Derartu Tulu
Ethiopian long-distance runner, Olympic champion
Born in Ethiopia, a long-distance runner achieved significant success in international athletics. Competing primarily in the 10,000 meters, secured gold medals at the 1992 and 2000 Summer Olympics, becoming the first African woman to win an Olympic gold medal. Set multiple personal bests and broke records throughout her career, establishing her as a prominent figure in distance running. In addition to Olympic success, won numerous other championships and was celebrated for contributions to the sport.
Won gold medal in the 10,000 meters at the 1992 Summer Olympics
Won gold medal in the 10,000 meters at the 2000 Summer Olympics
Other People Born on March 21st
Muhammad Siddiq Khan
Bangladeshi librarian and educator
Born
March 21st, 1910 115 years ago
Died
1978 47 years ago — 68 years old
Contributions focused on education and library sciences in Bangladesh. Founding member of the Library Association of Bangladesh, advocating for library development. Assisted in establishing various educational institutions, enhancing access to education and resources. Pioneered initiatives to modernize library services, playing a key role in advancing literacy and scholarship within the community.
Continue ReadingRay Dorset
Singer-songwriter, lead of Mungo Jerry
Born
March 21st, 1946 79 years ago
An English singer-songwriter and guitarist emerged in the late 1960s as the frontman of the band Mungo Jerry. The group gained widespread popularity with the hit single "In the Summertime," which became a defining song of the era. Dorset's musical style blended rock, folk, and blues, contributing to the band's distinctive sound. Throughout the years, Mungo Jerry released several albums and continued to tour, showcasing a mix of original songs and covers. Dorset's contributions to music extended beyond performing, as he also wrote and composed many of the band's songs. The ongoing legacy of Mungo Jerry in the music industry is illustrated by their enduring popularity and influence.
Continue ReadingMike Jackson
English general and military leader
Born
March 21st, 1944 81 years ago
Died
October 15th, 2024 1 years ago — 80 years old
Served in the British Army for several decades, achieving the rank of General. Played a significant role during the Kosovo War as the commander of NATO’s Allied Forces. Oversaw military operations, contributing to peacekeeping efforts in the region. Served as Vice Chief of the General Staff and as Commander of the British troops in the Persian Gulf. Engaged in leadership and strategic decision-making in various military capacities throughout a distinguished career.
Continue ReadingNirmala Srivastava
Indian religious leader, Sahaja Yoga founder
Born
March 21st, 1923 102 years ago
Died
February 23rd, 2011 14 years ago — 87 years old
A prominent Indian religious leader established Sahaja Yoga, a spiritual movement aimed at self-realization and inner peace. This practice emphasizes the significance of meditation and the awakening of the dormant energy within individuals. Founded in 1970, the movement gained international recognition and attracted followers worldwide. Conducted numerous public programs and seminars to spread teachings and principles, focusing on the transformative effects of self-awareness. Engaged in social and charitable activities, promoting values of love, compassion, and brotherhood among humanity. Passed away in 2011, leaving a lasting legacy in spiritual communities.
Continue ReadingEd Broadbent
Canadian politician and author
Born
March 21st, 1936 89 years ago
Died
2024 1 years ago — 88 years old
A significant figure in Canadian politics, played a crucial role in the New Democratic Party (NDP) as its leader from 1975 to 1989. Instrumental in shaping national policies, particularly in healthcare and social justice. Served as a Member of Parliament representing various constituencies and was recognized for his commitment to democracy and public service. Authored several works on political theory and practice, contributing to academic discourse on governance in Canada.
Continue ReadingHalton Arp
Astronomer and critic of redshift theory
Born
March 21st, 1927 98 years ago
Died
December 28th, 2013 11 years ago — 86 years old
An American-German astronomer contributed significantly to the field of astronomy. Arp focused on peculiar galaxies and questioned the validity of redshift as a measure of distance in the universe, proposing alternative theories. Arp published several important works, including 'Atlas of Peculiar Galaxies', which featured 338 unique galaxies with unusual characteristics. This influential atlas aided in the understanding of galaxy formations and interactions. Arp also engaged in critical debates about the nature of galaxies and the interpretation of astronomical data, challenging mainstream cosmology.
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