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
John Strasberg
Actor and teacher associated with acting
Born
May 20th, 1941 85 years ago
An American actor and teacher, contributed significantly to the field of acting through teachings based on the methods developed by Lee Strasberg. Engaged in numerous productions, both on stage and in film, and played a critical role in directing and mentoring a new generation of actors. Operated in various theater companies and continued the legacy of the Actors Studio, focusing on emotional authenticity and character development in performances.
Continue ReadingDave Thomas
Canadian actor and director of SCTV
Born
May 20th, 1949 77 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 ReadingTeodoro Fernández
Peruvian footballer and top goal scorer
Born
May 20th, 1913 113 years ago
Died
1996 30 years ago — 83 years old
Played as a forward in professional football. Primarily represented Alianza Lima during the 1930s and 1940s. Achieved success in the Peruvian league, becoming one of its all-time leading scorers. Represented Peru in international competitions, including the Copa América, contributing significantly to the team's performance.
Continue ReadingTed Allen
Television host and cookbook author
Born
May 20th, 1965 61 years ago
Associated with food and cooking media, this figure hosted the television show 'Queer Eye for the Straight Guy' and served as a judge on 'Chopped.' The role in 'Queer Eye for the Straight Guy' contributed to modern lifestyle programming by focusing on personal transformation. Additionally, authored several cookbooks that reflect a passion for culinary arts and entertaining.
Continue ReadingRamón Hernández
Baseball catcher and MLB player
Born
May 20th, 1976 50 years ago
A professional baseball catcher, played in Major League Baseball from 1999 to 2015. Primarily associated with teams like the San Diego Padres, Cincinnati Reds, and Oakland Athletics. Contributed to multiple post-season appearances and won the National League Division Series with the Reds in 2010. Earned recognition for both offensive and defensive skills behind the plate.
Continue ReadingJane Parker-Smith
English organist and composer
Born
May 20th, 1950 76 years ago
Died
2020 6 years ago — 70 years old
An influential English organist and composer, contributed significantly to the world of organ music. Served as a consultant for various churches and music organizations, focusing on the performance and promotion of organ repertoire. Performed at notable venues across the UK and internationally, showcasing both classical and contemporary works. Recorded numerous albums that feature a range of compositions, enhancing accessibility to organ music. Engaged in educational initiatives to inspire future generations of organists and promote the rich tradition of organ music.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on November 26th
John Cockburn
Politician, 18th Premier of South Australia
Born
August 23rd, 1850 175 years ago
Died
November 26th, 1929 96 years ago — 79 years old
Served as the 18th Premier of South Australia from 1881 to 1883. Played a key role in the establishment of the state’s land policies and educational reforms. Contributed to the development of railways and the expansion of public works in the region. Served in various political capacities, including as a member of both the House of Assembly and the Legislative Council.
Continue ReadingEdward O'Hare
American pilot, Medal of Honor recipient
Born
March 13th, 1914 112 years ago
Died
November 26th, 1943 82 years ago — 29 years old
Served as a naval aviator during World War II. Achieved the rank of lieutenant and played a significant role in aerial combat. Famously engaged in a dogfight against multiple enemy aircraft. Awarded the Medal of Honor for extraordinary heroism in action against enemy forces in 1944. Known for his bravery and leadership in the face of danger, contributing significantly to the naval aviation efforts during the war.
Continue ReadingJoseph Freiherr von Eichendorff
German author and poet
Born
March 10th, 1788 238 years ago
Died
November 26th, 1857 168 years ago — 69 years old
A prominent novelist and poet of the Romantic movement in Germany, notable for evocative lyrical poetry and narrative prose. Authored the novel 'Auferstehung', which explored themes of nature, love, and the search for identity. Contributed significantly to German literature through rich symbolism and a deep attachment to the German landscape.
Continue ReadingPete DePaolo
Race car driver and Indianapolis 500 winner
Born
1898 128 years ago
Died
November 26th, 1981 44 years ago — 83 years old
An American race car driver active in the early to mid-20th century, achieved significant success in Indianapolis racing. Secured victory at the Indianapolis 500 in 1925, becoming one of the early champions of the event. Competing in various races, built a reputation for skill and speed on the track. Contributed to motorsport not just as a driver but also as a team owner and builder after retiring from driving. His legacy includes influencing the sport's evolution and inspiring future generations of racers.
Continue ReadingErnest Belfort Bax
English socialist historian and journalist
Born
July 23rd, 1854 171 years ago
Died
November 26th, 1926 99 years ago — 72 years old
Born in 1854, this individual practiced as a barrister and engaged in journalism. He wrote extensively on socialism and men’s rights, advocating for gender equality from a unique perspective. The writings spanned various topics, including history, philosophy, and social issues. A notable document in his body of work contributed to the discourse on men’s rights during the early 20th century. He played a role in the socialist movement, aligning with the ideas of the time and promoting ideas that sought to challenge established norms.
Continue ReadingPaul Rand
Graphic Designer; IBM logo designer
Born
August 15th, 1914 111 years ago
Died
November 26th, 1996 29 years ago — 82 years old
An influential graphic designer and art director, this individual significantly shaped modern visual communication. Work included corporate identity design and branding, contributing to companies and publications. Created iconic logos, including the ones for IBM, UPS, and ABC. Published numerous books on design principles and education, enhancing the field's theoretical framework. Worked as a professor, imparting knowledge to future generations of designers.
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