Leona Helmsley
American hotelier and real estate leader
A prominent business figure in the hotel and real estate industry, operated the Helmsley Hotels. Gained notoriety for operating high-end hotels in New York City, including the famous Parker Meridien and the Grand Hyatt. Her business strategies and controversies garnered significant media attention throughout her career. Became a key figure in the New York social scene during the 1980s, often associated with luxury living and extravagant lifestyles. Her legal troubles in the late 1980s and her eventual conviction for tax evasion, which led to a four-year prison sentence, marked significant turning points in her life.
Operated Helmsley Hotels in NYC
Convicted for tax evasion in 1989
Other People Born on July 4th
Giuseppe Garibaldi
Italian general and politician
Born
July 4th, 1807 218 years ago
Died
June 2nd, 1882 143 years ago — 74 years old
Born in 1807, a significant figure in the Italian unification movement, played a critical role in the Risorgimento. Commanded the Expedition of the Thousand in 1860, leading volunteer troops to conquer Sicily and Naples, contributing to the establishment of a unified Italy. Additionally, served in various campaigns in South America, advocating for democratic governance and social reforms. Held positions in the Italian government post-unification, further shaping the nation's political landscape.
Continue ReadingGeorge Steinbrenner
Businessman, owner of the Yankees
Born
July 4th, 1930 95 years ago
Died
July 13th, 2010 15 years ago — 80 years old
An American businessman, led the New York Yankees as principal owner from 1973 until his death in 2010. Oversaw a major financial turnaround for the franchise, transforming it into a highly profitable sports entity. Focused on aggressive marketing strategies and player acquisitions. The team won seven World Series championships during his tenure, contributing to the Yankees' status as one of the most successful franchises in Major League Baseball history.
Continue ReadingSonia Pierre
Human Rights Activist in Dominican Republic
Born
July 4th, 1963 62 years ago
Died
December 4th, 2011 14 years ago — 48 years old
Born in 1963, a human rights activist focused on the issues facing Haitian immigrants in the Dominican Republic. Founded the Movement of Haitian-Dominican Women to advocate for the rights of individuals of Haitian descent. Worked tirelessly to address discrimination and violence against this community. Involved in numerous campaigns for legal reforms and against deportations targeting individuals of Haitian ancestry. Authored reports and spoke widely on the violations of human rights faced by Haitian-Dominicans, contributing to international awareness of their struggles.
Continue ReadingMichael Johnson
Footballer and manager with coaching success
Born
July 4th, 1973 52 years ago
Died
July 25th, 2017 8 years ago — 44 years old
Played professional football primarily as a forward. Represented clubs such as Aston Villa and Wolverhampton Wanderers. Transitioned to coaching after retirement from playing. Managed teams including the Jamaican national team, contributing to their football development.
Continue ReadingAlfredo Di Stéfano
Legendary football player and coach
Born
July 4th, 1926 99 years ago
Died
July 7th, 2014 11 years ago — 88 years old
Argentinian-Spanish footballer and coach played a crucial role at Real Madrid, contributing to the club's dominance in European football during the 1950s. Renowned for exceptional versatility, Di Stéfano operated as a forward and influenced the game through skillful technique and strategy. He helped Madrid secure five consecutive European Cups from 1956 to 1960, cementing the team's legacy in the tournament's history. After retirement, transitioned into coaching, holding managerial positions for various clubs and national teams.
Continue ReadingDevendra Kumar Joshi
Indian Navy Chief of Naval Staff
Born
July 4th, 1954 71 years ago
Served as the 21st Chief of Naval Staff of the Indian Navy from 2012 to 2014. Commissioned into the Indian Navy in 1974, held various important positions including the Commanding Officer of the aircraft carrier INS Viraat and the Vice Chief of Naval Staff. Contributed to naval operations and strategic planning during tenure. Retired with the rank of Admiral.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on August 20th
Elmore Leonard
Novelist and screenwriter of crime thrillers
Born
October 11th, 1925 100 years ago
Died
August 20th, 2013 12 years ago — 87 years old
An American writer whose career spanned over six decades, produced numerous acclaimed novels and screenplays. A master of dialogue and character development, crafted stories that often centered around crime, suspense, and the complexities of human relationships. Authored works that were adapted into popular films and television series. Notable novels include "Get Shorty," "Rum Punch," and "Out of Sight," many of which received screen adaptations that garnered attention. Developed a unique style that blended elements of westerns, crime fiction, and mainstream literature.
Continue ReadingEd Freeman
Medal of Honor recipient and soldier
Born
November 20th, 1927 98 years ago
Died
August 20th, 2008 17 years ago — 80 years old
Served as a soldier and helicopter pilot during the Vietnam War. Participated in the Battle of Ia Drang, where he made multiple rescue flights to evacuate wounded soldiers under enemy fire. Demonstrated exceptional bravery and dedication, which led to the awarding of the Medal of Honor for actions during this conflict. Later had a career in various roles, including leadership positions within the military. His legacy is honored through the recognition of his courage and service.
Continue ReadingNorris Bradbury
Physicist and soldier influential in weapons.
Born
1909 116 years ago
Died
August 20th, 1997 28 years ago — 88 years old
Served in the U.S. Army during World War II. Played a significant role in the Manhattan Project, contributing to the development of atomic weapons. Became a prominent physicist and served as the director of Los Alamos National Laboratory from 1945 to 1970. Focused on nuclear research and oversaw various projects, including advancements in weapons technology and nuclear policy. Also contributed to academic fields as a professor at several institutions.
Continue ReadingStephanie Tubbs Jones
American politician and lawyer
Born
1949 76 years ago
Died
August 20th, 2008 17 years ago — 59 years old
A prominent figure in American politics, served as a U.S. Representative for Ohio's 11th congressional district from 1999 until passing in 2008. Elected as the first African American woman to represent Ohio in Congress, advocated for education, healthcare, and civil rights. Prior to congressional service, held positions including the first female assistant county prosecutor in Cuyahoga County and judge in the Cuyahoga County Common Pleas Court. Active in numerous local and national organizations, focused efforts on promoting social justice and economic equality.
Continue ReadingVũ Văn Mẫu
Prime Minister of South Vietnam
Born
1914 111 years ago
Died
August 20th, 1998 27 years ago — 84 years old
Served as the 10th and final Prime Minister of South Vietnam from June to September 1975 during the final months of the Vietnam War. Led the government in a challenging period marked by the collapse of the South Vietnamese regime. Prior to his premiership, held various governmental positions including Minister of Foreign Affairs. After the fall of Saigon, relocated to the United States and continued to engage in activities concerning Vietnamese affairs until death in 1998.
Continue ReadingDon Hassler
Saxophonist and composer in jazz
Born
1929 96 years ago
Died
August 20th, 2013 12 years ago — 84 years old
An American saxophonist and composer, contributed significantly to the jazz genre with performances and compositions. Collaborated with various artists and ensembles throughout a career spanning several decades. Developed a unique style that blended traditional jazz elements with contemporary influences. Actively participated in music education, sharing expertise with aspiring musicians. Remained engaged in the jazz community until the end of life.
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