Vasily Aksyonov
Russian author and physician
Contributed significantly to literature and medicine. Authored several novels that explored the complexities of Russian society. Gained prominence with the novel 'Generations of Winter', which provides a sweeping historical narrative of the Soviet era. Served as an influential figure in the Russian literary scene and engaged in various academic pursuits related to medicine.
Authored the novel 'Generations of Winter'
Served as a physician in various capacities
Other People Born on August 20th
Jakub Bart-Ćišinski
German poet and playwright
Born
August 20th, 1856 169 years ago
Died
October 16th, 1909 116 years ago — 53 years old
Born in 1856, a prominent figure in the literary scene, engaged in both poetry and playwriting. Contributed significantly to the cultural fabric of the time through various works. Utilized themes of national identity and cultural heritage in literary creations. Active during a period of significant artistic expression and was involved in discussions surrounding the role of the arts in society.
Continue ReadingAlby Roberts
Cricketer and rugby player from New Zealand
Born
August 20th, 1909 116 years ago
Died
1978 48 years ago — 69 years old
Played first-class cricket and represented New Zealand in rugby union. Had a dual sports career, achieving success in cricket during the 1930s while also earning caps for the national rugby team. Contributed significantly to both sports at the domestic and international levels. In cricket, played for Wellington and was part of the New Zealand cricket team that played its first Test matches. In rugby, was a member of the All Blacks, participating in key matches.
Continue ReadingGeorge Griffith
British writer of science fiction
Born
August 20th, 1857 168 years ago
Died
June 4th, 1906 119 years ago — 48 years old
A British writer, prominent in science fiction, contributed to the genre during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Griffith's stories often explored themes of technology and society, influencing later works in the realm of speculative fiction. He penned several novels, short stories, and essays, blending adventure with futuristic ideas. One of the most notable works is 'A Honeymoon in Space', which featured interplanetary travel and was praised for its imaginative narrative.
Continue ReadingBernard Tancred
South African cricketer, legal advocate
Born
August 20th, 1865 160 years ago
Died
1911 115 years ago — 46 years old
Played cricket for the South African national team in the late 19th century. Participated in the country's first Test match against England in 1889. Had a career as a lawyer, balancing both professions during a time when cricket was still developing in South Africa. Engaged in various legal proceedings and contributed to the legal community.
Continue ReadingJack Teagarden
Trombonist and jazz vocalist
Born
August 20th, 1905 120 years ago
Died
January 15th, 1964 62 years ago — 58 years old
A prominent figure in the world of jazz, this trombonist gained recognition for contributions to the genre as both a performer and a vocalist. Active in the early to mid-20th century, involvement with notable bands included the Jean Goldkette Orchestra and Louis Armstrong's groups. Renowned for a unique ability to blend instrumental proficiency with vocal performance, recordings showcased a style that influenced future musicians. Teagarden became a fixture in jazz clubs and participated in multiple recordings that are still celebrated today. The hallmark of his career included performing at the prestigious Carnegie Hall in 1947.
Continue ReadingRudolf Bultmann
Theologian and New Testament scholar
Born
August 20th, 1884 141 years ago
Died
1976 50 years ago — 92 years old
A significant figure in 20th-century theology, contributed to New Testament studies with an emphasis on demythologizing Christian texts. Served as a professor of New Testament at the University of Marburg, influencing various theological debates and shaping modern interpretations of scripture. Focused on the application of existential philosophy to biblical exegesis, advocating for a contemporary understanding of faith. Authored several important works, including 'New Testament and Mythology', where he explored the intersection of myth and modern belief.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on July 6th
Kathleen E. Woodiwiss
Historical romance novelist and author
Born
1939 87 years ago
Died
July 6th, 2007 18 years ago — 68 years old
A prominent American author, this writer significantly contributed to the historical romance genre, primarily in the late 20th century. The debut novel, 'The Flame and the Flower', published in 1972, revolutionized the genre, integrating detailed historical settings with passionate romance. This work is often credited with sparking the popularity of modern romance novels. Over a career spanning several decades, the author published numerous bestsellers, captivating a large audience with compelling narratives and richly developed characters.
Continue ReadingGeorges Legagneux
French aviator and pioneering pilot
Born
December 24th, 1882 143 years ago
Died
July 6th, 1914 111 years ago — 31 years old
Born in 1882, a pioneering aviator made significant contributions to early aviation. Achieved multiple altitude records and played a key role in the development of aircraft design. Competed in various aviation competitions and set numerous flight records that underscored advancements in aeronautics. Participated actively in aviation exhibitions, promoting the potential of flight. His career was marked by a commitment to exploring the capabilities of early aircraft technology, paving the way for future innovations in aviation.
Continue ReadingAlan J. Dixon
Illinois Secretary of State, lawyer
Born
July 7th, 1927 98 years ago
Died
July 6th, 2014 11 years ago — 86 years old
Served as the 34th Secretary of State of Illinois from 1977 to 1991. Practiced law before entering politics. Elected to the Illinois State Senate, representing the 51st District from 1969 to 1977. Supported various legislative initiatives during tenure. After leaving the Secretary of State office, engaged in private practice.
Continue ReadingEd McBain
Author known for police procedural novels
Born
October 15th, 1926 99 years ago
Died
July 6th, 2005 20 years ago — 78 years old
A prominent American author and screenwriter, contributed significantly to the crime fiction genre. Authored more than 50 novels under the pseudonym Ed McBain, with the 87th Precinct series being the most recognized. The psychological depth and realistic settings in the series influenced many subsequent crime writers. Also earned acclaim for screenwriting, adapting works for television and film. Received multiple awards throughout his career, including the Mystery Writers of America's Edgar Award.
Continue ReadingHarvey Fuqua
Singer-songwriter and music producer
Born
July 27th, 1929 96 years ago
Died
July 6th, 2010 15 years ago — 80 years old
Born in 1929, a prominent figure in the music industry as a singer, songwriter, and producer. Co-founded the influential doo-wop group The Moonglows. Played a key role in shaping the Motown sound and collaborated with various artists during the 1960s. Worked as a producer for several record companies and helped launch the careers of numerous musicians. Contributed to the development of R&B and soul music.
Continue ReadingChetan Anand
Indian director and screenwriter
Born
1921 105 years ago
Died
July 6th, 1997 28 years ago — 76 years old
An influential figure in Indian cinema, contributed significantly as a director, producer, and screenwriter. Directed a series of acclaimed films, blending social themes with engaging narratives. Pioneered the use of realism in storytelling, leading to a new wave in Hindi films. Engaged in the Indian film industry from the 1940s, working until the late 1990s. Founded 'Navketan Films' in 1949, producing films that explored contemporary issues and societal challenges.
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