Wilfrid Laurier

Canadian Prime Minister and lawyer

Wilfrid Laurier - Canadian Prime Minister and lawyer
Born

November 20th, 1841
183 years ago

Died

February 17th, 1919
106 years ago — 77 years old

Category

Leaders & Politicians

Country

Canada

Links & References

Served as the 7th Prime Minister of Canada from 1896 to 1911. Led the country during a time of significant national growth and fostered the expansion of Canadian confederation. Advocated for a liberal and progressive vision of Canada, promoting immigration and economic development. His government implemented policies expanding railways and offered support for the growth of the west. Laurier also played a crucial role in navigating Canada's relationship with Britain and the United States during his tenure.

Served as Prime Minister for 15 years

Promoted Canadian nationalism and unity

Oversaw the establishment of the Canadian Navy

Other People Born on November 20th

Cartier Martin

American basketball player
Born
November 20th, 1984 40 years ago

Professionally played basketball in the NBA and internationally. Began NBA career in 2009 with the Charlotte Bobcats. Played for several teams, including the Atlanta Hawks and the Washington Wizards. Had a successful stint overseas in leagues in Turkey and Japan. Known for scoring and shooting abilities.

Continue Reading

Ed Freeman

Medal of Honor recipient and soldier
Born
November 20th, 1927 97 years ago
Died
August 20th, 2008 16 years ago — 80 years old

Served as a soldier and helicopter pilot during the Vietnam War. Participated in the Battle of Ia Drang, where he made multiple rescue flights to evacuate wounded soldiers under enemy fire. Demonstrated exceptional bravery and dedication, which led to the awarding of the Medal of Honor for actions during this conflict. Later had a career in various roles, including leadership positions within the military. His legacy is honored through the recognition of his courage and service.

Continue Reading

Juan Cruz Álvarez

Argentinian race car driver
Born
November 20th, 1985 39 years ago

Participated in multiple racing series, establishing a reputation in the competitive world of motorsport. Competed in the Eurocup Formula Renault 2.0, showcasing talent at an international level. Successfully transitioned to the Toyota Racing Series, further demonstrating skill and versatility. Achieved notable results in various categories, earning recognition within the racing community.

Continue Reading

Pope Pius VIII

Roman Catholic Pope; papal encyclicals
Born
November 20th, 1761 263 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 Reading

Lauri Tanner

Finnish gymnast and Olympic participant
Born
November 20th, 1890 134 years ago
Died
1950 75 years ago — 60 years old

Competed in gymnastics at the 1912 Summer Olympics in Stockholm. Secured two bronze medals in team events. Contributed to the development of gymnastics in Finland and impacted the sport's popularity. Involved in coaching and promoting gymnastics throughout the country.

Continue Reading

Bernard Horsfall

English-Scottish actor in Doctor Who
Born
November 20th, 1930 94 years ago
Died
2013 12 years ago — 83 years old

Born in 1930, an English-Scottish actor gained recognition for roles in television and theater. Significant contributions were made to the long-running science fiction series Doctor Who, portraying various characters. Also appeared in other notable productions across television and film, showcasing a versatile acting range. A presence in the theater scene further highlighted a commitment to the performing arts, engaging audiences with compelling performances.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on February 17th

María de las Mercedes Barbudo

Puerto Rican political activist
Born
1773 252 years ago
Died
February 17th, 1849 176 years ago — 76 years old

A political activist emerged as the first woman Independentista in Puerto Rico. Advocated for the independence of Puerto Rico from Spanish colonial rule and participated in various movements to promote political autonomy. Barbudo was involved in organizing efforts to resist colonialism, fostering a spirit of nationalism among the island's population. Despite facing significant challenges due to gender and political climate, played a crucial role in the early stages of Puerto Rican political activism.

Continue Reading

Lütfi Kırdar

Turkish Minister of Health and Physician
Born
1887 138 years ago
Died
February 17th, 1961 64 years ago — 74 years old

A prominent figure in Turkish medicine and politics. Served as the Minister of Health, overseeing significant improvements in healthcare and public health policies. Advocated for modern medical practices and expanded healthcare access across Turkey. Also played a crucial role in the establishment of various hospitals and health institutions, contributing to the advancement of health services in the nation.

Continue Reading

Claude Jeancolas

Historian and author of French history
Born
1949 76 years ago
Died
February 17th, 2016 9 years ago — 67 years old

Contributed extensively to the study of French history through numerous publications and research works. Focused on political and cultural developments in France, providing insights into key historical events. Worked as a journalist, analyzing contemporary issues related to history and society. Engaged in academic circles, influencing historical discourse in France and beyond.

Continue Reading

William Gargan

American actor from 'The Enchanted Cottage'
Born
July 17th, 1905 120 years ago
Died
February 17th, 1979 46 years ago — 73 years old

An American actor gained recognition primarily for work in films and television during the mid-20th century. Started career on Broadway, transitioned to the screen with notable roles in movies such as 'The Enchanted Cottage' and 'The Dark Mirror'. Involved in radio shows, most notably as the title character in the detective series 'Barry Craig, Confidential Investigator'. Gargan's contributions to American cinema and television left a lasting legacy.

Continue Reading

Joseph Kearns

Actor in 'Leave It to Beaver'
Born
February 12th, 1907 118 years ago
Died
February 17th, 1962 63 years ago — 55 years old

An American actor gained prominence through a memorable role as the father, Steve, in the television series 'Leave It to Beaver', which aired from 1957 to 1963. Kearns began his career in radio and transitioned to television, appearing in various shows during the early years of the medium. His performance in 'Leave It to Beaver' is often regarded as iconic, representing the quintessential American father figure. Kearns's career was cut short when he passed away in 1962, yet his legacy endures through the continued popularity of the show, influencing perceptions of family life in American culture.

Continue Reading

Edgar Evans

Welsh explorer and noted Antarctic sailor
Born
1876 149 years ago
Died
February 17th, 1912 113 years ago — 36 years old

A Welsh sailor and explorer, significant contributions included participation in the early 20th-century Antarctic expeditions. Played a key role in Robert Falcon Scott's Terra Nova Expedition from 1910 to 1913. The expedition aimed to reach the South Pole and was notable for its scientific investigations and exploration of previously uncharted territory. The journey encountered extreme conditions, leading to a tragic ending for the team in 1912 when they perished while returning from the pole. The expedition's story remains a critical account of early polar exploration.

Continue Reading