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
Frances Ames
South African neurologist and psychiatrist
Born
April 20th, 1920 105 years ago
Died
November 11th, 2002 23 years ago — 82 years old
Contributed significantly to neurology and psychiatry in South Africa. Worked as a psychiatrist at various institutions and was involved in mental health advocacy. Contributed to research focused on the intersection of mental health and human rights. Actively participated in organizations addressing mental health issues during apartheid and advocated for better treatment and understanding of mental illness within the context of human rights.
Continue ReadingJames Harcourt
English character actor in theatre
Born
April 20th, 1873 152 years ago
Died
1951 75 years ago — 78 years old
An English character actor who became prominent in the early 20th century. Harcourt frequently appeared on stage, particularly in London theatres, and earned acclaim for his performances in a variety of plays. His work extended to film, where he portrayed various distinct characters that showcased his range as an actor. Harcourt contributed significantly to both dramatic and comedic theatre, engaging audiences with his compelling performances until his retirement.
Continue ReadingJohn Paul Stevens
U.S. Supreme Court Justice and jurist
Born
April 20th, 1920 105 years ago
Died
July 16th, 2019 6 years ago — 99 years old
A prominent lawyer and jurist served as an Associate Justice of the Supreme Court of the United States from 1975 to 2010. Appointed by President Gerald Ford, served for 35 years, making significant contributions to American jurisprudence. Focused on issues such as civil rights, campaign finance reform, and death penalty laws. Retired from the Court in 2010, continuing to write and speak on legal matters.
Continue ReadingAdolf Hitler
Austrian-German politician and dictator
Born
April 20th, 1889 136 years ago
Died
April 30th, 1945 80 years ago — 56 years old
An Austrian-German politician and author who led the National Socialist German Workers' Party (Nazi Party) and became Chancellor of Germany in 1933. Hitler established a totalitarian regime noted for its aggressive expansionism and its instigation of World War II. The regime implemented policies leading to significant military conquests in Europe and the systemic persecution of Jews and other groups, culminating in the Holocaust. Hitler authored 'Mein Kampf,' outlining his ideology and political plans. He died by suicide in 1945 as Allied forces closed in on Berlin.
Continue ReadingKakha Bendukidze
Georgian economist and reformer
Born
April 20th, 1956 69 years ago
Died
November 13th, 2014 11 years ago — 58 years old
An economist and politician from Georgia, contributed significantly to the nation's economic reforms after the Rose Revolution. Served as the Minister of Economy and Sustainable Development, implementing policies that spurred privatization and deregulation. Advocated for free market principles, which transformed the Georgian economy. Believed in reducing the size of government and promoted entrepreneurship.
Continue ReadingEmperor Go-Kōmyō of Japan
Japanese Emperor during Edo Period
Born
April 20th, 1633 392 years ago
Died
October 30th, 1654 371 years ago — 21 years old
Ascended the throne in 1654, serving as the 110th Emperor of Japan. He presided over a period marked by relative peace and stability known as the Edo period. Managed court affairs and engaged in the promotion of culture and art, including poetry and calligraphy. Undertook reforms to improve the imperial court's standing and foster relations with the ruling Tokugawa shogunate.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on March 27th
Syed Ahmad Khan
Indian philosopher and social reformer
Born
October 17th, 1817 208 years ago
Died
March 27th, 1898 127 years ago — 80 years old
A prominent educator and social reformer, contributed significantly to modernizing Indian society in the 19th century. Established the Muhammadan Educational Conference to promote education among Muslims. Founded the Aligarh Muslim University, which became a pivotal institution for higher education. Advocated for scientific education and sought to bridge the gap between Western knowledge and traditional Islamic scholarship. Emphasized the need for rational thought and scientific inquiry within the Muslim community.
Continue ReadingGeorge Monckton-Arundell
English politician, 5th Governor-General
Born
March 24th, 1882 143 years ago
Died
March 27th, 1943 82 years ago — 61 years old
Served as the 5th Governor-General of New Zealand from 1910 to 1912. Involved in New Zealand's political landscape during a time of notable changes in governance. Played a key role in facilitating relations between the New Zealand government and the British Empire. Held the title of 8th Viscount Galway, contributing to the peerage's history in England. Engaged in various political activities and discussions relevant to both New Zealand and British interests.
Continue ReadingDaniel Kahneman
Psychologist and Nobel Prize winner
Born
March 5th, 1934 91 years ago
Died
March 27th, 2024 1 years ago — 90 years old
An Israeli-American psychologist and economist focused on behavioral economics, contributed significantly to the understanding of judgment and decision-making. Authored the influential book 'Thinking, Fast and Slow', which examines the dual systems of thought. Received the Nobel Prize in Economic Sciences in 2002 for integrating psychological research into economic science, particularly in the areas of risk assessment and human biases. Served as a professor at Princeton University, influencing multiple fields including economics, psychology, and public policy.
Continue ReadingAdrienne Rich
American poet and feminist essayist
Born
May 16th, 1929 96 years ago
Died
March 27th, 2012 13 years ago — 82 years old
A prominent poet and essayist, this individual contributed significantly to feminist literature. Several collections of poetry include 'The Dream of a Common Language' and 'Diving into the Wreck', which examined themes of identity and gender. Writings such as 'Of Woman Born' explored motherhood and women's experiences, establishing a foundation for feminist theory. The individual received numerous accolades, including the National Book Award and the MacArthur Fellowship, reflecting impact on American literature and feminist discourse.
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.
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