Sergei Grinkov
Figure skater; Olympic gold medalist
A prominent figure skater, achieved international acclaim during the late 1980s and early 1990s. Partnered with Ekaterina Gordeeva, the duo won numerous competitions, including two Olympic gold medals. Their performances were characterized by technical excellence and artistic expression. Competed for the Soviet Union and later represented Russia after the dissolution of the USSR. Grinkov and Gordeeva captured the hearts of audiences worldwide with their graceful routines and deep connection on ice. They were also World Champions multiple times, solidifying their legacy in the world of figure skating.
Won two Olympic gold medals in pair skating in 1988 and 1994
Secured four World Championships in pair skating
Achieved multiple victories at the European Championships
Other People Born on February 4th
Friedrich Glauser
Austrian-Swiss author of crime novels
Born
February 4th, 1896 129 years ago
Died
December 8th, 1938 87 years ago — 42 years old
Born in 1896, an author wrote influential crime novels during the early 20th century in German literature. After struggling with personal challenges and various occupations, turned to writing, gaining recognition for unique narrative styles. Works reflect a blend of traditional detective fiction with psychological depth. Notable works include 'The Horse on the Balcony' and 'The Secret of the Iron Door', contributing significantly to the genre. Passed away in 1938.
Continue ReadingDietrich Bonhoeffer
German theologian and anti-Nazi dissident
Born
February 4th, 1906 119 years ago
Died
April 9th, 1945 80 years ago — 39 years old
A German pastor and theologian, contributed significantly to Christian thought during the 20th century. Actively opposed the Nazi regime, emphasizing the importance of ethics and morality amid societal turmoil. Played a crucial role in the Confessing Church, which resisted Nazi ideology, and wrote influential works such as 'The Cost of Discipleship' and 'Letters and Papers from Prison'. His opposition to the regime led to his arrest in 1943 and eventual execution in 1945, becoming a symbol of resistance against oppression.
Continue ReadingGotse Delchev
Revolutionary activist and leader
Born
February 4th, 1872 153 years ago
Died
May 4th, 1903 122 years ago — 31 years old
A revolutionary activist and leader significant in the fight for the liberation of Macedonia from Ottoman rule. Actively engaged in the organization of resistance against oppressive forces, played a crucial role in the establishment of revolutionary committees. Instrumental in the formation of the Internal Macedonian-Adrianople Revolutionary Organization, sought to unify the Slavic population of Macedonia under a national identity, advocating for education and cultural consciousness. Delchev's efforts laid groundwork for future movements aimed at independence.
Continue ReadingJacques Prévert
French poet and screenwriter, 'Les Feuilles mortes'
Born
February 4th, 1900 125 years ago
Died
April 11th, 1977 48 years ago — 77 years old
A prominent figure in French literature, contributed significantly to both poetry and film. Prévert's poetry reflects themes of love, nostalgia, and daily life, characterized by a vivid, accessible style. His screenplay for the film 'Les Enfants du Paradis' is considered a classic of French cinema. Throughout the mid-20th century, Prévert's work gained widespread popularity, leading to translations and adaptations in different languages. Collaborated regularly with composer Joseph Kosma, resulting in notable musical adaptations of his poetry. Held a deep influence on subsequent generations of poets and filmmakers.
Continue ReadingErich Leinsdorf
Conductor of classical music and opera
Born
February 4th, 1912 113 years ago
Died
September 11th, 1993 32 years ago — 81 years old
An Austrian-American conductor, established a prominent career in the realm of classical music, particularly noted for conducting major orchestras. Served as music director for the Boston Symphony Orchestra, conducting numerous acclaimed performances and recordings. Also held notable positions with the Los Angeles Philharmonic and the Metropolitan Opera, significantly contributing to the American classical music scene. Played a pivotal role in modernizing orchestral performances and brought a distinctive style to operatic interpretations.
Continue ReadingIda Lupino
Actress and director, The Hitch-Hiker
Born
February 4th, 1918 107 years ago
Died
August 3rd, 1995 30 years ago — 77 years old
An English-American actress and director, contributed significantly to film and television in the mid-20th century. Began acting career in the 1930s, appearing in various films. Established a notable presence as a director during the 1950s, focusing on themes of societal issues and human relationships. Co-founded a production company that allowed greater creative control over projects. Pioneered female-directed films at a time when the industry was predominantly male. Directed episodes of numerous television series, shaping the landscape of early television production.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on November 20th
Lino Lacedelli
Italian Mountaineer, K2 First Ascent
Born
1925 100 years ago
Died
November 20th, 2009 16 years ago — 84 years old
Significant achievements in high-altitude climbing included a historic ascent of K2 in 1954 as part of an Italian expedition. This climb marked the first time the second-highest mountain in the world was successfully summited. Continued to contribute to the mountaineering community through various expeditions and training.
Continue ReadingRobie Macauley
American editor and novelist
Born
May 31st, 1919 106 years ago
Died
November 20th, 1995 30 years ago — 76 years old
An American editor, novelist, and critic, contributed significantly to literature through editing and writing. Held various editorial positions, influencing many writers. Published several novels that explored themes of identity and dislocation. Also critiqued literary works, providing insights that enriched literary discourse.
Continue ReadingWilliam Grut
Swedish pentathlete, Olympic Champion
Born
September 17th, 1914 111 years ago
Died
November 20th, 2012 13 years ago — 98 years old
Born in Sweden, an accomplished pentathlete competed in the modern pentathlon events. Achieved notable success during the 1948 Summer Olympics held in London, where secured a gold medal. Participated in the 1952 Summer Olympics in Helsinki, finishing in a commendable position. Contributed to the sport as an athlete over the years, representing Sweden in various international championships.
Continue ReadingPeter Berling
German actor and film producer
Born
1934 91 years ago
Died
November 20th, 2017 8 years ago — 83 years old
An actor, film producer, and writer engaged in the film industry for several decades. Contributed to multiple prominent films and television series, building a reputation within German cinema. Founded a production company that enabled various projects and collaborated with numerous filmmakers. Achieved recognition for performances in films and contributed to adaptations of literary works.
Continue ReadingZoia Ceaușescu
Mathematician and academic in Romania
Born
February 28th, 1949 76 years ago
Died
November 20th, 2006 19 years ago — 57 years old
A prominent mathematician and academic contributed significantly to the field of mathematics, particularly in algebra and differential equations. Worked at the Institute of Mathematics of the Romanian Academy and held a professor position at the University of Bucharest. Engaged in research that focused on the applications of mathematics in various scientific fields. Also authored numerous papers and books, educating future generations of mathematicians.
Continue ReadingGabriel Badilla
Costa Rican footballer
Born
1984 41 years ago
Died
November 20th, 2016 9 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.
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