Kumar Ponnambalam

Sri Lankan Tamil lawyer and politician

Kumar Ponnambalam - Sri Lankan Tamil lawyer and politician
Born

1938
87 years ago

Died

January 5th, 2000
25 years ago — 62 years old

Category

Leaders & Politicians

Country

Sri Lanka

Links & References

A prominent lawyer and political figure in Sri Lanka, focused on the rights of the Tamil community. Served as a Member of Parliament and played a pivotal role in legal advocacy for minority rights. Engaged in various political activities aimed at addressing grievances faced by Tamils in Sri Lanka. Actively participated in discussions and negotiations regarding the political situation in the country during the ethnic conflict period.

Served as a Member of Parliament

Advocated for Tamil rights

Involved in political initiatives during ethnic conflict

Other People Who Died on January 5th

Herman Smith-Johannsen

Skier and Olympic competitor in 1924
Born
June 15th, 1875 150 years ago
Died
January 5th, 1987 38 years ago — 111 years old

A Norwegian-Canadian skier participated in the 1924 Winter Olympics in Chamonix, France. Settling in Canada, significant contributions were made to the development of skiing, promoting the sport across North America. Regarded as a pioneer in cross-country skiing, played a crucial role in establishing ski organizations and events, which fostered the growth of skiing as a competitive sport.

Continue Reading

Dragoslav Šekularac

Serbian footballer and manager at Partizan
Born
1937 88 years ago
Died
January 5th, 2019 6 years ago — 82 years old

A Serbian footballer and manager, played primarily as an attacking midfielder. Achieved prominence during the 1950s and 1960s, leading the national team to a fourth-place finish at the 1962 FIFA World Cup. Made significant contributions to the club FK Partizan, winning multiple domestic titles. Transitioned into coaching after retirement, managing various clubs, including his former team, and supporting the development of football in Serbia.

Continue Reading

Charles Mingus

Bassist and composer of jazz music
Born
April 22nd, 1922 103 years ago
Died
January 5th, 1979 46 years ago — 56 years old

A prominent jazz bassist, composer, and bandleader, who played a pivotal role in the evolution of jazz music. Mingus's work encompassed a broad spectrum of styles, integrating elements of blues, classical music, and avant-garde. He formed numerous bands throughout his career, including the Mingus Big Band, which continued to perform his compositions after his passing. His compositions often featured intricate arrangements and strong emotional undercurrents, reflecting personal and social themes. Albums such as 'Mingus Ah Um' and 'The Black Saint and the Sinner Lady' received critical acclaim and are considered significant contributions to the genre. Mingus's influence extended beyond his performances, as he advocated for artistic freedom and social justice within the music world.

Continue Reading

Kenneth Noland

American painter of Color Field artworks
Born
April 10th, 1924 101 years ago
Died
January 5th, 2010 15 years ago — 85 years old

An influential American painter, this artist emerged as a key figure in the Color Field painting movement. Active primarily during the mid-20th century, he developed a style characterized by flat, vibrant colors and geometric shapes. He experimented with various techniques and mediums, contributing to the evolution of abstract art. Significant solo exhibitions took place, showcasing a range of works that demonstrated a commitment to exploring color dynamics. Major museum exhibitions facilitated wider recognition of the artist's contributions to modern art, leading to critical acclaim and influence in the art community.

Continue Reading

Robert Smirke

English painter and illustrator
Born
1753 272 years ago
Died
January 5th, 1845 180 years ago — 92 years old

Active primarily in the 19th century, this individual specialized in painting and illustration. Contributions included work as a book illustrator, with significant associations with literary figures of the time. Various artworks displayed a combination of classical themes and visions of contemporary life. The individual also participated in the Royal Academy, showcasing various pieces that highlighted a meticulous attention to detail and narrative in visual form.

Continue Reading

Joseph Lelyveld

Journalist and executive editor, The New York Times
Born
1937 88 years ago
Died
January 5th, 2024 1 years ago — 87 years old

An American journalist served as executive editor of The New York Times. Lelyveld began his career in journalism at The New York Times, contributing as a reporter and editor for several decades. He focused on foreign affairs and held positions as the chief of the newspaper's bureau in several international locations. Under his leadership, the newspaper won numerous awards, including Pulitzer Prizes. After retiring from daily journalism, he authored books that examined important historical and social issues, further contributing to public discourse through his writing.

Continue Reading