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
Jamie Chadwick
Race car driver, W Series champion
Born
May 20th, 1998 27 years ago
An English race car driver achieved prominence in motorsport, particularly in the W Series. Earned multiple championships, including the W Series title in both 2019 and 2021. Competed in various racing series, including the British GT Championship and Eurocup Formula Renault. Also participated in development roles with prominent teams, showcasing talent and skill in competitive racing.
Continue ReadingOwen Chadwick
Rugby player and historian, authored books
Born
May 20th, 1916 109 years ago
Died
July 17th, 2015 10 years ago — 99 years old
Played rugby union for England and served as a historian and academic. Contributed significantly to the field of modern history with a particular focus on the Methodist Church and British history. Authored several books, adding depth to historical scholarship and fostering academic discussions on religion and history.
Continue ReadingJulian Wright
Basketball player for New Orleans Hornets
Born
May 20th, 1987 38 years ago
Professional basketball player participated in the NBA and played primarily as a forward. Drafted in the second round of the 2007 NBA Draft by the New Orleans Hornets. Played college basketball at the University of Kansas, contributing to the team's success in the NCAA Tournament. Helped the Jayhawks secure the national championship title in 2008. Overall career included stints with several teams in the NBA and overseas.
Continue ReadingMatt Langridge
English rower and Olympic medalist
Born
May 20th, 1983 42 years ago
Competed in rowing at the international level, achieving significant success with the British team. Won a bronze medal in the men's four at the 2008 Beijing Olympics. Contributed to the team’s performance in various World Rowing Championships, earning medals and establishing the crew as a competitive force in the sport. Participated in multiple World Cup series, showcasing skills in both sweep and sculling events.
Continue ReadingMike Havenaar
Japanese footballer, known for club success
Born
May 20th, 1987 38 years ago
This individual played as a professional footballer primarily as a forward. Made league appearances in Japan and abroad, including jLeague teams and clubs in Europe. Enjoyed stints with teams such as Ventforet Kofu and Vissel Kobe. Contributed to the team efforts in various competitions during a career spanning over a decade.
Continue ReadingFanny Smith
Freestyle skier, World Champion and Olympian
Born
May 20th, 1992 33 years ago
Born in 1992 in Switzerland, this freestyle skier specializes in ski cross. The athlete made a significant mark in the sport with a competitive career beginning in 2007. Achievements include multiple podium finishes in World Cup events and significant success in World Championships. Secured a bronze medal at the 2014 Winter Olympics in Sochi and a silver medal in the 2018 Winter Olympics in Pyeongchang.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on November 26th
Vikram Gokhale
Indian actor and director of films
Born
November 14th, 1945 80 years ago
Died
November 26th, 2022 3 years ago — 77 years old
An Indian actor and director with a career spanning over four decades in the film, television, and theater industry. Debuted in the film industry in the 1970s, and gained recognition for various performances in Marathi and Hindi cinema. Directed plays and films, contributing to the cultural landscape of Indian theater and cinema. Known for roles in the blockbuster film 'Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam' and the television series 'Karam Apnaa Apnaa'. Received several accolades for contributions to Indian performing arts.
Continue ReadingSaul Leiter
Photographer and painter, color photography pioneer
Born
1923 103 years ago
Died
November 26th, 2013 12 years ago — 90 years old
A prominent figure in the New York City art scene, contributed significantly to the medium of photography, particularly in color. Began taking photographs in the 1940s, capturing urban life in vibrant hues. His work blended elements of painting and photography, showcasing a unique aesthetic that drew upon abstraction. Held several solo exhibitions and gained recognition posthumously for innovative approaches that influenced contemporary photography. Additionally, created a body of work in painting, further establishing a multifaceted artistic identity.
Continue ReadingAmir Aczel
Mathematician and historian, author
Born
1950 76 years ago
Died
November 26th, 2015 10 years ago — 65 years old
An Israeli-American mathematician and historian, significant contributions ranged across mathematics and its historical context. Aczel authored several popular books that made complex mathematical concepts accessible to lay audiences. His works explored the lives of prominent mathematicians and mathematical theories, often intertwining narratives with personal stories. His academic background included degrees from institutions in Israel and the United States. Additionally, Aczel taught at various universities, imparting knowledge in both mathematics and its history to students.
Continue ReadingSilvestre S. Herrera
Mexican-American Medal of Honor recipient
Born
1917 109 years ago
Died
November 26th, 2007 18 years ago — 90 years old
Served as a sergeant in the U.S. Army during World War II. Participated in the notable battles of the Pacific Theater. Displayed extraordinary bravery during a combat mission on May 28, 1945, leading to the rescue of wounded comrades under fire. Received the Medal of Honor for heroic actions, providing an example of valor and sacrifice.
Continue ReadingAhmed Abdallah
Comorian politician, President of Comoros
Born
1919 107 years ago
Died
November 26th, 1989 36 years ago — 70 years old
Served as President of Comoros from 1975 until 1976 and again from 1984 until death in 1989. Played a significant role in the political landscape of the Comoros during a period marked by political instability and several coups. Advocated for the independence of Comoros from colonial rule. Focused on economic development and establishing national sovereignty.
Continue ReadingStephen Hillenburg
Animator and creator of SpongeBob SquarePants
Born
August 21st, 1961 64 years ago
Died
November 26th, 2018 7 years ago — 57 years old
An animator, voice actor, and marine science educator, created the animated television series SpongeBob SquarePants. The show premiered in 1999 and gained widespread popularity for its unique characters and humor. Prior to animation, worked as a marine biology teacher, integrating oceanic themes into later projects. Hillenburg's work contributed significantly to children's television, influencing a generation of viewers. He passed away in 2018 after a battle with ALS, leaving behind a legacy through SpongeBob SquarePants and its extensive merchandise and media adaptations.
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