This reference work provides outline biographies of 1750 men and women all of whom, whether by deed or thought, have set their mark on the 20th century. All fields of human activity are represented, from politics, science and the arts, to sport and popular entertainment. The coverage of the dictionary is wordwide, spanning all countries and cultures. Entries are designed to provide reliable information about their subjects in an accessible form. Each entry includes a sketch of the family background and education of the subject, followed by a description of the events that have brought them to fame or infamy, and a summary of their achievements or misdemeanours.