A. Jeyaratnam Wilson

Sri Lankan historian and author

A. Jeyaratnam Wilson - Sri Lankan historian and author
Born

1928
97 years ago

Died

May 31st, 2000
25 years ago — 72 years old

Category

Thinkers & Philosophers

Country

Sri Lanka

Links & References

This historian and academic contributed to the understanding of Sri Lanka's political and social dynamics through extensive research. He wrote several critical works, including 'Sri Lankan Tamil Nationalism: A History of the Tamil Federation of the 1930s,' which analyzed the evolution of Tamil nationalism in the island. As a prominent figure within the academic community, he held positions at various universities and engaged with contemporary issues on ethnicity and identity in Sri Lanka. His expertise in history and political science fostered a greater comprehension of the complexities surrounding the Sri Lankan civil conflict.

Authored 'Sri Lankan Tamil Nationalism'

Held academic positions at universities

Other People Who Died on May 31st

Gebhard Truchsess von Waldburg

Archbishop of Cologne
Born
November 10th, 1547 477 years ago
Died
May 31st, 1601 424 years ago — 53 years old

Born in 1547, Truchsess von Waldburg served as the Archbishop of Cologne from 1583 until 1588. His tenure was marked by significant religious and political turmoil during the Counter-Reformation. He attempted to establish Protestantism in the archbishopric, which led to conflict with Catholic authorities and ultimately resulted in his deposition. Following his removal, he sought refuge in various territories before eventually passing away in 1601. His efforts to promote Protestantism and the political ramifications of his actions were significant during this tumultuous period in German history.

Continue Reading

Jonas Bevacqua

Fashion Designer, co-founder of LRG
Born
1977 48 years ago
Died
May 31st, 2011 14 years ago — 34 years old

A fashion designer co-founded the Lifted Research Group (LRG) in 1999, focusing on streetwear that merged skate and hip-hop culture. LRG gained recognition for its innovative designs and collaborations, establishing a strong presence in the urban fashion scene. The brand became popular among celebrities and athletes, embodying a unique style that appealed to a youth audience. Over the years, LRG expanded its reach globally, contributing significantly to the streetwear market. The brand's success rested on its authentic representation of the culture it emerged from, and it maintained a loyal customer base until its challenges in the competitive fashion industry.

Continue Reading

Marian Robinson

Mother of the 44th U.S. President's wife
Born
1937 88 years ago
Died
May 31st, 2024 1 years ago — 87 years old

Served as a significant figure in the Obama family, particularly during Michelle Obama's time as First Lady of the United States. Resided in the White House for several years, providing support to her daughter and family. Maintained a low profile in the media while playing a crucial role in the upbringing of her grandchildren. Contributed to the family’s public presence through her appearances and interactions during key events and initiatives.

Continue Reading

Louise Bourgeois

Sculptor and painter; Maman sculpture
Born
December 25th, 1911 113 years ago
Died
May 31st, 2010 15 years ago — 98 years old

A prominent sculptor and painter active in the modern art scene. Her work frequently explored themes of feminism, memory, and the unconscious. Bourgeois created large-scale sculptures, with 'Maman,' a spider structure, becoming among her most recognizable works. The artist's childhood experiences heavily influenced her creations. Her art engaged with personal and psychological narratives, often exhibiting complex emotions and relationships.

Continue Reading

Petronius Maximus

Roman Emperor during 455 AD
Died
May 31st, 455 1570 years ago — None years old

Served as Roman Emperor for a brief period in 455 AD. Ascended to the throne after the murder of Emperor-avitus. His reign was marked by instability and conflict, particularly with the Vandals. Ultimately, faced opposition and was overthrown in a coup, leading to his death.

Continue Reading

Mohamed Abdelaziz

Sahrawi politician, President
Born
August 17th, 1947 78 years ago
Died
May 31st, 2016 9 years ago — 68 years old

Born in 1947, a prominent Sahrawi politician led the Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic. Instrumental in the Western Sahara independence movement, served as the president from 1976 until death in 2016. Played a key role in the establishment of the Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic and was a key figure in the fight against Moroccan occupation. Engaged in various resistance strategies to garner international support for the Sahrawi cause. His tenure witnessed significant events in the struggle for self-determination in Western Sahara.

Continue Reading