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
Brian Schatz
Lieutenant Governor of Hawaii
Born
October 20th, 1972 53 years ago
Served as the 11th Lieutenant Governor of Hawaii from 2012 to 2014. Elected to the U.S. Senate in 2014, representing Hawaii. Worked on various issues including renewable energy and education reform. Prior to his political career, held various roles in public service and was active in local politics.
Continue ReadingPrince Yasuhiko Asaka of Japan
Japanese Prince and Army General
Born
October 20th, 1887 138 years ago
Died
April 12th, 1981 44 years ago — 93 years old
Served as a general in the Imperial Japanese Army and held a significant military leadership role. Participated in various military campaigns during the Second Sino-Japanese War and World War II, assuming command of key operations. Involved in Japan's military governance during the war years. After the war, faced scrutiny regarding his position and actions during these conflicts, impacting his status as a member of the imperial family.
Continue ReadingMargaret Dumont
American actress in comedic films
Born
October 20th, 1882 143 years ago
Died
March 6th, 1965 61 years ago — 82 years old
This American actress achieved prominence in the film and theatre industry, particularly through extensive collaboration with the Marx Brothers. Notably, her roles showcased her talent for comedic performances that complemented the brothers’ style. Her career spanned from vaudeville to cinema during the early to mid-20th century. Major films included 'Duck Soup' and 'A Night at the Opera', where her performances contributed significantly to the comedic elements of these iconic films. Dumont's portrayal often involved her playing the role of a wealthy and dignified character, typically at odds with the Marx Brothers' antics, creating memorable comedic scenarios. She continued performing until her passing in 1965.
Continue ReadingElfriede Jelinek
Austrian author, Nobel Prize laureate
Born
October 20th, 1946 79 years ago
Born in 1946, an Austrian author and playwright, celebrated for literary works that explore themes of gender, politics, and culture. Gained international recognition for the novel "The Piano Teacher," which delves into complex relationships and psychological struggles. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature in 2004, highlighting contributions to literature. Works often challenge societal norms and question power dynamics.
Continue ReadingRoger Hanin
French actor and director of 'Navarro'
Born
October 20th, 1925 100 years ago
Died
February 11th, 2015 11 years ago — 89 years old
An actor, director, and screenwriter from France. Gained prominence through performances in television series and films, particularly memorable for portraying police chief Navarro in the long-running French show 'Navarro'. Directed several films, demonstrating a wide range of creative talents. Worked in theater and was active in promoting French cinema throughout a career spanning over five decades.
Continue ReadingJohn Burns
Trade union leader and politician
Born
October 20th, 1858 167 years ago
Died
January 24th, 1943 83 years ago — 84 years old
A prominent English trade union leader and politician, played a significant role in representing workers' interests during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Served as Secretary of State for Business, Innovation and Skills, contributing to national policy on labor and industry. Advocated for social reform and improved conditions for workers. Participated in various campaigns for workers' rights and made contributions to the establishment of the Labour Party.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on March 22nd
Stephen Decatur
Naval commander in the early 1800s
Born
January 5th, 1779 247 years ago
Died
March 22nd, 1820 206 years ago — 41 years old
A naval commander in the early 1800s, served in the United States Navy during the First Barbary War and the War of 1812. Established a reputation for naval prowess and bold tactics. Played a key role in the American naval victories against pirates and British forces. Instrumental in the destruction of the captured frigate USS Philadelphia to prevent its use by enemy forces, showcasing innovative strategies in naval warfare.
Continue ReadingJosé Antonio Aguirre
Spanish politician, 1st President of Basque Country
Born
March 6th, 1904 122 years ago
Died
March 22nd, 1960 66 years ago — 56 years old
Served as a lawyer and participated in political activities during the Spanish Civil War. As the first president of the Basque Country, established an autonomous government in 1936. During his presidency, emphasized cultural and political autonomy for the Basque people. Fled to France during the war and later to the United States, where he continued to advocate for Basque interests.
Continue ReadingJean-Baptiste Lully
Composer of French opera and ballet music
Born
November 28th, 1632 393 years ago
Died
March 22nd, 1687 339 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 ReadingWilliam of Norwich
Child murder victim in 12th century England
Died
March 22nd, 1144 882 years ago — None years old
A young boy was found murdered in Norwich, England, in March 1144. The case received significant attention, leading to widespread speculation and accusations against the Jewish community in the area. This incident played a role in escalating tensions between Christians and Jews during this period, contributing to the establishment of blood libel myths. The aftermath of the murder sparked violence against Jews and influenced perceptions of Jewish communities in medieval Europe. The case was interwoven with the socio-political climate, reflecting the complexities of religious and cultural relations.
Continue ReadingWilliam Hanna
Animator and co-founder of Hanna-Barbera
Born
July 14th, 1910 115 years ago
Died
March 22nd, 2001 25 years ago — 90 years old
Co-founded Hanna-Barbera Productions, which became a significant name in American animation. Created iconic characters and series such as Tom and Jerry, The Flintstones, and Scooby-Doo. Directed many animated shows that shaped Saturday morning cartoons. Contributed to both the development of animation techniques and the popularization of animated television.
Continue ReadingRob Ford
Canadian politician, 64th Mayor of Toronto
Born
May 28th, 1969 56 years ago
Died
March 22nd, 2016 10 years ago — 46 years old
Served as the 64th mayor of Toronto from 2010 to 2014. Focused on reducing the city’s budget deficits and cutting taxes. Introduced significant changes to public transit and city services during tenure. His time in office was marked by controversy and public incidents that garnered international attention. Prior to mayorship, served as a city councillor for several years, where engagement with local constituents was a primary focus. Health issues later impacted public and political life.
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