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
Emperor Takakura of Japan
Japanese Emperor during the Heian period
Born
September 20th, 1161 865 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 ReadingTarō Asō
Japanese politician and Prime Minister
Born
September 20th, 1940 86 years ago
A prominent figure in Japanese politics, served as the 92nd Prime Minister of Japan from 2008 to 2009. Held various positions within the government, including Minister for Foreign Affairs from 2005 to 2007. Gained recognition as a member of the Liberal Democratic Party, contributing to significant domestic and foreign policies during tenure. Additionally known for achievements in target shooting, representing Japan and competing internationally.
Continue ReadingLibero Liberati
Italian motorcycle racer and champion
Born
September 20th, 1926 100 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 ReadingFerenc Szisz
Racing driver; first Grand Prix winner
Born
September 20th, 1873 153 years ago
Died
February 21st, 1944 82 years ago — 70 years old
A Hungarian-French racing driver, made significant contributions to early motorsport. Achieved the first victory in the Grand Prix motor racing series, winning the 1906 French Grand Prix driving a Renault. Competed in various racing events, establishing a reputation in the growing sport of automobile racing. Participated in the development of racing vehicles, contributing to advancements in automotive technology. Continued to influence the sport until retirement, leaving a legacy in motorsports history.
Continue ReadingSidney Dillon Ripley
American ornithologist and academic
Born
September 20th, 1913 113 years ago
Died
2001 25 years ago — 88 years old
Contributed significantly to the field of ornithology through extensive research, field studies, and academic leadership. Served as the secretary of the Smithsonian Institution from 1964 to 1984, overseeing the institution's growth and development. Authored numerous publications, focusing on bird conservation and ecological studies. Advocated for environmental issues and contributed to the establishment of several national wildlife refuges.
Continue ReadingGeorge R. R. Martin
Novelist, Game of Thrones author
Born
September 20th, 1948 78 years ago
Born in 1948, this American author gained prominence in the fantasy genre with a distinguished career as a novelist and short story writer. The series 'A Song of Ice and Fire' served as the basis for the acclaimed television series 'Game of Thrones'. Martin's intricate world-building and complex characters significantly influenced modern fantasy literature.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on August 26th
Frederick Reines
Physicist and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
March 16th, 1918 108 years ago
Died
August 26th, 1998 28 years ago — 80 years old
Contributions to particle physics included the discovery of the neutrino. Collaborated on experiments at the Los Alamos National Laboratory and later at the University of California, Irvine. Published over 200 scientific papers and mentored numerous students throughout an academic career. Received the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1995 for work in detecting neutrinos.
Continue ReadingMariam Baouardy
Syrian Roman Catholic nun, canonized
Born
January 5th, 1846 180 years ago
Died
August 26th, 1878 148 years ago — 32 years old
Born in a small village in Ottoman Syria, became a nun in the Carmelite order. Established a convent in Bethlehem and founded a Carmelite community in India. Known for mystical experiences and reported stigmata. Later canonized by the Catholic Church for her piety and dedication to the religious life.
Continue ReadingWilliam James
Psychologist and philosopher, 'The Principles of Psychology'
Born
January 11th, 1842 184 years ago
Died
August 26th, 1910 116 years ago — 68 years old
Contributed significantly to psychology and philosophy, emphasizing the functionalist perspective. Served as a professor at Harvard University, where influential lectures and writings shaped modern psychology. Introduced the concept of stream of consciousness and advocated for pragmatism as a philosophical approach. Published notable works including 'The Principles of Psychology' and 'The Varieties of Religious Experience'.
Continue ReadingLee Hays
American singer-songwriter, 'This Land Is Your Land'
Born
March 14th, 1914 112 years ago
Died
August 26th, 1981 45 years ago — 67 years old
A significant figure in American folk music, made substantial contributions to the genre in the mid-20th century. Frequently collaborated with other prominent artists, particularly Pete Seeger. Played a pivotal role in the formation of the Weavers, a folk music group that gained worldwide popularity. The Weavers helped to revive interest in traditional folk songs during the folk music revival of the 1950s and 1960s.
Continue ReadingNeil Simon
Playwright and screenwriter of Broadway hits
Born
July 4th, 1927 99 years ago
Died
August 26th, 2018 8 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 39 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.
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