What Happened This Year 1920

Born in 1920

Catharina Halkes

Dutch theologian and academic
Born
1920 105 years ago
Died
April 21st, 2011 13 years ago — 91 years old

Contributed to feminist theology and academic discourse on the role of women in the church. Participated in various ecumenical discussions on theology and social ethics. Published numerous works focusing on the intersection of faith and gender. Served in academic roles that influenced theological education in the Netherlands.

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George Shultz

American politician, Secretary of State
Born
1920 105 years ago
Died
February 6th, 2021 4 years ago — 101 years old

Served as United States Secretary of State from 1982 to 1989 under President Ronald Reagan. Oversaw significant foreign policy decisions during the Cold War, including negotiations with the Soviet Union and initiatives toward arms reduction. Previously held positions as Secretary of Labor and Secretary of the Treasury. Engaged in economic policy reforms and played a role in shaping the administration's approach to trade and fiscal policy. Contributed to academic institutions and think tanks after leaving public office, providing insights into international relations and economic issues.

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André Salvat

French Army Colonel
Born
1920 105 years ago
Died
February 9th, 2017 8 years ago — 97 years old

Served as a colonel in the French Army, with notable contributions during significant military engagements. Participated in the Algerian War, where strategic leadership and military operations were crucial. Later held a prominent role in the French military community, contributing to discussions and initiatives regarding military structure and operations. Became an integral figure in the development of military tactics.

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Richard N. Frye

American scholar and academic expert
Born
1920 105 years ago
Died
March 27th, 2014 10 years ago — 94 years old

An influential scholar in Persian studies, contributed significantly to the understanding of Iranian history and culture. Held academic positions at Harvard University and the University of Massachusetts. Founded the Center for Middle Eastern Studies at Harvard, which became a key institution for the study of the region. Authored several books and translated important Persian texts, enhancing Western knowledge of Persian literature and culture.

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Edward W. Estlow

American football player and journalist
Born
1920 105 years ago
Died
May 9th, 2015 9 years ago — 95 years old

Played professionally in American football and contributed to journalism. Had a career that included playing for teams in the early formation of the sport, spanning across several decades. Transitioned to a successful career in journalism, reporting on various sports topics and events, emphasizing the development of American football during its formative years.

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Marcial Maciel

Catholic priest, founder of Legion of Christ
Born
1920 105 years ago
Died
January 30th, 2008 17 years ago — 88 years old

A Mexican-American priest founded the Legion of Christ and Regnum Christi. Established in 1941, the Legion of Christ became a religious congregation with a focus on education and youth engagement. The organization expanded rapidly and gained international presence. Maciel served as the organization's leader for decades. In the early 2000s, allegations of sexual misconduct and abuse emerged against him, which led to investigations by the Catholic Church. In 2006, the Vatican requested he lead a life of penance and prayer, and he avoided further public ministry until his death in 2008.

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Sheldon Moldoff

Illustrator and comic book artist
Born
1920 105 years ago
Died
February 29th, 2012 13 years ago — 92 years old

An American illustrator and comic book artist, played a significant role in the Golden Age of comics. Primarily worked for DC Comics, contributing to various iconic characters. Served as the first artist of the character Batwoman in 1956, introducing her into the Batman universe. Also worked on characters such as Hawkman and the Flash, showcasing unique artistic style that combined dynamic visuals with storytelling elements.

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Douglass North

Economist and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
1920 105 years ago
Died
November 23rd, 2015 9 years ago — 95 years old

An American economist dedicated to the study of economic history and institutional economics. Served as a professor at Washington University in St. Louis and received the Nobel Memorial Prize in Economic Sciences in 1993 for contributions to the understanding of economic institutions and their role in economic growth. Focused on how institutions influence economies and pioneered research in the new institutional economics.

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Thanassis Skordalos

Greek singer-songwriter and lyra player
Born
1920 105 years ago
Died
April 23rd, 1998 26 years ago — 78 years old

A prominent figure in Greek music, this individual gained recognition as a talented singer-songwriter and skilled lyra player. Through the unique sounds of the lyra, contributed to the preservation and promotion of traditional Greek music. The artistic journey included numerous albums and performances that celebrated Greek folk heritage. This musician's work resonated with audiences, showcasing the emotional depth and cultural significance of Greek music. Continued to perform and record until death in 1998, leaving a lasting legacy in the music community.

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