What Happened This Year 1920

Born in 1920

Neville Brand

American actor in film and television
Born
August 13th, 1920 104 years ago
Died
April 16th, 1992 32 years ago — 71 years old

A prominent American actor featured in numerous films and television shows, recognized for a substantial career spanning several decades. Starred in the classic Western film 'The Wild One' alongside Marlon Brando. Also appeared in the series 'M*A*S*H' and had significant roles in 'The Untouchables' and 'The Green Berets'. Brand's commanding presence made a mark in both action and drama genres.

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Judy Cassab

Austrian-Australian painter
Born
August 15th, 1920 104 years ago
Died
2008 17 years ago — 88 years old

Born in Austria, a painter migrated to Australia in 1951, where her artistic career flourished. Cassab specialized in portraiture, capturing prominent figures in Australian society. She exhibited her works extensively, including at the Art Gallery of New South Wales. Throughout her career, she received numerous accolades and awards for her contributions to the arts, including the Order of Australia. Her work is notable for its vibrant colors and emotional depth, with a strong focus on the human form and expression.

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Charles Bukowski

American poet and novelist with dirty realism
Born
August 16th, 1920 104 years ago
Died
March 9th, 1994 31 years ago — 73 years old

An influential poet and novelist focused on the lives of the downtrodden in American society. Often writing in a raw, unapologetic style, his works explored themes of love, alcoholism, and the struggles of everyday life. Major works include the novels 'Post Office' and 'Women' and the poetry collections 'Love is a Dog From Hell' and 'The Last Night of the Earth Poems.' Bukowski's writing often drew from personal experiences, reflecting the gritty realities of urban living.

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Maureen O'Hara

Irish-American actress in 'The Quiet Man'
Born
August 17th, 1920 104 years ago
Died
October 24th, 2015 9 years ago — 95 years old

Born in Ireland and later moving to the United States, an actress and singer gained prominence in Hollywood during the 1940s and 1950s. Known for strong leading roles, she showcased her talents in numerous films. The portrayal in 'The Quiet Man' alongside John Wayne stands out as a signature role. In addition to acting, she displayed her vocal abilities in various productions. Possessing a distinctive red hair and a commanding screen presence, she quickly became one of the era's leading actresses.

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Shelley Winters

American actress and Oscar winner
Born
August 18th, 1920 104 years ago
Died
January 14th, 2006 19 years ago — 85 years old

An American actress, prominent during the mid-20th century, gained acclaim for performances in film and theater. Featured in notable films such as "The Diary of Anne Frank," which earned an Academy Award, and "A Patch of Blue," which also garnered an Oscar. Winters was recognized for her versatility and ability to portray complex characters. In addition to her film work, she had a successful career in television, earning accolades for performances in popular series.

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Godfrey Evans

English cricketer and wicket-keeper
Born
August 18th, 1920 104 years ago
Died
May 3rd, 1999 25 years ago — 78 years old

Played for Kent County Cricket Club and England national team. Made contributions as a wicket-keeper and batsman during the 1940s and 1950s. Participated in several Test matches, showcasing skills behind the stumps. His career with Kent spanned over two decades, gathering a substantial record of dismissals.

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Bob Kennedy

Baseball player and manager
Born
August 18th, 1920 104 years ago
Died
April 7th, 2005 19 years ago — 84 years old

Played as an outfielder in Major League Baseball from 1943 to 1955. Teams included the Washington Senators, Chicago White Sox, and Detroit Tigers. Transitioned into coaching and management, taking on roles with teams such as the New York Mets and the Seattle Mariners. Managed the Mariners during the 1980 season. Later served as a scout for several teams, contributing to player recruitment and development.

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Denton Cooley

Cardiothoracic surgeon and innovator
Born
August 22nd, 1920 104 years ago
Died
November 18th, 2016 8 years ago — 96 years old

A prominent cardiothoracic surgeon and scientist, contributions to heart surgery and medical education included pioneering techniques and procedures. Established one of the first artificial hearts and performed the first successful heart transplant in the United States. Founded the Texas Heart Institute in Houston, focusing on cardiovascular diseases and education in surgical techniques in the field.

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Ray Bradbury

Science fiction writer of Fahrenheit 451
Born
August 22nd, 1920 104 years ago
Died
June 5th, 2012 12 years ago — 91 years old

An American science fiction writer and screenwriter, recognized for significant contributions to the genre. Achievements include the publication of classic works that explore themes of censorship, technology, and the human condition. Works such as 'Fahrenheit 451' and 'The Martian Chronicles' capture the imagination through compelling narratives and vivid imagery. Bradbury's writing style blends poetic language with thought-provoking concepts, influencing generations of readers and writers. His career spanned more than seven decades, and he continued to write until late in life.

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