K. W. Devanayagam
Sri Lankan lawyer and Minister of Justice
A Sri Lankan lawyer and politician, served as the 10th Minister of Justice. Played a significant role in the political landscape of Sri Lanka during the mid-20th century. Engaged in legal practices and contributed to legislative reforms. Participated actively in parliamentary proceedings and discussions regarding justice and legal frameworks in the country.
Served as the 10th Minister of Justice in Sri Lanka
Contributed to legislative reforms in law
Participated in parliamentary proceedings on justice
Other People Born on March 26th
Dewitt Clinton Senter
Tennessee Governor and politician
Born
March 26th, 1830 195 years ago
Died
June 14th, 1898 127 years ago — 68 years old
Served as the 18th Governor of Tennessee from 1868 to 1870. Prior to the governorship, held various local and state political positions, contributing to the Democratic Party in Tennessee. Advocated for education and economic development during tenure. Engaged in efforts to address post-Civil War reconstruction issues in the state.
Continue ReadingElio de Angelis
Italian Formula One racing driver
Born
March 26th, 1958 67 years ago
Died
May 15th, 1986 39 years ago — 28 years old
Participated in Formula One racing from 1979 to 1986, driving for teams including Shadow, Lotus, and Brabham. Achieved two career podiums and secured a pole position during his time in the sport. De Angelis was regarded for his technical feedback and contributions to car development. Tragically lost his life in an accident during testing in 1986, which led to significant changes in safety standards in Formula One.
Continue ReadingAndreas Hinkel
Footballer with Celtic FC recognition
Born
March 26th, 1983 42 years ago
A former professional footballer played as a right-back. Started a career in Germany with SC Freiburg before moving to VfB Stuttgart, where contributed to the team's success in the Bundesliga. Transferred to Celtic FC in Scotland, achieving notable success in the Scottish Premier League. Later played for the German national team, participating in various international competitions.
Continue ReadingAzellus Denis
Canadian lawyer and Postmaster General
Born
March 26th, 1907 118 years ago
Died
1991 34 years ago — 84 years old
Born in 1907, this individual served as a Canadian lawyer and politician. Held the position of Postmaster General of Canada, overseeing the postal service during a period of significant change. Involved in various legal and political activities, contributing to the development of policies affecting the postal system. Active in public service, engaging with community issues and parliamentary responsibilities.
Continue ReadingWilhelm Backhaus
Pianist, educator, and Beethoven interpreter
Born
March 26th, 1884 141 years ago
Died
July 5th, 1969 56 years ago — 85 years old
A prominent pianist and educator, emphasized classical music, particularly works by Beethoven. Gained recognition for concert performances and recordings, showcasing exceptional technique and musicality. Served as a professor at various institutions, influencing a generation of pianists through teaching and mentorship. Achieved acclaim for interpreting the piano concertos and sonatas of Beethoven, leaving a lasting legacy within the classical music community.
Continue ReadingBernard Katz
Biophysicist, Nobel Prize recipient
Born
March 26th, 1911 114 years ago
Died
April 20th, 2003 22 years ago — 92 years old
Born in Germany and later moving to England, this biophysicist made significant contributions to the understanding of neurotransmission. Research focused on the mechanisms of synaptic transmission, revealing how nerve cells communicate through chemical signals. Achievements included the development of the voltage clamp technique, which allowed precise measurements of ionic currents across cell membranes. This work paved the way for advances in neurobiology and pharmacology.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on December 17th
Osamu Hayaishi
Biochemist and academic - discovered cyclooxygenase
Born
1920 105 years ago
Died
December 17th, 2015 10 years ago — 95 years old
A biochemist who contributed to the understanding of enzyme activity and its regulation. Developed significant research on cyclooxygenase, which is crucial in the biosynthesis of prostaglandins. Held a position at the University of Colorado and made substantial advancements in the field of biochemistry with a focus on oxygenation pathways.
Continue ReadingConny van Rietschoten
Dutch sailor and two-time Admiral's Cup winner
Born
1926 99 years ago
Died
December 17th, 2013 12 years ago — 87 years old
A prominent figure in sailing, achieved significant success in competitive yacht racing. Captained the Sayonara, winning the Admiral's Cup in 1979 and 1981. Excelled in international competitions and gained recognition for skill in large yacht racing. Also participated in the Whitbread Round the World Race and contributed to the development of the sailing community in the Netherlands.
Continue ReadingRonaldo Valdez
Filipino actor in film and television
Born
1947 78 years ago
Died
December 17th, 2023 2 years ago — 76 years old
An actor with a career spanning several decades, notable for performances in prominent Filipino films and television shows. Gained recognition for roles in 'Bituing Walang Ningning' and several adaptations of 'Dracula.' Also appeared in television series such as 'Gulong ng Palad' and 'Tinig.' Valdez contributed to the local entertainment industry through various genres, showcasing talent in dramas and comedic roles.
Continue ReadingFrank Pastore
Baseball player and radio host
Born
August 21st, 1957 68 years ago
Died
December 17th, 2012 13 years ago — 55 years old
Played as a pitcher in Major League Baseball from 1979 to 1986, primarily with the Cincinnati Reds. Recorded a career-high 14 wins in the 1980 season and contributed to the team's success by appearing in multiple games during the late 1970s and early 1980s. Transitioned to a career in radio after retirement, hosting a talk show on Christian radio, where discussions centered on faith, politics, and current events.
Continue ReadingJames McCaffrey
American actor known for 'Life on Mars'
Born
1958 67 years ago
Died
December 17th, 2023 2 years ago — 65 years old
An American actor gained recognition for work in television and film. Best known for portraying Detective Sam Tyler in the series 'Life on Mars', which aired from 2006 to 2007. Appeared in other productions such as '24', 'The Killing', and 'The Last Ship'. McCaffrey also had a successful career in voice acting, contributing to notable video games, including the 'Max Payne' series. His performances garnered a loyal fanbase.
Continue ReadingRicardo María Carles Gordó
Spanish cardinal and ecclesiastical leader
Born
1926 99 years ago
Died
December 17th, 2013 12 years ago — 87 years old
Served as a cardinal in the Roman Catholic Church, holding significant positions within the Church hierarchy. Participated in the conclave that elected Pope Benedict XVI in 2005. Served as the Archbishop of Valencia from 1992 until retirement in 2010. Contributed to various church activities and ecclesiastical governance throughout his tenure.
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