What Happened This Year 1920

Born in 1920

Jeff Cooper

American target shooter and author
Born
1920 106 years ago
Died
September 25th, 2006 19 years ago — 86 years old

Established modern techniques in precision shooting and tactical firearms training. Founded the American Pistol Institute, which became a leading resource for pistol training. Authored multiple influential books on shooting, including 'The Art of the Rifle' and 'To Ride, Shoot Straight, and Speak the Truth'. Contributed to the development of the Scout Rifle concept, emphasizing accuracy and versatility.

Continue Reading

Russell E. Train

American civil servant and conservationist
Born
1920 106 years ago
Died
September 17th, 2012 13 years ago — 92 years old

A soldier and civil servant with a focus on environmental conservation, played a significant role in shaping U.S. environmental policy. Served as the administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency from 1973 to 1977, appointed by President Richard Nixon. Worked to strengthen regulations regarding air and water quality, and promoted the establishment of important environmental legislation. Contributed to the foundation of the World Wildlife Fund, advocating for global conservation efforts and biodiversity protection.

Continue Reading

Dorothea Binz

German SS officer during WWII
Born
1920 106 years ago
Died
May 2nd, 1947 79 years ago — 27 years old

Served as an SS officer in Nazi Germany. Held the rank of camp leader at Ravensbrück concentration camp. Oversaw the mistreatment and execution of prisoners during the Holocaust. Captured after the war and tried for war crimes.

Continue Reading

Allan Wright

Pilot and English aviation captain
Born
1920 106 years ago
Died
September 16th, 2015 10 years ago — 95 years old

Served as a captain and pilot in the aviation field. Contributed to the improvement of aviation safety and procedures. Held a prominent position in the English aviation community for many years. Participated in various projects aimed at advancing aviation technology and practices. Played a significant role in training the next generation of pilots and was involved in the development of industry standards.

Continue Reading

James Burdette Thayer

American brigadier general
Born
1920 106 years ago
Died
September 16th, 2018 7 years ago — 98 years old

Served as a brigadier general in the United States Army. Participated in key military operations throughout a career spanning several decades. Contributed to military strategy and training initiatives. Had a significant role in the development of army doctrine.

Continue Reading

Ruth Graham

Author, poet, and painter
Born
1920 106 years ago
Died
June 14th, 2007 19 years ago — 87 years old

A Chinese-American author, poet, and painter, contributed significantly to literature and the arts. Various works encompass poetry collections and visual art, reflecting personal experiences and cultural themes. Actively engaged in the literary community, participated in readings and exhibitions. Throughout a prolific career, expressed unique perspectives through written and visual mediums, often highlighting themes of identity and belonging.

Continue Reading

John Joseph O'Connor

American cardinal and archbishop
Born
1920 106 years ago
Died
May 3rd, 2000 26 years ago — 80 years old

Served as an archbishop of New York from 1984 until death in 2000. Played a significant role in the Catholic Church during a time of various challenges, including the sexual abuse crisis. Advocated for social justice and was involved in various charitable activities. Contributed to the interfaith dialogue among different religious communities. Participated in the preparation for the papal visit of Pope John Paul II to the United States.

Continue Reading

Bob Stewart

Television producer and creator
Born
1920 106 years ago
Died
May 4th, 2012 14 years ago — 92 years old

Founded Stewart Tele Enterprises, a successful television production company. Created and produced prominent television game shows including 'The Price Is Right' and 'Truth or Consequences'. Contributed to the development of other entertainment formats and shows that became staples in American television. Received multiple Emmy Awards throughout the career for excellence in television production.

Continue Reading

Bill Cullen

Television game show host and panelist
Born
1920 106 years ago
Died
July 7th, 1990 36 years ago — 70 years old

A prominent television personality, gained recognition as a game show host and panelist. Hosted popular programs including 'The Price Is Right' in its early version and 'Too Much, Too Soon.' His career spanned several decades, contributing to the landscape of American television. Worked as a panelist on 'I've Got a Secret' and hosted 'The Match Game.' Also served in the United States Army during World War II, where he held the rank of captain.

Continue Reading