What Happened This Year 1920

Born in 1920

Dolph Sweet

American actor in 'Gimme a Break!'
Born
1920 106 years ago
Died
May 8th, 1985 41 years ago — 65 years old

An actor participated in stage and screen productions throughout the 1970s and 1980s. Best recognized for a leading role in the sitcom 'Gimme a Break!', which aired from 1981 to 1987. Portrayed the character of Charlie, a widowed policeman raising three daughters. In addition to television, appeared in several films and theater productions, showcasing versatility in different genres. Received a nomination for an Emmy Award for a guest appearance on 'The Mary Tyler Moore Show'.

Continue Reading

Sydney Templeman

English lawyer and judge
Born
1920 106 years ago
Died
June 4th, 2014 12 years ago — 94 years old

Served as a barrister before being appointed as a judge in the High Court of Justice. During a distinguished judicial career, presided over significant cases and contributed to legal proceedings in various capacities. Became a Life Peer in 1993, receiving a barony and taking the title Baron Templeman. Engaged with multiple legal reform initiatives and upheld principles of justice throughout tenure. Ended judicial career after numerous years of service to the legal profession.

Continue Reading

Françoise d'Eaubonne

French author and poet with feminist themes
Born
1920 106 years ago
Died
August 3rd, 2005 20 years ago — 85 years old

An author and poet who significantly contributed to feminist literature. Wrote extensively on women's rights and ecological issues. Published works include 'Le féminisme ou la mort', which articulated the intersection of feminism and environmentalism. d'Eaubonne's literary career spanned several decades, leading to her recognition as a prominent figure in French feminist discourse.

Continue Reading

Miles Lerman

Holocaust survivor and activist
Born
1920 106 years ago
Died
January 22nd, 2008 18 years ago — 88 years old

A Holocaust survivor who actively participated in raising awareness about the Holocaust and advocating for Jewish rights. Helped to establish the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum and played a role in preserving Holocaust education. Lerman's experiences during the Holocaust propelled a lifelong commitment to human rights activism.

Continue Reading

Benyoucef Benkhedda

Algerian pharmacist and politician
Born
1920 106 years ago
Died
February 4th, 2003 23 years ago — 83 years old

Worked as a prominent figure in Algeria's fight for independence from French colonial rule. Served as the President of the Provisional Government during the Algerian War of Independence. Contributed to shaping post-independence Algeria's policies and development in various sectors, particularly healthcare and education.

Continue Reading

Qemal Stafa

Albanian politician and leader
Born
1920 106 years ago
Died
May 5th, 1942 84 years ago — 22 years old

A politician who played a significant role in Albania's political landscape during the early 20th century. He was a prominent figure in the fight against foreign occupation and worked toward the establishment of an independent Albanian state. Stafa was also involved in the formation of the Albanian National Liberation Movement during World War II, advocating for the rights and sovereignty of Albania. His leadership in political circles contributed to the shaping of modern Albanian governance and national identity.

Continue Reading

Eduardo Mondlane

Mozambican activist and academic leader
Born
1920 106 years ago
Died
February 3rd, 1969 57 years ago — 49 years old

An influential figure in Mozambique's independence movement, played a crucial role in the founding of the Mozambique Liberation Front (FRELIMO) in 1962. Focused on securing independence from Portuguese colonial rule and promoting social change through education and political engagement. Led the organization until his assassination in 1969, which generated international attention to the struggles in Mozambique. An academic by training, held degrees from the University of the Witwatersrand and Syracuse University, which informed his approach to activism.

Continue Reading

Juan José Torres

Bolivian general, 61st President of Bolivia
Born
1920 106 years ago
Died
June 2nd, 1976 50 years ago — 56 years old

Served as the 61st President of Bolivia from 1970 to 1971. His administration focused on agrarian reform and nationalizing key industries, particularly in mining and oil. After being overthrown in a coup, he lived in exile in Argentina until his assassination in 1976. Torres was instrumental in shaping Bolivia's political landscape during his presidency. His military background and leftist ideology influenced his policies and approaches towards governance.

Continue Reading

Isaac Asimov

Science fiction writer and futurist
Born
1920 106 years ago
Died
April 6th, 1992 34 years ago — 72 years old

As a science fiction writer and biochemist, this individual created a vast body of work that has influenced the genre. The Foundation series and the Robot series, including I, Robot, exemplify pioneering ideas in science fiction literature, such as robotics and psychohistory. Additionally, authored numerous non-fiction books across various subjects, making complex scientific ideas accessible to the general public.

Continue Reading