Leo XIII

Pope of the Catholic Church

Leo XIII - Pope of the Catholic Church
Born

1810
215 years ago

Died

July 20th, 1903
122 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

James Doohan

Actor and veteran, best known as Scotty
Born
March 3rd, 1920 105 years ago
Died
July 20th, 2005 20 years ago — 85 years old

Born in Canada, a military career began during World War II, serving in the Royal Canadian Artillery and participating in the D-Day invasion. After the war, transitioned to acting, gaining prominence for the role of Montgomery Scott, also known as Scotty, in the television series Star Trek, which premiered in 1966 and became a cultural phenomenon. Doohan reprised this role in several Star Trek films and contributed to the franchise's legacy. In addition to acting, he was involved in various voiceover projects and public appearances related to the series, attracting a loyal fanbase.

Continue Reading

Paul Valéry

French poet and philosopher
Born
October 30th, 1871 153 years ago
Died
July 20th, 1945 80 years ago — 73 years old

A prominent figure in French literature, this poet and philosopher contributed significantly to the Symbolist movement. Initially trained in law, he pivoted to a literary career, gaining recognition for works such as "Le Cimetière marin" and essays on aesthetics and philosophy. His thoughts on consciousness and creativity have influenced literary and philosophical circles. He also served as a member of the Académie Française, reflecting his standing in French culture. Engaged with the ideas of modernism, his intellectual writings explore the nature of art and imagination.

Continue Reading

Tammy Faye Messner

Television personality and evangelist
Born
March 7th, 1942 83 years ago
Died
July 20th, 2007 18 years ago — 65 years old

An evangelist and television personality, she co-hosted the popular PTL Club alongside her husband, Jim Bakker, during the 1970s and 1980s. Known for her unique personality and emotional appeal, she became a significant figure in the realm of televangelism. After marital difficulties and financial scandals, her public life took new directions, including a successful solo career. She appeared on various talk shows and later became the focus of a biopic that highlighted her life and struggles with public perception and health.

Continue Reading

Ignaz Sowinski

Galician architect and city planner
Born
August 30th, 1858 166 years ago
Died
July 20th, 1917 108 years ago — 58 years old

Born in 1858, a prominent architect focused on the design of urban spaces and buildings in Galicia. Influenced by the architectural trends of the late 19th century, engaged in the planning and construction of various structures that shaped the urban landscape. Developed a unique style that blended local traditions with modern techniques. Also contributed to the preservation of historical sites in the region, ensuring the incorporation of cultural heritage in new developments.

Continue Reading

Gavrila Derzhavin

Russian poet and statesman
Born
July 14th, 1743 282 years ago
Died
July 20th, 1816 209 years ago — 73 years old

Born in 1743, a prominent figure in Russian literature and politics, contributed significantly to the development of the Russian language and poetry. Served in various governmental roles, including as a senator and appointed governor of Saint Petersburg. His poetry combined philosophical and lyric elements, garnering admiration from contemporaries and later generations. The ode 'Felitsa' remains one of the most recognized works, illustrating his mastery of poetic form and emotional depth.

Continue Reading

Paul Delvaux

Belgian painter of surrealist works
Born
September 23rd, 1897 127 years ago
Died
July 20th, 1994 31 years ago — 96 years old

Born in 1897, a Belgian painter associated with the Surrealist movement, predominantly focused on themes of dreams and the subconscious. This artist studied at the Académie Royale des Beaux-Arts in Brussels and developed a unique style characterized by the incorporation of classical themes and figures into mysterious, dreamlike settings. Often depicted solitary women against surreal backdrops, including urban landscapes and mythological elements. Throughout the career, significant exhibitions in Europe showcased the evolution of the artistic vision and technique. Noteworthy works include 'Les Vénus'.

Continue Reading