What Happened This Year 1920

Born in 1920

Roland de la Poype

French pilot and soldier in WWII
Born
1920 105 years ago
Died
October 23rd, 2012 12 years ago — 92 years old

Served as a pilot and soldier during World War II, achieving recognition for flying missions as part of the Free French Forces. Participated in significant aerial operations and demonstrated bravery in combat situations. After the war, continued to contribute to aviation, particularly in the development of fighter aircraft. Later, became involved in various commemorative activities related to the French military and aviation history.

Continue Reading

Marijohn Wilkin

American guitarist and songwriter
Born
1920 105 years ago
Died
October 28th, 2006 18 years ago — 86 years old

Guitarist and songwriter contributed significantly to country music. Worked with various artists during the 1960s and 1970s. Wrote iconic songs, including 'One Day at a Time,' which became a major hit for Gloria Gaynor. Collaborated with numerous musicians, enhancing the country music genre.

Continue Reading

Jack Vaughn

Boxer and diplomat
Born
1920 105 years ago
Died
October 29th, 2012 12 years ago — 92 years old

One of the prominent figures in boxing during the mid-20th century, achieved success in the ring and transitioned to a role in diplomacy. Competed for the United States in various national and international competitions. Later engaged in diplomatic efforts, representing U.S. interests abroad and advocating for international cooperation.

Continue Reading

Hal Anger

Biophysicist and engineer, inventor of PET
Born
1920 105 years ago
Died
October 31st, 2005 19 years ago — 85 years old

A biophysicist and engineer contributed to the development of positron emission tomography (PET), a powerful imaging technique used in medical diagnostics. Worked on the design of the first clinical PET scanner in the 1970s. This technology revolutionized the ability to visualize metabolic processes in the body, providing crucial insights into various diseases, including cancer and neurological disorders. Published numerous research papers detailing advancements in imaging technologies and contributed significantly to the fields of nuclear medicine and radiology.

Continue Reading

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.

Continue Reading

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.

Continue Reading

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.

Continue Reading

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.

Continue Reading

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.

Continue Reading