Robert Altman

American filmmaker with M*A*S*H

Robert Altman - American filmmaker with M*A*S*H
Born

February 20th, 1925
100 years ago

Died

November 20th, 2006
18 years ago — 81 years old

Category

Artists & Creatives

Country

United States

Links & References

A prominent director and screenwriter in American cinema, this individual contributed significantly to film art with a unique storytelling style. Debuting in the 1950s, created a series of innovative films that often employed ensemble casts and overlapping dialogue. The 1970 film M*A*S*H, a black comedy about a mobile army surgical hospital during the Korean War, achieved both commercial success and critical acclaim, earning multiple Academy Award nominations. Other notable works include Nashville, a musical drama that provided a critique of American culture, and The Player, a satirical look at Hollywood. Established a reputation for challenging traditional narratives and influential cinematic techniques throughout a remarkable career.

Directed M*A*S*H, nominated for 5 Oscars

Created Nashville, nominated for Best Picture

Produced The Player, acclaimed for its satire

Other People Born on February 20th

René Dubos

Biologist and author on microbiology
Born
February 20th, 1901 124 years ago
Died
1982 43 years ago — 81 years old

A French-American biologist contributed significantly to the field of microbiology. Extensive research led to advancements in the understanding of antibiotics and their effects on human health. Authored several influential books, including 'So Human an Animal', which discusses the relationship between humans and the natural environment. Served as a significant figure in the development of the modern field of public health and environmental health.

Continue Reading

Eleanor of Aragon

Queen of Portugal
Born
February 20th, 1358 667 years ago
Died
February 19th, 1445 580 years ago — 86 years old

Married to King John I of Portugal, a union that strengthened the political ties between Portugal and Aragon. Played a significant role in the royal court during a transformative period for the Portuguese crown. Contributed to the cultural development of the kingdom and supported various charitable causes. Her lineage was connected to prominent European royal families.

Continue Reading

Elizabeth Holloway Marston

Psychologist and author of Wonder Woman
Born
February 20th, 1893 132 years ago
Died
1993 32 years ago — 100 years old

Contributed to the field of psychology and authored works exploring social issues. Co-created the character Wonder Woman in 1941, which reflected progressive ideas of gender roles. Worked alongside her partner William Moulton Marston, influencing comic book culture and gender representation. Engaged in the study of emotions and human behavior, publishing research that combined psychology with popular media.

Continue Reading

James Johnson

Basketball Player for the Miami Heat
Born
February 20th, 1987 38 years ago

A professional basketball player, played primarily as a forward. Drafted 16th overall in the 2009 NBA Draft by the Chicago Bulls. Played for several NBA teams, including the Toronto Raptors and the Miami Heat. Gained recognition for a well-rounded skill set and versatility on the court. Achieved a notable career-high of 31 points in a single game while with the Heat. Transitioned into a valuable role player, contributing defensively and offensively throughout various seasons.

Continue Reading

Dwayne McDuffie

Comic book author and animated series writer
Born
February 20th, 1962 63 years ago
Died
February 21st, 2011 14 years ago — 49 years old

An influential author and screenwriter, contributed significantly to comic books and animated television. Co-founded Milestone Media, which focused on creating diverse superhero narratives. Worked on major animated series, including 'Justice League' and 'Static Shock', shaping their storylines and character development. Advocated for increased representation within the comic book industry.

Continue Reading

Cornelius Vanderbilt Whitney

American businessman and philanthropist
Born
February 20th, 1899 126 years ago
Died
December 13th, 1992 32 years ago — 93 years old

Businessman and philanthropist contributed to various industries, particularly in media and transportation. Established the Whitney Communications Corporation. Involved in the development of the New York Central Railroad. Founded several companies in the film industry, supporting artistic ventures. Served as a board member of the Metropolitan Opera Association and funded various philanthropic initiatives, especially in arts and education.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on November 20th

Vasilisk Gnedov

Russian soldier and poet
Born
1890 135 years ago
Died
November 20th, 1978 46 years ago — 88 years old

Served as a soldier during World War II. Contributed significantly to Russian literature as a poet, with works reflecting military experiences and the emotional toll of war. Published various poems that showcased the harsh realities faced by soldiers, capturing both the struggle and resilience associated with conflict. Following the war, continued a literary career, focusing on themes of patriotism and sacrifice, influencing future generations of poets in Russia. Engagement in literary circles established a lasting presence in Russian poetry.

Continue Reading

Gabriel Badilla

Costa Rican footballer
Born
1984 41 years ago
Died
November 20th, 2016 8 years ago — 32 years old

Played as a defender in professional football. Started career with Alajuelense in Costa Rica before moving to the United States to play in Major League Soccer. Joined Chivas USA in 2006 and made a significant contribution during his tenure. Represented the national team of Costa Rica in international competitions, including the 2007 CONCACAF Gold Cup, showcasing talents on a larger stage. Later returned to Costa Rican football, continuing to contribute to local clubs until retirement.

Continue Reading

Leo Tolstoy

Russian author of War and Peace
Born
September 9th, 1828 197 years ago
Died
November 20th, 1910 114 years ago — 82 years old

One of the most prominent authors in world literature, contributions include novels, plays, and essays. War and Peace, published in 1869, illustrated the impact of the Napoleonic Wars on Russian society and is widely regarded as a literary masterpiece. Another major work, Anna Karenina, explores themes of love and morality. Tolstoy's later life involved a strong focus on philosophy and spirituality, culminating in an embrace of nonviolent resistance and a critique of established institutions.

Continue Reading

Karel Dujardin

Dutch Golden Age painter, 'The Menagerie'
Born
1622 403 years ago
Died
November 20th, 1678 346 years ago — 56 years old

A Dutch painter specialized in genre scenes and landscapes during the Golden Age. Contributions included numerous works that featured animals and pastoral landscapes. Created significant paintings, especially noted for the depiction of exotic animals and their environments, representing the fascination of the time with nature and the exotic. Dujardin was part of the artistic community in Amsterdam, which flourished in the 17th century, showcasing talent in capturing light and atmosphere.

Continue Reading

Ebenezer Cobb Morley

Sportsman and founder of the FA
Born
1831 194 years ago
Died
November 20th, 1924 100 years ago — 93 years old

A sportsman played a pivotal role in the development of modern football, establishing the Football Association in 1863 to create standardized rules for the game. In addition to founding the FA, organized various matches and promoted the sport throughout England. His efforts contributed significantly to the structure and governance of football, allowing for the sport's growth and popularization across the country.

Continue Reading

August Ahlqvist

Finnish professor and Finno-Ugric scholar
Born
August 7th, 1826 199 years ago
Died
November 20th, 1889 135 years ago — 63 years old

Ahlqvist served as a professor and was prominent in the study of Finno-Ugric languages. Contributions included poetry and literary criticism. Authored important works that explored the intricacies of these languages and their literature. Engaged in the cultural and educational development of Finland during the 19th century, focusing on the significance of the Finnish language and literature. Influenced the preservation and promotion of Finno-Ugric heritage through academic and literary efforts.

Continue Reading