Marian McPartland
Pianist and composer of jazz music
A prominent jazz pianist and composer, contributed to the jazz scene through performance and radio. Emerged as a significant figure in the world of jazz starting in the 1940s. Hosted the radio program 'Piano Jazz' on National Public Radio for over three decades, showcasing a variety of jazz talents. Recorded numerous albums, collaborating with various renowned musicians. Her compositions reflect a blend of classical and jazz influences, and her work has contributed to the evolution of modern jazz.
Hosted 'Piano Jazz' on NPR for 33 years
Released over 30 albums as a bandleader
Collaborated with notable jazz artists
Other People Born on March 20th
Lateef Adegbite
Nigerian lawyer and politician
Born
March 20th, 1933 93 years ago
Died
2012 14 years ago — 79 years old
A prominent figure in Nigeria's legal and political landscape, this individual played a significant role in shaping legal policies and governance. As a founding member of the Nigerian Bar Association, contributed to the establishment of key legal frameworks. Served as the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice in Lagos State, advocating for legal reforms. Engaged in various political endeavors, focusing on the promotion of justice and equity. Also involved in community development and served in various capacities within numerous legal and civic organizations.
Continue ReadingAlfonso García Robles
Mexican lawyer and diplomat, Nobel Laureate
Born
March 20th, 1911 115 years ago
Died
September 2nd, 1991 34 years ago — 80 years old
A prominent lawyer and diplomat, contributed significantly to disarmament efforts and international relations. Worked for the Mexican government and served as Ambassador to various countries. Advocated for peace and nuclear disarmament. Awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1982 for efforts in promoting disarmament in Latin America.
Continue ReadingBettye Washington Greene
Chemist and educator in chemistry
Born
March 20th, 1935 91 years ago
Died
1995 31 years ago — 60 years old
Born in 1935, a chemist and educator focused on chemistry, particularly in the areas of chemical research and education. Contributed to various projects aimed at enhancing science education. Played a significant role in promoting diversity in the sciences, advocating for increased representation of minorities in chemistry fields. Fostering science literacy among underrepresented students became a priority, alongside mentoring young scientists and supporting community educational initiatives.
Continue ReadingYigael Yadin
Israeli archaeologist and Deputy Prime Minister
Born
March 20th, 1917 109 years ago
Died
June 28th, 1984 41 years ago — 67 years old
An Israeli archaeologist, general, and politician. Made significant contributions to the field of archaeology, particularly in excavations at Masada and Hazor. Served as Deputy Prime Minister of Israel and was influential in various government roles. Yadin also held a prominent position in the Israeli Defense Forces during the 1948 Arab-Israeli War, where he played a key role in strategic military planning.
Continue ReadingHugh MacLennan
Canadian author and educator
Born
March 20th, 1907 119 years ago
Died
1990 36 years ago — 83 years old
An influential Canadian author and educator contributed to Canadian literature through novels, essays, and poetry. Teaching at McGill University and other institutions fostered a new generation of writers. The work focused on Canadian identity and the complexities of national consciousness. Prominent novels include 'Two Solitudes' and 'The Watch That Ends the Night', which explore themes of cultural conflict in Canada. As an educator, facilitated discussions on literature and culture, shaping the intellectual landscape of the country.
Continue ReadingJerome Biffle
American long jumper and coach
Born
March 20th, 1928 98 years ago
Died
2002 24 years ago — 74 years old
Biffle competed in long jump, representing the United States. Achieved notable success in his athletic career during the late 1940s and early 1950s. Also served as a coach, influencing the development of future long jump athletes through training and mentorship. His contributions to the sport extended beyond personal competition, as he dedicated time to coaching at various levels.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on August 20th
Charles Bannerman
Cricketer and umpire; Test cricket pioneer
Born
July 3rd, 1851 174 years ago
Died
August 20th, 1930 95 years ago — 79 years old
Born in England and later residing in Australia, this individual played a significant role in the early years of Test cricket. He was a member of the Australian team that participated in the first-ever Test match against England in 1877. Bannerman scored the first century in Test history, achieving 165 runs in that match. In addition to his playing career, he served as an umpire in various matches, contributing to the development and standardization of the sport during its formative years.
Continue ReadingWilliam Irvine
Irish-Australian politician, Premier of Victoria
Born
July 6th, 1858 167 years ago
Died
August 20th, 1943 82 years ago — 85 years old
Born in 1858, this individual served as the 21st Premier of Victoria. His political career was marked by significant involvement in various legislative activities and public service initiatives. Representing the Liberal Party, aimed to foster economic development and address social issues prevalent during that era. After reaching the position of Premier, the focus was on enhancing infrastructure and educational reforms in the state. This period saw efforts to improve urban living conditions and promote the welfare of citizens. The leadership spanned into the early 20th century, highlighting a commitment to progress and governance.
Continue ReadingJoe Rosenthal
Photographer best known for iconic Iwo Jima image
Born
October 9th, 1911 114 years ago
Died
August 20th, 2006 19 years ago — 94 years old
An American photographer, recognized for capturing the famous image of U.S. Marines raising the American flag on Mount Suribachi during the Battle of Iwo Jima in World War II. This photograph, taken on February 23, 1945, became one of the most reproduced images in history and played a pivotal role in boosting American morale during the war. The photograph won the Pulitzer Prize for Photography in 1945, solidifying its place in American cultural history. Rosenthal's work has been exhibited in various prestigious galleries and is part of the permanent collection of the U.S. National Archives.
Continue ReadingDom Mintoff
Maltese politician and Prime Minister
Born
August 6th, 1916 109 years ago
Died
August 20th, 2012 13 years ago — 96 years old
Served as the 8th Prime Minister of Malta and was a prominent figure in the Maltese Labour Party. Played a significant role in Malta's independence from the UK. Mintoff advocated for a strong welfare state and pursued policies that aimed to enhance the social and economic wellbeing of Maltese citizens. Also served as Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Public Works, focusing on infrastructure development. His tenure was marked by efforts to transform Malta into a more self-sufficient nation.
Continue ReadingJerry Lewis
Comedian and actor from 'The Nutty Professor'
Born
March 16th, 1926 100 years ago
Died
August 20th, 2017 8 years ago — 91 years old
An American actor and comedian, prominent during the mid-20th century. Achievements include co-starring with Dean Martin in a successful comedy duo. Transitioned to a solo career, featuring in numerous films. A well-regarded work includes 'The Nutty Professor,' showcasing his talent for physical comedy and character transformation. In addition to film, significant contributions were made to television, with several successful specials and shows. Lewis also directed several of his films, further establishing his influence in film production and comedy.
Continue ReadingJoe Dassin
Singer-songwriter of French chanson music
Born
November 5th, 1938 87 years ago
Died
August 20th, 1980 45 years ago — 41 years old
Born in 1938, this artist blended American and French musical influences. He gained popularity through hit songs in the 1960s and 1970s. Major works include the international hit 'Les Champs-Élysées' and 'Alors Rêve.' His music reflects a variety of themes, resonating with audiences across different cultures. Dassin's career was marked by significant commercial success, with numerous albums released during his lifetime. He passed away in 1980, leaving a lasting legacy in the French music scene.
Continue Reading