Janet Jagan
6th President of Guyana
Served as the 6th President of Guyana from 1997 to 1999. Held significant roles in politics and was a founding member of the People's Progressive Party. Actively involved in the fight for independence from British colonial rule and contributed to the political landscape of Guyana throughout her life. Served as the Prime Minister of Guyana prior to presidency from 1995 to 1997. Engaged in various social causes including women's rights and education.
Served as President of Guyana
Served as Prime Minister of Guyana
Co-founded the People's Progressive Party
Other People Born on October 20th
Florent Sinama Pongolle
French footballer and Liverpool player
Born
October 20th, 1984 41 years ago
A French footballer, played as a forward. Started the professional career at Le Havre before moving to Liverpool in 2001. Contributed to the team's success in winning the UEFA Champions League in 2005. Had short spells at multiple clubs, including Real Zaragoza and St. Etienne. Played internationally for France at various youth levels and earned senior caps.
Continue ReadingFlavio Cipolla
Italian tennis player and competitor
Born
October 20th, 1983 42 years ago
Professional tennis player with career highlights in singles and doubles. Achieved a career-high ATP singles ranking of No. 70 in 2012. Competed in major Grand Slam tournaments, including the French Open and Wimbledon. Also participated in the ATP Challenger Tour, securing multiple titles throughout his career.
Continue ReadingConstantin Lipsius
Architect and theory developer
Born
October 20th, 1832 193 years ago
Died
April 11th, 1894 131 years ago — 61 years old
A German architect and theorist contributed to the development of modern architecture through innovative designs and theoretical frameworks. Engaged in architectural practice primarily in the late 19th century, Lipsius emphasized the importance of structural clarity and aesthetic coherence in his work. His writings on architecture discussed the role of historical context and new technologies, influencing contemporary architectural thinking. Lipsius's approach combined classical principles with modern needs, shaping the educational curriculum of future architects. He also played a role in the establishment of architectural organizations and engaged in critical discourse regarding urban planning.
Continue ReadingLucien Van Impe
Professional Cyclist and Tour de France Winner
Born
October 20th, 1946 79 years ago
A Belgian cyclist, he achieved prominence in the sport during the 1970s. Van Impe specialized in road racing and became a key competitor in major cycling events. His career highlights include winning the Tour de France in 1970, showcasing exceptional climbing skills and endurance. He also secured victories in prestigious one-day races, adding to his reputation. Van Impe's commitment to the sport and tactical expertise in races contributed to his standing as one of Belgium's top cyclists.
Continue ReadingKenneth Walker III
American football running back, Heisman Trophy candidate
Born
October 20th, 2000 25 years ago
Played college football at Michigan State University. Achieved significant recognition during the 2021 season, leading the nation in rushing yards and touchdowns. Helped Michigan State achieve a top 10 ranking during that season. Entered the 2022 NFL Draft and was selected by the Seattle Seahawks.
Continue ReadingRic Lee
English drummer with Ten Years After
Born
October 20th, 1945 80 years ago
Born in 1945, contributions to music began in the 1960s. Lee gained prominence as the drummer for the band Ten Years After. The band achieved popularity through its blues rock sound and memorable performances, particularly at the Woodstock Festival in 1969. Lee’s drumming style contributed to the band’s distinctive sound and energetic live performances. The group remained active throughout the 1970s and 1980s.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on March 28th
James Strachan-Davidson
Classical scholar and translator
Born
October 22nd, 1843 182 years ago
Died
March 28th, 1916 109 years ago — 72 years old
Engaged in classical scholarship with a focus on Greek literature and philosophy. Served in academic administration at various institutions, contributing to educational development. Translated significant works, making ancient texts accessible to a wider audience. Authored several academic publications that enhanced the understanding of classical studies and contributed to scholarly discourse.
Continue ReadingPope Martin IV
Pope with papacy during the 13th century
Died
March 28th, 1285 740 years ago — None years old
Served as pope from 1281 until death in 1285. Elected following the papacy's return to Rome, focused on restoring order within the church and consolidating papal power. Engaged in political maneuvering to counteract the influence of powerful families in Italy, particularly in Rome and Sicily. Advocated for church reform and addressed issues related to clerical misconduct during tenure as pope. His papacy also coincided with conflicts involving Charles I of Anjou and the ongoing struggles for control in Sicily.
Continue ReadingKarol Świerczewski
Polish General during World War II
Born
February 22nd, 1897 128 years ago
Died
March 28th, 1947 78 years ago — 50 years old
Born in 1897, served in the Polish Army and later became a general. Participated in the Polish-Soviet War and was involved in resistance activities during World War II. Played a significant role as a commander of the First Polish Army during the liberation of Poland from German occupation. His military career continued in the post-war period, becoming a prominent figure in the Polish People's Army.
Continue ReadingRyuichi Sakamoto
Pianist and composer of film scores
Born
January 17th, 1952 73 years ago
Died
March 28th, 2023 2 years ago — 71 years old
A pianist and composer, significant contributions included film scores and collaborations across various musical genres. Debuted with the electronic music group Yellow Magic Orchestra in the late 1970s, which pioneered synth-pop and techno. Created acclaimed scores for films such as 'Merry Christmas, Mr. Lawrence' and 'The Last Emperor', the latter winning an Academy Award. Collaborated with numerous artists and showed a versatile approach to composition, merging Eastern and Western musical influences.
Continue ReadingEmperor Go-Toba
Emperor of Japan and poet
Born
August 6th, 1180 845 years ago
Died
March 28th, 1239 786 years ago — 58 years old
Emperor Go-Toba reigned over Japan during the late Heian period and early Kamakura period. Ascending to the throne in 1183, his reign was marked by political strife and the rise of the warrior class. Go-Toba witnessed the establishment of the Kamakura shogunate, which led to a significant shift of power away from the imperial court. He was an accomplished poet and patron of the arts, contributing to the flourishing of Japanese poetry during his time. Go-Toba also attempted to regain imperial power through various political maneuvers but faced resistance from the shogunate. After his abdication in 1198, he continued to influence the court and the arts until his death in 1239.
Continue ReadingValdemar II of Denmark
Danish King and military leader
Born
1170 855 years ago
Died
March 28th, 1241 784 years ago — 71 years old
Ruled Denmark from 1202 to 1241, Valdemar II significantly expanded Danish territory and influence through military campaigns and strategic marriages. His reign included the consolidation of power through the annexation of territories in the Baltic Sea region. Valdemar led campaigns against opponents in Sweden and Pomerania, establishing Denmark as a dominant power in Northern Europe. He faced internal conflicts and challenges to his authority but maintained control over the kingdom until his death in 1241. Valdemar's legacy includes the promotion of trade and the strengthening of royal authority.
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