What happened today in history?

What happened
today in history?
Dec 20

2022 - Remembering Franco Harris: A Football Legend

Franco Harris, the iconic running back of the Pittsburgh Steelers and four-time Super Bowl champion, died at the age of 72 in 2022. His legacy in the NFL, marked by the famous Immaculate Reception, continues to inspire fans and players alike.

2021 - Remembering Kimera Bartee: A Legacy in Baseball

Kimera Bartee, a cherished MLB outfielder and coach, passed away in 2021 at 49 from an undiagnosed brain tumor. His remarkable career spanned multiple teams, including the Detroit Tigers, inspiring many in the world of baseball.

2020 - The Life and Legacy of Fanny Waterman

Fanny Waterman, the influential English concert pianist and co-founder of the Leeds International Piano Competition, passed away at the age of 100 in 2020. Her lifelong dedication to music education and performance has left a profound impact on aspiring pianists around the world.

2019 - Remembering Roland Matthes: The Legendary Swimmer

Roland Matthes, legendary German swimmer who won Olympic gold in the 100m and 200m backstroke, passed away in 2019 at the age of 69. With a total of 19 world records, Matthes inspired generations of swimmers and left a lasting legacy in the sport.

2018 - The Legacy of Donald Moffat: A Talented British Actor

Donald Moffat, the talented British actor best known for his role in 'Logan's Run', passed away on January 10, 2018, at 87. From his impactful performances on stage and screen to his significant contributions to the arts, Moffat's legacy continues to resonate.

2017 - The Death of Cardinal Bernard Francis Law: A Controversial Legacy

Cardinal Bernard Francis Law, a controversial figure within the Catholic Church, died on December 20, 2017, at the age of 86. His tenure as archbishop of Boston was marked by significant progress overshadowed by the sexual abuse crisis, making him a polarizing figure in American Catholic history.

2016 - In Memory of Michèle Morgan: A French Cinema Icon

In 2016, the world lost Michèle Morgan, a legendary French actress known for her role in 'Passage to Marseille' and her long-standing influence on cinema, passing away at the age of 96. Her legacy endures in film history, marking her as a true icon.

2014 - The Life and Legacy of John Freeman

John Freeman, a notable British politician and television host, died at the age of 99 in 2014. His contributions to politics and media, particularly through engaging interviews, left a lasting impact on both fields.

2012 - Remembering Eagle Keys: A Canadian Football Legend

Eagle Keys, an iconic figure in Canadian football known for his time with the Edmonton Eskimos and Saskatchewan Roughriders, passed away in 2012 at the age of 89. His contributions to the game included multiple Grey Cup championships and a successful coaching career.

2010 - The Legacy of James R. Mann

James R. Mann, an influential American attorney and politician, was born in 1920 and served in the U.S. House of Representatives. He passed away in 2010, leaving a legacy of dedication to public service and healthcare reform.

2010 - The Legacy of John Alldis: A Choral Master and Conductor

John Alldis, an esteemed English choral master known for his work on Duke Ellington’s Third Sacred Concert, passed away at 81 in 2010. His innovative approach to choral music left a lasting impact on performers and audiences alike, ensuring his legacy endures in the world of music.

2009 - Remembering Amy Santos Ocampo: A Musical Legacy

Amy Santos Ocampo, a celebrated Filipina pianist and composer, passed away at the age of 84 in 2009. Her contributions to music were profound, blending traditional Philippine influences with classical forms, leaving a lasting legacy.

2009 - The Life and Legacy of Arnold Stang

Arnold Stang, a beloved American comedian and actor known for his roles in 'Top Cat' and on shows like 'Broadside' and 'Milton Berle', passed away in 2009 at the age of 91, leaving behind a remarkable legacy in comedy.

2009 - The Untimely Death of Brittany Murphy

Brittany Murphy, the talented American actress known for her roles in films like 'Clueless' and 'Drop Dead Gorgeous', died tragically at the age of 32 in 2009, leaving a lasting legacy in Hollywood.

2009 - Remembering Tony Ayre: A Northern Irish Musical Icon

Tony Ayre, the Northern Irish rock bass player known for his work with The Adventures, passed away in 2009 at the age of 51, leaving behind a rich legacy in rock music. His unique style and contributions to songs like 'Broken Land' continue to resonate.

2007 - The Tragic Death of Nataline Sarkisyan

Nataline Sarkisyan, a 17-year-old leukemia patient, died in 2007 after Cigna HealthCare denied coverage for a liver transplant, despite medical recommendations. Her tragic death sparked public outcry and led to discussions on health insurance reforms.

2002 - The Legacy of Grote Reber: Pioneering Radio Astronomy

Grote Reber, the first radio astronomer known for inventing the parabolic radio telescope, passed away at the age of 90 in 2002. His groundbreaking contributions significantly impacted the field of radio astronomy, enhancing our understanding of the universe.

2000 - The Life and Legacy of Mirza Ghulam Hafiz

Mirza Ghulam Hafiz, born in 1920, was a prominent statesman and philanthropist in Bangladesh, whose contributions to education and healthcare left a lasting impact on society before his death in 2000.

1999 - The Life and Legacy of Hank Snow

Hank Snow, the beloved Canadian country singer known for hits like 'I'm Moving On,' passed away due to heart failure on December 20, 1999. Throughout his 85 years, Hank's unique storytelling through music left a lasting mark on the country music genre.

1997 - The Life and Legacy of Denise Levertov

Denise Levertov, an influential American poet and essayist known for her collection 'Joy Beneath the Skin,' passed away in 1997 at the age of 74, leaving a profound legacy in the realm of literature.

1997 - The Life and Legacy of Vincent Ciccone

Vincent Ciccone, the inventor of Blow-Pops candy, passed away in 1997 at the age of 81. His creative contributions transformed the candy industry, leaving a lasting legacy of joy and innovation.

1995 - The Life and Legacy of Madge Sinclair

Madge Sinclair was a celebrated Jamaican-American actress known for her roles in films and television. She passed away from leukemia in 1995 at the age of 55, leaving behind a legacy of powerful performances and significant cultural contributions.

1994 - The Legacy of Dean Rusk: A Life Remembered

Dean Rusk, a prominent U.S. Secretary of State from 1961 to 1969, passed away at 85 on December 20, 1994. His legacy in foreign policy, especially during pivotal events like the Cuban Missile Crisis and Vietnam War, continues to influence diplomacy today.

1991 - The Legacy of Helene Heigh: A Tribute to an Icon

Helene Heigh, a celebrated American actress known for her roles in 'Undercover Woman' and '9 to 5', passed away in 1991 at the age of 86. Her legacy continues to inspire generations of actors and actresses in the film industry.

1991 - Remembering Sam Rabin: A British Artist's Legacy

Sam Rabin, a British sculptor, artist, actor, and Olympic bronze wrestler, passed away in 1991 at the age of 88. His diverse talents and contributions to art and sports left a lasting legacy that continues to inspire many today.

1990 - The Life and Legacy of Elmo Tanner

Elmo Tanner was a beloved American big band singer and whistler known for his work with the Ted Weems Orchestra, particularly the hit 'Heartaches'. He passed away in 1990 at the age of 86, leaving behind a significant musical legacy.

1986 - Remembering Joe DeSa: A Life in Baseball

Joe DeSa, a notable American baseball player, born in 1959, left an indelible mark on the sport before his untimely passing in 1986. His contributions to the game continue to resonate with fans and players alike.

1974 - The Life and Legacy of André Jolivet

André Jolivet, a notable French composer and influential figure in modern music, passed away in 1974 at the age of 69, leaving behind a rich legacy that continues to inspire musicians and composers today.

1973 - The Untimely Death of Bobby Darin

Explore the life and career of Bobby Darin, a talented singer and actor who tragically passed away from a heart attack at the age of 37. His legacy continues through beloved hits like 'Mack the Knife' and 'Beyond the Sea.'

1973 - The Assassination of Luis Carrero Blanco

On December 20, 1973, Luis Carrero Blanco, Prime Minister of Spain, was assassinated by the Basque separatist group ETA in Madrid. His death created significant political repercussions in Spain, fueling tensions and paving the way for eventual democratic reforms post-Franco.

1971 - The Life and Legacy of Roy O. Disney

Roy O. Disney, co-founder of the Walt Disney Company, passed away in 1971 at the age of 78 from a cerebral hemorrhage. His role as a businessman was crucial in establishing the Disney empire alongside his brother Walt, leaving a lasting legacy in the entertainment industry.

1957 - The Legacy of Walter Page: A Jazz Icon's Journey

Walter Page, a pioneering American jazz double bassist, baritone saxophonist, and bandleader of the Blue Devils and Count Basie Orchestra, passed away in 1957, leaving behind a lasting legacy on jazz music through his innovative techniques and contributions.

1954 - The Legacy of Emilis Melngailis: A Choral Innovator

Emilis Melngailis, a renowned Latvian choral composer and folklorist, passed away in 1954. His legacy continues to influence Latvian choral music, especially through the Latvian Song and Dance Festival, which celebrates his contributions to the preservation of folk traditions.

1954 - The Legacy of James Hilton: Remembering a Literary Giant

James Hilton, renowned English novelist and screenwriter, passed away in 1954 at the age of 54. Best known for his iconic works 'Goodbye Mr Chips' and 'Lost Horizon', Hilton's legacy continues to inspire readers with his exploration of human connection and idealism.

1945 - The Legacy of Cricketer Charles Eady

Charles Eady was a prominent Tasmanian cricketer who played for Australia from 1896 to 1901. He passed away in 1945, leaving behind a legacy that inspires future generations of cricketers in Australia.

1944 - The Death of Abbas Hilmi II: A Historical Overview

Abbas Hilmi II, Viceroy of Egypt from 1892 to 1914, passed away in 1944 at the age of 70. His leadership during significant political changes showcased his efforts towards modernization. His death marked an essential point in Egypt's history.

1936 - The Assassination of Baron De Borchgrave in Madrid (1936)

In 1936, Baron De Borchgrave, the Belgian ambassador to Spain, was tragically murdered in Madrid amidst rising political tensions and the looming Spanish Civil War. His assassination shocked the diplomatic community and highlighted the perils faced during this turbulent period.

1921 - The Death of Hans Hartwig von Beseler

Hans Hartwig von Beseler, a notable German Colonel General, passed away in 1921 at the age of 71. His military strategies during World War I significantly impacted German operations, and his legacy continues to be studied in military history.

1917 - The Tragic Death of Lucien Petit-Breton

Lucien Petit-Breton, a pioneering French road cyclist and two-time Tour de France winner, tragically died in a road accident at the age of 35. His legacy endures in the world of cycling as a testament to his achievements and influence.

1916 - The Life and Legacy of Manuel Giro

Manuel Giro, a prominent Spanish composer born in 1848, passed away in 1916 at the age of 68. His innovative blending of traditional Spanish music with classical forms left a lasting impact on the music world, inspiring generations to come.

1909 - The Life and Death of Benjamin Ipavec

Benjamin Ipavec, a prominent Slovene composer known for his work 'Tičnik,' died in 1909 at the age of 79. His contributions to music significantly influenced Slovene cultural identity, and his compositions remain celebrated today.

1903 - Remembering Gavriil Musicescu: The Choral Maestro

Gavriil Musicescu, a renowned Romanian composer and conductor, passed away in 1903, leaving behind a rich legacy in choral music. His works celebrated Romanian folk culture and greatly influenced the music scene both locally and internationally.

1815 - The Death of Giovanni Meli: A Sicilian Literary Icon

Giovanni Meli, the acclaimed Sicilian poet known for his work 'Buccolica', died in 1815 at the age of 75. His mastery of the Sicilian dialect and pastoral themes left a lasting impact on Italian literature, blending local culture with universal human experiences.

1812 - The Life and Legacy of Sacagawea

Sacagawea, a young Shoshone interpreter, was pivotal in the Lewis and Clark expedition's success. Her journey ended in 1812 at just 24 years old, but her legacy as a symbol of resilience and peace endures.

The Life and Legacy of Sacagawea

1793 - The Legacy of Joseph Legros: A Tragic Ending at 54

Joseph Legros, the renowned French haute-contre, passed away in 1793 at the age of 54. Celebrated for his unique operatic style, Legros' death marked a significant loss for the musical community, yet his legacy endures in the world of opera. He remains an inspiration for future generations of artists.

1590 - The Death of Ambroise Paré: A Legacy in Medicine

1590 marks the death of Ambroise Paré, a pioneering French physician and surgeon born in 1510, known for revolutionizing surgical techniques and establishing modern practices in medicine. His legacy endures through countless innovations that continue to impact healthcare today.

1524 - The Life and Legacy of Thomas Linacre

Thomas Linacre was an influential English scholar and physician, known for founding the Royal College of Physicians and advancing the fields of medicine and education through his translations and teachings. He left a lasting legacy upon his death in 1524.

1073 - The Death of Dominic of Silos

Dominic of Silos, a Spanish Benedictine monk and revered saint, passed away on December 20, 1073. His legacy of reforming monastic life and deep commitment to community service continues to inspire many today.

860 - The Death of King Ethelbald of Wessex

King Ethelbald of Wessex ruled from 855 until his death in 860, facing numerous challenges including Viking invasions. His legacy influenced subsequent rulers and the political landscape in early medieval England.