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
Pedro Trebbau
Zoologist and conservationist
Born
May 20th, 1929 96 years ago
Died
January 16th, 2021 5 years ago — 91 years old
German-born Venezuelan zoologist focused on the study and conservation of amphibians and reptiles in Venezuela. Conducted extensive research in national parks and was instrumental in conservation efforts. Played a significant role in the establishment of the Parque Nacional Henri Pittier, contributing to the protection of native species and ecosystems.
Continue ReadingFaisal I of Iraq
Iraqi King and Arab nationalist leader
Born
May 20th, 1883 142 years ago
Died
September 8th, 1933 92 years ago — 50 years old
Born on May 20, 1883, played a pivotal role in the Arab Revolt against Ottoman rule during World War I. Assumed leadership in Greater Syria post-war before becoming the King of Iraq in 1921. Advocated for constitutional reforms and sought to unify various factions in Iraq during his reign. His leadership coincided with efforts to modernize the country and establish a national identity amidst regional tensions. Held the throne until death in 1933, leaving a legacy within Iraqi governance.
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 ReadingAlexei Tupolev
Engineer of the Tupolev Tu-144 jet
Born
May 20th, 1925 100 years ago
Died
May 12th, 2001 24 years ago — 75 years old
An engineer specialized in aviation design, and contributed significant advancements in aerospace technology. Designed the Tupolev Tu-144, the first supersonic transport aircraft, which made its maiden flight in 1968 and became a symbol of Soviet aeronautics. Played a key role in the development of various military and civilian aircraft during a career that spanned several decades. Engaged in research and development focused on improving aircraft performance and safety, leading to innovative designs that influenced future aviation.
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 ReadingWilliam Redington Hewlett
Co-founder of Hewlett-Packard
Born
May 20th, 1913 112 years ago
Died
January 12th, 2001 25 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 ReadingOther People Who Died on January 18th
Claire van Kampen
English director and composer
Born
November 3rd, 1953 72 years ago
Died
January 18th, 2025 1 years ago — 71 years old
A director and composer, recognized for contributions to theatre. Served as an artistic director at the Globe Theatre in London. Composed music for various stage productions, with a focus on works that blend classical and contemporary elements. Collaborated with numerous theatre companies and gained acclaim for both directorial and compositional skills. Involved with the Royal Shakespeare Company and worked on adaptations of classical texts.
Continue ReadingAlberto Nisman
Argentinian prosecutor of AMIA bombing
Born
December 5th, 1963 62 years ago
Died
January 18th, 2015 11 years ago — 51 years old
A prominent Argentine lawyer and prosecutor focused on significant criminal cases. Best recognized for the investigation of the 1994 AMIA bombing in Buenos Aires, which resulted in 85 deaths. Nisman played a key role in uncovering evidence and seeking justice for the victims of this terrorist attack. The case attracted national and international attention due to allegations linking the bombing to Iranian officials. Nisman was found dead in his apartment in January 2015, a day before he was scheduled to present his findings to Congress, leading to numerous speculations and controversies surrounding his death.
Continue ReadingEdward Bulwer-Lytton
English author and politician
Born
May 25th, 1803 222 years ago
Died
January 18th, 1873 153 years ago — 69 years old
An influential English author, poet, and playwright, served as Secretary of State for the Colonies. Contributed significantly to literature in the 19th century with works spanning novels, essays, and plays. Wrote the renowned opening line, 'It was a dark and stormy night' from the novel 'Paul Clifford'. Engaged in politics and made contributions to social reform while advocating for colonial interests.
Continue ReadingSaadat Hasan Manto
Pakistani author and screenwriter
Born
May 11th, 1912 113 years ago
Died
January 18th, 1955 71 years ago — 42 years old
An influential writer and playwright, Manto gained recognition for his short stories focusing on the struggles and complexities of human nature, particularly during the partition of India in 1947. Manto's works explore themes of sexuality, identity, and social issues, often causing controversy due to their frankness. Significant contributions include a series of short stories that depict the harrowing experiences of people in a newly divided society. Additionally, Manto wrote screenplays for films, showcasing his versatility as a writer. His unique voice and narrative style left a lasting legacy in Urdu literature.
Continue ReadingLois Nettleton
American actress in 'The Twilight Zone'
Born
August 16th, 1927 98 years ago
Died
January 18th, 2008 18 years ago — 80 years old
An accomplished actress with a prolific career in television and film. Performance in the series 'The Twilight Zone' garnered significant attention. Appeared in notable productions including 'The Group' and 'Watership Down'. Received an Emmy Award for outstanding performance in a daytime drama. Active in theatre throughout life, showcasing talent on Broadway and in regional theaters. Recognized for versatility across genres, portraying both dramatic and comedic roles.
Continue ReadingAdolf Butenandt
German biochemist and Nobel laureate
Born
March 24th, 1903 122 years ago
Died
January 18th, 1995 31 years ago — 91 years old
A prominent biochemist contributed significantly to the understanding of sex hormones. Conducted pioneering work on the isolation and characterization of steroids, particularly estrone, from the urine of pregnant women. Served as a professor at the University of Tübingen and later the University of Munich, focusing on biochemical research and education. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1939 for research on hormones, specifically for work on sex hormones and their physiological effects.
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