Ned Buntline
American journalist and publisher
Buntline contributed significantly to American literature as a journalist, author, and publisher in the 19th century. He established the genre of the Western novel through his writings, creating characters and stories that defined the American frontier. His works included serialized stories and novels that depicted the lives of cowboys, outlaws, and lawmen. Buntline is also recognized for his association with Buffalo Bill Cody, helping to popularize the Wild West shows that featured Cody's exploits. Despite controversies surrounding his life and work, Buntline's contributions to American culture have left a lasting impression on the development of Western literature.
Wrote the first Buffalo Bill novel
Popularized the Western genre in literature
Other People Born on March 20th
Dara Shikoh
Indian prince and Mughal scholar
Born
March 20th, 1615 410 years ago
Died
1659 367 years ago — 44 years old
Born into the Mughal royal family, a prominent figure during the reign of Emperor Shah Jahan, focused on philosophical inquiries and cultural exchanges. Advocated for the study of various religions, particularly emphasizing similarities between Hinduism and Islam. Served as the governor of several provinces, including Punjab and Ajmer. Engaged in conflicts for succession, notably against his brother Aurangzeb. Eventually imprisoned and later executed due to political rivalries. Authored works that merged spiritual and philosophical thoughts, contributing significantly to Mughal intellectual life.
Continue ReadingVernon Ransford
Cricketer, Victoria captain
Born
March 20th, 1885 140 years ago
Died
1958 68 years ago — 73 years old
An Australian cricketer played as a right-handed batsman. Active primarily in the early 20th century, he represented Victoria in domestic cricket. Ransford also served as captain of the Victorian team. He participated in the Sheffield Shield, contributing significantly to his team's successes during his career. In addition to his domestic achievements, Ransford was part of the Australian national side, appearing in Test matches during 1907 and 1909. His contributions in cricket were acknowledged during his playing years, making a lasting impression on the sport.
Continue ReadingEdward Poynter
English painter and curator
Born
March 20th, 1836 189 years ago
Died
July 26th, 1919 106 years ago — 83 years old
Born in 1836, this individual became a prominent painter and illustrator in England. Initially trained at the Royal Academy Schools, the work featured historical and mythological subjects, showcasing a fluid and detailed style. The contribution as an illustrator included contributions to various publications, enhancing storytelling through visual art. Later roles included serving as the president of the Royal Academy, influencing the direction of British art during the late 19th century.
Continue ReadingMarian McPartland
Pianist and composer of jazz music
Born
March 20th, 1918 107 years ago
Died
August 20th, 2013 12 years ago — 95 years old
A prominent jazz pianist and composer, contributed to the jazz scene through performance and radio. Emerged as a significant figure in the world of jazz starting in the 1940s. Hosted the radio program 'Piano Jazz' on National Public Radio for over three decades, showcasing a variety of jazz talents. Recorded numerous albums, collaborating with various renowned musicians. Her compositions reflect a blend of classical and jazz influences, and her work has contributed to the evolution of modern jazz.
Continue ReadingNick Leddy
Ice hockey player, Stanley Cup Champion
Born
March 20th, 1991 34 years ago
This American ice hockey player played as a defenseman in the NHL. Drafted by the Minnesota Wild in the 2nd round of the 2009 NHL Entry Draft, began professional career with the Rockford IceHogs in the AHL. Established a notable role with the Chicago Blackhawks, contributing to the team’s success during the 2013 Stanley Cup playoffs. Played a significant part in the Blackhawks winning the Stanley Cup that year. Later, joined the New York Islanders and took part in multiple seasons, showcasing skills on both offense and defense. Most recently, contributed to the Detroit Red Wings.
Continue ReadingS. Arasaratnam
Sri Lankan historian and author
Born
March 20th, 1930 95 years ago
Died
October 4th, 1998 27 years ago — 68 years old
Contributed significantly to the understanding of Sri Lankan history and society through academic scholarship. Served as a professor at the University of Jaffna and engaged extensively in research on the Tamil history of Sri Lanka. Authored several important works that explored ethnic relations and colonial history, providing insights into the socio-political dynamics of the region. Involved in various academic institutions and was a respected figure in the field of historical studies.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on July 16th
Herbert von Karajan
Austrian conductor and prominent orchestra manager
Born
April 5th, 1908 117 years ago
Died
July 16th, 1989 36 years ago — 81 years old
A prominent conductor, notable for leadership of the Berlin Philharmonic and Vienna State Opera. Oversaw numerous recordings that shaped classical music from the 1950s through the 1980s. Established a distinct style characterized by clarity and precision. Developed a reputation for ambitious projects, including operas and symphonic works, often collaborating with leading orchestras and soloists.
Continue ReadingGeorge Howard
Field Marshal and politician, Governor
Born
June 17th, 1718 307 years ago
Died
July 16th, 1796 229 years ago — 78 years old
Field Marshal and politician served in the British Army. Held the position of Governor of Minorca, contributing to military and colonial governance in the 18th century. Actively participated in various campaigns during the War of the Austrian Succession. Engaged in administrative duties that affected the operational efficiency of the British forces in the Mediterranean region. Instrumental in fostering relations between military and civilian governance in his role as governor.
Continue ReadingJohn Cocke
Computer Scientist; Developed RISC architecture
Born
1925 101 years ago
Died
July 16th, 2002 23 years ago — 77 years old
A significant figure in computer science, contributions included the design of the Reduced Instruction Set Computer (RISC) architecture. Cocke worked at IBM, where the RISC system was initiated, fundamentally changing processor design. He contributed to the development of programming languages, such as FORTRAN. Cocke's work led to advancements in compiler optimization, enhancing overall computing efficiency. His research and innovations remain influential in modern computing practices.
Continue ReadingVyacheslav Ivanov
Russian poet and playwright
Born
February 28th, 1866 159 years ago
Died
July 16th, 1949 76 years ago — 83 years old
A significant figure in Russian literature, active in the early 20th century. Contributed to the Symbolist movement and promoted the idea of artistic unity. Wrote extensively in both poetry and drama, with a focus on themes of spirituality and existentialism. Published a collection of poems titled 'The Outside World' and several plays, enriching Russian literary culture during a transformative period.
Continue ReadingHerms Niel
German composer and military trombonist
Born
April 17th, 1888 137 years ago
Died
July 16th, 1954 71 years ago — 66 years old
Born in Germany, a soldier held the rank of Lieutenant. Also pursued a career in music as a trombonist and composer, contributing significantly to military band music. Composed numerous marches and pieces that became staples in German military repertoire. His compositions were celebrated for their catchy melodies and rhythmic precision, allowing them to endure over decades.
Continue ReadingIrmgard
Frankish abbess and religious leader
Died
July 16th, 866 1159 years ago — None years old
Served as an abbess in the Frankish region during the 9th century. Founded and led a convent, significantly contributing to the religious community of the time. Played a role in promoting religious reforms and the education of nuns. Life extended into a period of significant ecclesiastical development in early medieval Europe.
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