James Cross

Diplomat kidnapped during October Crisis

James Cross - Leaders & Politicians born 1921
Born

1921
104 years ago

Died
Category

Leaders & Politicians

Country

United Kingdom

Links & References

A British diplomat served as the Trade Commissioner in Quebec. In October 1970, was kidnapped by members of the Front de libération du Québec (FLQ) during the October Crisis, a series of events prompted by the separatist movement in Quebec. Captivity lasted for 60 days, resulting in negotiations for his release amidst a crisis that included another kidnapping. Following release, engaged in various diplomatic roles and authored writings reflecting on the events.

Served as British Trade Commissioner in Quebec

Kidnapped during the October Crisis in 1970

Released after negotiations with the FLQ

Other People Who Died on January 6th

Louis Braille

Inventor of the Braille writing system
Born
January 4th, 1809 216 years ago
Died
January 6th, 1852 173 years ago — 43 years old

An educator developed a tactile writing system that enables visually impaired individuals to read and write. At the age of 15, created a simplified version of a code for reading and writing using raised dots based on the military night writing system. Established a school for the blind in France, dedicated to teaching this innovative method, which significantly improved literacy among visually impaired people.

Continue Reading

Gilbert de Clare

1st Earl of Pembroke
Born
1100 925 years ago
Died
January 6th, 1148 877 years ago — 48 years old

Served as the 1st Earl of Pembroke and played a significant role in the Norman conquest of England. Participated in the conquest of England by supporting William the Conqueror in 1066. Acted as an important military leader in various campaigns during the 11th century. Established the foundations of the de Clare family influence in Wales and the Marches.

Continue Reading

Mehmed IV

Ottoman Sultan during the 17th century
Born
January 2nd, 1642 383 years ago
Died
January 6th, 1693 332 years ago — 51 years old

Ascended to the throne at the age of six, ruling the Ottoman Empire from 1648 until 1687. His reign witnessed the expansion and consolidation of empire territories, significant military campaigns, and a flourishing of arts and architecture. The period was marked by the Great Turkish War, during which the Ottoman Empire faced various European powers. The sultan's government sought to adapt to internal and external challenges through reform while dealing with the pressures of modernization. His reign is distinguished by the construction of numerous monuments, displaying the architectural prowess of the era.

Continue Reading

A. J. Cronin

Scottish physician and author of novels
Born
July 19th, 1896 129 years ago
Died
January 6th, 1981 44 years ago — 84 years old

A Scottish physician and author gained recognition for writing novels that explored the medical profession. Practitioner experience informed literary works, often depicting the struggles and ethical dilemmas faced by doctors. The most notable work, 'The Citadel,' published in 1937, highlighted the challenges within the healthcare system and influenced future medical reforms. Other significant novels include 'Hatter's Castle' and 'Key Above the Door,' both of which contributed to the author's prominence in the literary field. Cronin's works received widespread acclaim and adaptations into film and theatre, solidifying a legacy in both literature and popular culture.

Continue Reading

Om Puri

Indian actor in critically acclaimed films
Born
1950 75 years ago
Died
January 6th, 2017 8 years ago — 67 years old

An accomplished actor, recognized for performances in Indian cinema and international films. Starred in critically acclaimed movies such as 'Salaam Bombay!', 'The Hundred-Foot Journey', and 'City of Joy'. Active in the industry for several decades, contributed to parallel cinema and mainstream Bollywood films. Participated in theatre and served as a versatile performer across various genres, displaying a wide range of emotional depth and character portrayal. Also involved in television, featured in series and documentaries reflecting social issues.

Continue Reading

Joe Slovo

Politician and anti-apartheid activist
Born
May 23rd, 1926 99 years ago
Died
January 6th, 1995 30 years ago — 68 years old

A lawyer and politician, contributed to the anti-apartheid movement in South Africa. Co-founded the South African Communist Party and served as the Chief of Staff of Umkhonto we Sizwe, the armed wing of the African National Congress. Participated in the negotiations to end apartheid and served as a minister in the post-apartheid government.

Continue Reading