Pancho Villa
Mexican general and revolutionary leader
A prominent Mexican general and revolutionary leader, this figure played a critical role in the Mexican Revolution from 1910 to 1920. Villa initially gained fame as a bandit and later became the leader of a significant military division known as the División del Norte. During the revolution, he fought against the oppressive regimes in Mexico and aimed to address land reform and rights for the peasantry. He served as the Governor of the state of Chihuahua, where he implemented progressive agricultural policies. His military campaigns included the raid on Columbus, New Mexico, in 1916, which brought international attention to his revolutionary efforts. Eventually, Villa's power waned, and he was assassinated in 1923 as part of a political maneuver, leaving a complex legacy in Mexican history.
Led the División del Norte in the Mexican Revolution
Raided Columbus, New Mexico in 1916
Served as Governor of Chihuahua
Other People Born on June 5th
Roger Tuivasa-Sheck
Rugby league player, NRL Premiership winner
Born
June 5th, 1993 32 years ago
A rugby league player, represented the New Zealand Warriors in the NRL and played for the New Zealand national team. Made his NRL debut in 2013 and gained recognition for exceptional skills as a fullback and captain of the Warriors. Achieved significant success by leading the Warriors to their first NRL Grand Final appearance in 2011. Notable for performances in the representative arena, winning the 2017 Rugby League World Cup with New Zealand. Transitioned to rugby union in 2021, joining the Blues in Super Rugby, continuing a successful athletic career.
Continue ReadingMarcus Thornton
American basketball player, NBA standout
Born
June 5th, 1987 38 years ago
A professional basketball player, played as a shooting guard. Played college basketball at Louisiana State University. Selected in the second round of the 2010 NBA Draft by the San Antonio Spurs, later signed by the Sacramento Kings. Had significant contributions during time with the Kings, showcasing scoring ability and three-point shooting. Competed in the NBA for multiple teams while also participating in various international leagues. Earned recognition for performances in both the NBA and overseas.
Continue ReadingPeter Wtewael
Dutch Golden Age painter of floral still lifes
Born
June 5th, 1596 429 years ago
Died
1660 366 years ago — 64 years old
Active during the Dutch Golden Age, a painter specialized in floral still lifes and allegorical works. Renowned for skillful compositions that combined intricate detail with vibrant color. Founded the Utrecht School and significantly contributed to the development of still life painting in the Netherlands. Many works are characterized by a rich interplay of light and shadow, showcasing a variety of flowers, fruits, and objects. His distinctive style influenced contemporaries and left a lasting legacy on future generations of artists.
Continue ReadingYulia Lipnitskaya
Figure skater with Olympic team gold medal
Born
June 5th, 1998 27 years ago
This athlete achieved international recognition in figure skating. At the 2014 Winter Olympics in Sochi, won a gold medal as part of the Russian team in the team event. Lipnitskaya became the youngest female skater to win a gold medal in the Olympic Games at the age of 15. She is also noted for her performances at the European Championships, where she secured gold in 2014, becoming the youngest to do so. Throughout her career, she garnered attention for her artistry and technical skills on the ice, establishing herself as a prominent figure in the sport.
Continue ReadingAnke Behmer
German heptathlete and Olympic competitor
Born
June 5th, 1961 64 years ago
Competitor in heptathlon events, participated in international championships during the 1980s. Achieved success at the 1983 World Championships in Athletics, earning a bronze medal. Competed in the 1984 Summer Olympics, representing Germany in heptathlon. Continued to participate in various international competitions throughout career, establishing a reputation in track and field.
Continue ReadingRadko Gudas
Czech ice hockey defenceman, NHL player
Born
June 5th, 1990 35 years ago
Played as a defenceman in the NHL, primarily for the Tampa Bay Lightning, Philadelphia Flyers, and Washington Capitals. Gudas contributed to teams with his physical playing style and defensive skills. He made a significant impact in playoff performances, showcasing his abilities in high-pressure situations. Gudas has represented the Czech Republic in international competitions, strengthing the national team's defensive lineup.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on July 20th
Alastair Burnet
Journalist and news presenter
Born
July 12th, 1928 97 years ago
Died
July 20th, 2012 13 years ago — 84 years old
A prominent journalist and news presenter, recognized for a distinguished career in British broadcasting. Worked for ITN and the BBC, contributing significantly to political reporting and current affairs. Served as the editor of the 'Daily Express' and presented coverage of major events including the Apollo 11 moon landing and various general elections. Burnet's interviewing style and in-depth analysis of political issues established a strong reputation in journalism.
Continue ReadingJames Alexander Calder
Canadian politician and educator
Born
September 17th, 1868 157 years ago
Died
July 20th, 1956 69 years ago — 87 years old
Served as the Canadian Minister of Militia and Defence from 1921 to 1926. Contributed to military and educational reforms during tenure. Advocated for improved training and mobilization of Canadian forces. Engaged in various initiatives to enhance the effectiveness of the military.
Continue ReadingKarl Bernhard Zoeppritz
Geophysicist and seismologist
Born
October 22nd, 1881 144 years ago
Died
July 20th, 1908 117 years ago — 26 years old
Contributed significantly to the field of geophysics and seismology. Developed Zoeppritz equations, which describe the reflection of seismic waves at an interface between two different elastic materials, essential for exploration geophysics. Made substantial advancements in understanding how seismic waves interact with geological structures. Conducted research that laid foundational work for future studies in seismic analysis and petroleum exploration.
Continue ReadingGérard Oury
French actor, director, screenwriter
Born
April 29th, 1919 106 years ago
Died
July 20th, 2006 19 years ago — 87 years old
An influential figure in French cinema, contributed as an actor, director, and screenwriter. Directed several popular films, including 'La Grande Vadrouille' and 'Le Corniaud,' which showcased a unique blend of comedy and adventure. Worked extensively in the film industry from the mid-20th century onward, becoming a prominent name in French films. The body of work spanned various genres, with a distinct style that resonated with audiences in France and beyond.
Continue ReadingGavrila Derzhavin
Russian poet and statesman
Born
July 14th, 1743 282 years ago
Died
July 20th, 1816 209 years ago — 73 years old
Born in 1743, a prominent figure in Russian literature and politics, contributed significantly to the development of the Russian language and poetry. Served in various governmental roles, including as a senator and appointed governor of Saint Petersburg. His poetry combined philosophical and lyric elements, garnering admiration from contemporaries and later generations. The ode 'Felitsa' remains one of the most recognized works, illustrating his mastery of poetic form and emotional depth.
Continue ReadingMichael Brooks
Political commentator and media host
Born
1983 43 years ago
Died
July 20th, 2020 5 years ago — 37 years old
A political commentator and media host, contributed to progressive discourse through various platforms. Hosted 'The Michael Brooks Show,' which featured analysis of current events and interviews with political figures. Contributed to 'The Majority Report' and various publications, discussing issues surrounding social justice and economic equality. Engaged audiences with incisive critiques of mainstream political narratives.
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