Paul von Lettow-Vorbeck
German general and East Africa commander
Served as a general in the Imperial German Army during World War I. Commanded German forces in the East Africa campaign, opposed British troops, and conducted a guerrilla warfare strategy. Successfully led operations that resulted in significant territorial control for German East Africa. Promoted to the rank of general and allowed the German forces to remain engaged in the war long after most of the empire had capitulated. After the war, continued to be a significant figure in discussions about military tactics and strategy.
Commanded German forces in East Africa
Conducted guerrilla warfare against British troops
Maintained prolonged resistance during World War I
Other People Born on March 20th
Yuri Shargin
Russian astronaut and engineer
Born
March 20th, 1960 66 years ago
Served as a colonel in the Russian Air Force and as an engineer. Participated in the Ascent-5 mission to the Mir space station. Contributed to multiple projects in aerospace technology and engineering within the Russian space program.
Continue ReadingDave Beasant
English footballer and coach.
Born
March 20th, 1959 67 years ago
A goalkeeper, played prominently in English football. Became the first goalkeeper to lift the FA Cup while playing for Wimbledon in 1988. Had a notable club career featuring stints at clubs such as Southampton, Chelsea, and Nottingham Forest. Transitioned into coaching after retirement from playing.
Continue ReadingJosephine Medina
Paralympic table tennis player
Born
March 20th, 1970 56 years ago
Died
2021 5 years ago — 51 years old
Competed in multiple Paralympic Games, achieving remarkable success in table tennis. Secured a bronze medal at the 2016 Rio Paralympics, representing the Philippines. Participated in various international tournaments, earning recognition within the sport. Advocated for sports inclusivity and served as an inspiration for aspiring athletes with disabilities.
Continue ReadingRudolf Kirchschläger
Austrian politician and former president
Born
March 20th, 1915 111 years ago
Died
March 30th, 2000 26 years ago — 85 years old
Served as the 8th President of Austria from 1974 to 1986. Before presidency, held various notable positions in the Austrian judiciary, including serving as a judge and court president. Contributed significantly to Austrian politics and represented the country in international contexts. Played a crucial role in domestic policy and governance during his tenure, focusing on issues related to justice and public service.
Continue ReadingNick Paul
Ice Hockey Player, 2021 Stanley Cup Champion
Born
March 20th, 1995 31 years ago
A professional ice hockey player, played primarily as a forward in the National Hockey League (NHL). Drafted by the Dallas Stars in 2014, developed skills in the American Hockey League before joining the Ottawa Senators. Played significant roles for the Senators over several seasons, showcasing versatility and toughness on the ice. In 2021, contributed to the Tampa Bay Lightning's success, leading to a Stanley Cup Championship.
Continue ReadingJosé Moreira
Portuguese footballer with notable club career
Born
March 20th, 1982 44 years ago
A professional footballer, played primarily as a goalkeeper. Spent the majority of the career with Benfica, making over 100 appearances. Contributed to the team's success in domestic competitions, helping Benfica win multiple Primeira Liga titles. Also represented the Portugal national team at various levels, including participation in international tournaments.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on March 9th
Ulf von Euler
Physiologist, Nobel Prize laureate
Born
February 7th, 1905 121 years ago
Died
March 9th, 1983 43 years ago — 78 years old
A prominent physiologist and academic, contributions focused on neurotransmitters and hormones. Pioneered research in the field of vascular biology and explored interactions between hormones and nerve signaling. His scientific work laid the groundwork for understanding various physiological processes. Received the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1970 for discoveries related to the nervous system and its functions. Held teaching positions at several institutions, fostering the next generation of scientists.
Continue ReadingStan Brakhage
Experimental film director and producer
Born
January 14th, 1933 93 years ago
Died
March 9th, 2003 23 years ago — 70 years old
An influential figure in experimental cinema, created innovative films that challenged traditional narrative structures. Pioneered techniques such as hand-painted film and the use of non-professional actors. Focused on personal vision and subjective experience, often drawing from nature and dreams. Significant works include 'Dog Star Man' and 'Mothlight', which explored visual perception through unconventional methodologies. A prolific filmmaker, directed over 350 films during his career, contributing to the development of avant-garde filmmaking.
Continue ReadingEddie Creatchman
Canadian wrestling manager and referee
Born
1928 98 years ago
Died
March 9th, 1994 32 years ago — 66 years old
Involved in the professional wrestling industry, held roles as a manager and referee. Managed various wrestling talents, including notable figures in the sport. Was recognized for contributions to wrestling promotion and development during the latter half of the 20th century. His career spanned several decades in which he was associated with different wrestling promotions, impacting the personalities involved in the industry.
Continue ReadingJean-Dominique Bauby
Journalist and author of 'The Diving Bell and the Butterfly'
Born
1952 74 years ago
Died
March 9th, 1997 29 years ago — 45 years old
A journalist and editor, contributions to 'Elle' magazine included interviews and essays. A debilitating stroke resulted in locked-in syndrome, leading to communication through blinking. Authored 'The Diving Bell and the Butterfly', detailing experiences in this condition. The book gained critical acclaim and was later adapted into an award-winning film.
Continue ReadingC. Northcote Parkinson
Historian and author of Parkinson's Law
Born
July 30th, 1909 117 years ago
Died
March 9th, 1993 33 years ago — 83 years old
An English historian and author, contributed significantly to the study of management and organizational theory. Developed Parkinson's Law, which states that 'work expands to fill the time available for its completion.' Wrote several works on the topic, exploring bureaucratic inefficiency and the growth of administrative organizations. Also engaged in historical analysis, providing insights into naval history and the Royal Navy's structure and evolution.
Continue ReadingRobert Horton
American television actor and star of 'Wagon Train'
Born
August 18th, 1939 86 years ago
Died
March 9th, 2016 10 years ago — 76 years old
An American actor gained prominence through the role of Flint McCullough on the television series 'Wagon Train,' which aired from 1957 to 1965. Horton also made appearances in various other television shows and films throughout his career. He was noted for work in productions such as 'The Green Hornet' and 'The Twilight Zone.' In addition to acting, he pursued a career in music and authored a book detailing his life experiences.
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