September 9th, 1887 138 years ago
Died
October 12th, 1987 38 years ago — 100 years old
Served as the 26th Governor of Kansas from 1933 to 1937. Landon pursued a career in banking prior to entering politics, which established his financial expertise. In 1936, Landon was the Republican Party's nominee for President of the United States but lost to Franklin D. Roosevelt. His political career included efforts to modernize state operations and reform government functions in Kansas.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on November 20th
Cayetana Fitz-James Stuart
18th Duchess of Alba and aristocrat
Born
March 28th, 1926 99 years ago
Died
November 20th, 2014 11 years ago — 88 years old
Born into a prominent Spanish noble family, held the title of 18th Duchess of Alba from 1955 until death. Became a significant figure in Spanish high society and inherited a vast collection of art and historical properties. Gained attention for her numerous titles and was regarded as one of the last grandees of Spain, representing a unique tradition of Spanish nobility. Engaged in various philanthropic efforts, particularly related to the arts and culture in Spain.
Continue ReadingFarkas Bolyai
Hungarian mathematician and academic
Born
February 9th, 1775 251 years ago
Died
November 20th, 1856 169 years ago — 81 years old
Contributed significantly to the development of non-Euclidean geometry. Established mathematical theories alongside his son, János Bolyai. Served as a professor at the University of Marosvásárhely. Published works that laid foundational insights for later mathematical advancements, influencing both geometry and philosophy of mathematics.
Continue ReadingCharles Plumier
French botanist and author of Plant Catalogs
Born
April 20th, 1646 379 years ago
Died
November 20th, 1704 321 years ago — 58 years old
A prominent botanist, contributed significantly to the field of botany in the 17th century. Conducted extensive explorations in the Caribbean, documenting various plant species. Published several works, including 'Nova Plantarum Americanarum Genera', which described previously unknown plants. His detailed illustrations and writings greatly advanced botanical knowledge and classification. Developed a systematic approach to the study of plants, influencing future botanical research and exploration.
Continue ReadingEnnio Flaiano
Italian author and screenwriter
Born
March 5th, 1910 116 years ago
Died
November 20th, 1972 53 years ago — 62 years old
An author, screenwriter, and critic, contributed significantly to Italian literature and cinema. Wrote screenplays for several acclaimed films and authored notable literary works. His writing style combined wit with a keen sense of observation, often exploring themes of existentialism. Received the Strega Prize in 1975 for the novel 'Tempo di uccidere', which gained recognition for its poignant narrative. Worked in various capacities within the Italian film industry and was involved in directing and producing.
Continue ReadingAllan Sherman
Comedian and TV producer, 'My Son, the Folk Singer'
Born
November 30th, 1924 101 years ago
Died
November 20th, 1973 52 years ago — 48 years old
Born in 1924, contributions included work as a comedian, producer, and singer. Achieved notoriety in the 1960s for comedic parodies of popular songs, with 'My Son, the Folk Singer' achieving significant commercial success. Also created and hosted the television show 'The Allan Sherman Show', which aired in the early 1960s. Wrote humorous songs that highlighted aspects of American life and culture.
Continue ReadingJames H. Billington
Librarian of Congress and academic leader
Born
June 1st, 1929 96 years ago
Died
November 20th, 2018 7 years ago — 89 years old
Served as the Thirteenth Librarian of Congress from 1987 to 2015. Played a significant role in modernizing the Library of Congress and advocating for digital access to American history and culture. Oversaw the establishment of various digital initiatives and projects, including the American Memory project, which made historical documents available online. Contributed extensively to academic discourse on American literature and culture through numerous publications.
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