Otto von Guericke
Physicist and politician in Germany
Born in 1602, a pioneering physicist and politician contributed significantly to the development of vacuum technology. Designed an air pump that demonstrated the existence of vacuum. Served as the mayor of Magdeburg, focusing on public projects and governance. Engaged in scientific experiments that laid the foundation for future studies in atmospheric pressure and electrostatics.
Invented the first air pump and vacuum technology
Conducted the Magdeburg hemispheres experiment
Other People Born on November 20th
Kou Lei
Ukrainian table tennis player
Born
November 20th, 1987 38 years ago
Competed professionally in table tennis, representing Ukraine. Achieved significant success in various international tournaments. Contributed to the growth of the sport in the country through participation in European Championships. Gained recognition for performances in team competitions.
Continue ReadingNzuzi Toko
Congolese footballer, Alki Larnaca player
Born
November 20th, 1990 35 years ago
Born in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, a professional footballer played as a midfielder. Began career in the youth system of FC Saint-Étienne in France. Played for various clubs, including AS Vita Club, where contributed to the team's domestic success. Later moved to Europe, playing for several teams in lower divisions and eventually joined Alki Larnaca in Cyprus, furthering his career in international football.
Continue ReadingDušan Tadić
Professional Footballer with notable club success
Born
November 20th, 1988 37 years ago
A Serbian footballer who primarily plays as a winger and attacking midfielder. Began professional career at Vojvodina before moving to play for Groningen in the Netherlands. Gained prominence at Twente, where a successful tenure included winning the Eredivisie title in 2010. Later joined Southampton in the Premier League, contributing to the team for four seasons. Currently serves as captain of Ajax in the Eredivisie, leading the team to domestic and European competitions, including winning multiple league and cup titles. A key player for the Serbian national team, participating in the 2018 FIFA World Cup.
Continue ReadingDariga Shakimova
Kazakhstani Boxer, World Championships Medalist
Born
November 20th, 1988 37 years ago
A competitive boxer who represented Kazakhstan in various international competitions. Achieved significant success at the AIBA Women's World Boxing Championships, securing a bronze medal in 2016. Participated in the 2016 Rio Olympics, showcasing talent on an Olympic level. Has competed in multiple national championships and contributed to the growth of women's boxing in Kazakhstan.
Continue ReadingAgon Mehmeti
Swedish footballer with professional career
Born
November 20th, 1989 36 years ago
A professional footballer, played as a forward. Initiated a career in the Allsvenskan with Örebro SK, contributing to the team's performance in top-tier Swedish football. Played for various clubs in Sweden and abroad, showcasing skills in several competitive leagues. Competed in international fixtures representing Sweden at youth levels.
Continue ReadingCody Linley
American actor and singer from TV series
Born
November 20th, 1989 36 years ago
An actor and singer, this individual gained recognition for roles in popular television series and films. Appeared prominently in the Disney Channel series 'Hannah Montana' as Jake Ryan, showcasing significant talent in acting and music. In addition to television work, this individual has participated in various musical projects, further demonstrating versatility as an entertainer. Achievements in both acting and music contributed to a notable career in the entertainment industry.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on May 21st
Niki de Saint Phalle
French sculptor and painter of Nanas
Born
October 29th, 1930 95 years ago
Died
May 21st, 2002 23 years ago — 71 years old
A prominent artist emerged as an influential sculptor and painter, recognized for innovative creations in the 1960s. Created large-scale sculptures known as 'Nanas', characterized by vibrant colors and abstract forms. Her works often addressed themes of femininity, mythology, and social commentary. Explored diverse mediums, including performance art and assemblage. Participated in the seminal exhibition 'New Realism' alongside other notable artists, significantly contributing to the movement. Established the Tarot Garden in Italy, a whimsical sculpture park that showcases her artistic vision and monumental works, integrating art with nature.
Continue ReadingJohnny Gray
American middle-distance runner and coach
Born
June 19th, 1960 65 years ago
Died
May 21st, 2014 11 years ago — 53 years old
An accomplished middle-distance runner and coach, this individual specialized in the 800 meters. Competed at the 1992 Summer Olympics in Barcelona, representing the United States. Secured the gold medal at the 1985 Pan American Games and set a personal best of 1:43.59 in the 800 meters. Transitioned into coaching, influencing many athletes in various competitive levels.
Continue ReadingLeonard Marsh
Businessman, co-founder of Snapple
Born
1933 93 years ago
Died
May 21st, 2013 12 years ago — 80 years old
A businessman co-founded Snapple in 1972, which became a leading brand in the beverage industry. The brand gained popularity for its variety of flavored iced teas and juices. Under his leadership, Snapple grew significantly, culminating in its acquisition by Quaker Oats Company in 1994 for approximately $1.7 billion. The brand was instrumental in popularizing the ready-to-drink tea segment in the United States. After selling Snapple, continued involvement in various business ventures until passing in 2013.
Continue ReadingLouis Johnson
Bass player and music producer
Born
1955 71 years ago
Died
May 21st, 2015 10 years ago — 60 years old
This individual gained prominence as a bass player and music producer, contributing significantly to the funk and disco genres. His work in the late 1970s and 1980s as part of the musical duo The Brothers Johnson included hits like "Stomp!" and "I'll Be Good to You." As a session musician, he collaborated with multiple artists across various genres, making notable contributions that shaped recordings. Johnson's innovative playing style and rhythmic grooves left a lasting influence on future generations of musicians.
Continue ReadingAlejandro de Tomaso
Race car driver and De Tomaso founder
Born
July 10th, 1928 97 years ago
Died
May 21st, 2003 22 years ago — 74 years old
Established a successful career as a race car driver in the 1960s and 1970s, competing in various international motorsports events. Founded De Tomaso Automobili, a vehicle manufacturer in Italy, which gained recognition for its sports cars. Developed a distinctive line of vehicles that blended Italian design with performance engineering.
Continue ReadingPaul Delph
American singer-songwriter and producer
Born
1957 69 years ago
Died
May 21st, 1996 29 years ago — 39 years old
A singer-songwriter and producer, contributed to the music scene with a unique blend of rock, pop, and new wave. Released the album 'The Eternal Return' in 1986, which showcased distinct songwriting and production skills. Collaborated with various artists and gained recognition in the 1980s music landscape. Became involved in the music production process, helping other artists shape their sound and style. Continued to influence and inspire through various projects until untimely passing in 1996.
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