M. E. H. Maharoof

Sri Lankan politician and minister

M. E. H. Maharoof - Sri Lankan politician and minister
Born

January 5th, 1939
86 years ago

Died

July 20th, 1997
28 years ago — 58 years old

Category

Leaders & Politicians

Country

Sri Lanka

Links & References

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

Chris Stein

Guitarist and songwriter for Blondie
Born
January 5th, 1950 75 years ago

A guitarist and songwriter, notable for founding the band Blondie. The band was a prominent figure in the punk and new wave music scenes during the late 1970s and early 1980s. Released the iconic album 'Parallel Lines' in 1978, featuring hit singles such as 'Heart of Glass' and 'One Way or Another'. Continued to work in music as a producer and collaborated with various artists throughout the years.

Continue Reading

Harold Gatty

Pilot and navigator of pioneering flights
Born
January 5th, 1903 122 years ago
Died
1957 68 years ago — 54 years old

Contributed significantly to navigation in aviation. Completed the first successful nonstop flight from the U.S. to Australia in 1931, demonstrating advanced navigational techniques. Published 'A Flight Manual' which became a key reference for aviators. Explored and mapped air routes during a time of rapid advancement in flight technology.

Continue Reading

Joseph Erlanger

American physiologist, Nobel laureate
Born
January 5th, 1874 151 years ago
Died
December 5th, 1965 59 years ago — 91 years old

Born in 1874, a prominent physiologist contributed significantly to the understanding of nerve physiology. Collaborated with a colleague in groundbreaking research that unveiled the mechanisms of nerve conduction, leading to important advancements in the field of physiology. This work earned them the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1944, recognizing the importance of their scientific contributions to medical science. In addition to research, held academic positions and played a role in advancing education in physiology.

Continue Reading

Zebulon Pike

American General and Explorer of the West
Born
January 5th, 1779 246 years ago
Died
April 27th, 1813 212 years ago — 34 years old

This individual was a United States Army officer and explorer in the early 19th century. His notable expeditions included explorations into the southern portion of the Louisiana Purchase and the mountainous regions that would later be known as Pike's Peak in Colorado. Appointed as a second lieutenant in the Army, he gained recognition for his leadership during various campaigns against Native American tribes. His explorations contributed to the westward expansion and detailed valuable geographic and cultural information about the regions he traversed. He met his end in 1813 during a military engagement in the War of 1812.

Continue Reading

Wieland Wagner

German theater director and producer
Born
January 5th, 1917 108 years ago
Died
October 17th, 1966 59 years ago — 49 years old

A significant figure in the realm of opera and theater, contributed to the artistic direction of the Bayreuth Festival, which focuses on the works of Richard Wagner. Made strides in modernizing productions and enhancing the visual aspects of operatic performances. Worked on various productions that emphasized a contemporary retelling of classical operas. Held the position of artistic director at the Bayreuth Festival from 1951 to 1966.

Continue Reading

Dimitrios Gounaris

Greek politician and Prime Minister
Born
January 5th, 1867 158 years ago
Died
November 15th, 1922 102 years ago — 55 years old

Served as Prime Minister of Greece from 1920 to 1921. Held a law degree and was involved in Greek politics for several years. Played a significant role in the political landscape during the interwar period. His tenure was marked by political instability and challenges related to the aftermath of World War I. After leaving office, continued to influence Greek politics until his eventual political decline.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on July 20th

Alastair Burnet

Journalist and news presenter
Born
July 12th, 1928 97 years ago
Died
July 20th, 2012 13 years ago — 84 years old

A prominent journalist and news presenter, recognized for a distinguished career in British broadcasting. Worked for ITN and the BBC, contributing significantly to political reporting and current affairs. Served as the editor of the 'Daily Express' and presented coverage of major events including the Apollo 11 moon landing and various general elections. Burnet's interviewing style and in-depth analysis of political issues established a strong reputation in journalism.

Continue Reading

Ludwig Beck

German general and military strategist
Born
June 29th, 1880 145 years ago
Died
July 20th, 1944 81 years ago — 64 years old

Served as a prominent general in the German Army during World War II, notably opposing Hitler's aggressive expansionist plans. Played a key role in the military planning leading up to the German invasion of France. Became chief of the Army General Staff in 1938 and advocated for stronger military strategies that could potentially counter the warfare tactics of the Allies. In 1944, Beck was involved in a conspiracy to overthrow the Nazi regime, which ultimately led to his execution. His military expertise and ethical stance against the government were significant during a defining moment in German history.

Continue Reading

Dumarsais Estimé

Haitian politician and 33rd President
Born
1900 125 years ago
Died
July 20th, 1953 72 years ago — 53 years old

Served as the 33rd President of Haiti from 1946 to 1950. Played a significant role in Haitian politics, advocating for social and economic reforms. Promoted education and public health initiatives during the presidency. His administration faced challenges from political opposition and economic difficulties, leading to his eventual exile.

Continue Reading

Jean 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 Reading

Gavrila Derzhavin

Russian poet and statesman
Born
July 14th, 1743 282 years ago
Died
July 20th, 1816 209 years ago — 73 years old

Born in 1743, a prominent figure in Russian literature and politics, contributed significantly to the development of the Russian language and poetry. Served in various governmental roles, including as a senator and appointed governor of Saint Petersburg. His poetry combined philosophical and lyric elements, garnering admiration from contemporaries and later generations. The ode 'Felitsa' remains one of the most recognized works, illustrating his mastery of poetic form and emotional depth.

Continue Reading

Iain Macleod

English politician and Chancellor of the Exchequer
Born
1913 112 years ago
Died
July 20th, 1970 55 years ago — 57 years old

Served as a prominent British politician during the mid-20th century. Played a key role in the Conservative Party, holding various positions including Minister of Health. Appointed Chancellor of the Exchequer in 1964, focused on economic policy and financial reforms. Passed away in office, leaving a significant legacy in public service and economic management.

Continue Reading