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
John Reith
Scottish broadcaster and BBC co-founder
Born
July 20th, 1889 136 years ago
Died
June 16th, 1971 54 years ago — 81 years old
Co-founded the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) in 1922 and served as its first general director. Under leadership, the BBC established a reputation for high-quality programming and innovative broadcasting techniques. Advocated for the public service broadcasting model, emphasizing the importance of information, education, and entertainment in media. Introduced various radio and television formats that set standards for later programming.
Continue ReadingPete Hamilton
Race car driver, Daytona 500 winner
Born
July 20th, 1942 83 years ago
Died
2017 9 years ago — 75 years old
A race car driver from the United States, accomplished on the NASCAR circuit. Achieved significant success during the late 1960s and early 1970s. Won the prestigious Daytona 500 in 1970, solidifying a place in racing history. Competed for various teams throughout a career that spanned more than a decade, showing proficiency on both dirt and asphalt tracks.
Continue ReadingOlivier de Kersauson
French sailor and ocean racer
Born
July 20th, 1944 81 years ago
An accomplished sailor, participated in numerous prestigious sailing races. Competed in the Whitbread Round the World Race and the Route du Rhum. Gained high recognition for achievements in solo and crewed ocean racing. Contributed to the sailing community through various media and television appearances, sharing experiences and insights on maritime adventures.
Continue ReadingMike Ilitch
Businessman and Detroit sports owner
Born
July 20th, 1929 96 years ago
Died
February 10th, 2017 8 years ago — 87 years old
Founded Little Caesars Pizza, which became a major national chain. Owned the Detroit Tigers, winning the 1984 World Series. Also owned the Detroit Red Wings, securing four Stanley Cup championships in 1997, 1998, 2002, and 2008. Active in various community initiatives and supported numerous charitable organizations.
Continue ReadingLoda Halama
Polish dancer and actress with stage fame
Born
July 20th, 1911 114 years ago
Died
1996 30 years ago — 85 years old
Born in Poland, a prominent dancer and actress gained recognition in the 1930s for performances in musical theatre. Known for elegant dance routines and theatrical charisma, showcased talents in shows across Europe. Made appearances in films during the same era, contributing to Polish cinema.
Continue ReadingChris Amon
New Zealand Formula One driver with Ferrari
Born
July 20th, 1943 82 years ago
Died
2016 10 years ago — 73 years old
A race car driver from New Zealand competed in Formula One from 1963 to 1976. Achieved a reputation for skill behind the wheel, driving for teams such as Ferrari and Matra. Participated in 96 Grand Prix races and secured a total of 11 podium finishes during his career. Notably raced in the renowned 24 Hours of Le Mans, showcasing endurance racing capabilities. After retiring from professional racing, contributed to the sport through various roles, including team management and engineering.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on July 1st
Learie Constantine
Cricketer, politician, and lawyer
Born
1901 125 years ago
Died
July 1st, 1971 54 years ago — 70 years old
Contributed significantly to cricket as an all-rounder and played for the West Indies national team from 1921 to 1939. Also played for Lancashire in domestic cricket. Transitioned into a legal career and later entered politics, becoming a member of the House of Lords in the UK. Advocated for racial equality and social justice throughout life.
Continue ReadingTodor Skalovski
Macedonian composer and conductor
Born
January 21st, 1909 117 years ago
Died
July 1st, 2004 21 years ago — 95 years old
Born in 1909, this composer and conductor contributed significantly to the world of music, blending traditional Macedonian folk elements with classical forms. Studied at the University of Skopje and later in Berlin, he became a prominent figure in Macedonian music. Throughout his career, composed numerous orchestral and choral works, many of which received national acclaim. Involved in various cultural institutions, he helped promote Macedonian music and conducted several prominent orchestras, both nationally and internationally. His works remain influential in the region and continue to be performed today.
Continue ReadingBidhan Chandra Roy
Indian physician and politician
Born
July 1st, 1882 143 years ago
Died
July 1st, 1962 63 years ago — 80 years old
An influential physician and politician served as the 2nd Chief Minister of West Bengal. Contributions to the health sector included establishing numerous healthcare institutions, which significantly advanced medical services in the region. Played a key role in the development of the educational system within West Bengal, focusing on healthcare and medical education. Actively participated in India's struggle for independence and later took part in governance, shaping state policies during his tenure.
Continue ReadingTanya Savicheva
Russian child diarist during WWII
Born
January 23rd, 1930 96 years ago
Died
July 1st, 1944 81 years ago — 14 years old
Wrote a diary during the Siege of Leningrad, detailing the daily struggles faced by her family and the impact of the war on civilians. This personal account provides insights into the horrors of the siege and the resilience of those who lived through it. The diary was discovered after her death and later published, bringing attention to the human suffering caused by the conflict. The diary became an important historical document reflecting the experiences of children during wartime.
Continue ReadingWolfman Jack
Radio personality and DJ
Born
January 21st, 1938 88 years ago
Died
July 1st, 1995 30 years ago — 57 years old
A prominent radio personality and DJ, notable for hosting 'The Midnight Special' and various radio shows. Achieved fame as a voice on the airwaves, combining music with a unique, engaging style. His influence spanned multiple decades, reaching a broad audience. Became a cultural icon during the 1960s and 1970s, contributing to the popularity of rock and roll music through extensive interaction with listeners.
Continue ReadingIan Parkin
Guitarist (Be-Bop Deluxe)
Born
1950 76 years ago
Died
July 1st, 1995 30 years ago — 45 years old
Prominent English guitarist contributed to the progressive rock band Be-Bop Deluxe during the 1970s. The band, led by Bill Nelson, achieved commercial success and critical acclaim with albums such as 'Axe Victim' and 'Sunburst Finish'. Parkin's innovative guitar work and style were integral to the band's unique sound, which blended rock, pop, and art rock elements. Through energetic performances and creative compositions, the band gained a dedicated fan base and left a lasting mark on the music scene.
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