Leopold Wilhelm

Austrian duke and governor

Leopold Wilhelm - Leaders & Politicians born 1614
Born

1614
412 years ago

Died
Category

Leaders & Politicians

Country

Austria

Links & References

Served as the governor of the Habsburg Netherlands in the 17th century. Played a significant role in the political and military affairs during the Dutch War of Independence. Oversaw military campaigns and contributed to the fortifications of cities under Habsburg control. Engaged in cultural patronage, especially in the arts and architecture, promoting Baroque style in the region.

Governed the Habsburg Netherlands

Patronized Baroque arts and architecture

Other People Who Died on November 20th

Allan 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 Reading

Sergei Grinkov

Figure skater; Olympic gold medalist
Born
February 4th, 1967 59 years ago
Died
November 20th, 1995 30 years ago — 28 years old

A prominent figure skater, achieved international acclaim during the late 1980s and early 1990s. Partnered with Ekaterina Gordeeva, the duo won numerous competitions, including two Olympic gold medals. Their performances were characterized by technical excellence and artistic expression. Competed for the Soviet Union and later represented Russia after the dissolution of the USSR. Grinkov and Gordeeva captured the hearts of audiences worldwide with their graceful routines and deep connection on ice. They were also World Champions multiple times, solidifying their legacy in the world of figure skating.

Continue Reading

Amintore Fanfani

Italian politician and Prime Minister
Born
February 6th, 1908 118 years ago
Died
November 20th, 1999 26 years ago — 91 years old

Served as the 32nd Prime Minister of Italy during the 1950s and 1960s. Played a significant role in the Italian political landscape, leading the Christian Democracy party. Held key governmental positions, including Minister of Education and Minister of Foreign Affairs. Instrumental in shaping post-war Italian policies and economic recovery, advocating for social welfare programs and economic reforms. Contributed to the establishment of Italy as a key player in European politics and integration.

Continue Reading

Ian Smith

Prime Minister of Rhodesia
Born
April 8th, 1919 107 years ago
Died
November 20th, 2007 18 years ago — 88 years old

Served as the first Prime Minister of Rhodesia from 1965 to 1979, leading the country during its Unilateral Declaration of Independence from Britain. Played a crucial role in the Rhodesian Bush War, a conflict between the white-minority government and black nationalist movements. Advocated for minority rule and resistance against majority governance and was involved in negotiations that ultimately led to the end of white-minority rule. After leaving office, resided in South Africa.

Continue Reading

James H. Billington

Librarian of Congress and academic leader
Born
June 1st, 1929 97 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.

Continue Reading

I Gusti Ngurah Rai

Indonesian military officer and leader
Born
1917 109 years ago
Died
November 20th, 1946 79 years ago — 29 years old

An Indonesian military officer and national hero, led forces against Dutch colonial rule during the Indonesian National Revolution. Played a significant role in the struggle for Indonesian independence. Commanded a defense against Dutch troops in the Bali region, organizing guerrilla warfare tactics. Guided troops during several key battles which contributed to the independence movement.

Continue Reading