Burhanuddin Rabbani

Afghan politician and academic leader

Burhanuddin Rabbani - Afghan politician and academic leader
Born

1940
85 years ago

Died

September 20th, 2011
14 years ago — 71 years old

Category

Leaders & Politicians

Country

Afghanistan

Links & References

An influential academic and politician served as the 10th President of Afghanistan from 1992 to 1996. During the Mujahideen's struggle against Soviet intervention, led the Islamic Unity of Afghanistan and played a significant role in the power dynamics of the country after the Soviet withdrawal. After the Taliban's rise, continued to be active in opposition politics and headed the High Council for Peace. Promoted negotiations aimed at reviving peace in Afghanistan until assassination in 2011.

Served as the 10th President of Afghanistan

Led the Islamic Unity of Afghanistan

Other People Who Died on September 20th

Robert Lebel

Canadian businessman and politician
Born
September 21st, 1905 120 years ago
Died
September 20th, 1999 26 years ago — 93 years old

Contributed to various political and business ventures in Canada. Played a significant role in local governance, including serving in public office. Engaged in economic development initiatives that fostered business growth in the region. Held leadership positions within industry organizations, advocating for the interests of the business community.

Continue Reading

Simon Wiesenthal

Nazi hunter and author of 'The Murderers Among Us'
Born
December 31st, 1908 116 years ago
Died
September 20th, 2005 20 years ago — 96 years old

Born in Ukraine, played a significant role in the post-World War II hunt for Nazi war criminals. Established the Simon Wiesenthal Center in Los Angeles, an organization dedicated to the memory of Holocaust victims and the pursuit of justice for crimes against humanity. Authored several books, including 'The Murderers Among Us', outlining his experiences and efforts in bringing perpetrators of the Holocaust to justice. Contributed to the identification and prosecution of numerous war criminals throughout Europe.

Continue Reading

Heino Kaski

Finnish composer and pianist
Born
1885 140 years ago
Died
September 20th, 1957 68 years ago — 72 years old

A prominent Finnish composer and pianist, Kaski contributed significantly to Finnish music in the early 20th century. His compositions showcased melodic richness and a deep connection to Finnish folk music traditions. He studied at the Helsinki Music Institute and developed a distinctive style that combined impressionistic elements with nationalistic themes. Kaski's works include numerous piano pieces, chamber music, and orchestral compositions. He also played a role in promoting Finnish music both domestically and internationally. His oeuvre reflects the cultural landscape of Finland during a pivotal time, earning recognition as an important figure in classical music circles.

Continue Reading

Fiorello H. La Guardia

American mayor, led NYC during WWII
Born
December 11th, 1882 142 years ago
Died
September 20th, 1947 78 years ago — 64 years old

Served as the 99th Mayor of New York City from 1934 to 1945. Focused on reforming the city’s administration and improving public services. Implemented programs that assisted the poor during the Great Depression and promoted public works projects that helped modernize the city’s infrastructure. Held a strong stance against corruption and worked to improve relations between the city and federal government. Additionally, advocated for civil rights and opposition to fascism during World War II.

Continue Reading

Sergei Bodrov Jr.

Actor and director, 'Brother' series
Born
1971 54 years ago
Died
September 20th, 2002 23 years ago — 31 years old

An actor, director, and screenwriter with significant contributions to Russian cinema. Gained prominence through compelling performances in films such as 'Brother' and its sequel 'Brother 2'. Directed the award-winning film 'Mongol', which was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film. Bodrov's work often depicted themes of youth, morality, and struggle within the sociopolitical context of Russia.

Continue Reading

Gherman Titov

Russian pilot and Gemini 5 astronaut
Born
September 11th, 1935 90 years ago
Died
September 20th, 2000 25 years ago — 65 years old

Born in 1935, this individual became a prominent figure in the Soviet space program. In 1961, flew aboard Vostok 2, becoming the second human to orbit the Earth. The mission lasted over 25 hours, completing 17 orbits. Later served as the commander of the first crewed Gemini flight, Gemini 5, in 1965. In addition to his space missions, held various roles within the Soviet Air Force and contributed to the development of aerospace technology through research and training initiatives.

Continue Reading