Phil Hill
Race car driver and 1961 F1 champion
A prominent race car driver, achieved significant success in the world of motorsport. Competed in Formula One and became the first American driver to win the F1 World Championship in 1961, driving for Scuderia Ferrari. During a career spanning over two decades, participated in various prestigious races, including the 24 Hours of Le Mans. Established a reputation for skill in endurance racing, contributing to the advancement of automotive performance and engineering.
Won the 1961 Formula One World Championship
Achieved multiple victories at the 24 Hours of Le Mans
Competed for Scuderia Ferrari in Formula One
Other People Born on April 20th
Felix Baumgartner
Austrian skydiver and daredevil
Born
April 20th, 1969 56 years ago
A daredevil and skydiver, completed a historic jump from the stratosphere on October 14, 2012, reaching a maximum altitude of 128,097 feet. The jump, part of the Red Bull Stratos project, included a freefall of approximately 24 miles and resulted in becoming the first person to break the sound barrier without an aircraft. Baumgartner's jump was broadcast live to millions around the world and showcased advancements in space suit technology. Prior to this feat, he participated in various extreme sports and set multiple records in skydiving.
Continue ReadingMiranda Kerr
Australian model and beauty entrepreneur
Born
April 20th, 1983 42 years ago
Achieved recognition as a top fashion model, gaining prominence through work with Victoria's Secret. Launched a successful skincare line, Kora Organics, focusing on organic beauty products. Appeared on numerous magazine covers, including Vogue and Harper's Bazaar, and participated in high-profile advertising campaigns. Established a reputation within the fashion industry and became a key figure in promoting wellness and holistic living.
Continue ReadingKai Siegbahn
Physicist, Nobel Prize in Physics 1981
Born
April 20th, 1918 107 years ago
Died
2007 18 years ago — 89 years old
A Swedish physicist made significant contributions to the field of electron spectroscopy. Developed a method called ESCA, which revolutionized surface analysis by enabling the study of electronic properties of materials. This technique paved the way for advancements in both physics and chemistry. The achievements culminated in receiving the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1981 for these pioneering efforts.
Continue ReadingShemar Moore
Actor and model, starred in Criminal Minds
Born
April 20th, 1970 55 years ago
Born in 1970, pursued a career in acting and modeling. Gained fame through roles in television series and films. Best known for portraying Derek Morgan in the series 'Criminal Minds' and also starred in 'The Young and the Restless'. Won several awards for acting, including Daytime Emmy Awards. Continued to work in television and film, showcasing a range of characters across different genres.
Continue ReadingHarold Lloyd
Silent film actor and director of comedies
Born
April 20th, 1893 132 years ago
Died
March 8th, 1971 54 years ago — 77 years old
An influential American actor, director, and producer in the silent film era. Began career in the early 1900s, achieving considerable fame through the use of elaborate stunts and comedy. Co-founded the production company Harold Lloyd Films, which produced several successful films. Iconic works include 'Safety Last!' and 'The Freshman', both showcasing innovative film techniques and comedic timing. Transitioned successfully to sound films, maintaining a prominent presence until the decline of silent cinema. His legacy is marked by a distinct style that influenced generations of filmmakers and comedians.
Continue ReadingStephen Marley
Jamaican-American musician and producer
Born
April 20th, 1972 53 years ago
A musician and producer, this individual is recognized for contributions to reggae music as both a solo artist and a member of the family band. The work includes the Grammy-winning album 'Mind Control' released in 2007. Collaborated with various artists across genres, expanding the reach of reggae music. Also engaged in production, helping produce works for siblings and other notable reggae acts.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on August 28th
Augustine of Hippo
Theologian and Bishop of Hippo
Born
November 13th, 354 1671 years ago
Died
August 28th, 430 1595 years ago — 75 years old
Served as the Bishop of Hippo in North Africa and became a significant theologian in early Christianity. Writings included 'Confessions' and 'The City of God', addressing key theological issues such as original sin and divine grace. His works laid the foundation for much of Western Christian thought and philosophy. Engagements with Manichaeism and other philosophies shaped his later theological positions. Died in 430 during the Vandals' siege of Hippo.
Continue ReadingPaul MacCready
American engineer and businessman
Born
September 29th, 1925 100 years ago
Died
August 28th, 2007 18 years ago — 81 years old
An engineer and businessman, founded AeroVironment which designed and developed innovative aircrafts. Designed the Gossamer Albatross, the first human-powered aircraft to cross the English Channel. Contributed to fields of aerodynamics and renewable energy through various projects and prototypes.
Continue ReadingHenry Sidgwick
Economist and philosopher
Born
May 31st, 1838 187 years ago
Died
August 28th, 1900 125 years ago — 62 years old
Contributed to utilitarian ethics and the philosophy of education. Published 'The Methods of Ethics' in 1874, which explored ethical theory and rationality. Founded the first women's college in Cambridge, contributing to the advancement of women's education. Served as a prominent figure in discussions on morality and economics.
Continue ReadingJohn Huston
American director and screenwriter of The Maltese Falcon
Born
August 5th, 1906 119 years ago
Died
August 28th, 1987 38 years ago — 81 years old
An American actor, director, and screenwriter contributed significantly to the film industry. Directed and adapted numerous films, including 'The Maltese Falcon', 'The African Queen', and 'The Man Who Would Be King'. Received multiple Academy Awards, including Best Director for 'The African Queen'. Worked with various notable actors and his films often combined elements of drama and adventure. Huston's career spanned several decades, influencing both filmmakers and audiences alike. His legacy includes a wide range of genres, showcasing his talents in both directing and writing.
Continue ReadingAdolf Schmal
Austrian fencer and cyclist champion
Born
September 18th, 1872 153 years ago
Died
August 28th, 1919 106 years ago — 46 years old
Born in Austria, an accomplished fencer and cyclist participated in multiple Olympic Games. Competed in the 1900 Summer Olympics held in Paris, where earned a bronze medal in fencing. Also participated in cycling events, showcasing talent across both sports. Career spanned several years, with significant contributions to competitive fencing and cycling in Austria.
Continue ReadingBohuslav Martinů
Czech-American composer and pianist
Born
December 8th, 1890 135 years ago
Died
August 28th, 1959 66 years ago — 68 years old
Born in 1890, a prominent composer and pianist contributed significantly to 20th-century classical music. He studied at the Prague Conservatory and later moved to Paris, where he became involved with the avant-garde music scene. Martinů's work was influenced by folk music, including that of his native Bohemia, as well as neoclassical styles. His compositions include symphonies, operas, and chamber music, showcasing a unique blend of traditional and modern elements. He eventually settled in the United States, where he continued to compose and gained recognition for his innovative compositions. His works, noted for their rhythmic vitality and intricate counterpoint, receive frequent performances worldwide.
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