Gotabaya Rajapaksa

8th President of Sri Lanka

Gotabaya Rajapaksa - 8th President of Sri Lanka
Born

June 20th, 1949
75 years ago

Category

Leaders & Politicians

Country

Sri Lanka

Links & References

Served as the 8th President of Sri Lanka from 2019 to 2022. Held the position of Secretary of Defence from 2005 to 2015, overseeing military operations during the Sri Lankan Civil War. His leadership was pivotal in the victory against the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam in 2009. Focused on national security and post-war recovery initiatives during his presidency, faced significant protests and economic challenges leading to resignation in 2022.

Oversaw military operations in the civil war

Served as Defence Secretary during pivotal years

Led the country as President amid economic crisis

Other People Born on June 20th

Cirilo Flores

American Bishop of the Catholic Church
Born
June 20th, 1948 76 years ago
Died
September 6th, 2014 10 years ago — 66 years old

Ordained a priest in 1976, served in various capacities within the Catholic Church in the United States, including positions in parish ministries and education. Elected as the first bishop of the Diocese of Fresno in 2011. Participated actively in promoting social justice and community outreach initiatives. Led the diocese until passing in 2014, during which time focused on issues affecting the Latino community and advocated for immigration reform.

Continue Reading

Anne Murray

Canadian singer and Grammy Award winner
Born
June 20th, 1945 79 years ago

A prominent Canadian singer and guitarist, gained widespread popularity in the 1970s and 1980s. Achieved significant success in both pop and country music genres. Released numerous hit songs, with a memorable rendition of "Snowbird" becoming a classic. Won multiple Grammy Awards for her work, further establishing a successful career that spanned decades.

Continue Reading

Martin Landau

Actor and producer in film and television
Born
June 20th, 1928 96 years ago
Died
July 15th, 2017 7 years ago — 89 years old

Born in 1928, a successful career spanned over six decades, featuring a wide range of roles in both film and television. Significant contributions included portraying Rollin Hand in the television series 'Mission: Impossible' and Bela Lugosi in the film 'Ed Wood', which earned an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor. Worked extensively in theater, contributing to various productions and gaining critical acclaim. Served as a mentor to younger actors, notably during his time teaching at the Actors Studio.

Continue Reading

Huda Zoghbi

American geneticist with key discoveries
Born
June 20th, 1954 70 years ago

A prominent geneticist specialized in the study of neurological disorders and gene regulation. Major contributions include the identification of the genetic basis of Rett syndrome, a rare neurodevelopmental disorder that mostly affects girls, which has provided insights into the mechanisms of brain development. Work spanned various aspects of molecular and cellular biology, garnering recognition in the field of genetics. Led a research team focused on understanding the role of specific genes associated with neurodevelopmental disorders.

Continue Reading

Bob King

High jumper and obstetrician
Born
June 20th, 1906 118 years ago
Died
1965 60 years ago — 59 years old

Born in 1906, this individual excelled as a high jumper and pursued a successful career in obstetrics. Participated in the 1932 Summer Olympics, representing the United States in athletics. After retirement from competitive sports, transitioned into medicine, contributing to the field of obstetrics.

Continue Reading

Jean Moulin

French Resistance leader during WWII
Born
June 20th, 1899 125 years ago
Died
July 8th, 1943 81 years ago — 44 years old

Played a pivotal role in the French Resistance during World War II. Moulin coordinated various Resistance groups to unify efforts against the Nazi occupation. Captured by the Gestapo, he endured severe torture and refused to betray his comrades. His bravery inspired many and solidified his legacy as a symbol of resistance against tyranny.

Continue Reading