Wayne Morse
American politician and lawyer
A prominent figure in American politics, served as a U.S. Senator from Oregon. Initially a Republican, switched to the Democratic Party during his career. Played a crucial role in opposing U.S. involvement in the Vietnam War. Advocated for civil rights and social justice issues. Engaged in significant legal battles, including labor law and environmental protections.
Served as U.S. Senator from Oregon from 1945 to 1969
Opposed the Gulf of Tonkin Resolution in 1964
First senator to publicly oppose the Vietnam War
Other People Born on October 20th
Tommy Douglas
Canadian politician and Premier of Saskatchewan
Born
October 20th, 1904 121 years ago
Died
February 24th, 1986 39 years ago — 81 years old
Born in Scotland, a minister emerged as a key figure in Canadian politics. Served as the 7th Premier of Saskatchewan from 1944 to 1961. Pioneered a public healthcare system, leading to the establishment of Medicare in Canada. His leadership focused on social democratic policies and the expansion of public services. After leaving provincial politics, continued to influence national politics and policies through the federal New Democratic Party.
Continue ReadingPatrick Matthew
Scottish farmer and biologist
Born
October 20th, 1790 235 years ago
Died
1874 151 years ago — 84 years old
A Scottish farmer and biologist played a significant role in early evolutionary theory. In 1831, published the book 'On Naval Timber and Arboriculture', which included ideas on natural selection that preceded Darwin's work. The writings also discussed the importance of selective breeding in agriculture and the biological basis for tree growth and timber production. Contributed to the understanding of plant and tree physiology.
Continue ReadingJussi Merinen
Finnish politician and statesman
Born
October 20th, 1873 152 years ago
Died
April 20th, 1918 107 years ago — 44 years old
Served as a prominent figure in Finnish politics during the early 20th century. Played a significant role in the Finnish Parliament, representing the interests of the working class. Actively participated in the political movements that shaped modern Finland. His work contributed to the establishment of social rights and labor laws in the nation. His political career was marked by efforts to improve living conditions and advocate for the rights of workers.
Continue ReadingThomas Hughes
English lawyer and politician, author of Tom Brown's School Days
Born
October 20th, 1822 203 years ago
Died
March 22nd, 1896 129 years ago — 73 years old
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.
Continue ReadingJames Chadwick
Physicist, Nobel Prize in Physics 1935
Born
October 20th, 1891 134 years ago
Died
July 24th, 1974 51 years ago — 82 years old
Contributions to physics included the discovery of the neutron in 1932, significantly advancing atomic theory. Following this breakthrough, led to further developments in nuclear physics and atomic energy. Served as a professor at various institutions, influencing future generations of physicists.
Continue ReadingOlive Thomas
Model and actress in silent films
Born
October 20th, 1894 131 years ago
Died
1920 105 years ago — 26 years old
Born in 1894, pursued a career in modeling before transitioning to acting. Achieved recognition in silent films during the 1910s. Starred in notable productions such as 'The Flapper' and 'The Wildcat', becoming a prominent figure of the era. Her life was cut short in 1920 under tragic circumstances, leaving a lasting legacy in early cinema.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on July 22nd
Frank Pierson
American director and screenwriter
Born
1925 100 years ago
Died
July 22nd, 2012 13 years ago — 87 years old
Pierson directed and wrote for film and television, gaining recognition for a career spanning several decades. He served as the president of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences from 2001 to 2003. Pierson gained acclaim for films such as 'Dog Day Afternoon', which earned an Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay. His work on the television series 'Hill Street Blues' contributed to its critical and popular success, resulting in numerous awards during its run.
Continue ReadingJohann Breyer
German SS officer during WWII
Born
1925 100 years ago
Died
July 22nd, 2014 11 years ago — 89 years old
Served as a member of the SS during World War II. Was involved in operations concerning the deportation of Jews to concentration camps. After the war, faced allegations of war crimes but migrated to the United States. Lived a long life in America before his death in 2014.
Continue ReadingLawrence of Brindisi
Italian priest and canonized saint
Born
July 22nd, 1559 466 years ago
Died
July 22nd, 1619 406 years ago — 60 years old
Born in 1559, contributed significantly to the Capuchin Order and served as a diplomat and preacher. Played a vital role during the Counter-Reformation, advocating for the Catholic Church and its doctrines. Engaged in theological debates and established missions to spread Catholicism across Europe. His writings include sermons, biblical commentaries, and works on theology. Canonized in 1881 by Pope Leo XIII, he is recognized within the Catholic Church as a saint and a Doctor of the Church.
Continue ReadingCees de Wolf
Dutch footballer and coach
Born
1945 80 years ago
Died
July 22nd, 2011 14 years ago — 66 years old
A professional footballer played primarily as a defender. Developed a career in the Dutch football leagues and later transitioned into coaching roles. Contributed to various teams during the playing career, including FC Twente. After retiring, focused on coaching and developing young talent in the sport.
Continue ReadingManuel Puig
Argentine author and playwright
Born
December 28th, 1932 92 years ago
Died
July 22nd, 1990 35 years ago — 57 years old
An Argentine author and playwright, recognized for works that explore themes of identity and sexuality. Studied at the National University of Buenos Aires, and later moved to Europe, where various influences shaped his writing. Puig's most famous work is the novel 'Kiss of the Spider Woman', which delves into the lives of two prison inmates sharing a cell. This work led to adaptations in both theater and film, including a notable Broadway musical. His writing is characterized by its innovative use of dialogue and multilayered narratives, reflecting a deep engagement with cultural and political issues in Argentina.
Continue ReadingRichard Cox
English bishop and scholar
Born
1500 525 years ago
Died
July 22nd, 1581 444 years ago — 81 years old
Served as the Bishop of Ely from 1559 to 1581. Played a role in the establishment of the Church of England after the English Reformation. Involved in the foundation of Trinity College, Cambridge, which strengthened educational structures within the Anglican church. Advocated for the reformed doctrines that shaped Anglican theology.
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