Philip William
Prince of Orange and Military Leader
Born
Died
Category
Military & Warriors
Country
Netherlands
Links & References
Served as a prominent military leader during the Eighty Years' War, contributing to the Dutch struggle for independence from Spanish rule. Held the title of Prince of Orange and played a crucial role in strategizing campaigns against Spanish forces. His leadership was pivotal for the establishment of the Dutch Republic, with efforts directed towards unifying the provinces against external threats. Negotiated various treaties to strengthen the Rebel forces and maintain order in the region, cementing his status within the complex political landscape of the time. His death in 1618 marked a significant moment in the ongoing conflict.
Led military efforts during the Eighty Years' War
Served as Prince of Orange
Negotiated treaties for the Dutch Republic
Other People Born on December 19th
Little Jimmy Dickens
Country music singer-songwriter and performer
Born
December 19th, 1920 105 years ago
Died
2015 10 years ago — 95 years old
A prominent figure in country music, a career spanned several decades. Gained popularity in the 1940s and 1950s with a unique blend of humor and heartfelt storytelling in songs. Achieved fame with the hit singles 'Take an Old Cold Tater (And Wait)' and 'Out Behind the Barn'. Spent over 60 years as a regular performer on the Grand Ole Opry. Known for his distinctive style, often characterized by his small stature and colorful outfits. Inducted into the Grand Ole Opry in 1948 and became an iconic presence in the country music scene.
Continue ReadingBobby Layne
American football quarterback and coach
Born
December 19th, 1926 99 years ago
Died
1986 39 years ago — 60 years old
Played professional American football as a quarterback primarily with the Detroit Lions. Led the Lions to three NFL championships in the 1950s. Transitioned into coaching after retirement from playing, sharing insights gained throughout a successful career in the league. Inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1967, highlighting a significant impact on the sport and recognition among peers.
Continue ReadingFord C. Frick
American sports executive and journalist
Born
December 19th, 1894 131 years ago
Died
1978 47 years ago — 84 years old
Served as the President of the National League from 1951 to 1963 and later as the Commissioner of Major League Baseball from 1965 to 1969. Played a significant role in the expansion of baseball and the establishment of the Major League Baseball All-Star Game. Also contributed as a sports journalist, providing coverage and insights into the world of baseball.
Continue ReadingCicely Tyson
American actress and activist
Born
December 19th, 1924 101 years ago
Died
January 28th, 2021 4 years ago — 96 years old
A prominent actress with a career spanning over seven decades. Recognized for portraying strong African American women on stage and screen. Gained acclaim for roles in productions such as 'The Autobiography of Miss Jane Pittman' and 'Sounder'. Received multiple awards including three Primetime Emmy Awards and the Lifetime Achievement Award from the Screen Actors Guild. Advocated for civil rights and representation in the entertainment industry, emphasizing the importance of authentic storytelling.
Continue ReadingFritz Reiner
Conductor and music director
Born
December 19th, 1888 137 years ago
Died
November 15th, 1963 62 years ago — 74 years old
Born in Hungary, a prominent conductor established a successful career in the United States. Conducted the Chicago Symphony Orchestra and the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra, where significant contributions to orchestral music were made. Renowned for interpretations of classical repertoire, particularly works by composers such as Mahler and Strauss. Also served as music director for the New York Philharmonic and had a notable career in opera, leading productions at the Metropolitan Opera. Recorded extensively, leaving a legacy of distinguished performances.
Continue ReadingDavid Susskind
Talk show host and television producer
Born
December 19th, 1920 105 years ago
Died
February 22nd, 1987 38 years ago — 66 years old
Established as a prominent talk show host and television producer, Susskind created and hosted several influential programs, including 'Open End' and 'The David Susskind Show'. His shows often featured interviews with a variety of guests, covering societal and political issues. Additionally, Susskind produced made-for-television movies, contributing significantly to the television landscape. His production work included acclaimed projects that garnered critical accolades, highlighting his role in shaping television entertainment in the mid-20th century.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on February 20th
Gene Siskel
Film critic and co-host of At the Movies
Born
January 26th, 1946 79 years ago
Died
February 20th, 1999 26 years ago — 53 years old
This individual served as a prominent film critic and journalist, co-hosting the television program 'At the Movies' alongside Roger Ebert for over two decades. The program became influential in defining film criticism on television, providing reviews and insights on a wide range of films. The critic also wrote for the Chicago Tribune, where a column and reviews highlighted cinematic works, influencing public perception and the film industry. His work often involved spirited debates about films, particularly in the context of popular culture. The critic's legacy endures in the field of film journalism, shaping how films are critiqued and approached by audiences.
Continue ReadingSaint Wulfric of Haselbury
Medieval Christian monk and hermit
Died
February 20th, 1154 871 years ago — None years old
Originating around 1080, a Christian monk and hermit established a hermitage at Haselbury Plucknett, where spiritual guidance was provided to locals. A dedicated life of solitude was embraced, alongside the practice of healing and performing miracles. Canonization occurred posthumously, with a feast day recognized on February 20th. A notable pilgrimage site developed at Haselbury, attracting many seeking solace and assistance. The legacy included influence on the monastic community in the region, fostering a tradition of devotion.
Continue ReadingMildred Dresselhaus
American physicist and 'Queen of Carbon'
Born
November 11th, 1930 95 years ago
Died
February 20th, 2017 8 years ago — 86 years old
Contributions to the field of physics focused on carbon nanostructures and materials. Played a pivotal role in advancing the understanding of thermoelectric materials. Served as a professor at MIT, influencing generations of students in the field of physics and electrical engineering. Received numerous awards, including the National Medal of Science and the Presidential Medal of Freedom.
Continue ReadingAndreas Brehme
Footballer and 1990 World Cup winner
Born
November 9th, 1960 65 years ago
Died
February 20th, 2024 1 years ago — 63 years old
A prominent figure in football, played as a midfielder. Achieved fame during the 1990 FIFA World Cup, where he scored the decisive penalty in the final match against Argentina, leading West Germany to victory. Had a notable club career, playing for teams such as Kaiserslautern, Bayern Munich, and Inter Milan, and contributed to multiple domestic league titles and European competitions. Brehme was recognized for his skillful play and leadership on the field.
Continue ReadingLaura Bassi
Italian physicist and scholar
Born
October 29th, 1711 314 years ago
Died
February 20th, 1778 247 years ago — 66 years old
Contributed to the development of physics and experimental science in the 18th century. Became the first woman to earn a degree in physics in Italy. Held a position at the University of Bologna, where taught for decades. Conducted experiments and published findings on topics such as hydraulics and mechanics, influencing future generations of scientists.
Continue ReadingP. G. T. Beauregard
American Civil War General
Born
May 28th, 1818 207 years ago
Died
February 20th, 1893 132 years ago — 74 years old
P. G. T. Beauregard served as a general in the Confederate Army during the American Civil War. He achieved prominence for his command in several key battles, including the First Battle of Bull Run and the Siege of Petersburg. His strategic acumen was evident in his role during the defense of Charleston, South Carolina, where he successfully repelled Union forces for an extended period. Following the Civil War, he became involved in railroad construction and worked as a civil engineer.
Continue Reading