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
Ji Yun-nam
North Korean footballer, national team player
Born
November 20th, 1976 49 years ago
Played as a defender in association football. Competed in numerous international matches representing North Korea. In 1994, participated in the FIFA World Cup held in the United States, becoming one of the few North Koreans to play in the tournament. Played for clubs within the domestic league, contributing to club success.
Continue ReadingJohan Åkerman
Swedish ice hockey player, NCAA Champion
Born
November 20th, 1972 53 years ago
Played ice hockey as a defenseman, contributing to the success of teams in both Sweden and North America. Notably played for the University of Minnesota Duluth, where he was part of the team that won the NCAA Championship in 1993. Also played professionally in Sweden's Elitserien and the American Hockey League, showcasing skills in defense and teamwork throughout his career.
Continue ReadingCorinne Niogret
French biathlete and Olympic medalist
Born
November 20th, 1972 53 years ago
This French biathlete competed at the highest levels of the sport, participating in multiple World Championships and Olympic Games. Achievements include a strong performance in the 2002 Winter Olympics in Salt Lake City, winning a bronze medal. Over the course of her career, she showcased exceptional skill in both skiing and shooting, representing France on various international stages. Retired from competitive biathlon, her contributions to the sport have been recognized and celebrated.
Continue ReadingNebojša Stefanović
Serbian politician and government minister
Born
November 20th, 1976 49 years ago
Born in 1976, this individual has held various significant political positions within Serbia. Graduated from the Faculty of Law at the University of Belgrade. Served as Minister of Defence and Minister of the Interior, actively engaging in national security policy and law enforcement reform. Also played a role in the Serbian Progressive Party, contributing to its governance and policy development.
Continue ReadingDaniela Anschütz-Thoms
German speed skater and Olympic medalist
Born
November 20th, 1974 51 years ago
Born in 1974, this German speed skater excelled in both short track and long track events. Competitive from an early age, this athlete participated in multiple World Championships, showcasing talent and endurance on the ice. Achieved significant recognition at the 2002 Winter Olympics, where a medal was secured in the team pursuit event, enhancing Germany's standing in the sport. Continued to compete at high levels, contributing to the overall success of the national team in various competitions throughout the career.
Continue ReadingJ. D. Drew
Baseball outfielder and World Series champion
Born
November 20th, 1975 50 years ago
Played Major League Baseball as an outfielder from 1998 to 2011. Teams included the St. Louis Cardinals, Atlanta Braves, Boston Red Sox, and the Los Angeles Dodgers. Helped the Boston Red Sox win the World Series in 2007, contributing significantly in the playoffs. Selected as an All-Star in 2008 while playing with the Red Sox. Finished his career with a .278 batting average, highlighting consistent offensive production.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on May 21st
Richeza of Poland
Queen of Hungary
Born
September 22nd, 1013 1012 years ago
Died
May 21st, 1075 950 years ago — 61 years old
Born in 1013, a Polish princess became the queen consort of Hungary. Richeza's marriage to Coloman of Hungary established a significant political alliance between Poland and Hungary. She was crowned queen in 1074, contributing to the stability of the Hungarian monarchy during her reign. After her husband's death in 1116, she played a role in her son’s upbringing and in managing regal affairs.
Continue ReadingBob Thompson
Pianist and composer, Jazz works
Born
1924 101 years ago
Died
May 21st, 2013 12 years ago — 89 years old
An American pianist and composer contributed to the jazz genre through performances and compositions. Worked with notable artists and participated in various music festivals. Renowned for innovative approaches in jazz, influencing future musicians. Released several albums that showcased a unique style, combining traditional elements with contemporary influences.
Continue ReadingWilliamina Fleming
Astronomer; cataloged over 10,000 stars
Born
May 15th, 1857 168 years ago
Died
May 21st, 1911 114 years ago — 54 years old
A Scottish-American astronomer and academic contributed to the field of astronomy while working at the Harvard College Observatory. Developed a system for classifying stars based on their spectral characteristics. Played a key role in the identification of variable stars and made significant contributions to the study of nebulae. Her work included creating the Henry Draper Catalogue, which documented stellar classifications.
Continue ReadingStephen Elliott
American actor in film and television
Born
November 27th, 1918 107 years ago
Died
May 21st, 2005 20 years ago — 86 years old
Stephen Elliott was an American actor active in film and television from the 1940s to the 2000s. Elliott appeared in numerous films including 'The Graduate' and 'The Misfits'. He was also a prominent television actor, with roles in series such as 'The Twilight Zone' and 'The Streets of San Francisco'. Throughout his career, he showcased a wide range of characters and styles, contributing significantly to both mediums.
Continue ReadingNiki 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 ReadingVenustiano Carranza
Mexican soldier and politician; President
Born
December 29th, 1859 165 years ago
Died
May 21st, 1920 105 years ago — 60 years old
Served as a key leader during the Mexican Revolution, culminating in the role of 37th President of Mexico from 1917 to 1920. Actively participated in drafting the 1917 Constitution, which established significant social reforms, including labor rights and land redistribution. Oversaw military campaigns against revolutionary factions aiming to destabilize the nation. Promoted political stability and sought recognition of the new government internationally. His leadership style and policies had lasting effects on Mexico's political landscape.
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