Wolfgang Borchert
German author and playwright
An influential German author and playwright, who emerged in the post-World War II period. His most celebrated work, the play 'Draußen vor der Tür' (Outside in the Cold), addresses the existential struggles of returning soldiers. Borchert's writing reflects the trauma and disillusionment faced by individuals in a devastated Germany. His works, marked by existential themes and poignant language, sought to capture the zeitgeist of a war-torn society. Borchert's life was cut short by illness, but his literary contributions resonate in discussions of post-war literature.
Wrote the play 'Draußen vor der Tür'
Published several influential short stories
Other People Born on May 20th
Teodoro Fernández
Peruvian footballer and top goal scorer
Born
May 20th, 1913 113 years ago
Died
1996 30 years ago — 83 years old
Played as a forward in professional football. Primarily represented Alianza Lima during the 1930s and 1940s. Achieved success in the Peruvian league, becoming one of its all-time leading scorers. Represented Peru in international competitions, including the Copa América, contributing significantly to the team's performance.
Continue ReadingVladimiro Montesinos
Peruvian intelligence officer
Born
May 20th, 1945 81 years ago
Served as head of the National Intelligence Service of Peru from 1990 to 2000. Played a crucial role in the government's efforts against the Shining Path and the Tupac Amaru Revolutionary Movement. Managed intelligence operations and implemented controversial strategies that included corruption and human rights violations. His influence extended to various government decisions and policies during Alberto Fujimori's presidency. Faces multiple legal issues related to corruption and human rights abuses after the fall of Fujimori's government.
Continue ReadingGeorge Prendergast
Australian politician, 28th Premier of Victoria
Born
May 20th, 1854 172 years ago
Died
August 28th, 1937 88 years ago — 83 years old
Served as the 28th Premier of Victoria from 1900 to 1901. Prendergast was a member of the Australian Labor Party and held various political positions throughout his career. His leadership contributed to significant legislative reforms within the state, focusing on workers' rights and education. He was involved in the development of infrastructure projects aimed at improving the state's economy. His tenure as Premier marked a critical period in Victorian politics during the early 1900s.
Continue ReadingTed Allen
Television host and cookbook author
Born
May 20th, 1965 61 years ago
Associated with food and cooking media, this figure hosted the television show 'Queer Eye for the Straight Guy' and served as a judge on 'Chopped.' The role in 'Queer Eye for the Straight Guy' contributed to modern lifestyle programming by focusing on personal transformation. Additionally, authored several cookbooks that reflect a passion for culinary arts and entertaining.
Continue ReadingChristie Blatchford
Canadian journalist and broadcaster
Born
May 20th, 1951 75 years ago
Died
February 12th, 2020 6 years ago — 68 years old
A prominent journalist and broadcaster, contributed to Canadian media over several decades. Worked for major publications including the Toronto Sun and The National Post. Gained recognition for incisive commentary on various topics, including sports, crime, and politics. Authored several books, with some focused on high-profile criminal cases. Actively engaged in broadcasting, providing insightful opinions and analysis on various media platforms.
Continue ReadingJoel Moon
Rugby league player & representative athlete
Born
May 20th, 1988 38 years ago
Debuted in professional rugby league in 2007. Played for clubs including the Sydney Roosters and the New Zealand Warriors. Represented New South Wales Country in representative matches. Participated in the rugby league World Cup, contributing to team strategies and performance.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on November 20th
I Gusti Ngurah Rai
Indonesian military officer and leader
Born
1917 109 years ago
Died
November 20th, 1946 79 years ago — 29 years old
An Indonesian military officer and national hero, led forces against Dutch colonial rule during the Indonesian National Revolution. Played a significant role in the struggle for Indonesian independence. Commanded a defense against Dutch troops in the Bali region, organizing guerrilla warfare tactics. Guided troops during several key battles which contributed to the independence movement.
Continue ReadingCayetana Fitz-James Stuart
18th Duchess of Alba and aristocrat
Born
March 28th, 1926 100 years ago
Died
November 20th, 2014 11 years ago — 88 years old
Born into a prominent Spanish noble family, held the title of 18th Duchess of Alba from 1955 until death. Became a significant figure in Spanish high society and inherited a vast collection of art and historical properties. Gained attention for her numerous titles and was regarded as one of the last grandees of Spain, representing a unique tradition of Spanish nobility. Engaged in various philanthropic efforts, particularly related to the arts and culture in Spain.
Continue ReadingFarkas Bolyai
Hungarian mathematician and academic
Born
February 9th, 1775 251 years ago
Died
November 20th, 1856 169 years ago — 81 years old
Contributed significantly to the development of non-Euclidean geometry. Established mathematical theories alongside his son, János Bolyai. Served as a professor at the University of Marosvásárhely. Published works that laid foundational insights for later mathematical advancements, influencing both geometry and philosophy of mathematics.
Continue ReadingDavid Dacko
Politician, 1st President of Central Africa
Born
March 24th, 1930 96 years ago
Died
November 20th, 2003 22 years ago — 73 years old
Served as the first president of the Central African Republic from 1960 to 1966. Elevated to this position after the country gained independence from France. Implemented policies aimed at centralizing power and developed plans for economic development. Overthrown in a coup led by Jean-Bédel Bokassa in 1966. Returned to politics and briefly served as president again in 1979.
Continue ReadingJames H. Billington
Librarian of Congress and academic leader
Born
June 1st, 1929 97 years ago
Died
November 20th, 2018 7 years ago — 89 years old
Served as the Thirteenth Librarian of Congress from 1987 to 2015. Played a significant role in modernizing the Library of Congress and advocating for digital access to American history and culture. Oversaw the establishment of various digital initiatives and projects, including the American Memory project, which made historical documents available online. Contributed extensively to academic discourse on American literature and culture through numerous publications.
Continue ReadingSergei Grinkov
Figure skater; Olympic gold medalist
Born
February 4th, 1967 59 years ago
Died
November 20th, 1995 30 years ago — 28 years old
A prominent figure skater, achieved international acclaim during the late 1980s and early 1990s. Partnered with Ekaterina Gordeeva, the duo won numerous competitions, including two Olympic gold medals. Their performances were characterized by technical excellence and artistic expression. Competed for the Soviet Union and later represented Russia after the dissolution of the USSR. Grinkov and Gordeeva captured the hearts of audiences worldwide with their graceful routines and deep connection on ice. They were also World Champions multiple times, solidifying their legacy in the world of figure skating.
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