What Happened This Year 1920

Born in 1920

Nick Cardy

American illustrator of comic books
Born
October 20th, 1920 104 years ago
Died
November 3rd, 2013 11 years ago — 93 years old

An influential comic book illustrator, primarily worked for DC Comics. Created iconic covers and interior art for titles such as Aquaman, Teen Titans, and Wonder Woman. Contributed significantly to the visual representation of many characters during the Silver Age of Comics. His work has shaped the aesthetic and narrative style of comic book storytelling.

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Janet Jagan

6th President of Guyana
Born
October 20th, 1920 104 years ago
Died
March 28th, 2009 15 years ago — 88 years old

Served as the 6th President of Guyana from 1997 to 1999. Held significant roles in politics and was a founding member of the People's Progressive Party. Actively involved in the fight for independence from British colonial rule and contributed to the political landscape of Guyana throughout her life. Served as the Prime Minister of Guyana prior to presidency from 1995 to 1997. Engaged in various social causes including women's rights and education.

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Timothy Leary

Psychologist and author of 'The Psychedelic Experience'
Born
October 22nd, 1920 104 years ago
Died
May 31st, 1996 28 years ago — 75 years old

A psychologist and author influential in the study of consciousness and the counterculture movement of the 1960s. Advocated for the use of psychedelic substances as a means for self-exploration and spiritual growth. Developed research programs at Harvard involving LSD, facing significant backlash from academic and governmental authorities. Engaged in a high-profile relationship with the counterculture during his tenure, promoting the phrase 'turn on, tune in, drop out'. His writings and lectures challenged conventional views on psychology and society.

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Bob Montana

Illustrator of Archie Comics
Born
October 23rd, 1920 104 years ago
Died
1975 50 years ago — 55 years old

An American illustrator specialized in comic art. Significant contributions made to the creation of the Archie Comics series. Worked extensively on the characters and storylines that defined the franchise during the 1940s and 1950s. Recognized for developing the visual style that became iconic in teenage comic book culture. Also contributed to comic strips and worked for various publications throughout his career.

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Ted Fujita

Meteorologist and creator of Fujita scale
Born
October 23rd, 1920 104 years ago
Died
November 19th, 1998 26 years ago — 78 years old

Born in Japan, an academic and meteorologist focused on severe weather research. Developed the Fujita scale for measuring tornado intensity, which was widely adopted in meteorology. Contributed to advancements in understanding storm dynamics and the effects of severe weather phenomena. Conducted extensive studies following major tornado events and published significant papers on the subject. Emigrated to the United States, where research and educational activities continued until retirement.

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Gianni Rodari

Italian journalist and children's author
Born
October 23rd, 1920 104 years ago
Died
April 14th, 1983 41 years ago — 62 years old

Worked as a teacher and journalist in Italy. Published children's literature that emphasized imagination and creativity. 'The Grammar of Fantasy' provided insights into storytelling techniques. 'The Adventures of Cipollino' presented social issues through the lens of a children's narrative. Authored numerous fables and stories that became classics in children's literature and were translated into multiple languages.

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Vern Stephens

Baseball player and All-Star shortstop
Born
October 23rd, 1920 104 years ago
Died
November 3rd, 1968 56 years ago — 48 years old

Played as a shortstop in Major League Baseball from 1941 to 1952. Teams included the St. Louis Browns, Boston Red Sox, and Chicago White Sox. Participated in the 1948 All-Star Game. Achieved a career batting average of .286 and amassed over 1,500 hits. Contributed to the success of his teams both offensively and defensively during his career.

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Marcel-Paul Schützenberger

Mathematician and theoretical computing expert
Born
October 24th, 1920 104 years ago
Died
July 29th, 1996 28 years ago — 75 years old

A mathematician and academic who contributed to combinatorics and formal language theory. Developed the concept of rational series and introduced the Schützenberger group. His research in algebraic structures significantly influenced theoretical computer science. Held academic positions in various institutions and actively published scholarly articles throughout a distinguished career.

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Steve Conway

British singer and recording artist
Born
October 24th, 1920 104 years ago
Died
April 19th, 1952 72 years ago — 31 years old

A prominent British singer, active primarily in the 1940s, gained popularity through a series of hit recordings. Best recognized for a smooth vocal style, became an established figure in the music scene during the post-war era. Recorded numerous songs that resonated with audiences, particularly in the pop and traditional genres. His music often explored themes of love and longing, capturing the essence of the time.

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