What Happened This Year 1920

Born in 1920

DeForest Kelley

Actor, Dr. Leonard McCoy in Star Trek
Born
January 20th, 1920 105 years ago
Died
June 11th, 1999 25 years ago — 79 years old

An American actor achieved recognition for the role of Dr. Leonard McCoy in the original Star Trek television series and subsequent films. Studied at the H. Leslie New-com Theatre in Hollywood and began a career in radio and television before landing prominent roles in Westerns. Joined the cast of Star Trek in 1966, portraying the ship's chief medical officer, contributing to the show's cultural impact and legacy. Continued to reprise the role in multiple television series and films until the late 1990s. Starred in the films Star Trek: The Motion Picture, Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan, and others. Received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 1983.

Continue Reading

Federico Fellini

Italian director of 'La Dolce Vita'
Born
January 20th, 1920 105 years ago
Died
October 31st, 1993 31 years ago — 73 years old

An influential filmmaker and screenwriter, this individual shaped the landscape of cinema with unique narrative styles and vibrant imagery. During the career, directed several iconic films, including 'La Dolce Vita' and '8½', both celebrated for their artistic vision and innovative storytelling techniques. Created a distinctive blend of fantasy and reality, often incorporating autobiographical elements. Won five Academy Awards for Best Foreign Language Film, highlighting contributions to international cinema.

Continue Reading

Errol Barrow

First Prime Minister of Barbados
Born
January 21st, 1920 105 years ago
Died
1987 38 years ago — 67 years old

Served as the first Prime Minister of Barbados from 1961 to 1966 and again from 1976 to 1985. Played a key role in the country's transition to independence from Britain in 1966. Established the Democratic Labour Party and contributed to the development of the nation’s education and social welfare systems. His administration focused on economic development, social justice, and national identity.

Continue Reading

Alf Ramsey

Football manager, led England to victory
Born
January 22nd, 1920 105 years ago
Died
April 28th, 1999 25 years ago — 79 years old

A prominent figure in English football, coached the England national team from 1963 to 1974. Achieved notable success by leading the team to victory in the 1966 FIFA World Cup, the only time England has won this prestigious tournament. Initiated significant changes in the team's playing style, favoring a tactical approach that emphasized organization and discipline. Prior to coaching, played for clubs such as Southampton and Tottenham Hotspur during the 1940s and 1950s.

Continue Reading

Irving Kristol

Journalist and founder of The National Interest
Born
January 22nd, 1920 105 years ago
Died
2009 16 years ago — 89 years old

A prominent American journalist, author, and academic, contributed significantly to political thought and policy discussion through various writings and publications. Founded The National Interest, a political magazine, which provided analysis and commentary on foreign policy and national security issues. Contributed to the formation of neoconservative thought in the United States, influencing political discourse during the late 20th century. Also held editorial roles in various publications, shaping the intellectual landscape of American conservatism.

Continue Reading

Walter Frederick Morrison

Inventor of the Frisbee
Born
January 23rd, 1920 105 years ago
Died
February 9th, 2010 15 years ago — 90 years old

An American businessman invented the flying disc toy known as the Frisbee in the 1940s. Initially created as a cake pan, it became popular when its design was refined for recreational use. The toy gained widespread popularity in the 1960s, leading to the establishment of the Frisbee brand and various games associated with it. Morrison's invention has become a staple of outdoor play and has inspired numerous competitions and events around the world. The manufacturing and marketing of the Frisbee transformed the toy industry and created a new category of play.

Continue Reading

Gottfried Böhm

German architect and Pritzker Prize winner
Born
January 23rd, 1920 105 years ago
Died
2021 4 years ago — 101 years old

Born in Germany in 1920, significant contributions to architecture included use of concrete and sculptural forms. Established a unique architectural language that integrated modern design with local traditions. Designed numerous public buildings, churches, and cultural centers throughout Germany. Emphasized the interaction between architecture and its environment.

Continue Reading

Henry Eriksson

Swedish runner, Olympic competitor
Born
January 23rd, 1920 105 years ago
Died
2000 25 years ago — 80 years old

A prominent runner from Sweden who competed in middle-distance events. Specialized in the 1500 meters, Eriksson participated in the 1948 London Olympics, representing Sweden. His athletic career included participation in several international competitions and notable performances in track and field events.

Continue Reading

Jimmy Forrest

American saxophonist and band leader
Born
January 24th, 1920 105 years ago
Died
1980 45 years ago — 60 years old

This American saxophonist began his career in the 1940s, contributing to the evolution of jazz music. Renowned for the hit single 'Night Train', he collaborated with various artists and bands, showcasing a distinctive style that merged rhythm and blues with jazz influences. Some of his notable performances included playing with the legendary Louis Armstrong. In addition to performing, he recorded several albums throughout his career, solidifying his place in the jazz genre. Forrest's work continued to resonate within the music community even after his passing, influencing future generations of musicians.

Continue Reading