Andrei Sakharov

Physicist and Nobel Peace Prize laureate

Andrei Sakharov - Physicist and Nobel Peace Prize laureate
Born

May 21st, 1921
103 years ago

Died

December 14th, 1989
35 years ago — 68 years old

Category

Thinkers & Philosophers

Country

Russia

Links & References

A prominent physicist and academic contributed significantly to the development of thermonuclear weapons in the Soviet Union. Later, became an advocate for human rights and civil liberties within the USSR, opposing nuclear proliferation and governmental abuses. His activism led to political persecution, including house arrest from 1970 to 1979. Received the Nobel Peace Prize in 1975 for efforts toward disarmament and promoting human rights. Remains a symbol of intellectual and political opposition in Russia.

Developed thermonuclear weapons for the USSR

Advocated for human rights and freedoms

Received the Nobel Peace Prize in 1975

Other People Born on May 21st

Lisa Evans

Scottish footballer, FA Women's Super League
Born
May 21st, 1992 32 years ago

Played as a forward in women's football, competing primarily in the FA Women's Super League. Started her career with Glasgow City before moving to Arsenal and later to West Ham United. Significant contributions to the sport include representing the Scotland national team in international competitions and attaining success in the domestic league.

Continue Reading

Anatole Litvak

Film director of 'The Snake Pit'
Born
May 21st, 1902 122 years ago
Died
December 15th, 1974 50 years ago — 72 years old

Born in Ukraine, a significant figure in American cinema, directing a variety of influential films. Early career included work in European theater and cinema before relocating to the United States. Gained recognition for directing 'The Snake Pit', which addressed mental health issues and featured a groundbreaking performance by the lead actress. Also directed various other successful films throughout the 1940s and 1950s, contributing to the film noir genre and creating works that incorporated social themes.

Continue Reading

Mary Robinson

Irish politician, President of Ireland
Born
May 21st, 1944 80 years ago

Graduated with a law degree and became a barrister. Served as a senator in Ireland and held the office of Attorney General. Elected as the first female President of Ireland, serving from 1990 to 1997. After presidency, worked with the United Nations, focusing on human rights and climate change issues. Led the Mary Robinson Foundation – Climate Justice, advocating for sustainable development and justice in addressing climate challenges.

Continue Reading

Heath L'Estrange

Rugby league player; Queensland captain
Born
May 21st, 1985 39 years ago

This Australian rugby league player had a career spanning various teams in the National Rugby League (NRL). He played as a hooker and made a significant contribution to the game throughout his career. L'Estrange started with the Sydney Roosters before moving to the Brisbane Broncos and eventually playing for the Gold Coast Titans. He represented Queensland at the State of Origin level, showcasing his skills in the premier rugby league competition. After retiring, involvement in coaching and development of younger players followed, focusing on the growth of the sport in Australia.

Continue Reading

Ambrose Greenway

English photographer and politician
Born
May 21st, 1941 83 years ago

Served as the 4th Baron Greenway and engaged in political life alongside a career in photography. Contributed to various exhibitions showcasing photography and held roles in local governance. Involved in initiatives that bridged the gap between the arts and public policy.

Continue Reading

İlber Ortaylı

Historian and academic specializing in Ottoman history
Born
May 21st, 1947 77 years ago

Born in 1947, this Turkish historian and academic focused on the history of the Ottoman Empire and modern Turkey. After completing his education in Vienna and Ankara, he held various academic positions, including at Galatasaray University and was the director of the Topkapi Palace Museum. His scholarship covers the Ottoman Empire, the Republic of Turkey, and Central European history. He has published numerous books and articles that have been influential in the fields of history and cultural studies.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on December 14th

A. Leon Higginbotham Jr.

Civil Rights Advocate and Judge
Born
February 25th, 1928 97 years ago
Died
December 14th, 1998 26 years ago — 70 years old

Birth occurred in 1928. Served as a judge on the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit. Contributed significantly to civil rights law, focusing on racial equality and social justice. Authored several influential books on law and history, including 'In the Matter of Color: Race and the American Legal Process'. Played a key role in numerous landmark cases related to civil rights. Participated in various professional organizations that advanced the cause of civil rights. Engaged in academia as a professor of law and held positions at institutions such as the University of Pennsylvania.

Continue Reading

Dennis Lindley

Statistician and academic in England
Born
1923 102 years ago
Died
December 14th, 2013 11 years ago — 90 years old

Contributed significantly to the field of statistics, with a focus on Bayesian inference and decision theory. Worked as a professor and held various academic positions throughout a lengthy career. Published numerous influential papers and books, including works on the foundations of statistics and Bayesian methods. Advocated for the application of statistics in various fields, emphasizing its importance in decision-making processes.

Continue Reading

Janet Dailey

Author of romance novels
Born
May 21st, 1944 80 years ago
Died
December 14th, 2013 11 years ago — 69 years old

An American author and entrepreneur, one of the first authors to successfully publish a series of contemporary romance novels. Began writing early in life and published the first book in the Cedar Cove series, which became a bestseller. Contributed significantly to the romance literature genre and inspired many writers. Expanded her brand with unique storylines and characters that resonated with readers. Authored over 100 novels with international sales reaching millions.

Continue Reading

Henry B. Jackson

British admiral during World War I
Born
1855 170 years ago
Died
December 14th, 1929 95 years ago — 74 years old

Served in the Royal Navy, achieving the rank of admiral. Participated in naval operations during World War I, contributing to various campaigns and advancements. Played a significant role in the development of naval strategy and tactics during a critical period in naval warfare. Oversaw the operations of British naval forces, demonstrating leadership and strategic acumen.

Continue Reading

Stanley G. Weinbaum

Science fiction author and poet
Born
April 4th, 1902 122 years ago
Died
December 14th, 1935 89 years ago — 33 years old

An American author and poet, this individual emerged as a significant figure in the science fiction genre during the early 20th century. The debut work, 'A Martian Odyssey,' published in 1934, received acclaim for its imaginative storytelling and innovative concepts. This author contributed to the foundation of science fiction literature, influencing future writers with a distinctive style that integrated advanced scientific ideas into engaging narratives. Despite a brief career, marked by early death in 1935, the works left a lasting legacy in the genre and inspired adaptations across various media.

Continue Reading

Munier Choudhury

Bangladeshi author and playwright
Born
1925 100 years ago
Died
December 14th, 1971 53 years ago — 46 years old

An influential figure in Bangladeshi literature, contributed significantly through plays, essays, and criticism. Explored themes of identity, culture, and politics within the context of the Bengali liberation struggle. A prominent playwright, worked on notable plays such as 'Kabar' and 'Muktijuddher Itihas'. His works addressed social issues and historical contexts, reflecting the socio-political scenario of Bangladesh. The legacy includes a commitment to cultural expression and intellectual discourse.

Continue Reading