What Happened This Year 1920

Born in 1920

Randolph Quirk

Linguist and academic in English studies
Born
July 12th, 1920 104 years ago
Died
2017 8 years ago — 97 years old

Contributed significantly to English linguistics. Served as a professor at the University of London and was instrumental in developing comprehensive grammatical frameworks. Edited several renowned works and participated in extensive research on the English language. Helped establish the discipline of linguistics in the UK, including co-authoring influential textbooks and academic papers that shaped modern understanding of English grammar.

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Beah Richards

American actress in 'Guess Who's Coming to Dinner'
Born
July 12th, 1920 104 years ago
Died
September 14th, 2000 24 years ago — 80 years old

An accomplished American actress, recognized for a career spanning over five decades. Achievements include a significant role in the film 'Guess Who's Coming to Dinner', which addressed racial issues during its time. Additionally, an Emmy Award was earned for work on the television series 'The Great White Hope'. Contributions to theater were made through performances in various productions, showcasing talent both on stage and screen. Advocacy for civil rights and representation in the arts was also prominent throughout her life.

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Paul Gonsalves

American jazz saxophonist, Ellington collaborator
Born
July 12th, 1920 104 years ago
Died
1974 51 years ago — 54 years old

A prominent American saxophonist, contributions to jazz are significant, especially during the mid-20th century. Associated with the Duke Ellington Orchestra, Gonsalves gained notable recognition for his extended solo during the performance of 'Diminuendo and Crescendo in Blue' at the Newport Jazz Festival in 1956, a moment that solidified his status in the jazz community. His tenor saxophone style blended blues, improvisation, and intricate melodies, influencing both peers and upcoming musicians in the genre. Beyond this defining performance, Gonsalves recorded numerous albums and collaborated with a variety of artists, showcasing versatility and talent throughout his career.

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Bob Fillion

Ice hockey player and manager
Born
July 12th, 1920 104 years ago
Died
August 13th, 2015 9 years ago — 95 years old

A Canadian ice hockey player and manager, played for the Montreal Canadiens in the National Hockey League. After retiring as a player, took on various management roles, contributing to the development of the sport in Canada. His leadership in minor league teams helped shape future talents in ice hockey. The management career included significant contributions to team strategies and player development.

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Shankarrao Chavan

Indian politician and finance minister
Born
July 14th, 1920 104 years ago
Died
2004 21 years ago — 84 years old

Active in Indian politics, served in various capacities including the Minister of Finance. Contributed to economic policies and reforms during tenure in government. Had a significant role in state politics and governance, representing a prominent political party. Worked on improving the financial landscape of India during a transformative period in the country's history.

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Anatole Broyard

Literary critic and New York Times editor
Born
July 16th, 1920 104 years ago
Died
1990 35 years ago — 70 years old

An American literary critic and editor, this individual played a significant role in shaping literary dialogue in the second half of the 20th century. Serving as the book critic for The New York Times, notable contributions included reviews and essays that explored a wide range of literary works and cultural issues. The individual's writings reflected an acute understanding of literature, and a keen eye for detail, influencing both readers and writers alike. In addition to criticism, this person authored several books, including a memoir that delved into themes of identity and self-discovery.

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Gordon Gould

Physicist and laser inventor
Born
July 17th, 1920 104 years ago
Died
September 16th, 2005 19 years ago — 85 years old

An American physicist and academic, contributed to the field of optics and photonics. Invented the laser in the 1950s and coined the term 'laser', standing for Light Amplification by Stimulated Emission of Radiation. Although the invention faced patent disputes, secured a patent in 1977 after several legal battles. Served as a professor and held various academic positions throughout his career.

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Juan Antonio Samaranch

President of the International Olympic Committee
Born
July 17th, 1920 104 years ago
Died
April 21st, 2010 14 years ago — 89 years old

Served as the seventh President of the International Olympic Committee from 1980 to 2001, overseeing the Olympic Games during a period of significant transformation. Implemented major reforms within the organization, including the introduction of new marketing strategies that greatly increased revenues. Played a key role in the development of the Olympic movement and advocated for the inclusion of professional athletes in the Games. Promoted the Olympic ideals internationally and was involved in various charitable initiatives post-retirement.

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Robert Mann

American violinist and chamber musician
Born
July 19th, 1920 104 years ago
Died
January 1st, 2018 7 years ago — 97 years old

A prominent American violinist, contributed significantly to chamber music in the United States. Served as the concertmaster of the New York Philharmonic and co-founded the string quartet that became the New York String Trio. Played a vital role in the music community, performing with various orchestras and musicians throughout a career spanning several decades. Recorded numerous albums and participated in numerous prestigious music festivals. Educated many violinists, influencing the next generation of musicians through teaching at various institutions.

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