Mother Angelica
Roman Catholic religious leader and founder
A significant figure in American Catholicism, Mother Angelica founded the Eternal Word Television Network (EWTN) in 1981, which became the largest religious television network in the world. She established a community of nuns and led various evangelistic efforts. As a host of programs on EWTN, she discussed faith and spirituality, attracting a wide audience. She authored several books and was an influential voice in contemporary Catholic discourse until her passing in 2016.
Founded the Eternal Word Television Network (EWTN)
Authored several influential books on Catholicism
Other People Born on April 20th
Princess Beatrice of Saxe-Coburg and Gotha
Royal figure and family member
Born
April 20th, 1884 141 years ago
Died
1966 60 years ago — 82 years old
Born in 1884, a member of the British royal family, served as a significant figure in royal duties and ceremonial functions. She held the title of a princess and was involved in various charitable organizations throughout her life. She was the daughter of Prince Henry of Battenberg and Princess Beatrice of the United Kingdom. The princess had a close relationship with her grandmother, Queen Victoria, and took on various responsibilities within the royal family, especially concerning the upbringing of her children. She maintained connections with royal and noble families across Europe, fostering important relationships.
Continue ReadingLuke Kuechly
American football linebacker
Born
April 20th, 1991 34 years ago
Played linebacker in the National Football League (NFL) for the Carolina Panthers. Achieved significant success during tenure, earning accolades for performance on the field. Recognized as a leading defender, contributing to the team's defensive strategies. Retired from professional football after the 2019 season, emphasizing a focus on health and personal well-being.
Continue ReadingAlexander Zverev
German tennis player, US Open champion
Born
April 20th, 1997 28 years ago
A professional tennis player, achieved significant success on the ATP Tour. Secured the 2020 US Open title, becoming the first German man to win a Grand Slam singles title since Boris Becker in 1996. Reached a career-high ATP singles ranking of world No. 3. Has participated in the ATP Finals, winning the 2018 edition. Represented Germany in multiple Davis Cup competitions.
Continue ReadingPhilippe Pinel
French physician and psychiatrist
Born
April 20th, 1745 280 years ago
Died
October 25th, 1826 199 years ago — 81 years old
A pioneer in the field of psychiatry, this physician established humane treatment methods for individuals with mental disorders. Active during the late 18th and early 19th centuries, initiated reforms in the management of mental illness, promoting the idea that patients should be treated with dignity. Played a critical role in the development of clinical psychiatry and emphasized the need for moral treatment. His approaches laid the groundwork for future psychiatric practices and highlighted the importance of understanding mental health in a compassionate context.
Continue ReadingLuther Vandross
American singer-songwriter and producer
Born
April 20th, 1951 74 years ago
Died
July 1st, 2005 20 years ago — 54 years old
A prominent American singer-songwriter, whose career spanned several decades, achieved significant acclaim for a smooth vocal style and emotive performances. Rose to fame in the 1980s, releasing a series of successful albums that showcased a blend of soul, R&B, and pop influences. The artist won multiple Grammy Awards, with hits such as 'Never Too Much' and 'Dance with My Father' highlighting the ability to connect with audiences through heartfelt lyrics and rich melodies.
Continue ReadingBogoslav Šulek
Croatian philologist and lexicographer
Born
April 20th, 1816 209 years ago
Died
1895 131 years ago — 79 years old
Contributed significantly to the fields of philology and lexicography in Croatia. Authored seminal works on the Croatian language and developed comprehensive dictionaries. Established methodologies for studying Slovene and Croatian literature. Engaged in historical research which enhanced understanding of regional linguistic evolution.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on March 27th
Arnold Bennett
English author of literary works
Born
May 27th, 1867 158 years ago
Died
March 27th, 1931 94 years ago — 63 years old
This individual was a prominent English author and playwright whose literary contributions significantly shaped the early 20th-century literary landscape. His most recognized work includes the novel 'Clayhanger', which reflects the life of a family in the Potteries, and the collection of stories in 'The Old Wives' Tale'. Bennett's writing often explored themes of everyday life and the impact of industrialization. He also wrote plays, with 'Milestones' being one of his notable works. His works contributed to the novel form and social commentary during his time, earning a place in the examination of English literature of the period.
Continue ReadingJanus Pannonius
Hungarian bishop and poet
Born
August 29th, 1434 591 years ago
Died
March 27th, 1472 553 years ago — 37 years old
A prominent figure in the 15th century, served as the Bishop of Pécs. Contributed significantly to Hungarian literature and humanism. Wrote notable works including poems and elegies that reflect humanist themes. His writings are considered among the earliest examples of Hungarian poetry, blending classical influences with local traditions.
Continue ReadingMalcolm Cowley
Novelist and literary critic
Born
August 24th, 1898 127 years ago
Died
March 27th, 1989 36 years ago — 90 years old
A prominent figure in American literature, contributed significantly through novels, poetry, and literary criticism. Played a key role in the literary movement of the 1920s and 1930s, particularly as a member of the Lost Generation. Wrote critically acclaimed works such as 'The Ace of Diamonds' and 'Exile's Return'. Edited and contributed to various literary magazines, influencing many writers of the time. Also engaged in discussions around modernism and the role of literature in society.
Continue ReadingMargaret of Valois
Queen of France and a political figure
Born
May 14th, 1553 472 years ago
Died
March 27th, 1615 410 years ago — 61 years old
Born into the Valois dynasty, the individual became Queen of France through marriage to Henry IV. This union, which represented a significant political alliance between Catholics and Protestants during the French Wars of Religion, served to stabilize France. The individual also played a crucial role in the politics of the time, leveraging her royal status to influence court dynamics. Additionally, a notable literary figure, contributions to the arts, particularly in French literature, marked her legacy.
Continue ReadingArthur Bliss
English conductor and composer
Born
August 2nd, 1891 134 years ago
Died
March 27th, 1975 50 years ago — 83 years old
An English composer and conductor, primarily active in the 20th century, contributed significantly to British music. Bliss achieved notable recognition for his orchestral and vocal compositions. His work included film scores, opera, and choral music. The composition 'A Colour Symphony' remains one of his hallmark works. Bliss also served as a director of the BBC Symphony Orchestra from 1947 to 1950. His contributions to music education and public broadcasting helped shape the landscape of British classical music.
Continue ReadingKiichiro Toyoda
Japanese businessman and founder of Toyota
Born
June 11th, 1894 131 years ago
Died
March 27th, 1952 73 years ago — 57 years old
Founded an automotive manufacturer in Japan that grew to become one of the largest car manufacturers in the world. Led the development of Japan's automobile industry after establishing the Toyota Motor Corporation in 1937. Implemented innovative manufacturing techniques that enhanced productivity and quality. Contributed significantly to Japan's post-war economic recovery through the automobile sector.
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