Mickey Mantle
Baseball player, 3-time MVP
One of the most celebrated baseball players, earned a reputation as a powerful switch-hitter during a career spanning from 1951 to 1968. Played for the New York Yankees and contributed to seven World Series championships. Achieved American League MVP titles in 1956, 1957, and 1962. Inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1974 after a prolific career that included numerous All-Star selections and a Triple Crown win in 1956.
Played for the New York Yankees
Won three American League MVP awards
Inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame
Contributed to seven World Series titles
Other People Born on October 20th
Grandpa Jones
American singer-songwriter and banjo player
Born
October 20th, 1913 112 years ago
Died
February 19th, 1998 27 years ago — 84 years old
This individual contributed significantly to the bluegrass music genre as a singer-songwriter and banjo player. Rising to prominence as a member of the Grand Ole Opry, this artist became a staple in American country music. Originating from Kentucky, a blend of musical influences shaped a career characterized by lively performances and comedic flair. A defining feature of performances included traditional Appalachian music, showcasing banjo prowess and engaging audiences. The individual also appeared on television, further popularizing the style among broader audiences.
Continue ReadingJohn Krasinski
Actor and director of The Office
Born
October 20th, 1979 46 years ago
An American actor, director, and producer, gained prominence for role as Jim Halpert on television series The Office. Transitioned to film directing and starred in horror film A Quiet Place, which received critical acclaim and multiple awards. Expanded career to producing and directed sequel A Quiet Place Part II. Other notable television work includes Jack Ryan in the series Tom Clancy's Jack Ryan.
Continue ReadingRoger Hanin
French actor and director of 'Navarro'
Born
October 20th, 1925 100 years ago
Died
February 11th, 2015 10 years ago — 89 years old
An actor, director, and screenwriter from France. Gained prominence through performances in television series and films, particularly memorable for portraying police chief Navarro in the long-running French show 'Navarro'. Directed several films, demonstrating a wide range of creative talents. Worked in theater and was active in promoting French cinema throughout a career spanning over five decades.
Continue ReadingJerry Orbach
Actor and singer of Law & Order fame
Born
October 20th, 1935 90 years ago
Died
December 28th, 2004 21 years ago — 69 years old
An accomplished actor and singer, celebrated for a distinguished career in theater, film, and television. Originated the role of El Gallo in the off-Broadway production of 'The Fantasticks,' contributing significantly to its long-standing success. Gained widespread recognition for portraying Detective Lennie Briscoe on the television series 'Law & Order,' which spanned 12 seasons from 1992 to 2004. Additionally, appeared in notable films such as 'Dirty Dancing' and 'Beauty and the Beast,' lending his voice to the character of Lumière. Renowned for his distinctive baritone voice, which also earned accolades on Broadway.
Continue ReadingSam Witwer
Actor and musician, known for 'Being Human'
Born
October 20th, 1977 48 years ago
An American actor and musician, recognized for various roles in television and film. Portrayed Aidan Waite in the Syfy series 'Being Human' and provided the voice for iconic characters in video games, including Darth Maul in the 'Star Wars: The Clone Wars' series and 'Star Wars: Rebels'. In addition to acting, engaged in music projects, contributing to the field with original compositions and performances.
Continue ReadingBela Lugosi
Actor famous for Dracula role
Born
October 20th, 1882 143 years ago
Died
August 16th, 1956 69 years ago — 73 years old
An actor of Hungarian-American descent, notable for portraying Count Dracula in the original 1931 film adaptation of the classic horror novel. This role established a lasting association with the character and defined the horror genre in American cinema. Lugosi's distinctive accent and dramatic presence made him a symbol of horror films in the early 20th century. Throughout his career, he appeared in numerous other films, often typecast in similar roles. Despite initial success, faced challenges in later years, including struggles with typecasting and substance abuse.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on August 13th
Julien Green
French-American author of novels
Born
September 6th, 1900 125 years ago
Died
August 13th, 1998 27 years ago — 97 years old
Born in 1900, a prolific author who wrote in both French and English. Published numerous novels, essays, and plays. Examined themes of identity, spirituality, and the complexity of human relationships. Achieved recognition in literary circles for contributions to literature, particularly with works that explore the human experience. His literature often drew upon his own experiences and identity as an American living in France. Won several prestigious awards including the Prix de l'Académie Française.
Continue ReadingIda McNeil
American broadcaster and flag designer
Born
September 8th, 1888 137 years ago
Died
August 13th, 1974 51 years ago — 85 years old
A broadcaster and designer emerged from South Dakota. McNeil created the state flag of South Dakota, which was adopted in 1909. In addition to flag design, McNeil also contributed to various broadcasting initiatives, bringing attention to local stories and issues. The work in broadcasting fostered communication and engagement in the community, achieving statewide recognition.
Continue ReadingAndrew Dasburg
Painter and member of the Ashcan School
Born
May 4th, 1887 138 years ago
Died
August 13th, 1979 46 years ago — 92 years old
Active in the early to mid-20th century, this artist contributed to American modernism and was associated with the Ashcan School movement. His work exhibited a blend of impressionism and modernism, often depicting landscapes and still lifes. Significant affiliations included membership in the American Academy of Arts and Letters. His art was displayed in various institutions, and he participated in numerous exhibitions throughout his career.
Continue ReadingKenny Baker
American fiddler and musician
Born
June 26th, 1926 99 years ago
Died
August 13th, 2016 9 years ago — 90 years old
A fiddler and musician, performed extensively in the country music scene. Played with notable artists and contributed to various recordings, showcasing traditional American fiddle music. Participated in festivals and gatherings that celebrated American folk traditions, earning recognition in the genre for dedication to his craft.
Continue ReadingHayato Ikeda
Japanese Prime Minister and economist
Born
December 3rd, 1899 126 years ago
Died
August 13th, 1965 60 years ago — 65 years old
Served as the 58th Prime Minister of Japan from 1960 to 1964. Focused on economic growth and modernization during the post-war era. Implemented policies that fostered industrialization and improved living standards in Japan. Prior to his premiership, held several key government positions, including Minister of Finance. His leadership helped solidify Japan's recovery and growth following World War II.
Continue ReadingPramukh Swami Maharaj
Indian guru and spiritual leader
Born
December 7th, 1921 104 years ago
Died
August 13th, 2016 9 years ago — 94 years old
Born in 1921, served as the spiritual leader of the BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha. Contributed to the promotion of Indian culture and values through various community projects and religious activities. Led numerous efforts in building temples and promoting spirituality within the community. His teachings focused on devotion, ethics, and service to humanity, inspiring thousands across the globe.
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