What Happened This Year 1920

Born in 1920

Colin Thiele

Australian author and educator
Born
1920 105 years ago
Died
September 4th, 2006 18 years ago — 86 years old

An Australian author, poet, and educator contributed significantly to children's literature. The works often explored themes of nature and the environment, appealing to young readers. Thiele's talent in engaging storytelling garnered numerous accolades. He served as a teacher, which informed his writing style and focus on educational themes. Thiele's most famous books include 'Storm Boy' and 'The Devil's Elbow'. His literary contributions have left a lasting legacy in Australian literature.

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Tonino Guerra

Italian poet and screenwriter
Born
1920 105 years ago
Died
March 21st, 2012 12 years ago — 92 years old

A prolific poet and screenwriter, contributions spanned literature and cinema. Collaborated with acclaimed directors such as Federico Fellini, Michelangelo Antonioni, and Emir Kusturica. Guerra's poetry often reflected themes of nature and emotion. He received numerous awards for his literary achievements, including the Strega Prize in 1992. His work was characterized by a deep connection to Italian culture and the environment.

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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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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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William G. Moore Jr.

American general and military leader
Born
1920 105 years ago
Died
March 18th, 2012 12 years ago — 92 years old

Served as a general in the United States Army. Held various leadership positions during a military career spanning several decades. Played a significant role in military operations during conflicts such as the Vietnam War and held important command responsibilities within the Army. Retired with a distinguished career marked by promotions and recognitions for service.

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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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Adolph Dubs

American diplomat and ambassador
Born
1920 105 years ago
Died
February 14th, 1979 46 years ago — 59 years old

A lieutenant and diplomat, served as the United States Ambassador to Afghanistan from 1978 until death in 1979. Dubs played a significant role in U.S.-Afghanistan relations during a volatile period marked by political upheaval in Afghanistan. His tenure included efforts to promote diplomatic engagement and support for human rights initiatives in the region. His work was cut short by his untimely death in Kabul, which brought international attention to the political situation in Afghanistan.

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Zaim Topčić

Yugoslav and Bosnian writer
Born
1920 105 years ago
Died
July 15th, 1990 34 years ago — 70 years old

A prominent Yugoslav and Bosnian writer, contributed significantly to literature in the 20th century. Engaged in storytelling that captured the complexities of life in Bosnia. Wrote numerous works exploring themes of identity, cultural heritage, and human experience. Served as a literary figure during a time of great social change in Yugoslavia, weaving narratives that reflected the historical and cultural contexts of the region. His works displayed a unique blend of tradition and modernity, emphasizing the rich tapestry of Bosnian culture.

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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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