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
Caroline Zhang
Figure skater & World Junior champion
Born
May 20th, 1993 33 years ago
A competitive figure skater, achieved notable success in junior and senior competitions. Won the World Junior Figure Skating Championships in 2007, securing a prominent place in the sport. Competed at the senior level in various events including Skate America and the U.S. Figure Skating Championships. Participated in the 2010 Winter Olympics, representing the United States. Known for a graceful style and strong technical skills on the ice.
Continue ReadingOndina Valla
Italian sprinter and Olympic champion
Born
May 20th, 1916 110 years ago
Died
2006 20 years ago — 90 years old
Achieved prominence as a sprinter and hurdler in the mid-20th century. Competed in the 1936 Berlin Olympics, where secured a gold medal in the women's 80 meters hurdles. Valla also participated in other track events, setting national records and earning recognition within Italian athletics. Her athletic career spanned several years, with significant performances in various competitions.
Continue ReadingJoel Moon
Rugby league player & representative athlete
Born
May 20th, 1988 38 years ago
Debuted in professional rugby league in 2007. Played for clubs including the Sydney Roosters and the New Zealand Warriors. Represented New South Wales Country in representative matches. Participated in the rugby league World Cup, contributing to team strategies and performance.
Continue ReadingJack Gleeson
Irish actor from Game of Thrones
Born
May 20th, 1992 34 years ago
An Irish actor achieved recognition for the role of Joffrey Baratheon in the television series Game of Thrones, which aired from 2011 to 2019. Gleeson gained acclaim for his portrayal of the character, known for his cruel demeanor and significant impact on the series' storyline. After his success in Game of Thrones, he stepped away from acting and pursued an academic career, focusing on philosophy. He has also been involved in various theater productions, contributing as both an actor and a director.
Continue ReadingNam Nguyen
Canadian figure skater and champion
Born
May 20th, 1998 28 years ago
A figure skater represented Canada in various international competitions. Achieved notable success on the junior circuit, winning the 2014 World Junior Figure Skating Championships. Competed at several senior-level championships, showcasing talent in artistry and technical skills. Known for performances combining intricate footwork and a strong presence on the ice. Participated in events such as the Grand Prix series and the Canadian Championships, earning recognition in the figure skating community.
Continue ReadingOwen Chadwick
Rugby player and historian, authored books
Born
May 20th, 1916 110 years ago
Died
July 17th, 2015 10 years ago — 99 years old
Played rugby union for England and served as a historian and academic. Contributed significantly to the field of modern history with a particular focus on the Methodist Church and British history. Authored several books, adding depth to historical scholarship and fostering academic discussions on religion and history.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on January 18th
Kathleen Norris
American journalist and author
Born
July 16th, 1880 145 years ago
Died
January 18th, 1966 60 years ago — 85 years old
A prominent journalist and author during the early to mid-20th century, contributed extensively to literature with a focus on personal experiences and societal issues. Published numerous novels, essays, and autobiographical works. Became a significant figure in leading discussions on women's roles and family life in America. Her writing resonated widely with the public and received critical acclaim.
Continue ReadingAmy Carmichael
Irish missionary and humanitarian work
Born
December 16th, 1867 158 years ago
Died
January 18th, 1951 75 years ago — 83 years old
Engaged in missionary work in India after moving there in 1895. Founded the Donnerton Home for girls in 1901, providing a safe haven for young girls escaping poverty and exploitation. Published several books on her experiences and views on faith, including 'If' and 'Gold Cord.' Focused on cultural adaptation and the importance of reaching out to local people without imposing external beliefs. Died in 1951 after a long illness.
Continue ReadingVassilis Tsitsanis
Greek singer-songwriter and bouzouki player
Born
January 18th, 1915 111 years ago
Died
January 18th, 1984 42 years ago — 69 years old
A prominent figure in Greek music, contributed significantly to the genre of rebetiko. Formed a unique style that blended traditional sounds with contemporary themes. His career began in the 1930s, crafting songs that resonated with everyday life and struggles. Tsitsanis played the bouzouki and showcased his talent through various recordings and performances. His music often addressed social issues, reflecting the hardships of the time, and he became a leading voice for the rebetiko revival in Greece. His influence extended beyond his lifetime, as many of his compositions remain popular in Greek culture today.
Continue ReadingDavid Crosby
American singer-songwriter, founding member
Born
August 14th, 1941 84 years ago
Died
January 18th, 2023 3 years ago — 81 years old
A prominent figure in American folk rock, one of the founding members of The Byrds and Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young. Contributed to the genre with distinctive harmonies and songwriting. The Byrds achieved success with hits like 'Mr. Tambourine Man' and 'Turn! Turn! Turn!'. Released several solo albums throughout the career, including 'If I Could Only Remember My Name' in 1971. Known for a 2021 Grammy Award for Best Folk Album for 'For Free', a collaborative project.
Continue ReadingYvette Mimieux
American actress in 'The Time Machine'
Born
January 8th, 1942 84 years ago
Died
January 18th, 2022 4 years ago — 80 years old
Yvette Mimieux was an American actress who gained significant recognition during the 1960s and 1970s. She debuted in the film 'The Time Machine' (1960) and received acclaim for her performances. Other notable works include roles in 'Where the Boys Are' (1960) and 'The Delta Force' (1986). Mimieux also ventured into television, appearing in series such as 'Dr. Kildare' and 'The Love Boat.' With a career spanning decades, her contributions to film and television were marked by a series of memorable performances, garnering a devoted fan base over the years.
Continue ReadingJan Twardowski
Polish priest and poet of religious works
Born
1915 111 years ago
Died
January 18th, 2006 20 years ago — 91 years old
A Polish priest and poet, contributions include a profound impact on religious literature. Twardowski published numerous poetry collections that explored themes of faith, love, and human experience. His works often reflected a deep spirituality intertwined with everyday life. Twardowski's poetic style combined simplicity with depth, making complex spiritual ideas accessible. Many of his poems were set to music, gaining popularity among congregations. Twardowski also served as a chaplain during World War II, influencing many through both his spiritual and literary endeavors.
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