Narendra Dabholkar

Indian author and rationalist activist

Narendra Dabholkar - Activists & Humanitarians born 1945
Born

1945
81 years ago

Died
Category

Activists & Humanitarians

Country

India

Links & References

An Indian author and activist focused on rationalism and social reform. Founded the Maharashtra Andhashraddha Nirmoolan Samiti, an organization combating superstition and promoting scientific thinking. Wrote extensively on the topics of atheism and rationalism. Authored several books addressing superstition, including 'The Myth of God' and 'Crisis of Faith'. Recognized for vigorous advocacy against black magic and fraudulent practices, leading campaigns to educate the public on rational thought and skepticism.

Founded Maharashtra Andhashraddha Nirmoolan Samiti

Authored 'The Myth of God'

Promoted scientific thinking and rationalism

Other People Who Died on August 20th

Dom Mintoff

Maltese politician and Prime Minister
Born
August 6th, 1916 109 years ago
Died
August 20th, 2012 13 years ago — 96 years old

Served as the 8th Prime Minister of Malta and was a prominent figure in the Maltese Labour Party. Played a significant role in Malta's independence from the UK. Mintoff advocated for a strong welfare state and pursued policies that aimed to enhance the social and economic wellbeing of Maltese citizens. Also served as Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Public Works, focusing on infrastructure development. His tenure was marked by efforts to transform Malta into a more self-sufficient nation.

Continue Reading

Percy Williams Bridgman

Physicist and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
April 21st, 1882 144 years ago
Died
August 20th, 1961 64 years ago — 79 years old

A prominent American physicist and academic, he contributed significantly to experimental physics and high-pressure research. Bridgman developed methods to achieve extreme pressures and studied their effects on various materials. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1946 for his work on the properties of matter under high pressures, he became a professor at Harvard University where he mentored future scientists. His research advanced the understanding of physical phenomena in solid state physics.

Continue Reading

Joe Dassin

Singer-songwriter of French chanson music
Born
November 5th, 1938 87 years ago
Died
August 20th, 1980 45 years ago — 41 years old

Born in 1938, this artist blended American and French musical influences. He gained popularity through hit songs in the 1960s and 1970s. Major works include the international hit 'Les Champs-Élysées' and 'Alors Rêve.' His music reflects a variety of themes, resonating with audiences across different cultures. Dassin's career was marked by significant commercial success, with numerous albums released during his lifetime. He passed away in 1980, leaving a lasting legacy in the French music scene.

Continue Reading

Juan Bautista Ceballos

President of Mexico in 1853
Born
May 13th, 1811 215 years ago
Died
August 20th, 1859 166 years ago — 48 years old

Ceballos served as President of Mexico in 1853 during a period marked by political instability. His presidency was brief and occurred amidst turmoil in the Mexican government. Ceballos faced significant challenges, including opposition from various factions. His administration is often overshadowed by the events surrounding other leaders and the larger conflicts of the era. After his short tenure, he returned to a background role in public life. Details of his subsequent activities are less documented, as his presidency did not lead to further significant political involvement.

Continue Reading

Charles Bannerman

Cricketer and umpire; Test cricket pioneer
Born
July 3rd, 1851 174 years ago
Died
August 20th, 1930 95 years ago — 79 years old

Born in England and later residing in Australia, this individual played a significant role in the early years of Test cricket. He was a member of the Australian team that participated in the first-ever Test match against England in 1877. Bannerman scored the first century in Test history, achieving 165 runs in that match. In addition to his playing career, he served as an umpire in various matches, contributing to the development and standardization of the sport during its formative years.

Continue Reading

Meles Zenawi

Ethiopian Prime Minister and revolutionary leader
Born
May 9th, 1955 71 years ago
Died
August 20th, 2012 13 years ago — 57 years old

Served as the Prime Minister of Ethiopia from 1995 until 2012. Played a significant role in the Ethiopian People's Revolutionary Democratic Front, which controlled the government after the overthrow of Mengistu Haile Mariam. Implemented economic reforms that spurred growth and attracted foreign investment. Also participated in regional politics, including peace negotiations in the Horn of Africa. Advocated for the role of the African Union in addressing continental issues.

Continue Reading