Manuel Marulanda

Colombian rebel leader with FARC

Manuel Marulanda - Colombian rebel leader with FARC
Born

1930
95 years ago

Died

March 26th, 2008
17 years ago — 78 years old

Category

Leaders & Politicians

Country

Colombia

Links & References

A prominent rebel leader in Colombia, played a significant role in the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC). Founded the group in 1964, establishing it as a key player in Colombia's armed conflict. Led FARC through decades of insurgency, focusing on Marxist and anti-imperialist ideologies. Engaged in negotiations to resolve the conflict, although these attempts faced numerous challenges and setbacks. Died in 2008, leaving behind a controversial legacy in the context of Colombia's civil unrest.

Founded the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC)

Led FARC during decades of armed conflict

Participated in peace negotiations with the Colombian government

Other People Who Died on March 26th

Alex Comfort

Physician and author of 'The Joy of Sex'
Born
February 10th, 1920 105 years ago
Died
March 26th, 2000 25 years ago — 80 years old

A physician and author, contributed to the fields of medicine and sexual health. Published 'The Joy of Sex' in 1972, which became a seminal work in sexual education. Served in the British Army during World War II, later became a consultant in the National Health Service. Engaged in writing and lecturing on various topics, including personal relationships and the human condition.

Continue Reading

Dave Leggett

American baseball player, MLB pitcher
Born
1933 92 years ago
Died
March 26th, 2013 12 years ago — 80 years old

Played as a pitcher in Major League Baseball. Competed for the Detroit Tigers in the 1980 season and had a brief stint with the Los Angeles Dodgers. His professional career spanned several years, including time spent in minor league teams, where performance contributed to his eventual call-up to the majors. After retirement, continued to be associated with baseball through coaching and mentoring roles in various leagues.

Continue Reading

Beauford Delaney

Painter celebrated for abstract works
Born
1901 124 years ago
Died
March 26th, 1979 46 years ago — 78 years old

An American-French painter, associated with the Harlem Renaissance, created vibrant abstract works. Relocated to Paris, where he became part of the expatriate art community and developed a distinctive style that incorporated color and light. Focused on themes of race, identity, and spirituality, Delaney's work is recognized for its emotional depth. Participated in numerous exhibitions, becoming a significant figure in both American and European art circles.

Continue Reading

Diana Wynne Jones

English author of fantasy novels
Born
August 16th, 1934 90 years ago
Died
March 26th, 2011 14 years ago — 76 years old

An English author produced a significant body of work in fantasy literature. Works include 'Howl's Moving Castle', which gained widespread popularity and was adapted into an animated film by Studio Ghibli. Other notable titles include 'Charmed Life' and 'Dogsbody'. Many stories feature intricate plots and strong character development, appealing to both children and adults. The author's imaginative and engaging storytelling style contributed to the resurgence of fantasy literature in the late 20th century, influencing a generation of writers.

Continue Reading

Roland Barthes

French linguist and literary theorist
Born
November 12th, 1915 109 years ago
Died
March 26th, 1980 45 years ago — 64 years old

A prominent figure in literary theory and semiotics, contributed significantly to the understanding of texts and interpretation. Explored various areas including structuralism, mythology, and narrative theory. Authored several influential works that shaped literary criticism, particularly focusing on the relation between language and meaning. His ideas in 'Mythologies' and 'S/Z' interrogated the complexities of representation in culture, critique, and sign systems, establishing a foundational perspective in post-structuralist thought.

Continue Reading

Alfonso XI of Castile

King of Castile known for the Black Death
Born
1312 713 years ago
Died
March 26th, 1350 675 years ago — 38 years old

Ruled Castile from 1311 until death in 1350. Expanded territorial boundaries significantly through military campaigns. Achieved victories against the Moors, notably at the Battle of Salado in 1340, which solidified Christian control in southern Spain. His reign faced challenges from the plague, which led to significant population decline. Recorded efforts to strengthen royal authority over nobility and promoted legislation.

Continue Reading