Patrick Jennings
Politician, 11th Premier of New South Wales
Northern Irish-Australian politician served as the 11th Premier of New South Wales from 1883 to 1885. His tenure focused on economic reforms and public works projects. Jennings took a leading role in advocating for the development of railways and other infrastructure, contributing to the growth of the state. Prior to his term as Premier, he held various positions in the New South Wales Parliament, where he made significant contributions to legislative initiatives.
Served as Premier of New South Wales
Advocated for railway development
Other People Born on March 20th
Ted Bessell
Actor and director of 'That Girl'
Born
March 20th, 1935 90 years ago
Died
1996 30 years ago — 61 years old
An American actor and director, recognized for the television series 'That Girl', which aired from 1966 to 1971. The role of Donald Hollinger brought widespread recognition and established a strong presence in American television. Bessell also directed several episodes of 'The Partridge Family' and 'The Brady Bunch'. His work in these series showcased his skills not only in front of the camera but also behind it. Later in his career, he appeared in various guest roles on television shows, contributing to the industry until his passing.
Continue ReadingJames P. Gordon
Physicist and engineer specializing in lasers
Born
March 20th, 1928 97 years ago
Died
June 21st, 2013 12 years ago — 85 years old
Born in 1928, this American physicist and engineer contributed significantly to the field of laser technology. He received a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering from the City College of New York and went on to earn a Ph.D. from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. His research in laser dynamics led to the development of important laser systems. He served as a professor at the University of Maryland, advancing education in applied physics and electrical engineering while mentoring numerous students throughout his career. His work laid the groundwork for various laser applications across different industries, further establishing the relevance of lasers in modern technology.
Continue ReadingOzzie Nelson
American bandleader and actor
Born
March 20th, 1906 119 years ago
Died
June 3rd, 1975 50 years ago — 69 years old
Bandleader and actor gained fame through the radio and television series The Adventures of Ozzie and Harriet. Featured prominently alongside wife Harriet Hilliard and sons David and Ricky in the show. The series ran from 1952 to 1966, becoming one of the longest-running sitcoms in American television history. Throughout the show's duration, maintained a successful music career while contributing to the television landscape of the era.
Continue ReadingPayne Whitney
American businessman and philanthropist
Born
March 20th, 1876 149 years ago
Died
May 25th, 1927 98 years ago — 51 years old
Contributed significantly to the fields of business and philanthropy in America. Established the Whitney Foundation, which supported various charitable causes including education, health, and public institutions. Served as a director of multiple companies and was engaged in extensive investments. Actively participated in promoting sports and arts through funding.
Continue ReadingJack Barry
Game show host and producer
Born
March 20th, 1918 107 years ago
Died
May 2nd, 1984 41 years ago — 66 years old
Co-founded Barry & Enright Productions, a successful television production company. Hosted several popular game shows including 'The Joker's Wild' and 'Twenty-One'. Played a significant role in the game show genre of the 20th century. Contributed to the format and creation of many television programs, impacting the landscape of entertainment programming during his era.
Continue ReadingPaul Junger Witt
Television director and producer of 'The Golden Girls'
Born
March 20th, 1943 82 years ago
Died
2018 8 years ago — 75 years old
A director and producer, this individual contributed significantly to the television landscape. Active in the industry from the 1970s to the 2000s, work included production roles on various hit series. The most notable achievement includes producing the iconic sitcom 'The Golden Girls', which became a cultural touchstone. Other successful productions included 'Empty Nest' and 'The Golden Palace'. A graduate of the University of California, Berkeley.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on July 11th
Bill McGill
Basketball player with Chicago Bulls
Born
September 16th, 1939 86 years ago
Died
July 11th, 2014 11 years ago — 74 years old
Played professional basketball in the 1960s and 1970s. Competed in the NBA, primarily with the Chicago Bulls. Also had stints in the ABA and overseas. Achieved success at the collegiate level, playing for the University of Utah before entering the professional ranks. Notable for scoring ability and rebounding skill during his playing career.
Continue ReadingAmalric I of Jerusalem
King of Jerusalem during Crusades
Born
1136 890 years ago
Died
July 11th, 1174 851 years ago — 38 years old
Ruled as King of Jerusalem from 1163 until death in 1174. Oversaw the kingdom during a tumultuous period marked by conflicts with Saladin and the consolidation of Crusader territories. Expanded the realm's influence and established strategic alliances, including marrying Amalric of Jerusalem. His reign was notable for military campaigns aimed at reclaiming lost territories and strengthening the defense of Jerusalem against Muslim forces. Died in 1174, leaving a significant legacy in the history of the Crusades.
Continue ReadingAlfonso López Michelsen
Colombian politician and president
Born
June 30th, 1913 112 years ago
Died
July 11th, 2007 18 years ago — 94 years old
Served as the 24th President of Colombia from 1974 to 1978. Focused on economic reforms and social development during tenure. Advocated for a mixed economy and encouraged private sector participation in state projects. Contributed to peace negotiations with guerrilla groups and aimed to address issues of inequality in the nation. Prior to presidency, held various political positions including Minister of Agriculture and was a member of the Colombian Senate.
Continue ReadingAnna von Schweidnitz
Empress of Charles IV
Born
1339 687 years ago
Died
July 11th, 1362 663 years ago — 23 years old
Married to Charles IV, played a crucial role in the political landscape of the Holy Roman Empire during the 14th century. Her marriage strengthened ties between the Bohemian and German nobility. This union facilitated the rise of Charles IV, who became King of Bohemia and later Emperor of the Holy Roman Empire. Contributed to the establishment of the imperial court and the promotion of cultural life in Prague. Passed away in 1362, leaving behind a legacy tied to her husband's reign and the development of the empire.
Continue ReadingHelen Forrest
American singer and actress
Born
April 12th, 1917 108 years ago
Died
July 11th, 1999 26 years ago — 82 years old
A prominent figure in the world of music and film, this individual achieved significant recognition as a vocalist in the big band era, particularly with the Artie Shaw and Woody Herman orchestras. Known for a smooth, emotive singing style, her contributions to popular music include memorable recordings in the 1940s. Highlights include collaborations with renowned artists and performances in films, capturing the spirit of the era. Her versatility as both a singer and actress allowed her to engage audiences across various platforms, from radio to concert stages.
Continue ReadingSimon Newcomb
Canadian-American astronomer and mathematician
Born
March 12th, 1835 190 years ago
Died
July 11th, 1909 116 years ago — 74 years old
An influential astronomer and mathematician, contributions spanned astronomy, mathematics, and predictive calculations for celestial phenomena. Played a significant role in the development of modern astronomical methods and collaborated with various scientific institutions. Served as director of the Nautical Almanac Office and published several works including extensive tables of planetary motion. Major contributions to the field included work on the theory of the orbits of comets and an extensive study of the measurements of stellar parallax.
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