Leabua Jonathan
Prime Minister of Lesotho
Served as the 2nd Prime Minister of Lesotho from 1965 to 1986. Played a significant role in the country's early political landscape, leading the Basotho National Party. Oversaw the country's policies during a time of political instability and was instrumental in establishing the framework for Lesotho's governance. After being ousted in a 1986 coup, faced exile until returning in the early 1990s.
Served as Prime Minister from 1965 to 1986
Led the Basotho National Party
Involved in establishing Lesotho's governance framework
Other People Born on October 30th
Ahmed Chalabi
Iraqi businessman and politician
Born
October 30th, 1944 81 years ago
Died
November 3rd, 2015 10 years ago — 71 years old
A significant figure in Iraqi politics, played a pivotal role during and after the Iraq War. Founding the Iraqi National Congress, aimed to establish a democratic government in Iraq. Actively participated in efforts to promote political change and transition in post-Saddam Iraq. Served as Deputy Prime Minister and was influential in the formation of the new Iraqi government.
Continue ReadingEzra Pound
Poet and critic of modernist literature
Born
October 30th, 1885 140 years ago
Died
November 1st, 1972 53 years ago — 87 years old
A key figure in the modernist movement, this American poet and critic significantly influenced 20th-century literature. Contributions included his role in championing Imagism and Vorticism, which focused on clarity of expression and precision of imagery. He worked as an editor for various publications and promoted the works of other writers, including T.S. Eliot and James Joyce. In later years, the controversial political views expressed through his broadcasts during World War II led to his arrest and subsequent confinement in a mental hospital.
Continue ReadingGerhard Domagk
German bacteriologist and pathologist
Born
October 30th, 1895 130 years ago
Died
April 24th, 1964 61 years ago — 68 years old
Contributions to bacteriology included the discovery of the drug Prontosil, which became the first sulfa drug used in treatment of bacterial infections. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1939 for this groundbreaking work. Conducted research on other antibiotics and their applications. Developed significant techniques in the study of infectious diseases and their control.
Continue ReadingRagnar Klavan
Professional footballer, FC Augsburg player
Born
October 30th, 1985 40 years ago
Played professional football primarily as a defender. Began career in the Estonian leagues before moving to play in the Netherlands and Germany. Notable for contributions to clubs such as FC Groningen and FC Augsburg. Represented the national team of Estonia, earning over 130 caps and participating in various qualifying matches for UEFA competitions.
Continue ReadingDan Poulter
Physician and politician in the UK
Born
October 30th, 1978 47 years ago
A physician and politician practiced medicine and served as a member of Parliament. Elected to the House of Commons in 2010, represented the Central Suffolk and North Ipswich constituency. Held the position of Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Health. Worked on various health initiatives, focusing on mental health and children’s health services. Served on multiple committees related to health and education during the parliamentary tenure.
Continue ReadingIgnace Bourget
Canadian bishop and church leader
Born
October 30th, 1799 226 years ago
Died
June 8th, 1885 140 years ago — 85 years old
A prominent figure in the Roman Catholic Church in Canada during the 19th century. Served as the Bishop of Montreal from 1840 until death. Focused on strengthening the church's presence and community engagement in the region. Established several religious institutions, including schools and orphanages, to support the needs of the local population. Instrumental in the promotion of Catholic teachings and practices in Quebec, navigating challenges posed by emerging secular movements.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on April 5th
Ain-Ervin Mere
Estonian SS officer during WWII
Born
1903 122 years ago
Died
April 5th, 1969 56 years ago — 66 years old
Served as an officer in the German SS during World War II. Participated in military operations on the Eastern Front. Involved in the administration of repressive measures in occupied territories. After the war, remained a controversial figure due to association with the Nazi regime.
Continue ReadingEgidio Forcellini
Italian philologist and lexicographer
Born
1688 337 years ago
Died
April 5th, 1768 257 years ago — 80 years old
Contributed significantly to the field of philology through comprehensive studies of the Italian language. Authored the influential work 'Vocabolario degli Accademici della Crusca,' which served as a vital resource for scholars and linguists. His research focused on historical linguistics and the etymology of Italian words. His work critically shaped the understanding of Italian lexical history during the 18th century.
Continue ReadingKarl Eusebius
Prince of Liechtenstein and diplomat
Born
1611 414 years ago
Died
April 5th, 1684 341 years ago — 73 years old
Ruled as prince of Liechtenstein from 1627 until 1684. Championed diplomatic relations across European courts, maintaining peace during periods of conflict. Engaged actively in the Thirty Years' War, balancing the interests of his principality with broader European dynamics. Established the foundation for modern Liechtenstein's neutrality and governance. Enhanced the cultural and architectural development within the principality through patronage.
Continue ReadingPedro Bartolomé Benoit
Dominican politician and military officer
Born
1921 104 years ago
Died
April 5th, 2012 13 years ago — 91 years old
A prominent political figure and military officer in the Dominican Republic, this individual served in various governmental roles throughout a lengthy career. Played a critical role during the political upheavals of the 20th century and was involved in military operations and governance. Actively participated in shaping the military and political landscape of the Dominican Republic during a time of significant change. Security and military strategy were key areas of influence, leading to lasting implications on the country's political dynamics.
Continue ReadingTell Berna
American middle-distance runner
Born
1891 134 years ago
Died
April 5th, 1975 50 years ago — 84 years old
Competed in middle and long-distance events. Participated in the 1924 Summer Olympics in Paris, representing the United States. Career highlighted by success in national championships and various track meets.
Continue ReadingChiang Kai-shek
Chinese general and politician, 1st President
Born
October 31st, 1887 138 years ago
Died
April 5th, 1975 50 years ago — 87 years old
Led the Nationalist government in China during the early to mid-20th century. Played a key role in the Second Sino-Japanese War by coordinating Chinese resistance against Japanese forces. After the Chinese Civil War, retreated to Taiwan, where established a separate government. Implemented various policies to modernize Taiwan's economy and maintain martial law until 1987.
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