Morarji Desai
Indian politician and Prime Minister
A civil servant and politician, served as the fourth Prime Minister of India from 1977 to 1979. Desai was a member of the Bharatiya Janata Party and the Janata Party, playing a key role in Indian politics during the post-emergency period. His government focused on anti-corruption measures, grievances of the common citizen, and fiscal policies aimed at self-reliance. A proponent of the cooperative movement and rural development, he promoted the use of cottage industries and decentralization of power. Desai's tenure was marked by political challenges and economic adjustments in the wake of a previous state of emergency declared in India. After his resignation, he continued to be a significant figure in Indian politics until his retirement.
Served as the fourth Prime Minister of India
Pursued anti-corruption measures during tenure
Other People Born on February 29th
Steve Mingori
Baseball pitcher with the Kansas City Royals
Born
February 29th, 1944 82 years ago
Died
2008 18 years ago — 64 years old
Played as a pitcher in Major League Baseball from 1965 to 1975. Played for teams including the Kansas City Royals, Detroit Tigers, and San Diego Padres. Contributed to the game's competitive landscape during the 1960s and 1970s with notable performances on the mound.
Continue ReadingRaisa Smetanina
Cross-country skier with Olympic medals
Born
February 29th, 1952 74 years ago
Born in 1952, a cross-country skier achieved significant success in international competitions. Competed in four Winter Olympics from 1972 to 1984, earning a total of ten medals. Secured gold medals in the 4x5 km relay in 1972 and 1984, as well as multiple medals in individual events. Broke ground in women's cross-country skiing and contributed to its growth in the Soviet Union. Participated in World Championships, claiming numerous titles and further establishing a legacy in the sport.
Continue ReadingJoss Ackland
Actor in 'The Hunt for Red October'
Born
February 29th, 1928 98 years ago
Died
2023 3 years ago — 95 years old
An English actor, with a career spanning several decades. Significant appearances include roles in 'The Hunt for Red October' and 'The Last of the Mohicans'. Renowned for work in both feature films and television, involving a variety of genres such as drama and thriller. Also involved in theatrical productions and voice acting. Received critical acclaim for versatility across different formats.
Continue ReadingCarlos Humberto Romero
President of El Salvador
Born
February 29th, 1924 102 years ago
Died
2017 9 years ago — 93 years old
Served as the President of El Salvador from 1972 to 1977. His administration is marked by a focus on modernization and economic development amid increasing social unrest. Governed during a time of significant political turmoil, characterized by human rights violations and repression of opposition. Held power through a military-backed regime and faced criticism for the handling of dissent. His presidency ended with a coup led by leftist rebels, leading to further conflict in the country.
Continue ReadingKhaled
Algerian singer-songwriter with 'Aïcha'
Born
February 29th, 1960 66 years ago
Born in 1960, a prominent figure in the raï music genre, which blends Arabic and Western musical influences. Began music career in the 1980s and gained international recognition. His song 'Aïcha' became a global hit, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of Algeria. Khaled's music often addresses themes of love and social issues, resonating with audiences worldwide. Throughout his career, he collaborated with various artists and contributed to the popularization of raï music on the global stage, performing at numerous international music festivals.
Continue ReadingLyndon Byers
Ice Hockey Player; Boston Bruins player
Born
February 29th, 1964 62 years ago
An accomplished ice hockey player and radio host, this individual played predominantly in the NHL during the late 1980s and early 1990s. The player began a significant career with the Boston Bruins, where notable performances contributed to the team's competitive presence. Following his playing career, transitioned into sports radio, becoming a recognized voice in discussions about hockey and sports culture.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on April 10th
Gregory XIII
Pope and initiator of the Gregorian Calendar
Born
1502 524 years ago
Died
April 10th, 1585 441 years ago — 83 years old
Served as pope from 1572 to 1585. Initiated the reform of the calendar that led to the creation of the Gregorian Calendar, which corrected inaccuracies in the Julian Calendar and aligned the dates of religious observances with the seasons. The reform was essential for the correct calculation of Easter. Prior to his papacy, held various ecclesiastical roles, including the bishopric of Bologna. Engaged in political and diplomatic efforts to consolidate Catholic power in Europe.
Continue ReadingRaymond Boudon
French sociologist and academic
Born
1934 92 years ago
Died
April 10th, 2013 13 years ago — 79 years old
Contributed significantly to the field of sociology, focusing on rational choice theory and the role of education in social inequality. Worked extensively on the concept of social mobility and the mechanisms behind educational choices. Authored numerous influential texts including 'The Unintended Consequences of Social Action' and 'Education, Opportunity, and Social Inequality'. Served as a professor at the University of Paris 12 and held various academic positions throughout a lengthy career.
Continue ReadingBinod Bihari Chowdhury
Bangladeshi activist
Born
January 10th, 1911 115 years ago
Died
April 10th, 2013 13 years ago — 102 years old
An activist focused on the rights and welfare of the Bengali people, contributed significantly to the anti-colonial movement in Bengal. Engaged in various social reforms and cooperatives aimed at uplifting the rural population. Advocated for education and economic empowerment within marginalized communities. Actively participated in movements that challenged oppressive regimes during the tumultuous period of the 20th century.
Continue ReadingRichie Benaud
Cricketer and renowned sportscaster
Born
October 6th, 1930 95 years ago
Died
April 10th, 2015 11 years ago — 84 years old
Played cricket for Australia from 1952 to 1963 as a leg-spin bowler and captain. Captained Australia to a 4-0 victory against England in the 1961 Ashes series. Transitioned to broadcasting, becoming a prominent sportscaster with a career spanning decades. His insights and commentary significantly shaped the way cricket was presented on television.
Continue ReadingSue Townsend
English author and playwright
Born
April 2nd, 1946 80 years ago
Died
April 10th, 2014 12 years ago — 68 years old
An English author and playwright, created the character Adrian Mole, who first appeared in 'The Secret Diary of Adrian Mole, Aged 13¾'. This character became central to a series of novels that depicted the struggles of adolescence and growing up in Britain. Townsend's works often carried elements of satire, reflecting social issues and the life of the British middle class. In addition to the Adrian Mole series, she wrote plays, children’s books, and novels that gained critical acclaim.
Continue ReadingRaymond Aubrac
French engineer and Resistance leader
Born
1914 112 years ago
Died
April 10th, 2012 14 years ago — 98 years old
An engineer and a prominent member of the French Resistance during World War II. Contributed to the liberation of France, focusing on sabotaging German operations. Involved in the planning of operations against occupying forces. After the war, dedicated efforts to political and social activism, promoting civil rights and social justice.
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