Ronnie Van Zant

Singer-songwriter and Lynyrd Skynyrd frontman

Ronnie Van Zant - Singer-songwriter and Lynyrd Skynyrd frontman
Born

January 15th, 1948
77 years ago

Died

October 20th, 1977
47 years ago — 29 years old

Category

Performers & Entertainers

Country

United States

Links & References

A prominent figure in Southern rock, contributed significantly to the genre as the lead vocalist and songwriter for the band Lynyrd Skynyrd. The band released several successful albums and became known for their anthems that captured the spirit of Southern life. Tragically, died in a plane crash in 1977, which cut short a rising career. His legacy continued to influence rock music well into the future.

Fronted the band Lynyrd Skynyrd

Wrote classic songs such as 'Sweet Home Alabama'

Contributed to the album 'Pronounced Leh-Nerd Skin-Nerd'

Other People Born on January 15th

Wilhelm Marx

Chancellor of Germany, lawyer
Born
January 15th, 1863 162 years ago
Died
August 5th, 1946 78 years ago — 83 years old

Born in 1863, this individual served as the 17th Chancellor of Germany. During tenure from 1926 to 1928, policies were influenced by post-World War I recovery needs and internal political dynamics. A lawyer by training, played a significant role in legal and political frameworks during the Weimar Republic. Engaged in various legislative reforms and contributed to financial stabilization efforts amid economic challenges.

Continue Reading

Mazo de la Roche

Canadian author of "Jalna" series
Born
January 15th, 1879 146 years ago
Died
July 12th, 1961 63 years ago — 82 years old

An author and playwright, the individual contributed significantly to Canadian literature. Writings include the acclaimed "Jalna" series, which spans 16 novels and portrays life on an English estate in Canada. The series captured the lives of the Whiteoaks, a fictional family, and resonated with readers for its rich character development and detailed storytelling. In addition to the novels, the author wrote several plays, showcasing versatility in literary form. Recognition included winning the Governor General's Award for Fiction in 1927, marking a high point in the writing career. Works often reflected themes of heritage, nature, and the passage of time.

Continue Reading

George Lowe

Mountaineer and polar explorer
Born
January 15th, 1924 101 years ago
Died
March 20th, 2013 11 years ago — 89 years old

A prominent mountaineer and explorer, contributions included expeditions to the South Pole and significant climbs in the Himalayan region. Participated in the 1953 British expedition to Mount Everest, contributing to the successful ascent. Engaged in various scientific and exploratory missions, showcasing skills in high-altitude climbing and survival in extreme conditions. Work in polar regions assisted in understanding the geography and environmental conditions of those areas.

Continue Reading

Richard Franklin

Actor, writer, director, political activist
Born
January 15th, 1936 89 years ago
Died
2023 2 years ago — 87 years old

An English actor, writer, and director, he contributed to the film and television industry while also engaging in political activism. Portrayed Captain Mike Yates in the long-running television series 'Doctor Who' from 1971 to 1974. In addition to acting, he wrote for television and stage productions, demonstrating versatility across multiple disciplines. His work encompassed various genres, contributing significantly to British entertainment over several decades.

Continue Reading

Maeda Toshiie

Japanese general during the Sengoku period
Born
January 15th, 1538 487 years ago
Died
April 27th, 1599 425 years ago — 61 years old

A prominent general during the Sengoku period, contributed significantly to the unification of Japan under the Toyotomi clan. Served loyally under Toyotomi Hideyoshi, playing a crucial role in military campaigns. Known for strategic brilliance and strong leadership in battles, including the Siege of Odawara and the Korean invasions. Established a powerful domain in Kaga, fostering the development of the region and supporting the arts and culture.

Continue Reading

Maurice Herzog

French mountaineer and politician
Born
January 15th, 1919 106 years ago
Died
2012 13 years ago — 93 years old

A prominent French mountaineer achieved historic feats in high-altitude climbing. In 1950, led the first successful ascent of Annapurna, which became one of the most celebrated climbs in mountaineering history. Later transitioned into politics, serving as the French Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports, focusing on promoting sports and youth activities in France.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on October 20th

Andrey Kolmogorov

Mathematician and probability theorist
Born
April 25th, 1903 121 years ago
Died
October 20th, 1987 37 years ago — 84 years old

Significant contributions to probability theory and mathematical logic took place. Developed the modern theory of probability, establishing foundations for stochastic processes. Authored influential works that shaped the field, including 'Foundations of the Theory of Probability'. Contributed to topological groups and turbulence theories.

Continue Reading

Pope Urban III

Pope and religious leader during the Crusades
Died
October 20th, 1187 837 years ago — None years old

Served as the pope from 1185 until death in 1187. Urban III faced significant challenges during his papacy, particularly relating to the Crusades. His tenure was marked by the ongoing conflicts between Christian and Muslim forces in the Holy Land, especially in response to the fall of Jerusalem in 1187. Urban III sought to rally support for the Christian cause and was deeply involved in the affairs of the church during a period of turmoil. His papacy is often overshadowed by the events of the time, particularly the loss of Jerusalem under Saladin's leadership, which acted as a catalyst for new calls to action among Western Christendom.

Continue Reading

Ken Farnes

English cricketer and Test player
Born
July 8th, 1911 113 years ago
Died
October 20th, 1941 83 years ago — 30 years old

Contributed to English cricket primarily as a fast bowler. Made an appearance in 16 Test matches for England between 1936 and 1939. Played domestic cricket for Essex, developing a reputation for his bowling skills. Recognized for his outstanding performances in first-class cricket, taking over 750 wickets over his career. Served in World War II and resumed his cricket career post-war, continuing to excel until retirement.

Continue Reading

Ambrose the Camaldulian

Italian theologian and writer
Died
October 20th, 1439 585 years ago — None years old

A prominent theologian and writer, contributed significantly to the Catholic Church's understanding of monasticism and spirituality. Established a reform in monastic life through the Camaldolese order, which emphasized eremitical and communal living. Authored several works focusing on the spiritual life, the nature of God, and the importance of ascetic practices. His teachings and writings influenced later Christian thought and monastic practices.

Continue Reading

Arno Gruen

Psychologist and psychoanalyst
Born
1923 102 years ago
Died
October 20th, 2015 9 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 Reading

Farooq Leghari

Politician, 8th President of Pakistan
Born
May 29th, 1940 84 years ago
Died
October 20th, 2010 14 years ago — 70 years old

Served as the 8th President of Pakistan from 1993 to 1997. Had a background in engineering and politics, contributing significantly to the development of agricultural policies. Played a crucial role in transitioning Pakistan into a multi-party democracy during the 1990s and emphasized economic reforms and modernization.

Continue Reading