Yuri Shargin
Russian astronaut and engineer
Served as a colonel in the Russian Air Force and as an engineer. Participated in the Ascent-5 mission to the Mir space station. Contributed to multiple projects in aerospace technology and engineering within the Russian space program.
Participated in the Ascent-5 mission
Served as a colonel in the Russian Air Force
Contributed to aerospace engineering projects
Other People Born on March 20th
Mark Saville
English judge and lieutenant, Baron Saville
Born
March 20th, 1936 90 years ago
Baron Saville of Newdigate served as a prominent British judge and lieutenant. Educated at Oxford University, legal career commenced as a barrister, later appointed as a Queen's Counsel. Positioned as a High Court judge in the 1990s, presided over significant cases, including high-profile inquiries and rulings. In 2005, selected to chair the Bloody Sunday Inquiry aimed at investigating the events of January 30, 1972, in Derry, Northern Ireland. This inquiry sought to address public concerns regarding the actions of British soldiers and the impact on the local community. Retired from judicial duties in 2010. Life has included contributions to law as well as public service.
Continue ReadingSister Rosetta Tharpe
Gospel singer-songwriter and guitarist
Born
March 20th, 1915 111 years ago
Died
1973 53 years ago — 58 years old
A pioneering figure in gospel music, this artist combined traditional hymns with popular music elements, influencing the development of rock and roll. Recorded the hit song 'This Train' and became a prominent figure in the gospel genre. Performed extensively in the 1930s and 1940s, gaining a loyal audience through live performances and recordings. Collaborated with various musicians, helping bridge the gap between gospel and secular music.
Continue ReadingYigael Yadin
Israeli archaeologist and Deputy Prime Minister
Born
March 20th, 1917 109 years ago
Died
June 28th, 1984 41 years ago — 67 years old
An Israeli archaeologist, general, and politician. Made significant contributions to the field of archaeology, particularly in excavations at Masada and Hazor. Served as Deputy Prime Minister of Israel and was influential in various government roles. Yadin also held a prominent position in the Israeli Defense Forces during the 1948 Arab-Israeli War, where he played a key role in strategic military planning.
Continue ReadingDinos Christianopoulos
Greek poet and writer of notable verse
Born
March 20th, 1931 95 years ago
Died
2020 6 years ago — 89 years old
Born in 1931, a significant figure in modern Greek poetry. Developed a distinctive style that combined lyrical intensity with themes of love and longing. Many works reflect personal experiences and historical context. Publications include several collections of poetry which garnered attention in both Greece and abroad.
Continue ReadingJerry Reed
Singer-songwriter and actor in country music
Born
March 20th, 1937 89 years ago
Died
September 1st, 2008 17 years ago — 71 years old
A prominent figure in country music and film, this artist gained recognition for distinctive guitar playing and songwriting skills. Initiated a music career in the 1950s, producing hit songs such as 'When You're Hot, You're Hot' and 'East Bound and Down', the theme song for the movie 'Smokey and the Bandit'. Also acted alongside Burt Reynolds in that film and contributed to its soundtrack. Throughout the career, collaborated with other notable musicians and received several awards for contributions to the genre, including induction into the Country Music Hall of Fame.
Continue ReadingLateef Adegbite
Nigerian lawyer and politician
Born
March 20th, 1933 93 years ago
Died
2012 14 years ago — 79 years old
A prominent figure in Nigeria's legal and political landscape, this individual played a significant role in shaping legal policies and governance. As a founding member of the Nigerian Bar Association, contributed to the establishment of key legal frameworks. Served as the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice in Lagos State, advocating for legal reforms. Engaged in various political endeavors, focusing on the promotion of justice and equity. Also involved in community development and served in various capacities within numerous legal and civic organizations.
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