Pedro María de Anaya
Mexican soldier and President (1847-1848)
Served as a soldier in the Mexican-American War and held the position of President of Mexico from 1847 to 1848. During presidency, faced challenges arising from the war and internal political instability. Resigned amid pressures from both foreign and domestic factions. His government oversaw significant territorial losses for Mexico as a result of the war with the United States.
Served as President during the Mexican-American War
Resigned from presidency due to political pressures
Other People Born on May 20th
Henry Bolte
Politician and Premier of Victoria
Born
May 20th, 1908 117 years ago
Died
January 4th, 1990 35 years ago — 81 years old
Served as the 38th Premier of Victoria from 1955 to 1972, holding office for a notable 17 years. Led the Victorian Liberal Party and promoted extensive economic development and infrastructure projects. Played a significant role in shaping the state's policies during a period of growth and change.
Continue ReadingGeorge Gobel
American actor and comedian
Born
May 20th, 1919 106 years ago
Died
February 24th, 1991 34 years ago — 71 years old
Achieved prominence in the entertainment industry, particularly through television and film in the mid-20th century. Gained a significant audience with the television show 'The George Gobel Show', which aired from 1954 to 1955. Featured in movies such as 'The Seven Little Foys', showcasing comedic talent. Received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame for contributions to television.
Continue ReadingJane Parker-Smith
English organist and composer
Born
May 20th, 1950 75 years ago
Died
2020 5 years ago — 70 years old
An influential English organist and composer, contributed significantly to the world of organ music. Served as a consultant for various churches and music organizations, focusing on the performance and promotion of organ repertoire. Performed at notable venues across the UK and internationally, showcasing both classical and contemporary works. Recorded numerous albums that feature a range of compositions, enhancing accessibility to organ music. Engaged in educational initiatives to inspire future generations of organists and promote the rich tradition of organ music.
Continue ReadingBalu Mahendra
Sri Lankan-Indian filmmaker and cinematographer
Born
May 20th, 1939 86 years ago
Died
February 13th, 2014 11 years ago — 74 years old
A filmmaker and cinematographer, with roots in both Sri Lanka and India, contributed significantly to Indian cinema. Directed critically acclaimed films primarily in Tamil cinema. Known for innovative techniques in cinematography, shaping visual storytelling. His work often integrated traditional narratives with modern cinematic expressions. Influenced a generation of filmmakers and artists and helped popularize regional films on global platforms. Passed away on February 13, 2014.
Continue ReadingWilliam Redington Hewlett
Co-founder of Hewlett-Packard
Born
May 20th, 1913 112 years ago
Died
January 12th, 2001 24 years ago — 87 years old
An American engineer and businessman co-founded Hewlett-Packard in 1939, a pioneering company in the electronics industry known for quality computing and measurement devices. The company initially gained success with the production of audio oscillators. Under effective leadership, the business expanded its range of products, influencing the growth of Silicon Valley. Hewlett also served as a director of the board for several organizations and was involved in various philanthropic activities throughout his career. His contributions to the technology sector helped shape the landscape of modern computing.
Continue ReadingChristie Blatchford
Canadian journalist and broadcaster
Born
May 20th, 1951 74 years ago
Died
February 12th, 2020 5 years ago — 68 years old
A prominent journalist and broadcaster, contributed to Canadian media over several decades. Worked for major publications including the Toronto Sun and The National Post. Gained recognition for incisive commentary on various topics, including sports, crime, and politics. Authored several books, with some focused on high-profile criminal cases. Actively engaged in broadcasting, providing insightful opinions and analysis on various media platforms.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on March 21st
Colin Dexter
English author of detective fiction
Born
September 29th, 1930 95 years ago
Died
March 21st, 2017 8 years ago — 86 years old
An English author wrote a series of detective novels featuring the character Inspector Morse. The series was adapted into a successful television show that aired from 1987 to 2000. Dexter's literary career began in the 1970s, with the first Morse novel, 'Last Bus to Woodstock', published in 1975. The character was distinguished by his intellect and love for classical music, making the stories unique in the genre. Dexter received multiple awards for his writing, including the prestigious Cartier Diamond Dagger award for lifetime achievement in crime writing.
Continue ReadingBobby Short
American singer and pianist, cabaret artist
Born
September 15th, 1924 101 years ago
Died
March 21st, 2005 20 years ago — 80 years old
Born in 1924, a celebrated cabaret artist showcasing his talents in various prestigious venues, primarily in New York City. Gained prominence in the late 1940s and became associated with the rich tradition of American popular music. Artistry involved a blend of jazz, pop, and classic standards, with a focus on piano accompaniment. Performed regularly at the Café Carlyle for over three decades, becoming a fixture in the cabaret scene. Acclaimed for interpretations of the Great American Songbook, contributing to the revival of this musical genre throughout the latter half of the 20th century. Frequently recorded throughout the years, leaving behind a legacy of well-received albums.
Continue ReadingEvelina Haverfield
Suffragette and humanitarian aid worker
Born
August 9th, 1867 158 years ago
Died
March 21st, 1920 105 years ago — 52 years old
A significant figure in the British suffragette movement, dedicated efforts focused on securing voting rights for women. Organized and participated in numerous protests and acts of civil disobedience. Worked extensively as an aid worker during World War I, providing support and resources to soldiers and their families. Active in the Women’s Social and Political Union, advocating tirelessly for women's rights. After the war, continued to support various causes related to women's suffrage and rights.
Continue ReadingPietro Mennea
Italian sprinter and politician
Born
June 28th, 1952 73 years ago
Died
March 21st, 2013 12 years ago — 60 years old
An accomplished sprinter, made a significant mark in athletics, particularly in the 200 meters. Set a world record in 1979 that stood for 17 years, achieving a time of 19.72 seconds. Competed in the 1980 Moscow Olympics, winning a gold medal in the 200 meters. Transitioned into a political career after retiring from athletics, serving as a member of the Italian Parliament and advocating for sports and education.
Continue ReadingRobert Southey
English poet and historian
Born
August 12th, 1774 251 years ago
Died
March 21st, 1843 182 years ago — 68 years old
A prominent poet of the Romantic era, contributed to English literature with a variety of works that included poetry, biographies, and histories. Served as Poet Laureate from 1813 until death, providing notable literary contributions during this period. Translated works of significant literature, including the famous tale of 'The Three Bears'. Authored 'The Battle of Blenheim' and 'Thalaba the Destroyer', both highlighting the poetic style of the time.
Continue ReadingMartin McGuinness
Irish republican leader and politician
Born
May 23rd, 1950 75 years ago
Died
March 21st, 2017 8 years ago — 66 years old
Held the position of deputy First Minister of Northern Ireland from 2007 to 2017. Played a key role in the peace process, contributing to the negotiation of the Good Friday Agreement in 1998. Served as a member of the Legislative Assembly for the Derry constituency and was a senior figure in the Sinn Féin party. Engaged in various political discussions and initiatives aimed at improving community relations in Northern Ireland.
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