What Happened This Year 1920
Born in 1920
Anders Lassen
Born in 1920, a soldier served with distinction during World War II. Enlisted in the Special Air Service (SAS), contributed to multiple operations in Europe and North Africa. Displayed exceptional bravery during the war, particularly in the actions in Italy, where significant contributions led to a Victoria Cross award. The soldier's valor in battle showcased extraordinary leadership and tactical skill.
Continue ReadingBob Lemon
Played as a pitcher in Major League Baseball for the Cleveland Indians and the Chicago White Sox. Achieved three All-Star selections during the 1950s. After retiring as a player, managed several teams, including the New York Yankees, leading the team to a World Series championship in 1978. Developed a reputation for his strategic understanding of the game and ability to lead players effectively.
Continue ReadingMickey Rooney
An American actor and dancer, this individual began performing in silent films as a child and rose to prominence in the 1930s and 1940s. Notable work included leading roles in The Andy Hardy series, for which there were a total of 16 films. Over a career spanning nearly nine decades, this performer showcased versatility in both comedic and dramatic roles. Apart from acting, also gained recognition for considerable work in dance and musical theater.
Continue ReadingOvadia Yosef
An Iraqi-Israeli rabbi and scholar served as the Chief Rabbi of Israel from 1973 to 1983. Authored numerous works on Jewish law and philosophy, contributing significantly to contemporary Halakha. Established the Shas political party, which aimed at representing the interests of Sephardic and Mizrahi Jews in Israeli politics. Influenced religious and political life in Israel during his tenure.
Continue ReadingRichard Bong
Served as a fighter pilot during World War II. Achieved the status of America's highest-scoring ace, with a total of 40 enemy aircraft shot down. Received the Medal of Honor for extraordinary heroism in aerial combat. After the war, continued to serve in the Air Force, where advanced to the rank of major.
Continue ReadingSatish Dhawan
Contributed significantly to India's space program during tenure as chairman of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO). Oversaw the development and launch of multiple satellite missions and established key infrastructure for space research in India. Played a crucial role in the success of the Rohini Satellite Launch Vehicle program which advanced satellite launch capabilities. Advocated for the integration of space technology in various sectors within India.
Continue ReadingSergei Bondarchuk
An acclaimed film director, actor, and screenwriter, Bondarchuk gained recognition for the epic war film 'War and Peace', which won an Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film. The film, adapted from Leo Tolstoy's novel, showcased grand cinematography and vast battle scenes, contributing to cinematic history in the Soviet Union. Bondarchuk also directed and starred in several notable productions and was involved in the Soviet film industry for decades, reflecting a significant contribution to the cultural landscape.
Continue ReadingWilliam Conrad
An American actor, director, and producer, contributed significantly to film and television. Gained prominence for the role of Frank Cannon in the series 'Cannon', which aired from 1971 to 1976. Voiced the character of Matt Dillon in the radio drama 'Gunsmoke', a staple in American entertainment during the 1950s. Also acted in the television series 'The Fugitive' and appeared in notable films such as 'The Killers' and 'The Great Gatsby'. Directed episodes of various television shows, demonstrating versatility in the medium.
Continue ReadingPeter D. Mitchell
Contributed significantly to biochemistry and cellular biology. Developed the chemiosmotic theory, which describes how ATP is produced in cells through a proton gradient across membranes. Received the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1978 for this work, which has greatly advanced the understanding of biological energy production. Held academic positions and was involved in various research initiatives throughout a notable career in science.
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