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
Sharon van Rouwendaal
Dutch Olympic swimmer and champion
Born
September 9th, 1993 32 years ago
Gained recognition as a competitive swimmer, specializing in distance freestyle and open water events. Won the gold medal in the 10 km marathon swim at the 2016 Rio de Janeiro Olympics. Achieved success in multiple international competitions, showcasing strong performances in various world championships. Also earned several European Championship titles in both pool and open water disciplines.
Continue ReadingHunter Hayes
Singer-songwriter and guitarist
Born
September 9th, 1991 34 years ago
A singer-songwriter and guitarist from the United States, gained recognition for contributions to country music. Released self-titled debut album in 2011, featuring the hit single 'Wanted', which topped the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart. In addition to performing, wrote songs for various artists and participated in numerous charity events. Received multiple awards, including the American Music Award and a Grammy nomination.
Continue ReadingAlfonzo Dennard
American football cornerback, Super Bowl champ
Born
September 9th, 1989 36 years ago
Played college football at the University of Nebraska, where notable performances led to a selection in the 2012 NFL Draft. Played as a cornerback for the New England Patriots. During the 2014 season, contributed to the team's efforts in winning Super Bowl XLIX against the Seattle Seahawks.
Continue ReadingCrazy Mary Dobson
Professional wrestler known for WWE
Born
September 9th, 1993 32 years ago
Debuted in professional wrestling in 2011, gaining recognition for a unique style and persona. Competed in various independent circuits before joining WWE. Known for appearances in promotions like Shimmer Women Athletes and Ring of Honor. Gained a reputation for high-flying maneuvers and a fierce approach to wrestling. Made a significant impact in women's wrestling, participating in numerous matches and feuds, showcasing talent and athleticism.
Continue ReadingGabby Williams
Basketball player and Olympic medalist
Born
September 9th, 1996 29 years ago
Basketball player who represented the United States and France in international competition. Played college basketball at the University of Connecticut, contributing to the team's 2017 NCAA Championship. Competed professionally in the Women's National Basketball Association (WNBA) for the Chicago Sky. Achieved a bronze medal at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics with the French national team. Known for strong defensive skills and versatility on the court.
Continue ReadingHaley Reinhart
Singer-songwriter and actress
Born
September 9th, 1990 35 years ago
Rose to prominence as a contestant on the tenth season of American Idol, finishing third. Released several albums, including 'Listen Up!' and 'Better', showcasing a blend of pop, jazz, and rock influences. Gained further recognition through collaborations, particularly with Postmodern Jukebox, leading to viral covers that combined classic and contemporary styles. Also ventured into acting with a role in the TV series 'Star vs. the Forces of Evil'.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on November 20th
Buenaventura Durruti
Spanish anarchist soldier and leader
Born
July 14th, 1896 129 years ago
Died
November 20th, 1936 89 years ago — 40 years old
An influential Spanish anarchist and soldier, Durruti played a significant role during the Spanish Civil War. He joined the anarchist movement at a young age and became a prominent figure in the fight against fascism. Durruti led the Durruti Column, a major militia group of anarchists, during the civil war. He was committed to the principles of anarchism and socialism, advocating for workers' rights and social revolution. Durruti died in battle in 1936, leaving a legacy within the anarchist movement.
Continue ReadingRobie Macauley
American editor and novelist
Born
May 31st, 1919 106 years ago
Died
November 20th, 1995 30 years ago — 76 years old
An American editor, novelist, and critic, contributed significantly to literature through editing and writing. Held various editorial positions, influencing many writers. Published several novels that explored themes of identity and dislocation. Also critiqued literary works, providing insights that enriched literary discourse.
Continue ReadingWataru Misaka
Basketball player, first Asian-American in NBA
Born
1923 103 years ago
Died
November 20th, 2019 6 years ago — 96 years old
A basketball player participated in the National Basketball Association (NBA) in the 1940s. Played for the New York Knicks, becoming the first Asian-American player in the league's history. His career spanned a brief period during which he contributed to the team's dynamics and performance on the court. Later, he played in the Basketball Association of America (BAA) before the leagues merged. After retirement, he worked in various roles, including coaching youth basketball and serving as a successful businessman.
Continue ReadingChris Whitley
Singer-songwriter and guitarist
Born
August 31st, 1960 65 years ago
Died
November 20th, 2005 20 years ago — 45 years old
A prominent figure in the American music scene, this singer-songwriter and guitarist gained recognition for a unique blend of blues, rock, and a hint of country. Released several albums including 'Living with the Law', which showcased a distinctive sound characterized by slide guitar and poignant lyrics. Collaborated with various artists and explored different musical styles throughout his career, earning a dedicated following. Influenced by traditional American music forms, he often incorporated themes of life experiences and personal struggles into his work.
Continue ReadingAaron Klug
Chemist and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
August 11th, 1926 99 years ago
Died
November 20th, 2018 7 years ago — 92 years old
A chemist and biophysicist, contributions focused on the structure of viruses and nucleic acids. Established techniques that integrated X-ray crystallography and electron microscopy to analyze biological molecules. Received the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1982 for developing crystallographic electron microscopy. Held positions at the MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology and the University of Cambridge.
Continue ReadingJodi Rell
American politician, 87th Governor
Born
June 16th, 1946 79 years ago
Died
November 20th, 2024 1 years ago — 78 years old
Served as the 87th Governor of Connecticut from 2004 to 2011. Prior to the governorship, held the position of Lieutenant Governor from 1997 to 2004. Rell was a member of the Connecticut House of Representatives for more than a decade, representing the 107th district. During the governorship, focused on issues such as budget policies, education reform, and health care.
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