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
Artak Dashyan
Armenian footballer and midfielder
Born
November 20th, 1989 36 years ago
Played as a midfielder, contributing to various clubs in Armenia. Had a notable stint with FC Banants, showcasing skills in both domestic leagues and international competitions. Represented the Armenian national team in international fixtures, further elevating presence in the sport. His career continued with involvement in other clubs, cementing a role in Armenian football history.
Continue ReadingRon Willey
Rugby league player and coach
Born
November 20th, 1929 96 years ago
Died
2004 22 years ago — 75 years old
Played rugby league primarily as a halfback in the 1950s and 1960s, representing Newtown in the NSWRL. Transitioned to coaching after retirement, leading multiple teams, including a tenure with the Newcastle Knights. Instructed young players and contributed to developing rugby league in Australia, particularly through coaching roles in various clubs.
Continue ReadingSergei Polunin
Ukrainian ballet dancer and choreographer
Born
November 20th, 1989 36 years ago
Ballet dancer gained international recognition for extraordinary talent and expressive performances. Studied at the Kiev State Ballet School and joined the Royal Ballet in London at a young age. Took the position of the youngest principal dancer at the Royal Ballet, highlighting exceptional ability. Known for performances in classical works such as 'Swan Lake' and 'Romeo and Juliet'. Choreographed works and participated in various projects, including the viral video 'Take Me to Church'. Later established a reputation for individuality and innovative approaches to dance.
Continue ReadingErnestas Galvanauskas
Lithuanian engineer and politician
Born
November 20th, 1882 143 years ago
Died
1967 59 years ago — 85 years old
An engineer and politician contributed to Lithuanian politics and infrastructure in the early 20th century. Served as a minister in various Lithuanian governments. Played a crucial role in the formation of the Lithuanian state after World War I. Engaged in engineering and urban planning projects that aided in the country's development.
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
Twinkle
English singer-songwriter with chart hits
Born
July 15th, 1948 78 years ago
Died
May 21st, 2015 11 years ago — 66 years old
A singer-songwriter born in England, notable for contributions to the music scene in the late 1960s. Gained recognition with hit singles, particularly 'Golden Lights' and 'Angel of the Morning'. Her style incorporated elements of folk and pop, leading to a dedicated fan base. Continued to perform and release music decades after initial fame, showcasing resilience in the industry.
Continue ReadingHugo de Vries
Botanist and geneticist, mutation theory
Born
February 16th, 1848 178 years ago
Died
May 21st, 1935 91 years ago — 87 years old
Contributions to genetics included the formulation of the mutation theory, which proposed that new species arise from sudden changes in traits. Conducted hybridization experiments on plants, particularly evening primroses, leading to significant findings in heredity and variation. Published works advanced the understanding of Mendelian inheritance, which laid foundational principles for modern genetics. De Vries also played a role in the revival of interest in Mendel's laws in the early 20th century, influencing future research in the field.
Continue ReadingRaymond McCreesh
Irish Republican hunger striker
Born
February 25th, 1957 69 years ago
Died
May 21st, 1981 45 years ago — 24 years old
Born in 1957, a significant figure in the Irish Republican movement, engaged in political activism in Northern Ireland. Participated in the 1981 hunger strike at Long Kesh Prison, advocating for political status for Republican prisoners. Died after 61 days without food, becoming a symbol of the struggle for Irish nationalism and resistance against British rule.
Continue ReadingWang Anshi
Chinese economist and chancellor
Born
December 8th, 1021 1004 years ago
Died
May 21st, 1086 940 years ago — 64 years old
An influential Chinese economist and chancellor, focused on reforming the Sung dynasty's economic policies. Implemented the New Policies, which aimed to stabilize the economy, improve agricultural productivity, and expand state control over tax collection. These reforms included the promotion of state-sponsored loans and the establishment of a better government procurement system for grain. Writings on economic theory, governance, and philosophy contributed extensively to intellectual discourse during his time and afterward.
Continue ReadingPatsy O'Hara
Irish Republican hunger striker
Born
July 11th, 1957 69 years ago
Died
May 21st, 1981 45 years ago — 23 years old
Engaged in activism for Irish republicanism, participated in the 1981 hunger strike in the Maze Prison. Advocated for political recognition for prisoners and rights for the Irish people. Died from starvation after 61 days on hunger strike, becoming a symbol of the struggle for Irish self-determination.
Continue ReadingBinyavanga Wainaina
Kenyan writer and memoirist
Born
January 18th, 1971 55 years ago
Died
May 21st, 2019 7 years ago — 48 years old
A prominent Kenyan writer, contributed significantly to contemporary African literature. Authored the acclaimed memoir 'One Day I Will Write About This Place' which explores themes of identity and belonging in post-colonial Kenya. Also served as the editor for 'Kwani?', a Kenyan literary magazine which provided a platform for emerging African voices. His literary work often reflected on the complexities of race, culture, and politics in Africa.
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