M. E. H. Maharoof
Sri Lankan politician and minister
Born in 1939, a prominent Sri Lankan politician. Held several key positions including Minister of Fisheries and Minister of Environment. Played a significant role in local and national politics throughout the later part of the 20th century. Engaged in various legislative actions and policy implementations addressing issues related to fisheries and environmental conservation.
Served as Minister of Fisheries
Held the position of Minister of Environment
Other People Born on January 5th
Shah Jahan
Mughal emperor and architect of the Taj Mahal
Born
January 5th, 1592 434 years ago
Died
January 22nd, 1666 360 years ago — 74 years old
Ascended to the throne in 1628 as the fifth Mughal emperor. His reign from 1628 to 1658 was marked by significant architectural achievements, most notably the construction of the Taj Mahal in Agra, a mausoleum built in memory of his wife, Mumtaz Mahal. The Taj Mahal is regarded as a masterpiece of Mughal architecture, combining elements from Persian, Islamic, and Indian architectural styles. Jahan's rule also saw the expansion of the Mughal Empire and a flourishing of culture and the arts. His later years were marred by conflict with his son, Aurangzeb, who eventually imprisoned him.
Continue ReadingTerry Lineen
Rugby player, New Zealand national team
Born
January 5th, 1936 90 years ago
Died
2020 6 years ago — 84 years old
A rugby player represented New Zealand in the 1960s. Played as a forward, contributing to the team's success on the field. Participated in multiple international matches, showcasing skills and dedication to the sport.
Continue ReadingMarilyn Manson
Singer-songwriter and actor known for Antichrist Superstar
Born
January 5th, 1969 57 years ago
This individual gained prominence in the 1990s as a singer-songwriter and actor. The musical style combined elements of rock, industrial, and heavy metal, creating a unique sound. Debut album, 'Portrait of an American Family,' released in 1994, established a following. The release of 'Antichrist Superstar' in 1996 solidified a reputation, reaching significant commercial success and critical attention. Apart from music, ventured into acting with roles in films such as 'Jawbreaker' and television series including 'Sons of Anarchy.' The controversial persona and provocative performances sparked discussions surrounding art and censorship.
Continue ReadingCarles Aleñá
Spanish footballer and FC Barcelona midfielder
Born
January 5th, 1998 28 years ago
Born in 1998, this footballer developed through the FC Barcelona youth academy, La Masia. Debuted for the first team in 2016 and played prominently in La Liga matches. Known for technical ability and playmaking skills. Subsequently joined Getafe CF on loan in the 2020-2021 season, contributing significantly to the team's performance.
Continue ReadingXu Xiake
Chinese geographer and explorer
Born
January 5th, 1587 439 years ago
Died
March 8th, 1641 384 years ago — 54 years old
An influential figure in Chinese geography, this individual contributed greatly to the field through extensive travel and exploration. Mapping various regions across China, documented topography, geology, and the environment. The writings included detailed accounts of landscapes and cultural observations, forming a significant part of geographical knowledge in China. Work focused on the provinces including Yunnan and Sichuan, which presented valuable insights into the natural features and ethnic cultures of these areas. Writings were published and disseminated, serving as a reference for future explorations.
Continue ReadingDiego Vera
Uruguayan footballer with Estudiantes
Born
January 5th, 1985 41 years ago
A professional footballer, celebrated for contributions to the sport, primarily as a forward. Played for multiple clubs throughout a career that spanned over a decade. Most notably had a significant stint with Estudiantes de La Plata in Argentina, where performance led to recognition in the local football scene. Also represented various Uruguayan clubs. Gained experience in international competitions, contributing to team efforts in leagues and tournaments.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on July 20th
Felix Dzerzhinsky
Politician and founder of the Cheka
Born
September 11th, 1877 148 years ago
Died
July 20th, 1926 99 years ago — 48 years old
Born in 1877, pursued a career in politics and became an influential figure in the Soviet Union. Played a pivotal role in the establishment of the Cheka, the first Soviet secret police organization, overseeing its operations during a critical period of the Russian Civil War. Advocated for state security measures to consolidate Bolshevik power and combat opposition. Developed policies related to labor and social issues, contributing to early Soviet governance. Served as the head of the All-Russian Extraordinary Commission for Combating Counter-Revolution and Sabotage until his death in 1926.
Continue ReadingForrest H. Anderson
American Governor of Montana
Born
1913 113 years ago
Died
July 20th, 1989 36 years ago — 76 years old
Served as the 17th Governor of Montana from 1969 to 1973. Focused on improving education and health care policies during the gubernatorial term. Prior to governorship, worked as an attorney and held various judicial positions, including serving on the Montana Supreme Court. Ended his political career after an unsuccessful campaign for a fourth term as governor.
Continue ReadingJean Ingelow
English poet and author of 'Divided'
Born
March 17th, 1820 205 years ago
Died
July 20th, 1897 128 years ago — 77 years old
Born in 1820 in England, a poet and author contributed significantly to English literature during the Victorian era. Ingelow published her first collection of poems, 'A Rhymed Dialogue,' in 1863. Her most notable work, 'Divided,' achieved widespread recognition and popularity, reflecting themes of love and nature. Ingelow also wrote novels, children's fiction, and stories for Young Ladies, displaying versatility in literary forms. Her poetry often featured intricate rhythms and vivid imagery, appealing to a wide audience of readers. In the latter part of the 19th century, she gained a reputation as a prominent literary figure, receiving accolades from her contemporaries.
Continue ReadingLucian Freud
Painter renowned for intense portraits
Born
December 8th, 1922 103 years ago
Died
July 20th, 2011 14 years ago — 88 years old
Born in 1922, this painter developed a unique style characterized by exploration of the human figure and psychological depth. Training under various artists, he synthesized influences from Expressionism and the British figurative tradition. Freud’s works often depicted close family and friends, utilizing thick, impasto layers of paint to illuminate their emotional states. The artist's most significant acclaim came with various exhibitions, including a prominent showcase at the Tate Gallery in London. Freud's methodologies emphasized long sitting sessions with his subjects, fostering an environment of intimacy. His painting, 'Benefits Supervisor Sleeping,' fetched a notable price at auction, establishing a record for a living artist at the time. Throughout his career, he faced challenges in the art industry but continued to influence contemporary figurative painting until his passing in 2011.
Continue ReadingJerry Miller
Musician and guitarist, co-founded Moby Grape
Born
July 10th, 1943 82 years ago
Died
July 20th, 2024 1 years ago — 81 years old
An American singer-songwriter and guitarist, contributed to the music scene in the 1960s as a founding member of the band Moby Grape. Moby Grape's self-titled debut album, released in 1967, featured a blend of rock, country, and blues, garnering critical acclaim. The band's innovative sound and harmonies placed them among the influential groups of the era. After Moby Grape, pursued a solo career and collaborated with various artists, continuing to perform live and record music, showcasing a commitment to artistic expression throughout the decades.
Continue ReadingKarl Bernhard Zoeppritz
Geophysicist and seismologist
Born
October 22nd, 1881 144 years ago
Died
July 20th, 1908 117 years ago — 26 years old
Contributed significantly to the field of geophysics and seismology. Developed Zoeppritz equations, which describe the reflection of seismic waves at an interface between two different elastic materials, essential for exploration geophysics. Made substantial advancements in understanding how seismic waves interact with geological structures. Conducted research that laid foundational work for future studies in seismic analysis and petroleum exploration.
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