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
Richard Williams
Animator, director of 'Who Framed Roger Rabbit'
Born
March 19th, 1933 92 years ago
Died
August 16th, 2019 6 years ago — 86 years old
An animator, director, and screenwriter with a career spanning several decades. Featured as a leading figure in animation, contributed to the creation of a rich blend of traditional and innovative techniques. Achieved recognition for directing the animated sequences in the film 'Who Framed Roger Rabbit,' which integrated live action with animation in groundbreaking ways. Authored 'The Animator's Survival Kit,' a significant resource for aspiring animators, detailing principles of animation and storytelling. Won multiple Academy Awards for advancements in the field of animation.
Continue ReadingCarl Frederik Tietgen
Danish businessman and industrialist
Born
March 19th, 1829 196 years ago
Died
1901 125 years ago — 72 years old
Born in 1829, Carl Frederik Tietgen became a prominent figure in Danish business, focusing on infrastructure and telecommunications. He played a significant role in the establishment of the Danish telephone system, contributing to the modernization of communication in Denmark. Tietgen was instrumental in the founding of several companies, including the Great Northern Telegraph Company and the Danish West India Company. His vision extended beyond telecommunications, encompassing investments in various industries, including shipping and banking. Tietgen's contributions to the expansion of Danish industrial and commercial enterprises left a lasting legacy in the country's economic development.
Continue ReadingNancy Malone
American actress and television director
Born
March 19th, 1935 90 years ago
Died
May 8th, 2014 11 years ago — 79 years old
Active in the entertainment industry for several decades, contributed significantly as both an actress and director. Starred in the television series 'The Dick Van Dyke Show' and 'The Mod Squad'. Directed episodes of various television shows, including 'The Bionic Woman' and 'The Incredible Hulk'. Produced content for television, showcasing a commitment to diverse roles within the industry.
Continue ReadingJohn Sirica
American lawyer and Watergate judge
Born
March 19th, 1904 121 years ago
Died
August 14th, 1992 33 years ago — 88 years old
Served as a federal judge in the United States District Court for the District of Columbia. Gained prominence during the Watergate scandal, overseeing the trial of key figures involved in the break-in at the Democratic National Committee headquarters. Ordered the release of tapes that led to significant revelations about presidential misconduct. His rulings contributed to the eventual resignation of President Richard Nixon in 1974.
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 ReadingWilliam Allingham
Irish poet and author of The Music Master
Born
March 19th, 1824 201 years ago
Died
November 18th, 1889 136 years ago — 65 years old
Born in Ireland in 1824, an influential poet and author emerged prominently in the literary scene of the 19th century. A close associate of notable literary figures, engaged in writing both poetry and prose. His major work, The Music Master, became widely recognized for its lyrical quality and introspective themes. In addition to poetry, was involved in literary criticism and contributed to various periodicals, enhancing discourse within Irish literature. Active within literary circles, helped to promote the works of contemporaries and participated in cultural discussions that shaped the artistic landscape of the time. Though primarily remembered for his poetry, also engaged in scholarly work that detailed his literary insights.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on October 20th
Ian Steel
Scottish Cyclist and Team Manager
Born
1928 98 years ago
Died
October 20th, 2015 10 years ago — 87 years old
A Scottish cyclist and manager involved in competitive cycling throughout the mid-20th century. Competed in the 1948 Olympic Games in London, representing Great Britain. Transitioned to a managerial role after retiring from racing and contributed to the sport by guiding and supporting various cycling teams. Played a significant role in promoting and enhancing the profile of cycling in Scotland.
Continue ReadingArno Gruen
Psychologist and psychoanalyst
Born
1923 103 years ago
Died
October 20th, 2015 10 years ago — 92 years old
A psychologist and psychoanalyst with a focus on the relationship between society and the individual. Contributed to the understanding of the impact of social structures on human behavior and development. Published several books, emphasizing the importance of empathy and social responsibility. Explored themes of alienation and the psychological consequences of fascism, drawing from personal experiences in Nazi Germany.
Continue ReadingFrancesco Maria I della Rovere
Duke of Urbino, military leader
Born
1490 536 years ago
Died
October 20th, 1538 487 years ago — 48 years old
Served as the Duke of Urbino from 1516 until 1538. Engaged in military leadership as a condottiero. Participated in various conflicts in Italy during the Italian Wars. Worked to strengthen the duchy and its governance, supporting arts and architecture in Urbino.
Continue ReadingPrzemysław Gintrowski
Polish poet and composer of songs
Born
1951 75 years ago
Died
October 20th, 2012 13 years ago — 61 years old
A prominent figure in Polish music and literature, contributed to the culture through poetry and songwriting. Collaborated with leading writers and musicians, exploring themes of history and identity. Gintrowski gained recognition for his ability to intertwine poetic expression with musical composition. His works played a significant role in the Polish artistic movement during the late 20th century.
Continue ReadingMuammar Gaddafi
Libyan politician and Prime Minister
Born
1942 84 years ago
Died
October 20th, 2011 14 years ago — 69 years old
Served as a military officer and politician, establishing a revolutionary regime in Libya following a coup in 1969. Ruled as the de facto leader for over four decades, implementing a form of socialist governance and promoting Arab nationalism. Wrote 'The Green Book', outlining his socio-political philosophy. Played a significant role in various Arab and African organizations, advocating for unification and economic cooperation. His leadership style faced international criticism and resulted in sanctions and isolation. The civil uprising in 2011 ultimately led to his downfall and death.
Continue ReadingRené Burri
Photographer & journalist, Magnum Photos member
Born
April 9th, 1933 92 years ago
Died
October 20th, 2014 11 years ago — 81 years old
Born in 1933 in Switzerland, Burri developed an early interest in photography and studied at the School of Applied Arts in Zurich. He began his career as a photojournalist and later joined Magnum Photos in 1959. Burri's work primarily focused on documenting significant historical events and influential figures. His photographs illustrated the life of renowned personalities, particularly in the realm of politics and culture. A prominent body of work includes iconic images of Che Guevara and the architectural marvels of Brazil. Burri's photographs often mingled documentary style with artistic sensibility. Throughout his career, he received recognition for his important contributions to photojournalism and photography.
Continue Reading