Ray Manzarek
Keyboardist and co-founder of The Doors
A prominent keyboardist and producer, contributed significantly to rock music as a co-founder of the band The Doors. Instrumental in shaping the sound of the band with distinctive keyboard melodies and innovative use of the organ. Served as the band's creative force alongside its iconic frontman. Played a key role in producing several of the band's albums and supporting the distinctive blend of rock, blues, and psychedelia that characterized their work. Frequent collaborator with other artists throughout his career, exploring various musical genres.
Co-founded The Doors in 1965
Contributed to classic albums like 'The Doors' and 'L.A. Woman'
Pioneered the use of keyboards in rock music
Other People Born on February 12th
Charles Van Doren
American academic and quiz show contestant
Born
February 12th, 1926 99 years ago
Died
April 9th, 2019 6 years ago — 93 years old
An academic and quiz show contestant gained national attention through participation in the television quiz show 'Twenty-One'. This role brought controversies surrounding quiz show ethics to light. During the 1950s, considerable public interest followed the revelations of the scripted nature of quiz shows. After the scandal, pursued a career in education and writing, focusing on topics related to literature and culture. Served as a professor at Columbia University and authored several works, contributing to discussions on the role of education in society.
Continue ReadingKhvicha Kvaratskhelia
Georgian footballer; Napoli forward
Born
February 12th, 2001 24 years ago
Born in Georgia in 2001, a professional footballer made a significant impact in European football. Started playing at a young age in local clubs and gained attention for exceptional skills. Joined Napoli in 2022, quickly establishing himself as a key player. Contributed to Napoli's successful Serie A campaign, helping the team secure the championship title in the 2022-2023 season. His play style and contributions on the field garnered recognition in Italy and beyond.
Continue ReadingPat Dobson
Baseball player, coach, and manager
Born
February 12th, 1942 83 years ago
Died
November 22nd, 2006 19 years ago — 64 years old
Played as a Major League Baseball pitcher from 1961 to 1978, participating with teams such as the Baltimore Orioles, Detroit Tigers, and New York Yankees. Transitioned to coaching and management roles, contributing to several franchises in various capacities. Established a career that included significant contributions both on and off the field.
Continue ReadingLorne Greene
Actor in Bonanza and Battlestar Galactica
Born
February 12th, 1915 110 years ago
Died
September 11th, 1987 38 years ago — 72 years old
Born in 1915, a Canadian-American actor gained prominence through roles in television and film. Best remembered for portraying Ben Cartwright in the long-running western television series Bonanza, which aired from 1959 to 1973. Later starred as Commander Adama in the science fiction series Battlestar Galactica, which debuted in 1978. The deep, resonant voice became an iconic feature, leading to additional narration work in various documentaries and programs. Contributed to the entertainment industry as a producer and director over a career spanning more than five decades.
Continue ReadingFranco Zeffirelli
Italian director and producer of film
Born
February 12th, 1923 102 years ago
Died
June 15th, 2019 6 years ago — 96 years old
Directed and produced films and operas, focusing on Shakespearean adaptations and classic literature. Notable works include the film adaptation of 'Romeo and Juliet' (1968) and 'Hamlet' (1990). Founded a production company, Zeffirelli Productions, to oversee his projects. Served as a member of the Italian Parliament and held a significant role in the cultural scene of Italy. Created various acclaimed operatic productions, notably for La Scala in Milan.
Continue ReadingNorman Farberow
Psychologist and pioneer in suicide prevention
Born
February 12th, 1918 107 years ago
Died
September 10th, 2015 10 years ago — 97 years old
Contributed significantly to the field of psychology with a focus on suicide prevention. Served as a professor and held various leadership roles in academic institutions. Co-founded the Los Angeles Suicide Prevention Center, which marked a pivotal development in crisis intervention and mental health support. Published extensively on mental health issues and helped shape strategies for addressing suicidal behaviors. Involved in training professionals in the field, influencing practices related to mental health and crisis response.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on May 20th
Columba of Rieti
Italian Dominican sister and mystic
Born
February 2nd, 1467 559 years ago
Died
May 20th, 1501 524 years ago — 34 years old
Born in Italy in 1467, a Dominican sister focused on a spiritual life marked by mysticism and religious devotion. Primarily associated with the convent of Santa Maria in Rieti, played a significant role in the spiritual lives of her community and visitors. Engaged in contemplative prayer and served as a spiritual advisor, guiding others in their faith. Died in 1501, leaving behind a legacy of religious commitment.
Continue ReadingGilda Radner
American actress and comedian on SNL
Born
June 28th, 1946 79 years ago
Died
May 20th, 1989 36 years ago — 42 years old
An actress and comedian, her work on Saturday Night Live established a foundation for future sketch comedy. Radner created several iconic characters, including Roseanne Roseannadanna and Baba Wawa. She was a pioneering female voice in comedy during the 1970s and gained recognition for her spontaneous humor and performances. Following her tenure on SNL, she starred in the film 'Haunted Honeymoon' and various television specials. Radner's personal struggle with cancer became a significant part of her legacy, inspiring the establishment of a cancer center in her honor.
Continue ReadingWilliam Seawell
American general and military leader
Born
January 27th, 1918 108 years ago
Died
May 20th, 2005 20 years ago — 87 years old
Born in 1918, a prominent general served in the United States Army. Participated in various military operations throughout a notable career. Achieved the rank of major general, overseeing significant divisions and contributing to strategic military planning. Served in key leadership roles during the Cold War era, focusing on military preparedness and national security. Retired with a legacy of service that influenced military operations.
Continue ReadingPierre Gamarra
French author and poet
Born
July 10th, 1919 106 years ago
Died
May 20th, 2009 16 years ago — 89 years old
An author, poet, and literary critic, significant contributions were made to French literature throughout the 20th century. Works often reflected themes of personal and collective identity, exploring the nuances of life and culture. Engagement with various literary forms and movements underscored a deep commitment to the craft of writing. In addition to original works, critical essays provided insights into contemporary literature and the role of the writer.
Continue ReadingWładysław IV Vasa
King of Poland and Grand Duke of Lithuania
Born
June 9th, 1595 430 years ago
Died
May 20th, 1648 377 years ago — 52 years old
Born in 1595, this monarch reigned over the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth from 1632 until 1648. His rule focused on strengthening the military and pursuing foreign alliances. Significant efforts were made to modernize the naval fleet and expand trade. Under his leadership, the Commonwealth engaged in the wars against Sweden and Russia, navigating complicated political landscapes. He sought to stabilize the internal politics of the Commonwealth and was involved in various diplomatic negotiations, especially with the Habsburgs and the Ottoman Empire.
Continue ReadingDamaskinos of Athens
Greek Archbishop and ecclesiastical leader
Born
March 3rd, 1891 134 years ago
Died
May 20th, 1949 76 years ago — 58 years old
Occupied the position of Archbishop of Athens from 1938 to 1941 and again from 1944 to 1949. Played a significant role in religious and political life in Greece during turbulent times, including World War II. Led efforts to protect Jewish citizens during the Nazi occupation of Greece. Contributed to the restoration of the Orthodox Church after the war, emphasizing educational and social initiatives.
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