Stefan Dušan
Emperor of Serbia during the 14th century
Born
1308
717 years ago
Died
Category
Leaders & Politicians
Country
Serbia
Links & References
Ruled as the Emperor of Serbia from 1331 to 1355. Expanded the Serbian Empire significantly through military campaigns and strategic alliances. His reign marked the height of medieval Serbian greatness, with notable achievements in law, governance, and culture. Established the Serbian Orthodox Church's independence and promoted the development of the Serbian state.
Expanded the Serbian Empire to its largest size
Proclaimed Emperor in 1346
Promoted the Serbian Orthodox Church
Codified laws through the Dušan's Code
Other People Who Died on December 20th
Stanley Milgram
American social psychologist, Milgram Experiment
Born
August 15th, 1933 92 years ago
Died
December 20th, 1984 40 years ago — 51 years old
A social psychologist conducted groundbreaking research on obedience to authority. The Milgram Experiment, which began in 1961, demonstrated individuals' willingness to perform actions conflicting with their personal conscience when instructed by an authority figure. The study involved participants administering electric shocks to a subject in a controlled setting, revealing alarming insights into human behavior and conformity. This influential work raised ethical questions in psychology and highlighted the complexities of authority dynamics in social situations.
Continue ReadingSoetardjo Kartohadikusumo
Indonesian politician, 1st Governor of West Java
Born
1890 135 years ago
Died
December 20th, 1976 48 years ago — 86 years old
Served as the first Governor of West Java after Indonesian independence. Helped establish administrative structures in the province during a crucial period of nation-building. Contributed to local governance and the implementation of policies aimed at improving the welfare of the population. Focussed on infrastructure development and education. Played a significant role in fostering regional identity within the national framework.
Continue ReadingRiccardo Freda
Film director and screenwriter of horror
Born
1909 116 years ago
Died
December 20th, 1999 25 years ago — 90 years old
An Egyptian-Italian director and screenwriter contributed significantly to the horror genre in Italian cinema. Early career included working in various roles within the film industry. Gained recognition for horror films in the 1960s and 1970s. Renowned for directing notable works such as 'I Vampiri' (1956), often credited as the first Italian horror film. Also directed 'The Horrible Dr. Hichcock' (1962) and 'Murder Obsession' (1981), which showcased a blend of psychological drama and horror elements. Collaboration with prominent actors and technicians of the era established a distinctive style in horror filmmaking. Continued to influence filmmakers long after his films were released.
Continue ReadingW. Edwards Deming
Statistician known for quality management
Born
October 14th, 1900 125 years ago
Died
December 20th, 1993 31 years ago — 93 years old
Contributed significantly to the fields of statistics and quality management. Developed the Deming Wheel, also known as Plan-Do-Study-Act cycle, which emphasized continuous improvement in organizations. Played a pivotal role in Japan's post-World War II industrial revival by teaching statistical quality control methods. Authored several influential works on quality management and process improvement, notably 'Out of the Crisis' and 'The New Economics for Industry, Government, Education'. Influenced many industries worldwide through a systems approach to management and quality.
Continue ReadingHank Snow
Country music singer-songwriter
Born
May 9th, 1914 111 years ago
Died
December 20th, 1999 25 years ago — 85 years old
A prominent figure in country music, this artist began his career in the 1930s and achieved recognition for a unique blend of traditional and contemporary styles. Numerous hits appeared on the Billboard country charts, with particular success in the 1950s and 1960s. A significant moment came with the song 'I'm Movin' On,' which topped the charts and solidified his status in the genre. The artist also contributed to the establishment of the Grand Ole Opry, performing regularly and boosting the careers of many other musicians.
Continue ReadingPyotr Bolotnikov
Russian middle-distance runner
Born
1930 95 years ago
Died
December 20th, 2013 11 years ago — 83 years old
Competed in middle-distance running events, particularly excelling in the 1500 meters and cross country. Achieved significant success during the 1960s, winning gold medals at international competitions. Represented the Soviet Union in various championships, contributing to the country's prominence in athletics during that era.
Continue Reading