Simon Wiesenthal
Nazi hunter and author of 'The Murderers Among Us'
Born in Ukraine, played a significant role in the post-World War II hunt for Nazi war criminals. Established the Simon Wiesenthal Center in Los Angeles, an organization dedicated to the memory of Holocaust victims and the pursuit of justice for crimes against humanity. Authored several books, including 'The Murderers Among Us', outlining his experiences and efforts in bringing perpetrators of the Holocaust to justice. Contributed to the identification and prosecution of numerous war criminals throughout Europe.
Established the Simon Wiesenthal Center
Authored 'The Murderers Among Us'
Assisted in the capture of multiple Nazi criminals
Other People Born on December 31st
Cameron Carter-Vickers
Soccer player, US Men's National Team
Born
December 31st, 1997 28 years ago
A soccer player born in England, represented the United States at various youth levels and earned caps with the senior national team. Played as a central defender and developed through the Tottenham Hotspur academy. Gained experience through multiple loan spells, including stints at Sheffield United, Ipswich Town, and Bournemouth. Joined Celtic in 2021, contributing to their success in domestic competitions.
Continue ReadingBilly Snedden
Australian politician and Attorney-General
Born
December 31st, 1926 99 years ago
Died
June 27th, 1987 38 years ago — 60 years old
Served as the 17th Attorney-General of Australia from 1971 to 1972, playing a significant role in legal reform during tenure. Held various ministerial positions, including Minister for Education and Minister for Services and Property. Elected as a member of the House of Representatives, representing the Liberal Party for the Melbourne electorate of Bruce from 1955 to 1983. Contributed to party leadership as the Opposition Leader from 1972 to 1974. Involved in shaping Australian law and policy during a transformative period in Australian politics.
Continue ReadingAndreas Vesalius
Anatomist and physician; published 'De humani corporis fabrica'
Born
December 31st, 1514 511 years ago
Died
October 15th, 1564 461 years ago — 49 years old
Birth occurred in Brussels, within the region known as the Low Countries. Studied medicine at the University of Padua, contributing significantly to the field of anatomy. Published 'De humani corporis fabrica' in 1543, revolutionizing the understanding of human anatomy through detailed illustrations and systematic dissection. Established a new standard for anatomical studies that influenced generations of physicians and anatomists. Served as court physician to Emperor Charles V. His work laid the groundwork for modern anatomy and challenged conventional beliefs of the time.
Continue ReadingEleonora Gonzaga
Duchess of Urbino and Art Patron
Born
December 31st, 1493 532 years ago
Died
1570 456 years ago — 77 years old
Born in 1493, a member of the House of Gonzaga, served as the Duchess of Urbino by marriage. Played a significant role in the cultural development of the Duchy through patronage of the arts and support for Renaissance artists such as Raphael and Piero della Francesca. Eleonora's influence extended to the court, where she fostered an environment that welcomed scholars and artists. Her court became a center for intellectual and artistic exchange during the Renaissance period, showcasing her commitment to cultural advancement.
Continue ReadingGabby Douglas
Gymnast and Olympic gold medalist
Born
December 31st, 1995 30 years ago
A celebrated gymnast from the United States, earned fame through remarkable performances at international competitions, particularly during the 2012 London Olympics. Captured attention by becoming the first African American gymnast to win the individual all-around title at the Olympics. Achieved additional success by contributing to the U.S. women's gymnastics team victory in the team competition at the same Olympics. Continued to compete at the elite level, participating in subsequent events and championships.
Continue ReadingKelvin Herrera
Dominican baseball player - World Series Champion
Born
December 31st, 1989 36 years ago
Starting in 2011, a professional baseball player specialized as a relief pitcher. Played for teams including the Kansas City Royals and Chicago White Sox. Achieved recognition for contributions to the Kansas City Royals' victory in the 2015 World Series against the New York Mets. Later joined the Chicago White Sox and continued playing in Major League Baseball. Represented the Dominican Republic in international competitions.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on September 20th
Jule Styne
American composer of Broadway musicals
Born
1905 121 years ago
Died
September 20th, 1994 31 years ago — 89 years old
A prominent composer in American musical theater, contributed to many successful Broadway shows. Collaborated with notable lyricists, producing works that became staples of the genre. Among the most celebrated compositions were those for 'Gypsy,' 'Funny Girl,' and 'Gentlemen Prefer Blondes.' Styne's musical style combined various influences, resulting in memorable melodies that resonated with audiences.
Continue ReadingFletcher Christian
Sailor and mutineer on the Bounty
Born
September 25th, 1764 261 years ago
Died
September 20th, 1793 232 years ago — 28 years old
An English sailor played a central role in the mutiny aboard HMS Bounty in 1789. The crew, led by the sailor, rebelled against Captain William Bligh due to harsh treatment and difficulties in their voyage. Following the mutiny, the sailor and the crew settled in Tahiti before evading British authorities. Eventually, the sailor and a small group moved to Pitcairn Island, where they established a new community. The events surrounding the mutiny and its aftermath became a significant part of maritime history and inspired numerous literary and cinematic adaptations.
Continue ReadingHermann II
Count Palatine of Lotharingia
Born
1049 977 years ago
Died
September 20th, 1085 940 years ago — 36 years old
Ruled as the Count Palatine of Lotharingia during the late 11th century. Engaged in the political dynamics of the Holy Roman Empire, navigating through conflicts and alliances. Held significant influence during the reign of Emperor Henry IV. Contributed to the territorial and administrative organization of the region. His tenure was marked by challenges related to nobility and governance.
Continue ReadingGiorgos Seferis
Greek Poet, Nobel Prize Laureate
Born
March 13th, 1900 125 years ago
Died
September 20th, 1971 54 years ago — 71 years old
A prominent Greek poet and diplomat, contributions include significant literary works that explore themes of identity, exile, and the human experience. Seferis' poetry incorporates elements of modernist experimentation. In 1963, awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature, becoming the first Greek to receive this honor. Worked as a diplomat in various capacities, representing Greece in London and at the United Nations. His notable works include 'Strophe,' 'Gymnopaedia,' and the collection 'Mythistorema.'
Continue ReadingRobert Emmet
Irish republican leader and martyr
Born
March 4th, 1778 247 years ago
Died
September 20th, 1803 222 years ago — 25 years old
A key figure in the Irish republican movement, played a central role in the 1803 rebellion against British rule. Emmet led a failed insurrection in Dublin, which sought to establish an independent Irish republic. After the rebellion's defeat, he was captured, tried, and executed. His passionate speech at the trial became famous and has a lasting legacy related to Irish nationalism. Emmet's ideals and commitment to Irish independence inspired subsequent generations of republicans.
Continue ReadingFrancisco S. Carvajal
Mexican politician, president in 1914
Born
December 9th, 1870 155 years ago
Died
September 20th, 1932 93 years ago — 61 years old
Served as a prominent lawyer and politician in Mexico. Assumed the presidency in 1914 during the Mexican Revolution, taking charge amidst significant political turmoil. His presidency was marked by attempts to navigate conflicts between revolutionary factions and maintain government stability. Held the office for a brief period, leading the country through a transitional government as fighting continued in various regions. After leaving office, continued to be involved in Mexican politics and law.
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