Sigrid Undset
Danish-Norwegian Nobel Prize-winning novelist
Born in 1882, a prominent novelist and essayist emerged, contributing significantly to literature. The author primarily focused on themes of womanhood, morality, and spirituality in her works. Notable literary achievements include the trilogy 'Kristin Lavransdatter', which explores the life of a medieval woman in Norway, and 'Gunnar's Daughter', showcasing her narrative style and deep character insights. Undset's literary contributions garnered her the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1928, recognizing her mastery of storytelling and cultural depiction. Throughout a lifetime of writing, her works reflected the tumultuous changes faced by society during her era.
Received the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1928
Authored the trilogy 'Kristin Lavransdatter'
Wrote 'Gunnar's Daughter'
Other People Born on May 20th
Joel Moon
Rugby league player & representative athlete
Born
May 20th, 1988 37 years ago
Debuted in professional rugby league in 2007. Played for clubs including the Sydney Roosters and the New Zealand Warriors. Represented New South Wales Country in representative matches. Participated in the rugby league World Cup, contributing to team strategies and performance.
Continue ReadingHenry Bolte
Politician and Premier of Victoria
Born
May 20th, 1908 117 years ago
Died
January 4th, 1990 35 years ago — 81 years old
Served as the 38th Premier of Victoria from 1955 to 1972, holding office for a notable 17 years. Led the Victorian Liberal Party and promoted extensive economic development and infrastructure projects. Played a significant role in shaping the state's policies during a period of growth and change.
Continue ReadingGeorge Gobel
American actor and comedian
Born
May 20th, 1919 106 years ago
Died
February 24th, 1991 34 years ago — 71 years old
Achieved prominence in the entertainment industry, particularly through television and film in the mid-20th century. Gained a significant audience with the television show 'The George Gobel Show', which aired from 1954 to 1955. Featured in movies such as 'The Seven Little Foys', showcasing comedic talent. Received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame for contributions to television.
Continue ReadingAlexei Tupolev
Engineer of the Tupolev Tu-144 jet
Born
May 20th, 1925 100 years ago
Died
May 12th, 2001 24 years ago — 75 years old
An engineer specialized in aviation design, and contributed significant advancements in aerospace technology. Designed the Tupolev Tu-144, the first supersonic transport aircraft, which made its maiden flight in 1968 and became a symbol of Soviet aeronautics. Played a key role in the development of various military and civilian aircraft during a career that spanned several decades. Engaged in research and development focused on improving aircraft performance and safety, leading to innovative designs that influenced future aviation.
Continue ReadingBalu Mahendra
Sri Lankan-Indian filmmaker and cinematographer
Born
May 20th, 1939 86 years ago
Died
February 13th, 2014 11 years ago — 74 years old
A filmmaker and cinematographer, with roots in both Sri Lanka and India, contributed significantly to Indian cinema. Directed critically acclaimed films primarily in Tamil cinema. Known for innovative techniques in cinematography, shaping visual storytelling. His work often integrated traditional narratives with modern cinematic expressions. Influenced a generation of filmmakers and artists and helped popularize regional films on global platforms. Passed away on February 13, 2014.
Continue ReadingMike Havenaar
Japanese footballer, known for club success
Born
May 20th, 1987 38 years ago
This individual played as a professional footballer primarily as a forward. Made league appearances in Japan and abroad, including jLeague teams and clubs in Europe. Enjoyed stints with teams such as Ventforet Kofu and Vissel Kobe. Contributed to the team efforts in various competitions during a career spanning over a decade.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on June 10th
Sudono Salim
Businessman, founder of Bank Central Asia
Born
1916 109 years ago
Died
June 10th, 2012 13 years ago — 96 years old
A Chinese-Indonesian businessman who founded Bank Central Asia. Established the bank in 1955, which became one of the largest banks in Indonesia. Played a significant role in the country's banking sector throughout his career. Engaged in various business ventures and built a substantial business empire in Indonesia.
Continue ReadingWill Hoebee
Dutch songwriter and producer
Born
1947 78 years ago
Died
June 10th, 2012 13 years ago — 65 years old
A prominent figure in the Dutch music industry, contributed significantly to the development of the country's pop music scene. Collaborated with various artists, crafting numerous successful songs throughout the career. Served as a producer and songwriter for well-known acts and was instrumental in their commercial success. Helped shape the sound of pop music in the Netherlands during the latter part of the 20th century.
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Kenyan economist and Vice-President
Born
1945 80 years ago
Died
June 10th, 2012 13 years ago — 67 years old
Served as the 6th Vice-President of Kenya from 2002 to 2012, focusing on economic policies and governance. Held various ministerial positions, including Minister for Finance and Minister for Education. Contributed to the development of Kenya's economic framework and educational reforms.
Continue ReadingGeorges Mathieu
French abstract painter and academic
Born
1921 104 years ago
Died
June 10th, 2012 13 years ago — 91 years old
A prominent abstract painter and academic, this artist significantly contributed to the post-war art movement in France. Pioneered the style of lyrical abstraction, emphasizing gestural brushwork and emotional expression. Involved in numerous exhibitions, becoming a key figure in the European avant-garde scene. Created a series of large-scale paintings that reflect the dynamic interaction of color and form. Engaged in teaching and lecturing at various art institutions, influencing a generation of artists.
Continue ReadingWolfgang Jeschke
German author and science fiction publisher
Born
1936 89 years ago
Died
June 10th, 2015 10 years ago — 79 years old
An influential German author and publisher, contributed significantly to the science fiction genre. Worked extensively as an editor and publisher, promoting both German and international science fiction literature. Jeschke's literary works included novels that explored complex themes of future societies and technology. His role in publishing supported numerous emerging authors, shaping the landscape of German speculative fiction.
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Theologian and academic author
Born
1917 108 years ago
Died
June 10th, 2014 11 years ago — 97 years old
An American theologian and academic, focused on New Testament studies and early Christianity. Worked extensively in the field of biblical scholarship, contributing to the understanding of the historical context of the New Testament. Served as a professor at several institutions, imparting knowledge on theological subjects and biblical interpretation. Authored numerous books and articles that have been influential in academic circles. Played a significant role in various scholarly organizations and contributed to theological education.
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