Nam June Paik
Video art pioneer and TV Buddha creator
An artist impactful in the development of video art, contributing significantly to the genre's evolution. Experimented with television as an art form and introduced innovative multimedia works. Established a career that merged technology with artistic expression, becoming a prominent figure in contemporary art. Created influential pieces such as TV Buddha, which explored themes of technology's relationship with human spirituality. Contributed to exhibitions globally, cementing a legacy that resonates in both art and media.
Created the influential piece TV Buddha
Pioneered the use of video in art exhibitions
Participated in the landmark exhibition at the Whitney Museum in 1975
Other People Born on July 20th
Diana Rigg
English actress in theater and television
Born
July 20th, 1938 87 years ago
Died
September 10th, 2020 5 years ago — 82 years old
An English actress gained prominence through performances in theater, television, and film. Played the character Emma Peel in the television series 'The Avengers' during the 1960s. In later years, appeared in the HBO series 'Game of Thrones' as Olenna Tyrell. Acted in numerous stage productions and received acclaim for roles in both classic and contemporary plays. Acquired a reputation for strong performances, particularly in works by Shakespeare and modern playwrights.
Continue ReadingWilliam Paine Lord
American politician, 9th Governor of Oregon
Born
July 20th, 1838 187 years ago
Died
1911 114 years ago — 73 years old
Served as the 9th Governor of Oregon from 1895 to 1899. Worked as a lawyer, establishing a legal practice in the state. Held various political positions and contributed to the development of Oregon's infrastructure and education system. Advocated for state issues and served the public throughout his career.
Continue ReadingOtto Blumenthal
Mathematician; contributed to algebra
Born
July 20th, 1876 149 years ago
Died
1944 81 years ago — 68 years old
Born in Germany, a mathematician and academic focused on algebra and its applications. Worked extensively in the field of abstract algebra and contributed to the development of the theory of groups. Held a position at the University of Berlin, where significant research on algebraic structures and their properties took place. Influenced the educational landscape through teaching and mentoring.
Continue ReadingGeorge Llewelyn Davies
English soldier during World War I
Born
July 20th, 1893 132 years ago
Died
1915 110 years ago — 22 years old
Served as a soldier in the British Army during World War I. Fought in significant battles on the Western Front. Participated in the First Battle of the Somme, where he sustained injuries. Later served in the Royal Flying Corps. Was part of the military efforts that contributed to the overall war strategy.
Continue ReadingMiron Cristea
Romanian Prime Minister and cleric
Born
July 20th, 1868 157 years ago
Died
1939 86 years ago — 71 years old
Served as the 38th Prime Minister of Romania from 1926 to 1927. Had a significant role in the Romanian Orthodox Church and was elevated to the position of Patriarch in 1925. Contributed to the political landscape of Romania during the interwar period. Participated in various government initiatives to address national issues.
Continue ReadingAlberto Santos-Dumont
Aeronautical pioneer and inventor
Born
July 20th, 1873 152 years ago
Died
1932 93 years ago — 59 years old
An early aviation pioneer contributed significantly to the development of lighter-than-air flight and heavier-than-air flying machines. Achieved notoriety for flying the 14-bis, which made a public flight in Paris in 1906, marking one of the first successful heavier-than-air flights. Also known for the dirigible No. 6, which won the Deutsch de la Meurthe prize in 1901 for the fastest flight from the Parc de Bagatelle to the Eiffel Tower. Made contributions to aviation design, advocating for aviation as a feasible mode of transport.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on January 29th
Edward Lear
Poet and illustrator of limericks
Born
May 12th, 1812 213 years ago
Died
January 29th, 1888 137 years ago — 75 years old
An English poet and illustrator, focused on the creation of limericks and whimsical illustrations. Published works included 'A Book of Nonsense,' which featured light-hearted poems and playful drawings. Worked extensively as a landscape painter, capturing scenes of the Mediterranean and various locations in Europe. Thus, contributed significantly to the genre of children's literature and illustrated poetry. Lear was also known for his detailed works of natural history, especially in ornithology.
Continue ReadingJack Hylton
English band leader and impresario
Born
1892 133 years ago
Died
January 29th, 1965 60 years ago — 73 years old
A prominent figure in British popular music during the early 20th century, achieved success as a pianist, composer, and band leader. Led the Jack Hylton Band, which became well-known for its dance music. Involved in the musical theatre scene, producing and presenting various shows, including the successful revue 'Hylton's Musical Revue'. Contributed to the popularization of jazz in the UK and was instrumental in the development of radio broadcasting in the 1920s and 1930s.
Continue ReadingEphraim Kishon
Israeli author and screenwriter
Born
August 23rd, 1924 101 years ago
Died
January 29th, 2005 20 years ago — 80 years old
An Israeli author, screenwriter, and director contributed significantly to literature and film. First published in the 1950s, produced a range of humorous works that captured the essence of Israeli life. Wrote popular satirical columns, and plays that were performed on stages around the world. Many works translated into multiple languages, increasing global readership. Directed films based on his writings, achieving success in the Israeli film industry. Received numerous awards for both literary contributions and film productions.
Continue ReadingDukinfield Henry Scott
British botanist, authored many texts
Born
1854 171 years ago
Died
January 29th, 1934 91 years ago — 80 years old
A British botanist contributed significantly to the field of botany through extensive research and publications. Notable works include comprehensive texts on plant taxonomy and morphology. His research enhanced understanding of various plant species and their classifications. Held a prominent role at the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, facilitating advancements in botanical studies. Participated in scientific expeditions that enriched botanical knowledge. Engaged with the scientific community to promote further exploration and study within botany.
Continue ReadingDouglas Haig
Scottish field marshal of WWI
Born
June 19th, 1861 164 years ago
Died
January 29th, 1928 97 years ago — 66 years old
A prominent British military leader, contributed significantly during the First World War. Commanded the British Expeditionary Force from 1915 to 1918, overseeing major battles such as the Battle of the Somme and the Battle of Passchendaele. Played a key role in coordinating Allied strategy during the war's later stages. Post-war, held the title of 1st Earl Haig and continued involvement in veterans' affairs for the British Legion, addressing military needs and welfare.
Continue ReadingAlfred Sisley
Impressionist painter of landscapes
Born
October 30th, 1839 186 years ago
Died
January 29th, 1899 126 years ago — 59 years old
Born in 1839, a prominent figure of the Impressionist movement, this painter focused primarily on landscapes and natural scenes. After moving to France, developed a distinct style characterized by the effects of light and color on outdoor landscapes. Participated in the first Impressionist exhibition in 1874, showcasing works that captured the beauty of nature. The artist spent much time painting the countryside around Paris, particularly the Seine river and the surrounding regions. Continued to explore themes of light and atmosphere until death in 1899.
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