Louis-Alexandre Berthier
French general and Minister of Defence
A key military figure during the French Revolutionary Wars, served as a general in the revolutionary army. Held the position of Minister of Defence and played a crucial role in the organization of the French military. Participated in the campaigns of the Italian and Egyptian expeditions under Napoleon Bonaparte. As a major general, contributed to significant military strategies that aided in the expansion and effectiveness of the French army throughout Europe.
Served as Minister of Defence under Napoleon
Played a crucial role in the Italian and Egyptian campaigns
Other People Born on February 20th
Johann Heinrich Voss
German poet and translator of Homer
Born
February 20th, 1751 274 years ago
Died
March 29th, 1826 199 years ago — 75 years old
Recognized as a prominent poet and translator, significant contributions included poetic works as well as the German translations of Homer's 'Iliad' and 'Odyssey'. Active in the literary circles of his time and involved with the Göttingen School of Poets, engaged in discussions about aesthetics and literature. Held a professorship at the University of Heidelberg, influencing future generations of poets and scholars through both teachings and writings.
Continue ReadingMariliza Xenogiannakopoulou
Greek lawyer and politician
Born
February 20th, 1963 62 years ago
Served as the Greek Minister of Health during the period of 2009 to 2012. Worked on healthcare reforms and initiatives aimed at improving public health services in Greece. Engaged in legislative processes and contributed to policy-making in the health sector. Participated in various committees focusing on health and social affairs, advocating for better healthcare access and management within the country.
Continue ReadingRoy Cohn
American lawyer and political activist
Born
February 20th, 1927 98 years ago
Died
August 2nd, 1986 39 years ago — 59 years old
Built a prominent career in law, gaining recognition as a legal advisor in high-profile cases. Served as chief counsel to Senator Joseph McCarthy during the Red Scare, advocating for anti-communist actions. Established a private practice in New York City, representing various clients including influential business figures and organized crime members. Publicly engaged in controversial political activism throughout his career, asserting a staunch conservative viewpoint. Played a significant role in various cases and investigations, with a reputation for aggressive courtroom tactics.
Continue ReadingClaude Miller
French film director and producer
Born
February 20th, 1942 83 years ago
Died
April 4th, 2012 13 years ago — 70 years old
A prominent French director, producer, and screenwriter contributed significantly to French cinema from the 1970s until the early 2010s. Worked on various films, many of which received critical acclaim. Notable works include 'La Meilleure Façon de marcher' and 'L'Ecole de la chair', showcasing a talent for character-driven storytelling and exploring complex human emotions. Also involved in producing and screenwriting, shaping the landscape of French film during his career.
Continue ReadingAnsel Adams
Photographer and environmentalist
Born
February 20th, 1902 123 years ago
Died
April 22nd, 1984 41 years ago — 82 years old
Contributed significantly to the field of photography, particularly in landscape photography, and is recognized for black-and-white images of the American West. Developed the Zone System, a technique for achieving proper exposure and tonal range. Published several influential books on photography and conservation, fostering greater appreciation for natural landscapes. Actively promoted environmental conservation and the establishment of national parks.
Continue ReadingCharles Auguste de Bériot
Violinist and composer of concertos
Born
February 20th, 1802 223 years ago
Died
April 8th, 1870 155 years ago — 68 years old
A Belgian violinist and composer, this individual significantly contributed to the development of violin playing techniques in the 19th century. Focused primarily on the violin, composed numerous concertos and works for violin and orchestra. Established a renowned teaching career, influencing many violinists through his pedagogy. The individual played a crucial role in the romantic era of music, being one of the first to emphasize the expressive capabilities of the violin.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on June 1st
Lester Patrick
Ice hockey player and coach with a legacy
Born
December 30th, 1883 141 years ago
Died
June 1st, 1960 65 years ago — 76 years old
One of the pioneering figures in ice hockey, contributed significantly as both a player and a coach. Played for the New York Rangers and established a long-lasting influence on the sport. Transitioned into coaching and led teams to success, demonstrating tactical acumen and player development skills. His coaching tenure included guiding the Rangers and fostering new talent in the league. Inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame for both playing and coaching accomplishments, marking a significant career in professional ice hockey.
Continue ReadingTito Puente
American drummer and bandleader
Born
April 20th, 1923 102 years ago
Died
June 1st, 2000 25 years ago — 77 years old
A prominent figure in Latin music, contributed significantly to the popularization of salsa music. Toured extensively and released numerous albums. Acclaimed for energetic performances and innovative arrangements that blended Afro-Cuban rhythms with jazz and other genres. Received several awards, including Grammy Awards, celebrating remarkable contributions to music.
Continue ReadingAni Yudhoyono
Indonesian politician, First Lady
Born
1952 73 years ago
Died
June 1st, 2019 6 years ago — 67 years old
Served as the First Lady of Indonesia from 2004 to 2014. Played a significant role in various social programs, particularly in health and education sectors. Advocated for issues related to women and children. Worked alongside a spouse who held the presidency, assisting in various charitable endeavors and public initiatives.
Continue ReadingAdolf Eichmann
German Nazi SS-Obersturmbannführer
Born
March 19th, 1906 119 years ago
Died
June 1st, 1962 63 years ago — 56 years old
A high-ranking official in the Nazi regime, played a pivotal role in orchestrating the logistics of the Holocaust. Joined the SS in 1932 and was appointed to lead the Department of Jewish Affairs. Instrumental in implementing policies leading to the deportation of Jews to concentration camps. Captured by Israeli agents in Argentina in 1960, faced trial for crimes against humanity, and was executed in 1962.
Continue ReadingPope Gregory XVI
Pope with papal bull on slavery
Born
September 18th, 1765 260 years ago
Died
June 1st, 1846 179 years ago — 80 years old
Served as Pope from 1831 until death in 1846. Issued the encyclical 'In supremo apostolatus' which condemned the slave trade and slavery itself. Advocated for the preservation of the Papal States and opposed liberal reforms. Strengthened the Congregation of the Index to curtail modernist thought and censorship of publications. Worked on restoring the Catholic Church's authority in regions where church influence had diminished.
Continue ReadingChristopher Cockerell
Engineer, invented the hovercraft
Born
June 4th, 1910 115 years ago
Died
June 1st, 1999 26 years ago — 88 years old
An English engineer, contributed significantly to the field of engineering by inventing the hovercraft. The concept of the hovercraft emerged from experiments with a model and subsequently led to the development of full-scale prototypes. Cockerell's invention demonstrated potential applications in various areas such as transportation over water and land. The hovercraft gained practical use in military and commercial operations, showcasing its versatility and innovative design.
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