Maurice Gamelin
Belgian-French military general
Served as a general in the French Army during World War II, particularly during the early phases of the conflict. Held the position of Chief of the French Army between 1939 and 1940, leading military operations during the Battle of France. Oversaw defensive strategies against the German invasion in 1940. After the fall of France, faced criticism and was eventually removed from command. His military strategies and decisions during this period have been widely studied by historians.
Commanded French forces during World War II.
Oversaw operations during the Battle of France.
Served as Chief of the French Army from 1939 to 1940.
Other People Born on September 20th
Ryan Simpkins
Australian rugby league player
Born
September 20th, 1988 37 years ago
Played for the Gold Coast Titans in the NRL, contributing to the team's performance during his tenure. Known for versatility on the field, he played primarily as a lock and second-row forward. Additionally, he represented the New South Wales under-20s team. Retired from professional rugby league after a successful career.
Continue ReadingCoby Fleener
American football tight end, Super Bowl champion
Born
September 20th, 1988 37 years ago
Played as a tight end in American football. Attended Stanford University and contributed to the Stanford Cardinal football team. Selected in the second round of the 2012 NFL Draft by the Indianapolis Colts. During tenure with the Colts, played in 62 games, recording 150 receptions for 1,870 yards and 8 touchdowns. Won Super Bowl XLI with the New England Patriots after signing with the team in 2016. Retired from professional football in 2018.
Continue ReadingSergei Bobrovsky
Ice hockey player, Vezina Trophy winner
Born
September 20th, 1988 37 years ago
Born in 1988, this ice hockey player experienced success primarily in the National Hockey League (NHL). Playing as a goaltender, he began his career in the Kontinental Hockey League (KHL) before moving to the NHL. Notable teams include the Philadelphia Flyers and the Columbus Blue Jackets. Achieved significant acclaim for outstanding performances in net, earning multiple awards for exceptional performance during the regular season and playoffs.
Continue ReadingMichał Żyro
Polish footballer and national team player
Born
September 20th, 1992 33 years ago
A professional footballer, this individual played primarily as a winger. Career began at the youth level in Poland, with a significant presence in the Polish Ekstraklasa. Later, transferred to various international clubs, contributing to the teams' attacking efforts. Had a tenure in the English Football League, showcasing skills in competitive matches. Represented the national team at various youth levels, eventually earning caps for the senior squad.
Continue ReadingLaura Dekker
Sailor and youngest solo circumnavigator
Born
September 20th, 1995 30 years ago
Born in 1995, a Dutch sailor gained international attention for completing a solo circumnavigation of the globe. Starting her journey in 2010 at the age of 14, the expedition lasted over a year and covered more than 27,000 nautical miles. The journey was marked by challenges including navigating treacherous waters and overcoming legal battles regarding her age. The sailor documented her experiences and adventures throughout the trip, highlighting the joys and difficulties of long-distance sailing. Upon completion, she became the youngest person to sail solo around the world, a record recognized by the international sailing community.
Continue ReadingDonatas Motiejūnas
Basketball player, NBA and FIBA standout
Born
September 20th, 1990 35 years ago
A professional basketball player, represented Lithuania in international competitions. Played as a center and power forward. Started career in the Lithuanian Basketball League before moving to the NBA, joining teams like the Houston Rockets and the New Orleans Pelicans. Achieved success in Europe, contributing to teams in various leagues. Gained recognition for skills in scoring, rebounding, and passing.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on April 18th
Mandisa
Gospel Singer and Grammy Award Winner
Born
1976 50 years ago
Died
April 18th, 2024 2 years ago — 48 years old
An American gospel singer gained recognition after competing on the fifth season of a televised singing competition. Released several successful albums and achieved commercial success, with multiple songs charting on Billboard's Gospel and Christian music charts. Received a Grammy Award for Best Contemporary Christian Music Album. Contributed to the gospel music genre with a distinct vocal style and uplifting themes in music.
Continue ReadingCharles Pratt
English lawyer and Lord Chancellor
Born
1714 312 years ago
Died
April 18th, 1794 232 years ago — 80 years old
Served as Lord Chancellor of Great Britain, overseeing significant legal reforms. Practiced law as a barrister and became known for his contributions to the legal system in England. Appointed as the first Earl Camden in 1776, holding a prominent role in both judicial and political spheres. Contributed to landmark cases that shaped common law, influencing the legal landscape of the time.
Continue ReadingGustave Moreau
French painter known for Symbolism
Born
April 6th, 1826 200 years ago
Died
April 18th, 1898 128 years ago — 72 years old
A prominent figure in the Symbolist movement, this painter is recognized for his elaborate and fantastical works. He studied at the École des Beaux-Arts and displayed his talent at the Salon, gaining significant attention. Themes of mythology and fantasy permeated his paintings, characterized by intricate details and vibrant colors. A key influence on subsequent generations of artists, this individual's work inspired the likes of the Fauves and Surrealists. In addition to painting, he contributed to the academic field as a teacher, leaving a lasting legacy in art education.
Continue ReadingGeorge Jeffreys
Welsh judge, Lord Chancellor of Great Britain
Born
May 15th, 1645 380 years ago
Died
April 18th, 1689 337 years ago — 43 years old
This individual served as a prominent judge and politician in 17th century Britain. Appointed as Lord Chancellor, played a significant role in the judicial system of England, overseeing notable trials including the Monmouth Rebellion. Known for a severe and controversial approach to law, the tenure and decisions influenced the perception of the British judicial system during that era. Also involved in politics, was a member of the House of Lords and had a notable impact on legislation concerning the courts.
Continue ReadingLyra McKee
Irish journalist and author
Born
March 31st, 1990 36 years ago
Died
April 18th, 2019 7 years ago — 29 years old
A journalist and author recognized for investigative reporting, particularly focused on issues affecting Northern Ireland. Contributed to various publications, including the Guardian and Atlantic. Wrote ‘Angels with Blue Faces,’ a book that explored the life and death of a young man from Derry, and delved into the legacy of the Troubles. McKee was also an advocate for the rights of the LGBTQ+ community. Passed away in 2019 during a riot in Derry while reporting.
Continue ReadingErnie Pyle
Journalist & war correspondent; WWII reports
Born
August 3rd, 1900 125 years ago
Died
April 18th, 1945 81 years ago — 44 years old
A prominent journalist and war correspondent, this individual specialized in reporting from the front lines during World War II. Coverage included the experiences of soldiers and the harsh realities of warfare. Work appeared in many newspapers across the United States, connecting readers with the front lines of battle. Contributions to wartime literature earned recognition and respect.
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