Max Euwe
Chess player and World Champion
An accomplished chess player and mathematician, this individual became the fifth World Chess Champion, holding the title from 1935 to 1937. Renowned for both competitive play and extensive contributions to chess literature, authored several books on the game. As a mathematician, engaged in research and teaching, combining a passion for the game with academic pursuits. Actively participated in chess initiatives promoting the sport during and after World War II.
Won the World Chess Championship in 1935
Authored numerous chess books and literature
Other People Born on May 20th
Giuseppe Siri
Italian cardinal and archbishop
Born
May 20th, 1906 119 years ago
Died
May 2nd, 1989 36 years ago — 82 years old
Ordained as a priest in 1931, served in various roles within the Catholic Church, including as the Archbishop of Genoa from 1946 to 1971. Elevated to cardinal by Pope Pius XII in 1953, this individual participated in several conclaves and became a significant figure in the church during the 20th century, advocating for traditional Catholic values amidst changing societal norms. Known for his opposition to modernism within the Church, contributed to shaping the direction of Catholic doctrine during a transformative period.
Continue ReadingHieronymus Fabricius
Italian anatomist and embryologist
Born
May 20th, 1537 488 years ago
Died
May 21st, 1619 406 years ago — 82 years old
An influential figure in the field of anatomy, contributions to anatomical knowledge included detailed studies of the structure of various organs. His work laid the foundation for modern embryology and described numerous anatomical features with precision. Published 'De Formato Foetu', which presented groundbreaking ideas about embryonic development and the formation of organs. Fabricius held the chair of anatomy and surgery at the University of Padua, where he trained many notable anatomists and physicians.
Continue ReadingDave Thomas
Canadian actor and director of SCTV
Born
May 20th, 1949 76 years ago
Died
August 27th, 2013 12 years ago — 64 years old
An actor, director, producer, and screenwriter, involved with the sketch comedy show SCTV, which gained critical acclaim. Also co-created and starred in the film Strange Brew, which became a cult classic. Contributed to television and film projects throughout career, winning accolades for comedic performances and writing skills.
Continue ReadingDietrich Mateschitz
Businessman, co-founder of Red Bull
Born
May 20th, 1944 81 years ago
Died
2022 4 years ago — 78 years old
Co-founded Red Bull GmbH, a company that revolutionized the energy drink market. Instrumental in the brand's marketing strategies, establishing a global presence through innovative advertising campaigns and extreme sports sponsorships. Played a key role in promoting and expanding the brand into various sports, including Formula 1 and extreme sports events. Helped foster a unique corporate culture focused on creativity and dynamism, influencing both consumer behavior and marketing approaches worldwide.
Continue ReadingEmile Berliner
Inventor of the phonograph
Born
May 20th, 1851 174 years ago
Died
August 3rd, 1929 96 years ago — 78 years old
Emile Berliner was a German-American inventor and businessman credited with the invention of the phonograph, which played a pivotal role in the development of the music recording industry. Berliner developed the flat disc record, which replaced the earlier cylinder format, leading to significant advancements in audio technology. His company, the Berliner Gramophone Company, started the commercialization of recorded music. In addition to his work in sound recording, he contributed to various fields including telephony and aeronautics, holding numerous patents.
Continue ReadingKōichirō Genba
Japanese politician and foreign minister
Born
May 20th, 1964 61 years ago
Served as the 80th Japanese Minister for Foreign Affairs from 2011 to 2012. Represented the Fukushima 1st district in the House of Representatives. Contributed to Japan's diplomatic relations, particularly in the Asia-Pacific region. Worked on various global issues including nuclear disarmament and climate change during tenure. Engaged in economic diplomacy and attended multiple international summits to enhance Japan's presence on the global stage.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on November 26th
Philippe Quinault
French playwright and composer of operas
Born
June 3rd, 1635 390 years ago
Died
November 26th, 1688 337 years ago — 53 years old
Contributed significantly to the development of French opera during the 17th century. Collaborated with composer Jean-Baptiste Lully, creating several operatic works that established a strong foundation for the genre in France. Worked on notable pieces such as 'Cadmus et Hermione', which premiered in 1673. His librettos were characterized by their lyrical quality and adherence to classical themes and structures. Quinault's influence shaped the theatrical landscape of his time, leading to the flourishing of opera within the French cultural context.
Continue ReadingStephen Sondheim
Composer of Broadway musicals like Sweeney Todd
Born
March 22nd, 1930 95 years ago
Died
November 26th, 2021 4 years ago — 91 years old
A prominent American composer and lyricist, major contributions to musical theatre included innovative works that reshaped the genre. Collaborated with various artists and musicians, blending complex narratives with sophisticated scores. Renowned for mentorship of younger composers and contribution to the art form's evolution. Received multiple prestigious awards, including Tony Awards and a Pulitzer Prize, highlighting significant achievements in Broadway history.
Continue ReadingSylvester Gozzolini
Founder of the Sylvestrine Order
Born
1177 849 years ago
Died
November 26th, 1267 758 years ago — 90 years old
Established the Sylvestrines, a religious order, in the early 13th century in Italy. The order focused on communal living and adherence to the Rule of Saint Benedict. Gozzolini sought to promote a life of prayer and study among its members. Renowned for his spiritual guidance, he attracted followers committed to monastic life and education. His work contributed to the development of monasticism in Italy during the Middle Ages.
Continue ReadingArik Einstein
Israeli singer-songwriter and actor
Born
January 3rd, 1939 87 years ago
Died
November 26th, 2013 12 years ago — 74 years old
Influential figure in Israeli music and film. Started music career in the 1950s, gaining recognition for contributions to rock and pop genres. Collaborated with various artists, shaping the Israeli music scene. Also appeared in films and television, showcasing versatility in performing arts. Released numerous albums, many of which became classics in Israel.
Continue ReadingSwanehilde of Saxony
Margravine of Meissen
Died
November 26th, 1014 1011 years ago — None years old
Served as the Margravine of Meissen, playing a significant role in the political landscape of early medieval Germany. Married to the Margrave Hermann I of Meissen, influenced local governance and regional matters. Known for her descent from noble lineages, contributing to the political alliances in the region. Historical records note her involvement in initiatives that strengthened family ties amongst the nobility.
Continue ReadingHelen Maud Merrill
American poet and litterateur
Born
May 5th, 1865 160 years ago
Died
November 26th, 1943 82 years ago — 78 years old
Contributed to American literature primarily through poetry and essays. Worked as an editor for various literary magazines, enhancing the visibility of contemporary writers. Published several poetry collections and was involved in literary discussions and critiques during her lifetime. Engaged with the literary community, contributing to its growth and development. Her writing often explored themes of nature and human experience.
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