Tôn Thất Đính
Vietnamese general and military leader
A general in the Army of the Republic of Vietnam, significant roles included leadership during the Vietnam War. Commanded troops in several key operations and was a prominent figure in military strategy against North Vietnamese forces. Participated actively in various battles and campaigns, showcasing tactical skills and military acumen. Later faced challenging political circumstances surrounding the fall of Saigon, which marked a turning point in Vietnamese history.
Commanded forces during the Vietnam War
Played a significant role in key military operations
Other People Born on November 20th
June Christy
American jazz singer with 'Something Cool'
Born
November 20th, 1925 100 years ago
Died
June 21st, 1990 35 years ago — 64 years old
A significant figure in the jazz genre, this singer gained recognition in the 1940s and 1950s. She started her career as a vocalist for the Stan Kenton Orchestra, where her distinctive voice and style became prominent. Following her time with the orchestra, she launched a successful solo career, marked by her critically acclaimed album 'Something Cool' in 1954, which showcased her smooth vocal delivery and sophisticated interpretations of jazz standards. Over the years, she released several albums and became a staple in the Los Angeles jazz scene, performing at various clubs and festivals. Her unique blend of jazz and pop influences left a lasting legacy in the music world.
Continue ReadingPope Pius VIII
Roman Catholic Pope; papal encyclicals
Born
November 20th, 1761 264 years ago
Died
1830 195 years ago — 69 years old
Elected as Pope in 1829, this individual led the Roman Catholic Church during a period of significant political and social change in Europe. The papacy focused on internal church matters and the relationship between the Church and modernity. Issued the encyclical 'Traditi humilitati' addressing the importance of religious education. Responded to contemporary issues regarding governance and the Church's place within society. Sought to maintain religious authority amidst the rise of secular governments and ideologies.
Continue ReadingJames Dutton
American astronaut and NASA pilot
Born
November 20th, 1968 57 years ago
An astronaut participated in NASA missions, including STS-133 and STS-135. Completed several spacewalks and contributed to the assembly of the International Space Station. Served as a pilot on multiple shuttle missions, aiding in the deployment of important scientific instruments and technology. Contributed to various scientific experiments and research conducted in microgravity environments.
Continue ReadingDavid Douglas-Home
British businessman and politician
Born
November 20th, 1943 82 years ago
Died
2022 3 years ago — 79 years old
Held various positions in government and business. Served as a Member of Parliament for the Conservative Party. Played a key role in the privatization of state-owned industries during the 1980s. Participated in significant economic reforms in the UK, contributing to policies that shaped the modern British economy.
Continue ReadingJames Collip
Biochemist, co-discoverer of insulin
Born
November 20th, 1892 133 years ago
Died
1965 60 years ago — 73 years old
A Canadian biochemist contributed significantly to the field of medicine through the co-discovery of insulin. In 1921, collaborated with Frederick Banting and Charles Best to develop a method of extracting and purifying insulin, which became crucial for diabetes treatment. Held the position of professor of biochemistry at the University of Alberta and authored numerous scientific papers, enhancing the understanding of biochemical processes.
Continue ReadingEmperor Taizong of Song
Ruler of Song Dynasty; founded the dynasty
Born
November 20th, 939 1086 years ago
Ascended to the throne in 976 after a coup that overthrew his brother. Strengthened the central government and improved China's economy through agricultural reforms and trade expansion. Promoted culture and the arts, becoming a patron of literature and philosophy. Established a merit-based bureaucratic system, allowing talent to rise in government positions. Expanded territorial borders and ensured stability during his reign until death in 997.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on November 21st
Bill Bixby
Television actor, director, producer
Born
January 22nd, 1934 91 years ago
Died
November 21st, 1993 32 years ago — 59 years old
An American actor and director noted for work on television. Starred as David Banner in the series The Incredible Hulk, which aired from 1978 to 1982. Also featured in other notable TV series such as My Favorite Martian and The Courtship of Eddie's Father. Bixby directed episodes of series including The Incredible Hulk and Goodnight, Beantown. His contributions to television extended to producing and hosting, leaving a mark on the industry.
Continue ReadingCarl Friedrich Schmidt
Geologist and botanist, explored flora.
Born
January 27th, 1832 193 years ago
Died
November 21st, 1908 117 years ago — 76 years old
Born in 1832, a geologist and botanist contributed significantly to the understanding of plant life and geology in the Baltic region. Conducted extensive research in Estonia and Russia, focusing on the local flora and geological formations. Schmidt's work included collecting and cataloging numerous plant specimens, and he was involved in early studies of the region's geology, contributing valuable insights into the area's natural history. His efforts in academia and field research laid the groundwork for future studies in botany and geology.
Continue ReadingCarl Hubbell
American baseball pitcher, Hall of Famer
Born
June 22nd, 1903 122 years ago
Died
November 21st, 1988 37 years ago — 85 years old
A prominent baseball pitcher, achieved recognition during a career largely spent with the New York Giants. Debuted in Major League Baseball in 1928 and played until 1943. Earned the nickname 'King Carl' for his dominant performance on the mound. Secured two MVP awards and participated in six All-Star games. Won a total of 253 games and was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1947, solidifying his legacy as one of the sport's greatest pitchers.
Continue ReadingIvan Krylov
Russian fable author and poet
Born
February 13th, 1769 256 years ago
Died
November 21st, 1844 181 years ago — 75 years old
A prominent literary figure in Russia, this author, poet, and playwright gained recognition for writing fables that often included moral lessons. His works reflect the social and political climate of the time and contributed to the literary landscape of 19th-century Russia. Notable for creating a distinct Russian fable tradition, he published a collection of fables that resonates with readers even today. His use of animals to convey human traits and dilemmas has left a lasting legacy in Russian literature.
Continue ReadingHeinrich XXVII
Prince and Head of the Reuss Younger Line
Born
November 10th, 1858 167 years ago
Died
November 21st, 1928 97 years ago — 70 years old
Born into German nobility, served as the head of the Reuss Younger Line. Succeeded his father as prince in 1902, overseeing family affairs and representing the lineage in various ceremonial functions. Actively engaged in local governance and contributed to cultural and social initiatives within the region. Involved in World War I, played a role in military and administrative matters pertaining to his principality.
Continue ReadingAbdus Salam
Physicist; Nobel Prize in Physics 1979
Born
January 29th, 1926 99 years ago
Died
November 21st, 1996 29 years ago — 70 years old
Significant contributions to theoretical physics, focusing on electroweak unification. Played a vital role in the development of the Standard Model of particle physics. Worked at the International Centre for Theoretical Physics in Trieste, Italy, promoting science in developing countries. Collaborated on various research projects and mentored many physicists worldwide.
Continue Reading