Atal Bihari Vajpayee
Indian politician and Prime Minister
Served as the 10th Prime Minister of India, holding office from 1998 to 2004. Was a prominent leader in the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and played a significant role in shaping Indian politics. Prior to his tenure as Prime Minister, served in various ministerial roles and was a member of the Lok Sabha for multiple terms. Recognized for his oratory skills and poetic contributions, published several volumes of poetry in Hindi.
First Prime Minister to serve a full term from BJP
Led India during nuclear tests in 1998
Promoted economic reforms in India
Other People Born on December 25th
Ethan Kath
Keyboard Player and Music Producer
Born
December 25th, 1982 42 years ago
A Canadian keyboard player and songwriter, gained prominence as a member of the musical duo Crystal Castles. The project originated in 2006 and became known for its blend of electronic music with a lo-fi aesthetic. Contributions included both songwriting and production, leading to the release of influential albums that helped shape the electronic music landscape.
Continue ReadingEric Gordon
Basketball player for Los Angeles Clippers
Born
December 25th, 1988 36 years ago
A professional basketball player, this athlete played in the NBA primarily as a shooting guard. He was selected as the 7th overall pick in the 2008 NBA Draft by the Los Angeles Clippers. Over the course of a career spanning over a decade, he played for several teams including the New Orleans Hornets and the Houston Rockets. This player gained recognition for his scoring ability and three-point shooting. He achieved the title of NBA Sixth Man of the Year in 2011. Additionally, he represented the United States in international competition.
Continue ReadingLaurent Bonnart
Footballer with notable Ligue 1 career
Born
December 25th, 1979 45 years ago
A professional footballer, played primarily as a right back and had a career spanning several French clubs. Achieved success in Ligue 1 and contributed to teams' performances in domestic leagues and tournaments. Served as a reliable defender known for tactical awareness and stamina on the pitch. Reached the heights of professional football in France before transitioning to lesser-known leagues.
Continue ReadingJoãozinho
Brazilian footballer, played for Coritiba
Born
December 25th, 1988 36 years ago
This Brazilian footballer was born in 1988 and developed a professional career primarily in Brazil. Played as a midfielder and made significant contributions to Coritiba during his time with the club. Gained recognition for his skills on the ball and tactical intelligence, which helped the team achieve notable successes in domestic competitions.
Continue ReadingMitakeumi Hisashi
Sumo wrestler, 2020 Grand Sumo Champion
Born
December 25th, 1992 32 years ago
Debuted in professional sumo in 2014 and quickly rose through the ranks. Achieved the rank of Yokozuna, the sport's highest honor. Claimed the Grand Sumo Championship in May 2020, marking his first title victory at the top division. Renowned for a powerful style of sumo featuring strong thrusts and effective defensive techniques.
Continue ReadingMarcus Trufant
American football cornerback, Seahawk star
Born
December 25th, 1980 44 years ago
Played as a cornerback in the National Football League (NFL) for the Seattle Seahawks. Selected by the Seahawks in the first round of the 2003 NFL Draft. Contributed to the team's journey to Super Bowl XL, where they were crowned NFC Champions. Recognized for defensive skills and leadership on the field.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on August 16th
William Windom
American actor with a star role in "My World and Welcome To It"
Born
September 28th, 1923 102 years ago
Died
August 16th, 2012 13 years ago — 88 years old
An American actor, gained prominence in the 1960s and 1970s with a career spanning television, film, and stage. Celebrated for versatility in character roles, portrayed a range of personalities in various productions. Achieved significant recognition for work on the television series "My World and Welcome To It," which won an Emmy Award. Also made guest appearances in well-known shows such as "The Twilight Zone" and had roles in films like "To Hell and Back."
Continue ReadingMihri Belli
Turkish activist and politician
Born
1916 109 years ago
Died
August 16th, 2011 14 years ago — 95 years old
Engaged in Turkish politics and activism, played a prominent role in various movements throughout the latter half of the 20th century. Associated with leftist ideologies, involved in significant political initiatives aiming to address social issues in Turkey. Contributed to numerous publications and was active in several organizations promoting political change. Participated in anti-colonial and anti-imperialist movements, advocating for social justice and equality.
Continue ReadingPeter Scholl-Latour
Journalist and academic authoring books
Born
1924 101 years ago
Died
August 16th, 2014 11 years ago — 90 years old
A prominent journalist and academic, contributed significantly to discussions on international relations and current affairs. Worked extensively as a foreign correspondent and reported from conflict regions, providing insights into global events. Authored numerous books analyzing political situations, particularly in the Middle East and Africa. Taught at various academic institutions, sharing knowledge on journalism and geopolitics. Engaged in public speaking, influencing perspectives on media and war.
Continue ReadingShuja Khanzada
Pakistani politician and military officer
Born
August 28th, 1943 82 years ago
Died
August 16th, 2015 10 years ago — 71 years old
A colonel in the Pakistan Army, dedicated service in various military capacities occurred throughout a notable career. Transitioning from military to politics, held a position as a member of the Provincial Assembly in Punjab. Served as the provincial minister for law and parliamentary affairs. His political career was marked by a strong focus on governance and law enforcement within his constituency.
Continue ReadingJohn McLaughlin
Guitarist and songwriter, Mahavishnu Orchestra
Born
January 4th, 1942 83 years ago
Died
August 16th, 2016 9 years ago — 74 years old
A prominent figure in the jazz fusion genre, this English guitarist and songwriter helped bridge the gap between rock and jazz music. In the late 1960s and early 1970s, formed the Mahavishnu Orchestra, a pioneering band known for its complex time signatures and virtuosic players. The band's debut album, 'The Inner Mounting Flame,' received critical acclaim and solidified its place in music history. Over the years, collaborated with various notable artists, contributing significantly to the development of fusion music. Continued to perform and record, maintaining a lasting influence on guitarists and musicians across genres.
Continue ReadingJoão Havelange
Water polo player and FIFA president
Born
May 8th, 1916 109 years ago
Died
August 16th, 2016 9 years ago — 100 years old
Played water polo at a competitive level and later became a prominent figure in sports administration. Served as the president of FIFA from 1974 to 1998. Implemented significant reforms in FIFA, leading to the expansion of the World Cup and increased global recognition of football. Contributed to the commercialization of football, impacting its development and popularity worldwide.
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