Pietro Bembo
Italian cardinal and humanist scholar
Served as a cardinal in the Roman Catholic Church and contributed significantly to the fields of poetry and literary theory during the Renaissance. His works expressed a deep appreciation for classical literature and language. Bembo's most notable work, 'Prose della volgar lingua,' influenced the development of the Italian language and established the Tuscan dialect as the standard for Italian literature. He was also involved in the promotion of the works of prominent authors and played a key role in the revival of Latin and Greek literature in Europe.
Authored 'Prose della volgar lingua'
Promoted the Tuscan dialect in literature
Contributed to the Renaissance literary movement
Other People Born on May 20th
George Prendergast
Australian politician, 28th Premier of Victoria
Born
May 20th, 1854 171 years ago
Died
August 28th, 1937 88 years ago — 83 years old
Served as the 28th Premier of Victoria from 1900 to 1901. Prendergast was a member of the Australian Labor Party and held various political positions throughout his career. His leadership contributed to significant legislative reforms within the state, focusing on workers' rights and education. He was involved in the development of infrastructure projects aimed at improving the state's economy. His tenure as Premier marked a critical period in Victorian politics during the early 1900s.
Continue ReadingVladimiro Montesinos
Peruvian intelligence officer
Born
May 20th, 1945 80 years ago
Served as head of the National Intelligence Service of Peru from 1990 to 2000. Played a crucial role in the government's efforts against the Shining Path and the Tupac Amaru Revolutionary Movement. Managed intelligence operations and implemented controversial strategies that included corruption and human rights violations. His influence extended to various government decisions and policies during Alberto Fujimori's presidency. Faces multiple legal issues related to corruption and human rights abuses after the fall of Fujimori's government.
Continue ReadingAli Sami Yen
Turkish footballer and Galatasaray founder
Born
May 20th, 1886 139 years ago
Died
July 29th, 1951 74 years ago — 65 years old
A prominent figure in Turkish football, founded Galatasaray S.K. in 1905, which evolved into one of Turkey's most successful football clubs. Served as the first president of the club and contributed significantly to its growth and development. Played a crucial role in establishing the club's identity and presence in Turkish sports. His leadership and vision helped shape the foundations of football in Turkey, leading to the club's enduring legacy.
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 ReadingDave Thomas
Canadian actor and director of SCTV
Born
May 20th, 1949 76 years ago
Died
August 27th, 2013 12 years ago — 64 years old
An actor, director, producer, and screenwriter, involved with the sketch comedy show SCTV, which gained critical acclaim. Also co-created and starred in the film Strange Brew, which became a cult classic. Contributed to television and film projects throughout career, winning accolades for comedic performances and writing skills.
Continue ReadingJohn Cruickshank
Scottish lieutenant, Victoria Cross recipient
Born
May 20th, 1920 105 years ago
Served as a lieutenant in the Royal Air Force during World War II. Participated in numerous missions and displayed exceptional bravery. Received the Victoria Cross for actions in military combat, highlighting courage in the face of enemy fire. Later pursued a career in banking after the war, contributing to financial sectors in Scotland.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on January 18th
Lamont Bentley
Actor and rapper known for 'Moesha'
Born
October 25th, 1973 52 years ago
Died
January 18th, 2005 20 years ago — 31 years old
An American actor and rapper, achieved recognition primarily for the role of Hakeem Campbell on the television series 'Moesha,' which aired from 1996 to 2001. In addition to acting, ventured into music and secured a place in the hip hop scene. Participated in various projects that showcased both acting and musical talents. Transitioned between multiple entertainment mediums, demonstrating versatility and dedication to the craft until his untimely death in 2005.
Continue ReadingSean Fallon
Irish footballer and manager, Celtic FC
Born
1922 103 years ago
Died
January 18th, 2013 12 years ago — 91 years old
Played for and managed Celtic FC, with a career in football spanning several decades. Had significant success as a player in the 1950s and early 1960s, winning multiple league titles and cups. Transitioned into a managerial role, leading the team during critical periods and contributing to the club's legacy. Active in the football community until later in life.
Continue ReadingTony Verna
Television director, inventor of instant replay
Born
November 26th, 1933 92 years ago
Died
January 18th, 2015 10 years ago — 81 years old
Pioneered innovations in sports broadcasting, particularly creating the instant replay technique that transformed how viewers experienced live sports. Worked as a director and producer for various television shows, contributing significantly to the evolution of sports media. This invention allowed for highlights and critical plays to be seen again immediately, enhancing the overall viewer experience. His career included directing numerous award-winning projects.
Continue ReadingJohn Coughlin
Figure skater and pairs champion
Born
1985 40 years ago
Died
January 18th, 2019 6 years ago — 34 years old
Competed in pairs figure skating and achieved notable success in national and international events. Secured the U.S. national pairs title in 2011 and won a silver medal at the 2012 Four Continents Championships. Participated in the Grand Prix series and earned a reputation in the figure skating community for technical skill and artistry. Career was tragically cut short following legal issues and personal challenges.
Continue ReadingRachael Heyhoe Flint
Cricketer and philanthropist
Born
June 11th, 1939 86 years ago
Died
January 18th, 2017 8 years ago — 77 years old
An accomplished cricketer, significantly contributed to women's cricket. Played for England's national team from 1960 to 1982 and captained the team to its first Women's Cricket World Cup title in 1973. Beyond cricket, engaged in various philanthropic efforts and served as a businesswoman. Held the title of Baroness and was involved in numerous charitable initiatives supporting sports and women's rights.
Continue ReadingHarivansh Rai Bachchan
Indian poet and author of Madhushala
Born
November 27th, 1907 118 years ago
Died
January 18th, 2003 22 years ago — 95 years old
A prominent Indian poet and author, contributed significantly to Hindi literature. Gained recognition for writing in traditional forms while integrating modern themes. Served as a professor of English at Allahabad University. His work often reflected the struggles and emotions of human existence. Became a central figure in the Chhayavaad literary movement, which emphasized romanticism in Hindi poetry. Published numerous collections of poetry and prose, leaving a lasting legacy in Indian literature.
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