Narendra Dabholkar

Indian author and rationalist activist

Narendra Dabholkar - Activists & Humanitarians born 1945
Born

1945
81 years ago

Died
Category

Activists & Humanitarians

Country

India

Links & References

An Indian author and activist focused on rationalism and social reform. Founded the Maharashtra Andhashraddha Nirmoolan Samiti, an organization combating superstition and promoting scientific thinking. Wrote extensively on the topics of atheism and rationalism. Authored several books addressing superstition, including 'The Myth of God' and 'Crisis of Faith'. Recognized for vigorous advocacy against black magic and fraudulent practices, leading campaigns to educate the public on rational thought and skepticism.

Founded Maharashtra Andhashraddha Nirmoolan Samiti

Authored 'The Myth of God'

Promoted scientific thinking and rationalism

Other People Who Died on August 20th

Đặng Phong

Vietnamese economist and historian
Born
1937 89 years ago
Died
August 20th, 2010 15 years ago — 73 years old

Contributed significantly to the understanding of Vietnam's economic history and socialist transformation. Served as a professor at the National University of Vietnam, specializing in economic history. Conducted extensive research on the historical development of Vietnam's economy from the colonial period to post-war reconstruction. Authored several influential works that examined the impact of governmental policies on economic growth and social change.

Continue Reading

Larry Knechtel

Session musician and The Wrecking Crew member
Born
August 4th, 1940 85 years ago
Died
August 20th, 2009 16 years ago — 69 years old

A prominent American bass player and pianist, became a leading session musician in the 1960s and 1970s. Contributed to numerous iconic recordings across various genres. Notably played on tracks for The Beach Boys, including the seminal album 'Pet Sounds'. Collaborated with artists such as Elvis Presley and Simon & Garfunkel, contributing to the classic hit 'Bridge Over Troubled Water'. Won a Grammy Award for his work with the band Bread. Knechtel's expertise in both bass and keyboard instruments solidified his reputation in the music industry as a highly sought-after session musician.

Continue Reading

Phyllis Diller

Comedian and voice artist in 'The Jetsons'
Born
July 17th, 1917 108 years ago
Died
August 20th, 2012 13 years ago — 95 years old

An American actress and comedian, gained recognition for a unique comedic style characterized by self-deprecating humor and eccentric persona. Started a career in the 1950s and made significant contributions to both stand-up comedy and television. Appeared in films such as 'The Pruitts of Southampton' and voiced the character of the hag in the animated series 'The Jetsons'. Diller also became a regular guest on various talk shows and entertained audiences with her distinctive laugh and energetic performances.

Continue Reading

Edmund Szoka

American cardinal and Vatican official
Born
September 14th, 1927 98 years ago
Died
August 20th, 2014 11 years ago — 86 years old

Ordained a priest in 1955, served in various capacities within the Archdiocese of Detroit. Appointed the sixth bishop of the Diocese of Kalamazoo in 1981, and subsequently became the 11th archbishop of Detroit in 1990. Elevated to cardinal in 1994, played a significant role in various Vatican congregations and councils. Instrumental in church reforms and leadership within the Catholic Church during his tenure. Retired in 2006 and continued service in various capacities until death in 2014.

Continue Reading

Pope Pius VII

Religious leader and prominent pope
Born
August 14th, 1742 283 years ago
Died
August 20th, 1823 202 years ago — 81 years old

Served as the pope from 1800 until death in 1823. Led the Catholic Church during the tumultuous period of the Napoleonic Wars. Restored the papacy's authority after being imprisoned by Napoleon. Extended church influence in Europe and re-established the Jesuits after their suppression in 1773.

Continue Reading

Bernard Delfgaauw

Philosopher and academic in the Netherlands
Born
November 24th, 1912 113 years ago
Died
August 20th, 1993 32 years ago — 80 years old

Contributed significantly to philosophical literature, particularly in the field of philosophy of science. Worked as a professor, influencing many students and scholars. Authored several books that examined the connections between philosophy and science. Engaged in discussions and debates that shaped academic thought in the mid-20th century.

Continue Reading