Mahmud II
Ottoman Sultan and reformer
Sultan during a significant period of change in the Ottoman Empire. Ruled from 1808 to 1839, initiating extensive military, administrative, and social reforms aimed at modernizing the empire. Effectively abolished the Janissary corps in 1826, which was a powerful military group. Established new educational institutions and promoted Western-style reforms within the empire. His reign also involved military campaigns that expanded and consolidated Ottoman territory.
Abolished the Janissary corps in 1826
Implemented military and administrative reforms
Promoted Western-style educational institutions
Other People Born on July 20th
Jeff Rawle
Actor and screenwriter in British television
Born
July 20th, 1951 74 years ago
Significant contributions made in British television and film. Participated in various productions, showcasing versatility and talent. Achieved recognition for roles in television series such as 'Drop the Dead Donkey' and 'Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire'. Engaged in screenwriting, further enhancing the creative landscape.
Continue ReadingPeter Palumbo
Businessman and art collector
Born
July 20th, 1935 90 years ago
An English businessman and art collector, played a significant role in the development of the arts scene in the UK. Held a peerage as Baron Palumbo and was actively involved in various art institutions. Contributed to the establishment of galleries and supported numerous artists during his career. His collection included a range of contemporary artworks, and he served on the boards of several cultural organizations, advocating for the importance of the arts in society.
Continue ReadingRichard Owen
Biologist and paleontologist, Dinosaur taxonomy
Born
July 20th, 1804 221 years ago
Died
December 18th, 1892 133 years ago — 88 years old
A prominent English biologist and paleontologist, focused extensively on the study of fossilized remains. Played a pivotal role in establishing the field of vertebrate paleontology. Credited with coining the term 'Dinosauria' to categorize large extinct reptiles. Contributed significantly to the understanding of numerous prehistoric species through meticulous anatomical studies and fossil reconstructions. Served as the first director of the Natural History Museum in London, where numerous discoveries were made under his leadership.
Continue ReadingJulie Vinter Hansen
Danish-Swiss astronomer and academic
Born
July 20th, 1890 135 years ago
Died
July 27th, 1960 65 years ago — 70 years old
Born in 1890, this astronomer contributed significantly to the field of astronomy through research and teaching. She earned a doctorate in astronomy and worked on stellar photometry and the study of variable stars. With a focus on enhancing educational opportunities in the sciences, she contributed to various academic institutions. Her work helped lay the groundwork for future advancements in the study of astrophysics.
Continue ReadingCharilaos Florakis
Greek politician and party leader
Born
July 20th, 1914 111 years ago
Died
May 22nd, 2005 20 years ago — 90 years old
A significant figure in Greek politics, contributed to the leftist movement and served as the General Secretary of the Greek Communist Party. Played a crucial role in the post-junta political landscape, leading efforts to reshape the party's policies and direction. Involved in key political discussions and movements throughout a turbulent period in Greece's history, striving for social justice and reform within the political framework.
Continue ReadingDon Chuy
American football player, two-time Pro Bowler
Born
July 20th, 1941 84 years ago
Died
2014 12 years ago — 73 years old
Born in 1941, a professional American football player excelled as an offensive lineman in the National Football League. Played primarily for the Cleveland Browns, contributing to the team's success during the 1960s. Displayed exceptional skills that led to selection as a two-time Pro Bowler. After retirement, involvement in coaching and mentoring young athletes continued.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on July 1st
Alfonso VI
King of León and Castile
Born
1040 986 years ago
Died
July 1st, 1109 916 years ago — 69 years old
Reigned as the king of León from 1065 and king of Castile from 1072 until death in 1109. Expanded territory significantly through military campaigns against Muslim kingdoms. Conquered Toledo in 1085, marking a pivotal moment in the Reconquista. Fostered cultural and economic development in the region, establishing León as a prominent kingdom in medieval Spain.
Continue ReadingAnatoly Kornukov
Ukrainian-Russian general
Born
1942 84 years ago
Died
July 1st, 2014 11 years ago — 72 years old
A high-ranking military officer, served as commander of the Russian Air Force from 1996 to 2002. Played a significant role in military operations during the 1990s and early 2000s. Oversaw the modernization of air force capabilities and participated in various strategic military initiatives. Achieved the rank of General and was influential in shaping air defense strategies during his tenure.
Continue ReadingBob Jones
English lawyer and politician
Born
1955 71 years ago
Died
July 1st, 2014 11 years ago — 59 years old
A lawyer and politician, practiced law in England. Represented the Labour Party in the House of Commons. Served as a Member of Parliament, contributing to legislative processes. Participated in various committees, focusing on legal affairs and public policy. Engaged in political discourse throughout the later part of the 20th century, influencing local and national issues.
Continue ReadingRyutaro Hashimoto
Japanese Prime Minister
Born
1937 89 years ago
Died
July 1st, 2006 19 years ago — 69 years old
Served as the 53rd Prime Minister of Japan from 1996 to 1998. Focused on economic reform and revitalization during a challenging period for the Japanese economy. Prior to premiership, held various government positions, including Minister of International Trade and Industry. Advocated for Japan's contributions to international trade and diplomacy. Served in the House of Representatives for several terms, influencing legislation and national policy.
Continue ReadingIsaac Casaubon
Swiss philologist and scholar of texts
Born
February 18th, 1559 466 years ago
Died
July 1st, 1614 411 years ago — 55 years old
Integral in the field of philology, engaged in the rigorous analysis of ancient texts. Contributed extensively to the understanding of classical literature and language. Emphasized the importance of textual criticism and its methodological approaches. Held a prestigious chair in the study of Greek and Latin at the University of Geneva. Made significant contributions to studies on Aristotle and the works of other ancient philosophers, establishing foundational principles for subsequent scholarship.
Continue ReadingSidney Bryan Berry
American general, military leader
Born
February 10th, 1926 99 years ago
Died
July 1st, 2013 12 years ago — 87 years old
Served as a United States Army general, with notable leadership roles during and after the Vietnam War. Commanded the 7th Infantry Division and played an important role in military strategies in Asia. Contributed to various military operations and assessments that shaped U.S. military policy in the region. Participated in military exercises that aimed to enhance readiness and collaboration among NATO allies. Retired with a lasting influence on military training and operations.
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