Matt Blunt
American politician, 54th Governor of Missouri
Served as the 54th Governor of Missouri from 2005 to 2009. Before taking office, held the position of Missouri Secretary of State from 2000 to 2004. Engaged in state politics as a member of the Republican Party, focusing on issues such as education reform and economic development during gubernatorial term. Transitioned to the private sector after serving as Governor.
Served as Governor of Missouri
Held office as Secretary of State
Other People Born on November 20th
Kenesaw Mountain Landis
American lawyer and judge in baseball
Born
November 20th, 1866 159 years ago
Died
November 25th, 1944 81 years ago — 78 years old
Served as a U.S. District Judge and became the first Commissioner of Major League Baseball. This role began in 1920 following the Black Sox Scandal, which highlighted issues of player integrity and gambling in baseball. Implemented reforms to restore the game's credibility. Oversaw significant changes in baseball's governance, addressing issues of players' rights and contracts. Continued to serve as Commissioner until death in 1944, significantly shaping the modern landscape of professional baseball.
Continue ReadingEdvard Westermarck
Finnish philosopher and sociologist
Born
November 20th, 1862 163 years ago
Died
1939 87 years ago — 77 years old
A philosopher and sociologist from Finland contributed significantly to the understanding of social phenomena. Focused on the study of marriage, morality, and the origins of social customs, published works include 'The History of Human Marriage' and 'Ethics'. His theories challenged existing views on morality by emphasizing the role of social context in shaping ethical norms. Westermarck's ideas influenced both sociology and anthropology, providing a framework for the study of kinship and social relations.
Continue ReadingSelma Lagerlöf
Swedish author, Nobel Prize laureate
Born
November 20th, 1858 167 years ago
Died
March 16th, 1940 86 years ago — 81 years old
An influential Swedish author, produced a variety of works that combined elements of fantasy and realism. First woman to win the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1909, awarded for 'The Saga of Gösta Berling.' Other notable works include 'The Wonderful Adventures of Nils.' Also engaged in promoting education and women's rights. Contributed to Swedish cultural heritage and literary tradition.
Continue ReadingWilliam Heard Kilpatrick
American pedagogue, educational theorist
Born
November 20th, 1871 154 years ago
Died
1965 61 years ago — 94 years old
A prominent educator and theorist, contributed significantly to progressive education in the United States. Served as a professor at Teachers College, Columbia University, where engaged in developing and promoting active learning methodologies. Authored influential texts on education, particularly emphasizing the role of experience in learning. Played a crucial role in shaping modern educational practices through the advocacy of project-based learning and experiential education. Worked with various educational organizations to implement progressive education principles across schools.
Continue ReadingGeorges Palante
French philosopher and sociologist
Born
November 20th, 1862 163 years ago
Died
1925 101 years ago — 63 years old
Contributed to philosophy and sociology through writings that examined the relationship between individual and society. Explored themes such as individuality, social dynamics, and the role of the intellectual in society. Worked to integrate philosophical thought with sociological inquiry, emphasizing the importance of personal experience in understanding social phenomena.
Continue ReadingWilliam Coblentz
American physicist and inventor
Born
November 20th, 1873 152 years ago
Died
1962 64 years ago — 89 years old
Coblentz contributed significantly to the field of physics, with a focus on spectroscopy and infrared technology. His work included the development of the first commercial infrared spectrometer, which revolutionized analytical chemistry and material science. Coblentz's research provided insights into the absorption spectra of gases and solids, facilitating advancements in atmospheric science and astronomy. In 1923, he received the prestigious Edward Longstreth Medal from the Franklin Institute for his contributions to science.
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