Stéphane Hessel
Diplomat and author of 'Indignez-vous!'
A diplomat and author, played a significant role in French politics and literature. Contributed to the drafting of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights in 1948. Authored 'Indignez-vous!', a bestseller advocating for social justice and political engagement at a global level. Engaged in various social and political movements throughout the latter half of the 20th century, influencing debates on human rights and democracy.
Drafted the Universal Declaration of Human Rights
Authored 'Indignez-vous!', promoting activism
Other People Born on October 20th
James Chadwick
Physicist, Nobel Prize in Physics 1935
Born
October 20th, 1891 134 years ago
Died
July 24th, 1974 51 years ago — 82 years old
Contributions to physics included the discovery of the neutron in 1932, significantly advancing atomic theory. Following this breakthrough, led to further developments in nuclear physics and atomic energy. Served as a professor at various institutions, influencing future generations of physicists.
Continue ReadingKenneth Walker III
American football running back, Heisman Trophy candidate
Born
October 20th, 2000 25 years ago
Played college football at Michigan State University. Achieved significant recognition during the 2021 season, leading the nation in rushing yards and touchdowns. Helped Michigan State achieve a top 10 ranking during that season. Entered the 2022 NFL Draft and was selected by the Seattle Seahawks.
Continue ReadingPaul Wilson
Scottish bass player and songwriter
Born
October 20th, 1978 47 years ago
Bass player and songwriter contributed to the band Snow Patrol. Participated in the creation of several successful albums, including 'Eyes Open' and 'A Hundred Million Suns'. Worked on various projects within the music industry, collaborating with different artists and bands over the years.
Continue ReadingOlive Thomas
Model and actress in silent films
Born
October 20th, 1894 131 years ago
Died
1920 105 years ago — 26 years old
Born in 1894, pursued a career in modeling before transitioning to acting. Achieved recognition in silent films during the 1910s. Starred in notable productions such as 'The Flapper' and 'The Wildcat', becoming a prominent figure of the era. Her life was cut short in 1920 under tragic circumstances, leaving a lasting legacy in early cinema.
Continue ReadingLuis Saritama
Ecuadorian footballer and national team member
Born
October 20th, 1983 42 years ago
Played as a midfielder for various clubs in Ecuador and had a notable career representing the Ecuador national team. Made significant contributions during the 2006 FIFA World Cup and in qualifying campaigns for subsequent tournaments. Played for clubs including Deportivo Quito and El Nacional, showcasing skills in both domestic leagues and international competitions.
Continue ReadingChuu
South Korean singer and television personality
Born
October 20th, 1999 26 years ago
Born in 1999, this individual gained popularity as a member of the K-pop group LOONA. The group debuted in 2018 and became known for its unique concept and musical diversity. Besides music, involvement in various television programs helped to increase visibility. Participation in variety shows showcased a range of talents, contributing to a distinct public persona. The individual garnered attention for vocal abilities and charm, engaging with fans through performances and social media.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on February 26th
Prince Josias of Saxe-Coburg-Saalfeld
Prince and Military Leader of Saxe-Coburg
Born
December 26th, 1737 287 years ago
Died
February 26th, 1815 210 years ago — 77 years old
Held the title of Prince of Saxe-Coburg-Saalfeld and served as a military officer. Participated in the Napoleonic Wars, particularly noted for contributions to the campaigns against France. Involved in various military engagements during the early 19th century, demonstrating leadership and strategic skills.
Continue ReadingWendy Richard
English actress known for EastEnders
Born
July 20th, 1943 82 years ago
Died
February 26th, 2009 16 years ago — 65 years old
An English actress achieved fame for portraying Pauline Fowler in the BBC soap opera EastEnders from 1985 to 2006. Initially trained at the Arts Educational Schools, participated in various stage productions before transitioning to television. Appeared in the sitcom Are You Being Served? as Miss Brahms, showcasing comedic talent. Throughout the career, involved in numerous other television projects, cementing a legacy as an enduring figure in British popular culture.
Continue ReadingJef Raskin
Computer Scientist, Creator of Macintosh
Born
1943 82 years ago
Died
February 26th, 2005 20 years ago — 62 years old
A computer scientist played a pivotal role in the development of the Macintosh computer. Initiated the project in the late 1970s to create a user-friendly interface that would make personal computing accessible to a wider audience. Contributed significantly to software design principles and interface usability, emphasizing the importance of graphical user interfaces and direct manipulation. Worked at Apple Inc. until the mid-1980s, where innovative ideas transformed the way individuals interacted with technology. Authored several important works on human-computer interaction and interface design.
Continue ReadingRichard Jordan Gatling
American engineer, inventor of the Gatling gun
Born
September 12th, 1818 207 years ago
Died
February 26th, 1903 122 years ago — 84 years old
An American engineer developed the Gatling gun, one of the earliest successful machine guns. The Gatling gun was patented in 1862 and saw extensive use during the American Civil War. Its design utilized a rotating barrel and a hand-crank mechanism, allowing rapid fire compared to traditional firearms. Gatling's invention significantly influenced military technology and warfare strategies. Later, the design was modified and improved for increased efficiency and reliability in subsequent conflicts. Gatling's contributions to engineering extended beyond firearms as he patented over a dozen inventions during his career.
Continue ReadingJoseph Wapner
Television Judge on The People's Court
Born
November 15th, 1919 106 years ago
Died
February 26th, 2017 8 years ago — 97 years old
Served as a judge in the Los Angeles County Superior Court and later became a television personality. Gained recognition as the presiding judge on the reality courtroom series 'The People's Court', which premiered in 1981 and popularized the genre of court shows. Wapner's rigorous but fair adjudication style contributed to the show's success and longevity. His contributions to the legal and television fields made him a well-recognized figure in American popular culture.
Continue ReadingJohn Still
Bishop and author of 'Gammer Gurton's Ned'
Born
1543 482 years ago
Died
February 26th, 1608 417 years ago — 65 years old
An English bishop contributed to literature and education during the late 16th century. Served as the Bishop of Bath and Wells. Authored the play 'Gammer Gurton's Ned,' recognized as one of the earliest English comedies. Still also played a significant role in the educational reform of the time, promoting the importance of learning and scholarship among the clergy and laity.
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