Kaysone Phomvihane
Laotian soldier and 2nd President of Laos
Born
1920
106 years ago
Died
Category
Leaders & Politicians
Country
Laos
Links & References
Served as a prominent soldier and politician in Laos. Played a significant role in the Lao People's Revolutionary Party's rise to power. Became the second President of Laos in 1991, holding office until death in 1992. Contributed to the establishment of the Lao People's Democratic Republic after the Laotian Civil War. Focused on implementing socialist policies in the country, influencing its governance and political landscape.
Served as 2nd President of Laos
Played a key role in the Lao Civil War
Other People Who Died on November 21st
Heinrich von Kleist
German author and poet of dramatic works
Born
October 18th, 1777 248 years ago
Died
November 21st, 1811 214 years ago — 34 years old
Born in 1777 in Germany, a prominent playwright and poet influenced German literature. His works explored themes of existential angst and the complexities of human emotion. Notable plays include 'Penthesilea' and 'The Broken Jug.' Also wrote important short stories like 'Michael Kohlhaas' and 'The Marquise of O.' These compositions depict moral dilemmas and the struggle for justice. His life was marked by personal turmoil, leading to a tragic end in 1811.
Continue ReadingTôn Thất Đính
Vietnamese general and military leader
Born
November 20th, 1926 99 years ago
Died
November 21st, 2013 12 years ago — 87 years old
A general in the Army of the Republic of Vietnam, significant roles included leadership during the Vietnam War. Commanded troops in several key operations and was a prominent figure in military strategy against North Vietnamese forces. Participated actively in various battles and campaigns, showcasing tactical skills and military acumen. Later faced challenging political circumstances surrounding the fall of Saigon, which marked a turning point in Vietnamese history.
Continue ReadingAmeen Faheem
Indian-Pakistani poet and politician
Born
1939 87 years ago
Died
November 21st, 2015 10 years ago — 76 years old
An influential figure in Urdu poetry and politics, contributions included significant literary works and active participation in political movements. Served as a member of the National Assembly of Pakistan, advocating for various social issues. Authored poetry that resonated with the struggles of the common people, emphasizing themes of love, loss, and social justice. His literary achievements are celebrated in the Urdu literary community.
Continue ReadingQuentin Crisp
English author and illustrator of 'The Naked Civil Servant'
Born
December 25th, 1908 117 years ago
Died
November 21st, 1999 26 years ago — 90 years old
An author and illustrator gained recognition for the autobiographical work 'The Naked Civil Servant', which candidly depicted experiences as a gay man in mid-20th century Britain. The book's publication in 1968 drew considerable attention and was later adapted into a television film in 1975. Crisp's unique style and perspective contributed to the discourse on gender and sexuality in literature. He also published several other works, including 'Miss Crisp' and 'The Age of Consent', showcasing a distinctive voice and narrative approach. Later in life, emigrated to the United States, where continued to write and speak on various topics, influencing discussions on identity and society.
Continue ReadingEmil Zátopek
Czech long-distance runner and Olympic champion
Born
September 19th, 1922 103 years ago
Died
November 21st, 2000 25 years ago — 78 years old
Zátopek was a long-distance runner from Czechoslovakia. He competed in the 1948 and 1952 Olympic Games, achieving remarkable success. At the 1952 Helsinki Olympics, he won gold medals in the 5,000 meters, 10,000 meters, and the marathon, becoming the first athlete to win all three events in a single Olympic Games. His unique training methods and relentless competitive spirit set him apart in the world of athletics. Zátopek's running style, characterized by his distinctive laborious breathing, made him an iconic figure in sports history. He also set multiple world records during his career.
Continue ReadingFrank Martin
Pianist and composer, noted for 'Concerto for 7 Wind Instruments'
Born
September 15th, 1890 135 years ago
Died
November 21st, 1974 51 years ago — 84 years old
Born in 1890, a Swiss-Dutch pianist and composer contributed significantly to 20th-century music. Early education occurred in Switzerland, further training established in music theory and composition. Martin's work is characterized by innovation, combining elements from various musical traditions. The 'Concerto for 7 Wind Instruments,' composed in 1949, is among his most recognized works and showcases his unique style. Additionally, the 'Ballade for Piano and Orchestra' and 'Petite symphonie concertante' illustrate his orchestration skills. Teaching activities allowed dissemination of his musical ideas, influencing a generation of composers. Martin's extensive catalog includes chamber music, orchestral works, and vocal compositions, cementing his legacy in the classical music realm.
Continue Reading