Leo XIII

Pope of the Catholic Church

Leo XIII - Pope of the Catholic Church
Born

1810
215 years ago

Died

July 20th, 1903
121 years ago — 93 years old

Category

Leaders & Politicians

Country

Vatican City

Links & References

Served as Pope from 1878 until death in 1903. Focused on social issues and the relationship between the Church and the modern world. Promoted the Rerum Novarum encyclical, which addressed the rights of workers and the responsibilities of employers. Engaged in diplomacy to increase the influence of the Vatican in international affairs.

Authored the encyclical Rerum Novarum

Strengthened relations between the Vatican and modern governments

Promoted the doctrine of papal infallibility

Other People Who Died on July 20th

Robert Smithson

Sculptor and photographer, Spiral Jetty
Born
January 2nd, 1938 87 years ago
Died
July 20th, 1973 51 years ago — 35 years old

This individual was an American sculptor and photographer associated with the land art movement. Born in 1938, significant works include the iconic Spiral Jetty, constructed in 1970 on the northeastern shore of the Great Salt Lake in Utah. Spiral Jetty is a 1,500-foot-long coil made of earth, rocks, and salt crystals, illustrating the synergy between art and nature. In addition to large-scale installations, this individual also produced a substantial body of photography and writings that explored the concepts of time and space within the context of landscape. The artist's innovative approach has influenced subsequent generations of artists and has been a pivotal part of discussions regarding environmental art.

Continue Reading

Boniface VII

Antipope of Rome during the 10th century
Died
July 20th, 985 1039 years ago — None years old

Elected as antipope in 974, served briefly and was an influential figure in the turbulent period of the 10th-century papacy. Deposed and subsequently returned to power, appertained to multiple conflicts leading to his controversial rule. His papacy was marked by political intrigue and rivalries among various factions within Rome. Following his death, the legitimacy of his papal claim faced scrutiny, contributing to the complexities of the era's ecclesiastical history.

Continue Reading

Oshin

King of Armenia, established monarchy
Born
1282 743 years ago
Died
July 20th, 1320 704 years ago — 38 years old

Ruled as king from 1295 to 1320, overseeing the Kingdom of Armenia during a period marked by both internal challenges and external pressures. Engaged in efforts to strengthen the monarchy and expand the kingdom’s territory. Worked to maintain relations with neighboring states and navigate the complexities of feudal politics. Under leadership, significant cultural and economic developments took place within the kingdom.

Continue Reading

Pancho Villa

Mexican general and revolutionary leader
Born
June 5th, 1878 146 years ago
Died
July 20th, 1923 101 years ago — 45 years old

A prominent Mexican general and revolutionary leader, this figure played a critical role in the Mexican Revolution from 1910 to 1920. Villa initially gained fame as a bandit and later became the leader of a significant military division known as the División del Norte. During the revolution, he fought against the oppressive regimes in Mexico and aimed to address land reform and rights for the peasantry. He served as the Governor of the state of Chihuahua, where he implemented progressive agricultural policies. His military campaigns included the raid on Columbus, New Mexico, in 1916, which brought international attention to his revolutionary efforts. Eventually, Villa's power waned, and he was assassinated in 1923 as part of a political maneuver, leaving a complex legacy in Mexican history.

Continue Reading

Radu Beligan

Renowned Romanian actor and director
Born
December 14th, 1918 106 years ago
Died
July 20th, 2016 8 years ago — 97 years old

An influential figure in Romanian theatre and film, this individual began their career in the 1930s. Extensive work in various productions solidified a prominent position in the artistic community. Directorial efforts were notable, particularly in the realm of theatrical productions, earning a reputation for innovation. This individual also contributed to the national culture through participation in typical Romanian theater festivals and international collaborations. A long career spanned several decades, with retirement occurring in the 21st century after a prolific tenure.

Continue Reading

Enguerrand de Monstrelet

French historian and author of Chronicles
Born
1400 625 years ago
Died
July 20th, 1453 571 years ago — 53 years old

Enguerrand de Monstrelet was a French historian active during the 15th century. Focused on the Hundred Years' War, he authored 'Chronicles' which provides a detailed account of the conflict from 1400 to 1440. The work serves as a critical primary source for historians studying this period. Monstrelet documented military campaigns, political events, and social conditions of his time, contributing significantly to the historiography of the late medieval era. His writings shed light on the intricacies of warfare and the lives affected by ongoing conflicts, solidifying his role in preserving the historical narrative of France during a tumultuous period.

Continue Reading