Pamela Harriman
Diplomat, 58th US Ambassador to France
Served as the United States Ambassador to France from 1993 until the time of death in 1997. Began a career in public service, engaging in various diplomatic initiatives and cultural exchange programs. Played a significant role in strengthening Franco-American relations during the 1990s. Actively participated in international events and represented the United States at numerous state functions.
Served as the 58th US Ambassador to France
Promoted Franco-American relations
Other People Born on March 20th
Jamal Crawford
Professional basketball player, 3-time NBA Sixth Man
Born
March 20th, 1980 45 years ago
A professional basketball player with a successful career in the NBA, played as a shooting guard. Cited for exceptional scoring ability and floor leadership. Played for several teams including the Chicago Bulls, New York Knicks, and Los Angeles Clippers. Notably won the NBA Sixth Man of the Year Award three times, demonstrating proficiency as a key contributor off the bench. Holds the record for the most career four-point plays in NBA history. Contributed significantly to team dynamics through versatility and experience.
Continue ReadingTomasz Kuszczak
Polish footballer, played for Manchester United
Born
March 20th, 1982 43 years ago
A Polish footballer played as a goalkeeper, having a career spanning over 15 years. Started professional career at Polonia Warsaw before moving to West Bromwich Albion in the Premier League. Joined Manchester United in 2006, winning multiple titles including three Premier League championships. Later played for Brighton & Hove Albion and had stints in other clubs. Represented Poland at various youth levels and earned caps for the senior national team.
Continue ReadingLee "Scratch" Perry
Jamaican music producer and inventor
Born
March 20th, 1936 89 years ago
Died
August 29th, 2021 4 years ago — 85 years old
Born in Jamaica, this individual developed a distinctive sound that helped shape reggae music. As a music producer, contributions included innovative techniques in music production and the use of studio effects. Worked with various artists, pushing the boundaries of the genre. The work with Bob Marley and the Wailers in the late 1960s and early 1970s was particularly significant, leading to the creation of classic tracks. Known for establishing the Black Ark studio, which became a breeding ground for influential reggae music.
Continue ReadingThomas Cooper
British poet and author of 'The Purgatory'
Born
March 20th, 1805 220 years ago
Died
1892 134 years ago — 87 years old
Born in 1805, this British poet gained recognition for a range of works that blend personal experience with broader human themes. He was self-educated and began his career as a coal miner, which influenced much of his poetry. The work 'The Purgatory', a long poem, reflects on the struggles of personal redemption and social justice. In addition to poetry, this individual wrote essays and other literary works that analyzed the human condition and critiqued societal norms. His literary contributions extend beyond verse into discussions that shaped cultural dialogues of his time.
Continue ReadingDara 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 ReadingMagadu
Founder of Ramanya and Hanthawady Kingdoms
Born
March 20th, 1253 772 years ago
Died
1307 719 years ago — 54 years old
Originally named Wareru, established the Ramanya Kingdom in what is now Myanmar. Later renamed the Hanthawady Kingdom of Pegu, which became influential in the region. This leader played a crucial role in the political landscape of historical Myanmar and contributed to its governance structure. Oversaw developments that shaped the kingdom's administration and territorial expansion during a vital period.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on February 5th
Slavoljub Eduard Penkala
Engineer, inventor of the mechanical pencil
Born
1871 155 years ago
Died
February 5th, 1922 104 years ago — 51 years old
An engineer and inventor, contributed significant advancements in writing instruments. Invented the first mechanical pencil in 1906, which revolutionized the way people wrote and drew. Additionally, created the first solid-ink fountain pen in 1907, further influencing the pen industry. Held more than 80 patents during his career, showcasing a commitment to innovation and design in mechanical engineering. Established a factory in Zagreb to manufacture his inventions, promoting industrial development in Croatia.
Continue ReadingAdolfo Rivadeneyra
Spanish orientalist and diplomat
Born
1841 185 years ago
Died
February 5th, 1882 144 years ago — 41 years old
A prominent orientalist and diplomat, significantly contributed to the understanding of Eastern cultures. Held various diplomatic posts in several countries, facilitating political and cultural exchanges. Championed oriental studies, publishing works that provided insights into Asian societies and languages. Worked to foster better relations between Spain and Asian nations through diplomacy and scholarship.
Continue ReadingBanjo Paterson
Australian poet and author of 'Waltzing Matilda'
Born
February 17th, 1864 161 years ago
Died
February 5th, 1941 85 years ago — 76 years old
Born in Australia in 1864, contributed significantly to Australian literature through poetry and prose. Published the iconic poem 'Waltzing Matilda', which became a cultural touchstone. His work often depicted the life and experiences of bush settlers and outback Australia. Engaged in journalism and also served as a war correspondent during the Second Boer War. Paterson's storytelling captured the Australian spirit and landscape, leaving a lasting legacy in the literary world.
Continue ReadingAdela Verne
Pianist and composer with notable works
Born
February 27th, 1877 148 years ago
Died
February 5th, 1952 74 years ago — 74 years old
A prominent English pianist and composer, contributed significantly to the music landscape in the early 20th century. Studied at the Royal Academy of Music and performed extensively throughout Europe and the United States. Notably, premiered several compositions and produced a range of original works for piano. Participated in various music festivals, showcasing skill and musicianship. Collaborated with esteemed orchestras and musicians, furthering the reach of her music.
Continue ReadingWassily Leontief
Economist and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
August 5th, 1905 120 years ago
Died
February 5th, 1999 27 years ago — 93 years old
A Russian-American economist and academic, Leontief developed the input-output model, which analyzes the interdependencies between different sectors of an economy. His pioneering work in economic modeling earned him the Nobel Prize in Economic Sciences in 1973. Leontief's career included a long tenure at Harvard University, where he contributed significantly to the field of economics through teaching and research. He was instrumental in shaping modern economic thought and providing tools for economic analysis that are still used today.
Continue ReadingJacques Ibert
Composer known for 'Concerto for Flute'
Born
August 15th, 1890 135 years ago
Died
February 5th, 1962 64 years ago — 71 years old
A prominent composer in the 20th century, Ibert's works span numerous genres including opera, chamber music, and orchestral compositions. Ibert completed his studies at the Paris Conservatoire, where he gained recognition for his originality. His compositions often incorporate elements of French folk music and display wit and charm. Notable works include the 'Concerto for Flute and Orchestra' and the score for the film 'Les Chansons de France'. Ibert served as the director of the French Academy in Rome and was instrumental in promoting contemporary music during his tenure. He received the prestigious Prix de Rome for his contributions to music composition, reaffirming his status within the classical music community.
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