Richard Francis Burton
Geographer and explorer of Africa
Born
Died
Category
Explorers & Adventurers
Country
United Kingdom
Links & References
Accomplishments included extensive exploration of Africa and the Middle East. In 1858, discovered the sources of the Nile River alongside John Hanning Speke. Worked as a soldier and diplomat, notably serving in various missions for the British Empire. Translated 'The Arabian Nights' into English, contributing significantly to Western understanding of Eastern literature. Conducted studies in anthropology and folklore, documenting languages and cultures encountered during travels.
Discovered sources of the Nile River
Translated 'The Arabian Nights' into English
Other People Born on March 19th
Peter Hall
Geographer and urban studies author
Born
March 19th, 1932 93 years ago
Died
July 30th, 2014 11 years ago — 82 years old
An English geographer and academic focused on urban studies and the evolution of cities. Contributed extensively to the understanding of metropolitan development. Served as a professor at several institutions and wrote influential works on urban planning, including 'Cities of Tomorrow'. Involved with the Royal Town Planning Institute and shaped policy discussions on urbanization in the UK.
Continue ReadingGuy Lewis
Basketball player and coach, Houston Cougars
Born
March 19th, 1922 103 years ago
Died
November 26th, 2015 10 years ago — 93 years old
An American basketball player and coach, this individual served as head coach of the University of Houston men's basketball team from 1956 to 1986. The team gained prominence during the late 1970s and early 1980s, leading to several deep NCAA tournament runs. During the coaching career, he cultivated talents such as Hakeem Olajuwon and Clyde Drexler. The individual's coaching strategy emphasized fast-paced play and athleticism, contributing to a significant evolution in college basketball. The team reached the NCAA Final Four three times, including back-to-back appearances in 1982 and 1983.
Continue ReadingIrving Wallace
Journalist and screenwriter for major films
Born
March 19th, 1916 109 years ago
Died
June 29th, 1990 35 years ago — 74 years old
A journalist, author, and screenwriter, contributed to literature and cinema through compelling narratives. Authored acclaimed novels and screenplays, with notable works including 'The Prize' and 'The Man'. Explored complex themes of human experience, often mixing fact and fiction. Contributions spanned several decades, leaving a mark on both literature and film industries.
Continue ReadingJosé Prudencio Padilla López
Colombian naval commander and politician
Born
March 19th, 1784 241 years ago
Died
1828 197 years ago — 44 years old
A Colombian naval commander and politician, contributed to the naval campaigns during the Colombian wars of independence. Played a crucial role in naval battles against Spanish forces, including the Battle of Lake Maracaibo. Served in various political positions following independence, particularly in the Congress of Gran Colombia. Padilla's leadership and strategic insights in naval warfare were instrumental in securing Colombian sovereignty.
Continue ReadingGaston Lachaise
Sculptor known for monumental works
Born
March 19th, 1882 143 years ago
Died
October 18th, 1935 90 years ago — 53 years old
Born in France, Gaston Lachaise emigrated to the United States in 1906. His career as a sculptor flourished in New York City, where he created numerous notable pieces. Lachaise focused on themes of the human form, often using materials like bronze and marble. His works reflect a blend of classical and modern styles. One of his most recognized pieces is the sculpture 'Standing Woman,' which showcases his interest in femininity and form. Through his sculptures, Lachaise explored strength and beauty, becoming a prominent figure in the American art scene during the early 20th century.
Continue ReadingEduardo Saverin
Businessman & Facebook co-founder
Born
March 19th, 1982 43 years ago
Co-founded Facebook in 2004 alongside Mark Zuckerberg, Andrew McCollum, Dustin Moskovitz, and Chris Hughes while studying at Harvard University. Saverin served as the company's first CFO and business manager during its early days. Following a legal dispute with Zuckerberg, Saverin left Facebook in 2005 and later settled with the company. After relocating to Singapore, Saverin became involved in various investment ventures, focusing on technology startups and venture capital. He has invested in numerous companies across different sectors and developed a reputation as a significant figure in the tech investment landscape.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on October 20th
Paul Kurtz
Philosopher advocating secular humanism
Born
1925 100 years ago
Died
October 20th, 2012 13 years ago — 87 years old
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Continue ReadingChuck Hiller
Baseball player and manager with Giants
Born
1934 91 years ago
Died
October 20th, 2004 21 years ago — 70 years old
A baseball player played primarily as a second baseman in Major League Baseball. Debuted in 1955 with the New York Giants and later played for the Philadelphia Phillies and the New York Mets. Made history as the first player to hit a home run in a World Series game for the Mets in 1969. Transitioned to a coaching and managerial role after retirement, contributing to various teams' development, including the San Francisco Giants and the Baltimore Orioles.
Continue ReadingAnthony Hecht
American poet and Pulitzer Prize winner
Born
January 16th, 1923 102 years ago
Died
October 20th, 2004 21 years ago — 81 years old
Born in 1923, the poet gained recognition for intricate and lyrical poetry that often explored themes of beauty, history, and loss. Education included studying at Bard College and Columbia University. After serving in the U.S. Army during World War II, a literary career emerged, characterized by a distinctive style that combines classical elements with modern sensibilities. Notable works include collections such as 'A Summoning of Everyman' and 'The Hard Hours', both receiving critical acclaim and widely studied in contemporary poetry courses. In 1968, awarded the Pulitzer Prize for Poetry for 'The Hard Hours'.
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Portuguese historian and author
Born
1496 529 years ago
Died
October 20th, 1570 455 years ago — 74 years old
A prominent Portuguese historian and author, recognized for contributions to the documentation of the Age of Discovery. Focused on the history of Portugal's empire and its overseas territories. Primary work includes 'Décadas da Ásia', detailing the history of the Portuguese in Asia, which became a significant source of information for subsequent generations. Participated in the intellectual discussions of the time, influencing the scholarship of history and geography.
Continue ReadingHarlow Shapley
Astronomer & Milky Way researcher
Born
November 2nd, 1885 140 years ago
Died
October 20th, 1972 53 years ago — 86 years old
Contributed significantly to the field of astronomy through research on the structure and size of the Milky Way galaxy. Served as the director of the Mount Wilson Observatory and later the Director of the Harvard College Observatory. Developed methods to determine the distances of stars, leading to a better understanding of the universe's scale. Advocated for science education and popularization of astronomy.
Continue ReadingJohn Tonkin
Politician and Premier of Western Australia
Born
February 2nd, 1902 123 years ago
Died
October 20th, 1995 30 years ago — 93 years old
A significant political figure in Australia, served as the 20th Premier of Western Australia from 1971 to 1974. Advocated for various policies during the 1970s, focusing on education, health, and infrastructure development. His tenure included efforts to promote the state's resources and economy. Played a pivotal role in shaping modern Western Australia through legislative reforms and public service initiatives.
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