May 20 in History: Famous Births, Events, and Deaths

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May 20 stands out in world history for its remarkable milestones and contributions across centuries. On this day in 1498, explorer Vasco da Gama reached the shores of India, connecting Europe and Asia through a new sea route. In 1873, Levi Strauss and Jacob Davis transformed clothing forever when they received the patent for denim jeans. The year 1927 was also notable for a historic achievement when Charles Lindbergh embarked on his famous solo flight across the Atlantic Ocean from New York to Paris. This day is further remembered for the births and deaths of individuals who shaped politics, art, literature, and science, making it a symbol of human achievement and exploration.

Famous People Born on May 20

  • 1799: Honoré de Balzac, French novelist and dramatist
  • 1806: John Stuart Mill, English philosopher and economist
  • 1908: James Stewart, American movie actor
  • 1944: Joe Cocker, English rock and blues vocalist
  • 1946: Cher, American singer and film actress
  • 1951: Al Franken, American humorist and politician
  • 1959: Bronson Pinchot, American television actor
  • 1968: Timothy Olyphant, American film and TV actor
  • 1972: Busta Rhymes, American rap artist
  • 1981: Iker Casillas, Spanish football legend
  • 1986: Petr Čech, Czech professional goalkeeper
  • Famous Events on May 20

  • 1498: Vasco da Gama reached India, linking Europe to Asia by sea for the first time.
  • 1570: Abraham Ortelius published the first modern atlas titled "Theatrum Orbis Terrarum" in Antwerp.
  • 1609: The first edition of Shakespeare’s sonnets appeared in London.
  • 1862: The Homestead Act was enacted in the United States, granting citizens free land in the western territories.
  • 1873: The patent for blue denim jeans was obtained by Levi Strauss and Jacob Davis.
  • 1927: Charles Lindbergh began his nonstop solo flight from New York to Paris.
  • 1932: Amelia Earhart took off from Newfoundland, becoming the first woman to fly solo across the Atlantic.
  • 1990: The first images from space were captured and transmitted by the Hubble Space Telescope.
  • 2002: Two teams from Indonesia and East Timor previously played international football together, but they formed separate teams and started playing for their countries.
  • Famous People Who Died on May 20

  • 1506: Christopher Columbus, Italian navigator and explorer who completed voyages across the Atlantic Ocean
  • 1799: Pierre Beaumarchais, French dramatist and political activist
  • 1820: Levi Lincoln Sr., American lawyers and veterans serve as U.S. attorneys and generals on the scene.
  • 1932: Henri de Baillet-Latour, Belgian sports official and Olympic Committee president
  • 1989: Gilda Radner, American comedian and original cast member of Saturday Night Live
  • 2011: Randy Savage, American professional wrestler and entertainer
  • 2012: Robin Gibb, British musician and co-founder of the Bee Gees
  • 2015: Anne Meara, American actress and comedian
  • May 20 continues to be remembered for defining achievements that reshaped exploration, culture, and science. From global voyages to aviation milestones, the events of this day reflect humanity’s constant pursuit of progress and discovery. It remains a day of inspiration for those who aim to push beyond limits and leave a mark on history.

    In addition to its historic events, May 20 celebrates the lives of remarkable individuals whose creativity, courage, and intellect influenced the world in many ways. Their legacies remind us that dedication and vision can turn a single day into a timeless chapter of human progress.