Thomas Hughes
English lawyer and politician, author of Tom Brown's School Days
A lawyer and politician from England, played significant roles in various educational reforms and social issues in the 19th century. Gained recognition through the publication of the novel 'Tom Brown's School Days', which illustrated the experiences of boys in a boarding school and promoted ideals of character and morality. Served as a member of Parliament for the Oxford constituency, advocating for educational improvements and social justice. Contributed to the founding of the Working Men's College in London, aimed at providing education to working-class individuals.
Authored 'Tom Brown's School Days'
Served as a Member of Parliament for Oxford
Co-founded the Working Men's College
Other People Born on October 20th
John Krasinski
Actor and director of The Office
Born
October 20th, 1979 46 years ago
An American actor, director, and producer, gained prominence for role as Jim Halpert on television series The Office. Transitioned to film directing and starred in horror film A Quiet Place, which received critical acclaim and multiple awards. Expanded career to producing and directed sequel A Quiet Place Part II. Other notable television work includes Jack Ryan in the series Tom Clancy's Jack Ryan.
Continue ReadingSnoop Dogg
Rapper and actor, starred in 'Training Day'
Born
October 20th, 1971 54 years ago
Emergence in the early 1990s marked a pivotal moment in hip hop music. Debuted on Dr. Dre's 1992 album 'The Chronic' with the hit single 'Nuthin' but a 'G' Thang'. Released the solo album 'Doggystyle' in 1993, which topped the Billboard charts and included iconic tracks. Transitioned into acting with roles in films such as 'Training Day' and various television shows. Established a significant presence in popular culture with ventures in business, including a cannabis brand and collaborations in the entertainment industry.
Continue ReadingPatrick Matthew
Scottish farmer and biologist
Born
October 20th, 1790 235 years ago
Died
1874 151 years ago — 84 years old
A Scottish farmer and biologist played a significant role in early evolutionary theory. In 1831, published the book 'On Naval Timber and Arboriculture', which included ideas on natural selection that preceded Darwin's work. The writings also discussed the importance of selective breeding in agriculture and the biological basis for tree growth and timber production. Contributed to the understanding of plant and tree physiology.
Continue ReadingFranco Ventriglia
American opera singer and performer
Born
October 20th, 1922 103 years ago
Died
November 28th, 2012 13 years ago — 90 years old
An American opera singer had a prolific career in the world of classical music. Known for a powerful baritone voice, performed in major opera houses across the United States and Europe. Significant roles included performances in operas such as 'La bohème' and 'Il barbiere di Siviglia'. Contributed to various recordings, showcasing classical repertoire and popularizing operatic music.
Continue ReadingSam Witwer
Actor and musician, known for 'Being Human'
Born
October 20th, 1977 48 years ago
An American actor and musician, recognized for various roles in television and film. Portrayed Aidan Waite in the Syfy series 'Being Human' and provided the voice for iconic characters in video games, including Darth Maul in the 'Star Wars: The Clone Wars' series and 'Star Wars: Rebels'. In addition to acting, engaged in music projects, contributing to the field with original compositions and performances.
Continue ReadingIsabelle de Charrière
Dutch author and poet
Born
October 20th, 1740 285 years ago
Died
1805 220 years ago — 65 years old
Born in the Netherlands, this author and poet became renowned for contributions to literature during the 18th century. Works reflected Enlightenment ideals and explored themes of individuality and society. Writings included novels and essays, showcasing a nuanced understanding of human relationships and societal norms. Engaged in correspondence with other writers of the period, influencing intellectual discourse of the time.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on March 22nd
Walter Lantz
Animator and creator of Woody Woodpecker
Born
April 27th, 1899 126 years ago
Died
March 22nd, 1994 31 years ago — 94 years old
An American animator, director, and producer, contributed significantly to the field of animation throughout the 20th century. Lantz established a successful production studio that produced popular animated shorts. Created the iconic character Woody Woodpecker, who became a staple in animated film and television. Lantz's work helped shape the landscape of American animation, moving from early silent shorts to synchronized sound cartoons, showcasing innovative techniques and storytelling.
Continue ReadingRita Gam
American actress in film and television
Born
April 2nd, 1927 98 years ago
Died
March 22nd, 2016 9 years ago — 88 years old
An actress gained recognition for roles in both film and theater. Achievements include performances in the classic film 'The Twilight Zone' and 'The 7th Voyage of Sinbad'. Contributed to various adaptations of Shakespeare's works, showcasing talent in dramatic arts. Later involvement with charitable organizations reflected commitment to social causes.
Continue ReadingJean-Baptiste Lully
Composer of French opera and ballet music
Born
November 28th, 1632 393 years ago
Died
March 22nd, 1687 338 years ago — 54 years old
An Italian-French composer and conductor, contributed significantly to the development of French opera in the 17th century. Lully became the court composer and director of music for King Louis XIV, establishing a style that combined French musical elements with Italian techniques. He founded the French opera tradition with the creation of several celebrated works, including 'Armide' and 'Atys'. Lully also played a crucial role in the ballet de cour genre, writing music for many court ballets performed at the royal court. His influence extended beyond composition, as he also established the Académie Royale de Musique, laying the groundwork for future operatic institutions in France.
Continue ReadingRod Price
English guitarist and songwriter
Born
November 22nd, 1947 78 years ago
Died
March 22nd, 2005 20 years ago — 57 years old
An English guitarist and songwriter, recognized for work with the rock band Foghat. Contributed to the band's signature sound during the 1970s, particularly on the album 'Fool for the City'. Played a significant role in the band's success with hit songs such as 'Slow Ride' and 'I Just Want to Make Love to You'. Led a prominent music career extending beyond Foghat, participating in various other projects and collaborations in rock music.
Continue ReadingPhife Dawg
American rapper and member of A Tribe Called Quest
Born
November 20th, 1970 55 years ago
Died
March 22nd, 2016 9 years ago — 45 years old
A prominent figure in hip-hop, played a crucial role as a member of the influential group A Tribe Called Quest. The group released classic albums such as 'People's Instinctive Travels and the Paths of Rhythm' and 'The Low End Theory,' which are celebrated for their innovative sound and lyrical depth. In addition to contributing significantly to the group's work, solo projects included the album 'Ventilation: Da LP.' Styles incorporated elements of jazz, funk, and spoken word, shaping the genre's evolution. His distinctive voice and clever wordplay left a lasting legacy within the hip-hop community.
Continue ReadingCachao López
Cuban-American bassist and composer
Born
September 14th, 1918 107 years ago
Died
March 22nd, 2008 17 years ago — 89 years old
This musician revolutionized the world of Latin music with the creation of the mambo, a genre that blended Afro-Cuban rhythms with jazz elements. Born in Havana, he began performing as a young child and later moved to the United States, where he continued to develop his craft. Throughout his career, he collaborated with numerous artists and ensembles, leaving a lasting impact on the evolution of Latin music. In the late 1990s, a resurgence of interest in his work led to a Grammy Award for his album "Master Sessions Vol. 1," which celebrated his contributions to contemporary Latin jazz. His legacy endures through the continued popularity of his innovative compositions.
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