Lavrentiy Beria

Georgian-Russian general and politician

Lavrentiy Beria - Georgian-Russian general and politician
Born

March 29th, 1899
126 years ago

Died

December 23rd, 1953
71 years ago — 54 years old

Category

Leaders & Politicians

Country

Russia

Links & References

Beria served as a prominent general and politician in the Soviet Union, rising to significant power during the leadership of Joseph Stalin. He was appointed as the head of the Soviet secret police, overseeing state security and intelligence operations. His influence expanded during and after World War II, managing various security apparatuses and contributing to the Soviet atomic bomb project. Following Stalin's death in 1953, Beria briefly held a position of power but was arrested and executed within months during a political power struggle.

Led the Soviet secret police during Stalin's regime

Oversaw the Soviet atomic bomb project

Other People Born on March 29th

Megan Hilty

Broadway actress and singer
Born
March 29th, 1981 44 years ago

An accomplished actress and singer, this individual gained recognition for performances in Broadway productions. Notable roles include Broadway's 'Wicked' as Glinda and the NBC television series 'Smash'. This individual has also lent her voice to various animated projects, contributing to a robust career in musical theater and television.

Continue Reading

Travis Childers

American politician and legislator
Born
March 29th, 1958 67 years ago

A businessman and politician, engaged in Mississippi politics, served as a U.S. Representative from 2008 to 2011. Before serving in Congress, held the position of the state senator from 2007 to 2008. Throughout the tenure in Congress, worked on issues related to economic growth, education, and healthcare.

Continue Reading

Dave Greenfield

Musician and keyboardist of The Stranglers
Born
March 29th, 1949 76 years ago
Died
2020 5 years ago — 71 years old

A prominent English musician and keyboardist, contributed significantly to the punk rock music scene. Joined The Stranglers in 1975, providing distinctive keyboard sounds that helped shape the band’s identity. The Stranglers became known for their hit singles and innovative style, blending punk with pop and new wave. The band's albums, including 'Rattus Norvegicus' and 'Black and White', received critical and commercial success, establishing them as key figures in the music industry. Continued to perform and record with The Stranglers until his passing, demonstrating a long-standing commitment to music.

Continue Reading

Billy Beane

Baseball executive and analyst
Born
March 29th, 1962 63 years ago

Served as the general manager of the Oakland Athletics since 1997. Pioneered the use of sabermetrics in baseball management, focusing on data analysis to assemble competitive teams on a budget. His methods were prominently featured in the best-selling book 'Moneyball' by Michael Lewis, which later inspired a successful film adaptation. Played professional baseball for the New York Mets and Minnesota Twins before transitioning to a front office role.

Continue Reading

Earl Campbell

American football running back, Heisman Trophy winner
Born
March 29th, 1955 70 years ago

A prominent running back in American football, achieved distinction during a career in the National Football League (NFL). Played primarily for the Houston Oilers from 1978 to 1985, recognized for powerful running style and ability to break tackles. Won the Heisman Trophy in 1977 while playing college football at the University of Texas. Inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1991 after earning three rushing titles and being selected to five Pro Bowls.

Continue Reading

Yvan Goll

Poet and playwright, 'The New Moon'
Born
March 29th, 1891 134 years ago
Died
1950 75 years ago — 59 years old

Born in 1891, this individual became a notable poet and playwright, contributing significantly to the avant-garde movement in early 20th-century literature. Active in both France and Germany, created works that often explored themes of identity and existence. His notable plays include 'The New Moon' and contributions to the literary journal 'Action'. Engaged with Expressionism, influenced contemporaries through dynamic verse and innovative theatrical forms.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on December 23rd

Kurt Meyer

German general during World War II
Born
December 23rd, 1910 114 years ago
Died
December 23rd, 1961 63 years ago — 51 years old

Born in Germany, a military officer played a significant role during World War II. Commanded the 12th SS Panzer Division Hitlerjugend, which was involved in several key battles, including the Normandy invasion. Participated in the defense of the Eastern Front and held various leadership positions throughout the conflict. After the war, faced war crime charges for actions taken during military operations.

Continue Reading

Jean Harris

Educator involved in a high-profile murder case
Born
1923 102 years ago
Died
December 23rd, 2012 12 years ago — 89 years old

An educator at a prestigious girls' school, a significant incident occurred involving the individual's former partner, who was a prominent physician. The case attracted considerable media attention due to the circumstances surrounding the crime. The trial showcased various aspects of the individual's personal life and relationships, ultimately resulting in a conviction. Following the sentencing, the individual served time in prison and later became a subject of public interest and discussion regarding the complexities of the legal system.

Continue Reading

René Iché

French sculptor and war memorialist
Born
January 21st, 1897 128 years ago
Died
December 23rd, 1954 70 years ago — 57 years old

René Iché was a sculptor whose work prominently featured themes of war and remembrance. Born in France, Iché's artistic career spanned several decades, during which he created many significant sculptures. His works often reflected the impact of World War I, as he served as a soldier during the conflict. After the war, Iché dedicated himself to memorial sculptures, capturing the experiences of soldiers and the devastation of war. His art was exhibited in various galleries and locations, contributing to France's artistic landscape.

Continue Reading

Peggy Guggenheim

Art collector and philanthropist
Born
August 26th, 1898 127 years ago
Died
December 23rd, 1979 45 years ago — 81 years old

An art collector and philanthropist, significant contributions to modern art occurred through the establishment of a renowned collection in Venice. A prominent figure in the 20th-century art scene, the individual promoted and supported numerous artists, particularly those linked to the avant-garde movements. The American-Italian legacy was solidified with the founding of the Peggy Guggenheim Collection, which showcases a vast array of modern artwork and serves as a cultural hub.

Continue Reading

Ngapoi Ngawang Jigme

Chinese general and politician
Born
February 1st, 1910 115 years ago
Died
December 23rd, 2009 15 years ago — 99 years old

Born in 1910, a prominent figure in the Tibetan region, served as a general and played a significant role in the political landscape of Tibet in the mid-20th century. Led Tibetan forces during the 1950s against the Chinese invasion and later participated in discussions regarding the political future of Tibet. Played a key role in the establishment of the Tibetan Autonomous Region, aligning with the Chinese government, and served in various political capacities thereafter. Contributed to the framing of Tibetan provincial policies and was influential in various governmental organizations.

Continue Reading

P. V. Narasimha Rao

Indian politician and Prime Minister
Born
June 28th, 1921 104 years ago
Died
December 23rd, 2004 20 years ago — 83 years old

This individual served as the 9th Prime Minister of India from 1991 to 1996. Policy initiatives during the tenure included significant economic reforms that liberalized the Indian economy. The leader played a crucial role in shifting India's economic strategy towards globalization and market-oriented reforms, leading to substantial growth in various sectors. Prior to becoming Prime Minister, served in various capacities in the Indian government, including Minister of Defence and Minister of Home Affairs. Advocated for political stability and development during a time of significant change in the country.

Continue Reading