Tony Oliva
Baseball player, 1964 AL Rookie of the Year
A Cuban-American baseball player and coach, played primarily as a right fielder for the Minnesota Twins between 1962 and 1976. Achieved significant success in his career, earning three batting titles and was selected for the All-Star Game eight times. In 1964, received the American League Rookie of the Year award. After retiring as a player, transitioned to coaching and continued his involvement with baseball. Oliva's contributions to the game extended beyond his playing days, as he remained a prominent figure in the Twins' organization.
Won three batting titles in the 1960s
Selected for eight All-Star Games
Received 1964 AL Rookie of the Year award
Other People Born on July 20th
Mike Ilitch
Businessman and Detroit sports owner
Born
July 20th, 1929 96 years ago
Died
February 10th, 2017 8 years ago — 87 years old
Founded Little Caesars Pizza, which became a major national chain. Owned the Detroit Tigers, winning the 1984 World Series. Also owned the Detroit Red Wings, securing four Stanley Cup championships in 1997, 1998, 2002, and 2008. Active in various community initiatives and supported numerous charitable organizations.
Continue ReadingJudy Chicago
Feminist artist and educator, 'The Dinner Party'
Born
July 20th, 1939 86 years ago
An influential artist and educator, played a significant role in the feminist art movement. Established a degree program in feminist art at the California State University, Fresno. Created the installation artwork 'The Dinner Party', which features place settings for notable women in history. Explored themes of gender and identity through various media, including painting, sculpture, and installation.
Continue ReadingCharles Bowden
Non-fiction author and journalist
Born
July 20th, 1945 80 years ago
Died
August 30th, 2014 11 years ago — 69 years old
An American non-fiction author, journalist, and essayist recognized for deep explorations into the American Southwest and issues surrounding the drug trade. Contributed extensively to publications such as 'The New York Times,' 'Harper's Magazine,' and 'The Nation.' Authored over 20 books, including 'Juárez: The Laboratory of Our Future,' which examined the sociopolitical climate of Ciudad Juárez. His work often focused on the intersection of violence, culture, and the environment in the region.
Continue ReadingMoira Harris
American actress in 'The Abyss', 'Dune'
Born
July 20th, 1954 71 years ago
Born in 1954, an American actress gained recognition for performances in films and television. Achievements include a role in the movie 'The Abyss' and appearances in 'Dune'. Other notable works encompass various television series and feature films. Harris contributed to the arts through her dedication to acting, demonstrating her ability in different genres.
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 ReadingNikolaes Heinsius the Elder
Dutch poet and scholar of literature
Born
July 20th, 1620 405 years ago
Died
1681 345 years ago — 61 years old
Born in 1620, this individual contributed significantly to Dutch literature as a poet and scholar. Prominent in the literary scene, Heinsius engaged with classical works, translating and interpreting them for contemporary audiences. Extensive writings included poetry and critical essays, which influenced the poetic landscape of the time. He served as a member of the Amsterdam literary society, fostering connections among writers and intellectuals. His scholarly pursuits also included philological studies, enhancing the appreciation and understanding of classical texts in the Dutch language.
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