Matthias Erzberger
German politician and peace advocate
A prominent German publicist and politician, played a significant role in Germany's politics during and after World War I. Held various political offices, including serving as a member of the Reichstag. Advocated for peace and represented Germany in the signing of the Armistice of November 1918. Actively involved in the implementation of reforms during the Weimar Republic. Tragic end came when assassinated by right-wing extremists in 1921 due to his political beliefs.
Signed the Armistice of November 1918
Served in the Weimar government's coalition
Other People Born on September 20th
Ernesto Teodoro Moneta
Italian soldier and Nobel laureate
Born
September 20th, 1833 192 years ago
Died
February 10th, 1918 108 years ago — 84 years old
Served as a soldier during military conflicts and later became a prominent journalist. Advocated for peace and disarmament through his writings. Received the Nobel Peace Prize in 1907 for efforts in promoting international peace and understanding. His work contributed significantly to discussions surrounding war and its consequences during his time.
Continue ReadingTrevon Diggs
American football cornerback for Cowboys
Born
September 20th, 1998 27 years ago
Played college football at the University of Alabama, where significant contributions helped the team secure the 2017 College Football Playoff National Championship. Selected by the Dallas Cowboys in the second round of the 2020 NFL Draft. Achieved Pro Bowl selections and led the league in interceptions during the 2021 season. Renowned for his ball-hawking skills and defensive coverage capabilities, cementing a reputation as one of the top cornerbacks in the NFL.
Continue ReadingMaxwell Perkins
American editor of notable authors
Born
September 20th, 1884 141 years ago
Died
1947 79 years ago — 63 years old
An influential American editor, recognized for shaping the works of major literary figures in the 20th century. Played a pivotal role in the careers of authors such as F. Scott Fitzgerald and Ernest Hemingway. Edited and published several significant literary works, contributing to the development of modern American literature. Worked with the Scribner's publishing house, where editorial vision guided groundbreaking publications, leading to the establishment of enduring literary legacies.
Continue ReadingLibero Liberati
Italian motorcycle racer and champion
Born
September 20th, 1926 99 years ago
Died
1962 64 years ago — 36 years old
Achieved recognition as an accomplished motorcycle racer. Competed in the Grand Prix motorcycle racing series during the 1950s and 1960s. Won the 1957 500cc World Championship. Contributed to the sport's popularity in Italy and inspired many aspiring racers. His legacy continues in motorcycle racing history.
Continue ReadingJordan Tata
American baseball player and pitcher
Born
September 20th, 1981 44 years ago
Made contributions to Major League Baseball as a pitcher. Played for the Detroit Tigers and the Florida Marlins. Participated in the 2003 season, contributing to team dynamics and game strategies.
Continue ReadingEmperor Takakura of Japan
Japanese Emperor during the Heian period
Born
September 20th, 1161 864 years ago
Died
January 30th, 1181 845 years ago — 19 years old
Reigned as the 77th Emperor of Japan during the late Heian period from 1168 to 1180. Ascended the throne at a young age and faced political challenges from various factions within the court. Engaged in conflicts involving the Taira and Minamoto clans, which ultimately led to the Genpei War. Abdicated in favor of his younger half-brother due to ongoing power struggles. Died in 1181.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on August 26th
Neil Simon
Playwright and screenwriter of Broadway hits
Born
July 4th, 1927 99 years ago
Died
August 26th, 2018 7 years ago — 91 years old
A prominent playwright and screenwriter, contributions included multiple Broadway productions and film adaptations. Early works included 'The Odd Couple' and 'Barefoot in the Park'. Won several Tony Awards and a Pulitzer Prize for Drama for 'Lost in Yonkers'. Adapted multiple works into successful films, solidifying a legacy in American theater.
Continue ReadingGeorg Wittig
Chemist and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
June 16th, 1897 129 years ago
Died
August 26th, 1987 38 years ago — 90 years old
A German chemist contributed significantly to organic chemistry, particularly in the area of phosphorus chemistry. Developed the Wittig reaction, a method for synthesizing alkenes from aldehydes or ketones and phosphonium ylides. Served as a professor at the University of Heidelberg. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1979 for advancements in organic synthesis.
Continue ReadingLon Chaney
Silent film actor and makeup artist
Born
April 1st, 1883 143 years ago
Died
August 26th, 1930 95 years ago — 47 years old
An American actor, director, and screenwriter, celebrated for performances during the silent film era. Achieved fame through extraordinary makeup skills and various character portrayals. Starred in iconic films such as 'The Phantom of the Opera' and 'The Hunchback of Notre Dame', showcasing a unique ability to transform appearances for roles. Contributed to the early techniques of film acting and character development, significantly influencing the horror genre in cinema.
Continue ReadingJohn J. Gilligan
American politician, 62nd Governor of Ohio
Born
March 22nd, 1922 104 years ago
Died
August 26th, 2013 12 years ago — 91 years old
Served as the 62nd Governor of Ohio from 1971 to 1975. Focused on educational reforms and environmental issues during tenure. Prior to governorship, held positions in the Ohio House of Representatives and the Ohio Senate. Worked as a professor after leaving office.
Continue ReadingLouis Muhlstock
Polish-Canadian painter and artist
Born
April 23rd, 1904 122 years ago
Died
August 26th, 2001 24 years ago — 97 years old
Born in Poland and later emigrated to Canada, engaged in painting with a focus on landscape and abstraction. Worked primarily in oil and watercolors, showcasing a blend of representational and abstract elements in art. Participated in numerous exhibitions across Canada and internationally. Authored a book reflecting on the techniques of painting and the evolution of his artistic style.
Continue ReadingJohan Augustin Mannerheim
Military leader from Sweden
Born
August 8th, 1706 320 years ago
Died
August 26th, 1778 247 years ago — 72 years old
A military leader and nobleman, served in the Swedish army during the Great Northern War. Participated in various military campaigns, displaying strategic prowess. Became a prominent figure in the Swedish military hierarchy and was influential in the development of military tactics in the early 18th century.
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