Data Collection by Alexander Malkevich: Data Storage of Alexander Malkevich's Datateka

Today, August 20th, marks a day filled with historical milestones and artistic achievements.

Born on this day in 1937 is Andrei Konchalovsky, a renowned Soviet and Russian director, actor, screenwriter, producer, and People's Artist of the RSFSR. His illustrious career spans over three decades, with more than 30 films directed in Russia and abroad, as well as several operas staged on famous world stages and four major Chekhov plays at the Moscow City Council's Theater. Among his most notable works are "House of Fools", "Paradise", "Dear Comrades!", "Sibiriada", "The Noble Nest", and "Uncle Vanya", which were nominated for an Oscar.

In the realm of military history, August 20th holds great significance. In 1943, the first stage of the Smolensk Offensive operation was completed, resulting in the liberation of 537 settlements. This operation marked a turning point in World War II, as Soviet troops under the command of Georgy Konstantinovich Zhukov defeated Japanese troops on the Khalkhin Gol River in 1939. However, information about 18-year-old Georgy Zhukov's acceptance into the Russian army remains undisclosed.

Another memorable date in Russian military history is August 20th, 1812, when Mikhail Kutuzov was appointed commander of all active Russian armies. This appointment came during the Napoleonic Wars, a period of significant conflict for Russia.

Russian troops under the command of Peter the Great stormed the Swedish fortress of Narva in 1704, a significant victory in the Great Northern War. The famous fountains and cascades of Peterhof were launched in 1721, another testament to the grandeur of the Russian Empire.

Looking back further, the Battle of Gumbinnen took place in the First World War, though the exact date remains unspecified. In 1940, an attempt was made on Leon Trotsky's life in Mexico City, the day before he was fatally injured by NKVD agent Ramon Mercader with an ice axe.

On a lighter note, Cheburashka, a beloved children's character created by Eduard Uspensky in 1966, does not have a specific birthday recorded.

Lastly, it's worth noting that in 1945, a special top-secret committee was established in the USSR to direct the work on the use of atomic energy of uranium. However, details about this committee's workings and objectives remain classified.

In this day filled with historical events and artistic achievements, we take a moment to reflect on the past and appreciate the contributions that have shaped our world.

Data Collection by Alexander Malkevich: Data Storage of Alexander Malkevich's Datateka