Slim Whitman
Country music singer-songwriter and musician
Born in 1923, this American artist gained prominence in the 1940s and 1950s with his distinctive yodeling style and falsetto voice. A successful career included numerous hit songs and albums, making significant contributions to the country and western music genres. The artist's popularity soared with the release of tracks such as 'Indian Love Call,' which achieved great commercial success. An extensive touring schedule contributed to a loyal fan base. Notably, the artist's music appeared in films, contributing to a resurgence in popularity years later. The unique blend of traditional country and pop elements helped to define a generation of music.
Sold over 100 million records worldwide
Achieved multiple gold and platinum records
Other People Born on January 20th
Dorothy Provine
Actress in The Alamo and It's a Mad Mad Mad Mad World
Born
January 20th, 1935 90 years ago
Died
April 25th, 2010 15 years ago — 75 years old
An American actress, singer, and dancer participated in television and film during the 1950s and 1960s. Gained recognition for starring in the television series The Roaring 20s, portraying a flapper in a crime drama setting. Featured in notable films such as The Alamo, where portrayed the character of a woman in the iconic battle, and It's a Mad Mad Mad Mad World, a classic comedy film with an ensemble cast. Also had success in musical performances, showcasing vocal talents alongside acting skills. Retired from acting in the 1970s, focusing on personal life and family.
Continue ReadingJean-Jacques Barthélemy
Archaeologist and numismatist
Born
January 20th, 1716 309 years ago
Died
April 30th, 1795 230 years ago — 79 years old
Contributed significantly to archaeology and numismatics during the 18th century. Conducted extensive research on ancient coins and inscriptions, particularly focused on Greek and Roman materials. Published works that influenced the study of ancient monetary systems. Played a key role in the development of archaeological methodology in France.
Continue ReadingRuchi Sanghvi
Computer engineer & co-founder of Pulse.io
Born
January 20th, 1982 43 years ago
Ruchi Sanghvi, an Indian computer engineer, contributed significantly to the technology sector, particularly in developing software solutions. After graduating from the University of California, Berkeley, held key positions at tech companies, including as a product manager at Facebook. Played a crucial role in launching innovative products and led the team responsible for the platform's News Feed feature. Co-founded Pulse.io, a news aggregation app that gained wide recognition and was acquired by LinkedIn. Served as Vice President of Product Management at LinkedIn, focusing on user engagement and product strategy.
Continue ReadingYvonne Loriod
French pianist and composer
Born
January 20th, 1924 101 years ago
Died
May 17th, 2010 15 years ago — 86 years old
A prominent pianist and composer, contributions included significant works in contemporary classical music. Loriod was celebrated for interpretations of works by her husband, composer Olivier Messiaen. She played a vital role in presenting many of his compositions and recognized the need for expanded performance techniques. Loriod also contributed to piano repertoire, composing original works that are performed by pianists worldwide. Affiliation with the Paris Conservatory further cemented her influence in the music education field.
Continue ReadingElizabeth of Bohemia
Queen Consort of Bohemia
Born
January 20th, 1292 733 years ago
Died
September 28th, 1330 695 years ago — 38 years old
Born on January 20, 1292, the queen consort played a significant role in the political landscape of the Holy Roman Empire through marriage to John I of Bohemia. Her position allowed her to influence the dynamics between the various principalities during a time of significant political strife. Elizabeth was the daughter of the Count of Luxembourg. Throughout her life, she demonstrated resilience and strength, navigating the challenges of her husband's reign. After John I returned from the Battle of Crécy, Elizabeth managed the affairs of the court and maintained relations with various noble families. Her legacy continued through her children, who played key roles in subsequent European politics.
Continue ReadingWakanohana Masaru
Japanese Sumo Wrestler, 66th Yokozuna
Born
January 20th, 1971 54 years ago
Born in 1971, one of the leading sumo wrestlers in Japan, achieved the rank of Yokozuna, the highest rank in sumo. Competed in the top division during the 1990s and early 2000s, demonstrating impressive skill and strength. Earned numerous championships and accolades throughout a successful career.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on June 19th
James Gandolfini
Actor in The Sopranos
Born
September 18th, 1961 64 years ago
Died
June 19th, 2013 12 years ago — 51 years old
An American actor and producer, recognized for a remarkable portrayal of mob boss Tony Soprano in the HBO series The Sopranos, which aired from 1999 to 2007. The role earned multiple accolades including three Primetime Emmy Awards for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series. Gandolfini also appeared in films such as True Romance and The Mexican. His contributions to television and film solidified his status as a significant figure in the entertainment industry.
Continue ReadingSam Giancana
American mob boss involved in politics
Born
1908 117 years ago
Died
June 19th, 1975 50 years ago — 67 years old
A prominent mob boss, played a significant role in the Chicago Outfit during the mid-20th century. Involvement in various criminal enterprises included racketeering, gambling, and loan sharking. Giancana fostered relationships with political figures and celebrities, including alleged connections with the Kennedy family and involvement in the 1960 presidential election. His criminal activities and connections attracted the attention of law enforcement, leading to multiple investigations over the years. Giancana's life ended in 1975 under mysterious circumstances.
Continue ReadingGeorge Addes
Trade Union Leader, UAW Co-founder
Born
1911 114 years ago
Died
June 19th, 1990 35 years ago — 79 years old
An American trade union leader co-founded the United Automobile Workers (UAW) in 1935, significantly influencing labor rights in the automotive industry. The leadership role included advocating for workers' rights and enhancing benefits and working conditions for members. This individual served as a prominent figure in several key labor negotiations and strikes that shaped labor relations in the United States. Throughout a lengthy career, efforts resulted in the passage of significant labor reforms and improved security for workers in the automotive sector. His contributions to trade unionism have had lasting effects on the dynamics between labor and management in America.
Continue ReadingDave Jennings
American football punter and sportscaster
Born
1952 73 years ago
Died
June 19th, 2013 12 years ago — 61 years old
Played as a punter in the National Football League (NFL) for the New York Giants and the San Francisco 49ers. After retirement from professional football, transitioned into sports broadcasting, working for local television and radio stations in New York. Consistently provided analysis and commentary on football games, contributing to the audience's understanding of the sport. Served as a sports talk radio host, engaging fans with insights and discussions about current events in the NFL.
Continue ReadingGerry Goffin
American songwriter of pop classics
Born
February 11th, 1939 86 years ago
Died
June 19th, 2014 11 years ago — 75 years old
A significant figure in American music, contributed extensively as a songwriter during the 1960s and 1970s. Collaborated with Carole King, creating numerous hit songs. The partnership yielded a string of chart-topping records that became standards in pop music. Many songs received critical acclaim and gained recognition for their lyrical depth and melodic structure. Their work remains influential, impacting generations of artists across various genres.
Continue ReadingGladys Spellman
American politician and educator
Born
March 1st, 1918 107 years ago
Died
June 19th, 1988 37 years ago — 70 years old
An educator and politician served in the U.S. Congress representing Maryland. Elected to the House of Representatives in 1975, played a role in various committees during tenure. Focused on educational issues and women's rights, contributing to legislative discussions. Contributed to initiatives improving educational access and funding. Her career in education preceded her political engagement, holding various positions within the local educational system.
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