Walter Becker
American singer-songwriter and producer
A singer-songwriter, guitarist, and producer from the United States, recognized for co-founding the rock band Steely Dan. Played a significant role in shaping the band's distinctive sound. Collaborated with Donald Fagen in writing and producing music that blended rock, jazz, and pop, and achieved commercial success through critically acclaimed albums. Also released solo albums, showcasing a range of musical styles and influences.
Co-founded the band Steely Dan
Produced the album 'Aja'
Released solo album '11 Tracks of Whack'
Collaborated with various artists including Michael McDonald
Other People Born on February 20th
Mariliza Xenogiannakopoulou
Greek lawyer and politician
Born
February 20th, 1963 63 years ago
Served as the Greek Minister of Health during the period of 2009 to 2012. Worked on healthcare reforms and initiatives aimed at improving public health services in Greece. Engaged in legislative processes and contributed to policy-making in the health sector. Participated in various committees focusing on health and social affairs, advocating for better healthcare access and management within the country.
Continue ReadingCharles Auguste de Bériot
Violinist and composer of concertos
Born
February 20th, 1802 224 years ago
Died
April 8th, 1870 156 years ago — 68 years old
A Belgian violinist and composer, this individual significantly contributed to the development of violin playing techniques in the 19th century. Focused primarily on the violin, composed numerous concertos and works for violin and orchestra. Established a renowned teaching career, influencing many violinists through his pedagogy. The individual played a crucial role in the romantic era of music, being one of the first to emphasize the expressive capabilities of the violin.
Continue ReadingGloria Vanderbilt
Fashion designer and actress
Born
February 20th, 1924 102 years ago
Died
June 17th, 2019 7 years ago — 95 years old
A prominent fashion designer, socialite, and actress, contributions spanned multiple fields. In 1976, launched a successful line of jeans that became a cultural phenomenon. Created an iconic slip-on jeans style that represented luxury and comfort. Additionally, starred in the film 'The Last of Mrs. Lincoln' and appeared on television series such as 'The Love Boat'. Authored several books, including novels and memoirs, providing insight into personal experiences and life as a socialite.
Continue ReadingRoy Cohn
American lawyer and political activist
Born
February 20th, 1927 99 years ago
Died
August 2nd, 1986 39 years ago — 59 years old
Built a prominent career in law, gaining recognition as a legal advisor in high-profile cases. Served as chief counsel to Senator Joseph McCarthy during the Red Scare, advocating for anti-communist actions. Established a private practice in New York City, representing various clients including influential business figures and organized crime members. Publicly engaged in controversial political activism throughout his career, asserting a staunch conservative viewpoint. Played a significant role in various cases and investigations, with a reputation for aggressive courtroom tactics.
Continue ReadingWilliam Carleton
Irish author of rural stories
Born
February 20th, 1794 232 years ago
Died
January 30th, 1869 157 years ago — 74 years old
A prominent Irish author, focused on rural life and culture, primarily wrote during the 19th century. Contributed significantly to Irish literature with a series of writings depicting the lives of the Irish peasantry. His works are characterized by a deep understanding of the socio-economic conditions of Ireland during that period. Gained recognition through novels, short stories, and essays that provided insight into the struggles and hardships of rural communities. Notable works include 'The Tithe Proctor' and 'The Black Prophet'. Assisted in shaping Irish narrative prose, providing a platform for future literary explorations of Irish identity and social issues.
Continue ReadingJohann Heinrich Voss
German poet and translator of Homer
Born
February 20th, 1751 275 years ago
Died
March 29th, 1826 200 years ago — 75 years old
Recognized as a prominent poet and translator, significant contributions included poetic works as well as the German translations of Homer's 'Iliad' and 'Odyssey'. Active in the literary circles of his time and involved with the Göttingen School of Poets, engaged in discussions about aesthetics and literature. Held a professorship at the University of Heidelberg, influencing future generations of poets and scholars through both teachings and writings.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on September 3rd
Syd Jackson
New Zealand trade union leader and activist
Born
1939 87 years ago
Died
September 3rd, 2007 18 years ago — 68 years old
A prominent trade union leader and activist, played a crucial role in advocating for workers' rights in New Zealand. Contributed to the establishment of various unions, focusing on the rights of workers and fair labor practices. Actively participated in campaigns aimed at improving workplace conditions and wages for employees across multiple sectors. Engaged in political discourse to influence legislation benefiting labor rights and social justice in the nation.
Continue ReadingBarbara O'Neil
American actress in film and theater
Born
1910 116 years ago
Died
September 3rd, 1980 45 years ago — 70 years old
An American actress achieved recognition in film and theater during the mid-20th century. Notable performances included roles in the classic films "Gone with the Wind" and "The Snake Pit." O'Neil's work in the theater also garnered acclaim, particularly in productions on Broadway. Her career included a blend of both stage and screen appearances, showcasing her range as a performer. O'Neil continued to work in the industry until her passing in 1980.
Continue ReadingEmma Bailey
Auctioneer and author of auction guides
Born
March 6th, 1910 116 years ago
Died
September 3rd, 1999 26 years ago — 89 years old
An American auctioneer and author contributed significantly to the field of auctioneering. Authored multiple books on auction techniques and strategies, providing insights into the auction industry. Played a vital role in promoting the auction profession through educational initiatives and public speaking engagements, sharing expertise with aspiring auctioneers and collectors. Served as a mentor for many in the industry, emphasizing ethical practices and professional standards.
Continue ReadingCharlie Rose
Journalist and talk show host, PBS
Born
January 5th, 1942 84 years ago
Died
September 3rd, 2012 13 years ago — 70 years old
A veteran journalist and talk show host, this individual hosted 'Charlie Rose' on PBS for several decades, featuring in-depth interviews with influential figures from various fields including politics, literature, and science. The show garnered critical acclaim for its conversational style and thoughtful discussions. Additionally, served as a co-anchor for 'CBS This Morning', contributing to the program's focus on news and current events. Throughout a long career, highlighted the importance of dialogue and exploration of complex topics.
Continue ReadingJames Thomas Aubrey Jr.
American screenwriter and producer
Born
1918 108 years ago
Died
September 3rd, 1994 31 years ago — 76 years old
A prominent American screenwriter and producer, contributed significantly to the film and television industry. Worked extensively with MGM Studios, overseeing and producing numerous projects. Was instrumental in the production of the critically acclaimed television series 'The Twilight Zone'. Additionally, played a critical role in reviving the MGM brand during the 1960s.
Continue ReadingJean Hardouin
French historian and scholar
Born
1646 380 years ago
Died
September 3rd, 1729 296 years ago — 83 years old
A prominent historian and scholar, contributed significantly to the field of history with a strong emphasis on the analysis of ancient texts. Advocated for a critical approach to historical writing, focusing on factual accuracy and the verification of sources. Worked extensively on the interpretation of classical works and their historical contexts. Served as a member of the Académie Française and held academic positions that influenced the study of history in France during the early 18th century.
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