Rachel Scott

Victim of Columbine High School massacre

Rachel Scott - Victim of Columbine High School massacre
Born

August 5th, 1981
44 years ago

Died

April 20th, 1999
26 years ago — 17 years old

Category

Activists & Humanitarians

Country

United States

Links & References

A student at Columbine High School in Colorado, became one of the first victims in the tragic school shooting on April 20, 1999. Prior to the incident, expressed a desire to spread kindness and compassion through various writings. After the event, her story resonated with many, leading to the establishment of a foundation that promotes Rachel's ideals and engages in anti-bullying initiatives. Her legacy endures through the influence of her writings and the ongoing discussions about school safety.

Victim of the Columbine High School massacre

Inspiration behind Rachel's Challenge program

Other People Born on August 5th

Joseph Justus Scaliger

Historian and scholar of the Renaissance
Born
August 5th, 1540 485 years ago
Died
January 21st, 1609 416 years ago — 68 years old

A prominent historian and scholar during the Renaissance, focused on chronology and history. Contributed to the understanding of ancient texts and historical methods. Developed the concept of a universal chronological system, which laid the foundation for modern historical studies. His extensive work on the history of the Roman Empire and the chronology of ancient nations established him as a pivotal figure in the field. Wrote multiple influential texts that were central to the study of history and science, influencing subsequent historians and scholars.

Continue Reading

Anthony Edwards

Professional basketball player, NBA star
Born
August 5th, 2001 24 years ago

Born in 2001, a professional basketball player played as a shooting guard in the NBA for the Minnesota Timberwolves. Edwards gained recognition for exceptional scoring ability and athleticism. He played college basketball at the University of Georgia, where impressive performances led to a high selection in the 2020 NBA Draft. Career in the NBA has been marked by multiple standout games and accolades, showcasing talent and solidifying a position as a key player for the Timberwolves.

Continue Reading

Leonardo Leo

Italian composer and opera innovator
Born
August 5th, 1694 331 years ago
Died
October 31st, 1744 281 years ago — 50 years old

Born in 1694 in the Kingdom of Naples, a prominent composer emerged in the Baroque music period. He created a significant body of operas and sacred music, demonstrating a unique style that blended traditional Italian elements with new influences. His operatic works, particularly 'Pinto at the Capua Theater' and 'Il Conte Carosio', contributed to the development of opera in Naples and beyond. He held positions at various courts, showcasing his talents as both a composer and a conductor. His contributions helped shape the opera genre during a transformative era in music history.

Continue Reading

Ivar Aasen

Norwegian poet and linguist
Born
August 5th, 1813 212 years ago
Died
1896 129 years ago — 83 years old

Born in Norway in 1813, a poet and linguist contributed significantly to the development of the Norwegian language. Established the foundation for Nynorsk, one of Norway's official written languages, based on rural dialects. Authored various poems that celebrated Norwegian culture and nature. His works sought to provide a distinct linguistic identity separate from Danish influence.

Continue Reading

Rosalind Hicks

Literary guardian, Agatha Christie’s child
Born
August 5th, 1919 106 years ago
Died
2004 21 years ago — 85 years old

Born as the only child of a renowned author, a significant role as a literary guardian was fulfilled. Managing the literary estate and works of one of the best-selling authors in history, engagement in numerous adaptations and projects related to her mother's writings occurred. Actively participated in promoting the legacy of Agatha Christie through various media and public engagements.

Continue Reading

Ladislaus IV of Hungary

King of Hungary during the 13th century
Born
August 5th, 1262 763 years ago
Died
1290 735 years ago — 28 years old

Born in 1262, this monarch ruled over Hungary as King from 1272 until his death in 1290. His reign was marked by political struggles and conflicts with the local lords and the Mongol incursions. The leadership was characterized by attempts to assert royal authority over the nobility, which encountered significant resistance. Under this king, the Croatian crown was inherited, thereby linking Hungary with Croatia. Efforts were made to stabilize the kingdom during a period of turmoil and fragmentation.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on April 20th

Chief Pontiac

Tribal leader and military strategist
Born
1720 305 years ago
Died
April 20th, 1769 256 years ago — 49 years old

A prominent leader of the Ottawa tribe, he played a significant role in opposing British rule in the Great Lakes region following the French and Indian War. Pontiac led a coalition of various tribes in a series of battles known as Pontiac's Rebellion, which sought to expel British forces and settlers from Native American lands. This insurrection brought attention to the grievances of tribes against colonial policies, leading to changes in British strategy regarding Native American relations. Pontiac's leadership and military tactics contributed to the resistance against colonial expansion during the mid-18th century.

Continue Reading

Tim Hetherington

Photographer and journalist, 'Restrepo'
Born
1970 55 years ago
Died
April 20th, 2011 14 years ago — 41 years old

Engaged in conflict and documentary photography, showcasing the realities of war. Co-directed the Oscar-nominated documentary film 'Restrepo', which details the experiences of soldiers deployed in Afghanistan. Contributions included work in Liberia, where coverage chronicled the civil war. Collaborated with various publications, providing powerful visual narratives that captured human stories in times of crisis. Focused on the impact of media in war zones and the representation of conflict in contemporary societies. Died while covering the Libyan Civil War.

Continue Reading

Jüri Jaakson

Estonian businessman and State Elder
Born
January 16th, 1870 155 years ago
Died
April 20th, 1942 83 years ago — 72 years old

A prominent businessman and politician in Estonia, played a significant role in the early years of Estonia's independence. Served as the State Elder, a position akin to head of state, during a critical period of national formation. Contributed to various sectors including commerce and cultural development. Actively participated in shaping Estonia's economic policies and governance structures.

Continue Reading

Cassie Bernall

Victim of Columbine High School massacre
Born
1981 44 years ago
Died
April 20th, 1999 26 years ago — 18 years old

A student at Columbine High School, became one of the victims during the tragic shooting on April 20, 1999. The incident drew national attention and sparked discussions about school safety, gun control, and youth violence. Bernall's story was shared widely, including claims surrounding her final words, which contributed to her recognition posthumously. Her life and the events surrounding her death remain significant in the context of school violence in the United States.

Continue Reading

Mary of Looz-Heinsberg

Dutch noble and Countess of Looz
Born
1424 601 years ago
Died
April 20th, 1502 523 years ago — 78 years old

Held the title of Countess of Looz through marriage and ruled the county, influencing regional politics during the late 15th century. Managed estates and maintained relationships with local nobility, helping to stabilize the area during a tumultuous period. Her marriage to a nobleman strengthened alliances and contributed to the political landscape of the time.

Continue Reading

Marjorie Gestring

Springboard Diver, Olympic Gold Medalist
Born
November 18th, 1922 102 years ago
Died
April 20th, 1992 33 years ago — 69 years old

Springboard diver achieved fame by winning an Olympic gold medal. Competed in the 1936 Summer Olympics held in Berlin, securing first place in the 3-meter springboard event at the age of 13, making her the youngest female Olympic champion at that time. Continued to be active in diving throughout her life and contributed to the sport.

Continue Reading