Pierre Messmer
French Prime Minister and politician
Born in 1916, a French lieutenant participated in World War II and later entered politics. Served as Minister of Defense from 1960 to 1962, focusing on military and defense policies. Became Prime Minister in 1972, leading a government during a period of economic challenges. Resigned in 1974, contributing to the political landscape of France during his tenure. Played a prominent role in the decision-making processes related to domestic and international matters.
Served as Prime Minister of France from 1972 to 1974
Held the position of Minister of Defense
Other People Born on March 20th
Ken Ono
Mathematician specializing in number theory
Born
March 20th, 1968 58 years ago
A mathematician focused on number theory and partitions. Contributions include work on the conjectures related to the partition function and contributions to Ramanujan's mock modular forms. Holds a position at Emory University. Has co-authored various research papers and contributed to significant advancements in the field of mathematics.
Continue ReadingDara Shikoh
Indian prince and Mughal scholar
Born
March 20th, 1615 411 years ago
Died
1659 367 years ago — 44 years old
Born into the Mughal royal family, a prominent figure during the reign of Emperor Shah Jahan, focused on philosophical inquiries and cultural exchanges. Advocated for the study of various religions, particularly emphasizing similarities between Hinduism and Islam. Served as the governor of several provinces, including Punjab and Ajmer. Engaged in conflicts for succession, notably against his brother Aurangzeb. Eventually imprisoned and later executed due to political rivalries. Authored works that merged spiritual and philosophical thoughts, contributing significantly to Mughal intellectual life.
Continue ReadingMary Roach
American author of science books
Born
March 20th, 1959 67 years ago
An American author specializes in popular science. Works explore unconventional topics within the realm of science and human behavior. First book, Stiff: The Curious Life of Human Cadavers, delved into the topic of cadavers and their uses in science. Other significant works include Spook: Science Tackles the Afterlife, which investigates scientific perspectives on life after death, and Packing for Mars: The Curious Science of Life in the Void, focusing on space travel and its challenges. Engages readers through a humorous and approachable writing style that simplifies complex scientific topics.
Continue ReadingYvette Cooper
Politician and former Work and Pensions Secretary
Born
March 20th, 1969 57 years ago
An economist and politician, served as the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions from 2010 to 2015. Represented the Labour Party and has been a Member of Parliament since 1997. Worked on various issues including welfare reform and economic policy. Held multiple ministerial positions, contributing to significant legislation in the UK government.
Continue ReadingJamal Crawford
Professional basketball player, 3-time NBA Sixth Man
Born
March 20th, 1980 46 years ago
A professional basketball player with a successful career in the NBA, played as a shooting guard. Cited for exceptional scoring ability and floor leadership. Played for several teams including the Chicago Bulls, New York Knicks, and Los Angeles Clippers. Notably won the NBA Sixth Man of the Year Award three times, demonstrating proficiency as a key contributor off the bench. Holds the record for the most career four-point plays in NBA history. Contributed significantly to team dynamics through versatility and experience.
Continue ReadingLee "Scratch" Perry
Jamaican music producer and inventor
Born
March 20th, 1936 90 years ago
Died
August 29th, 2021 4 years ago — 85 years old
Born in Jamaica, this individual developed a distinctive sound that helped shape reggae music. As a music producer, contributions included innovative techniques in music production and the use of studio effects. Worked with various artists, pushing the boundaries of the genre. The work with Bob Marley and the Wailers in the late 1960s and early 1970s was particularly significant, leading to the creation of classic tracks. Known for establishing the Black Ark studio, which became a breeding ground for influential reggae music.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on August 29th
Eleanor of England
Countess of Bar and royal figure
Born
June 18th, 1269 757 years ago
Died
August 29th, 1298 727 years ago — 29 years old
Born in 1269, served as Countess of Bar. Married to Baldwin II, Count of Bar, strengthening alliances between England and the region. Daughter of Edward I of England and Eleanor of Castile, contributed to diplomatic ties in royal circles. Raised in the royal court, participated in various political negotiations throughout her life.
Continue ReadingMir Mahboob Ali Khan
6th Nizam of Hyderabad and patron
Born
1866 160 years ago
Died
August 29th, 1911 114 years ago — 45 years old
Ruled as the sixth Nizam of Hyderabad from 1869 until 1911. During the reign, implemented various administrative reforms and modernization initiatives in Hyderabad. Enhanced the irrigation system, promoting agricultural productivity. Established educational institutions, supporting cultural development. Contributed to the construction of public works, including roads and bridges, significantly improving infrastructure. Advocated for the welfare of the subjects and promoted the welfare of the state.
Continue ReadingRuth Goldbloom
Canadian philanthropist and academic leader
Born
1923 103 years ago
Died
August 29th, 2012 13 years ago — 89 years old
A prominent Canadian academic and philanthropist, contributed significantly to the development of cultural and educational organizations. Co-founded Pier 21, a national historic site in Halifax, celebrating Canada's immigration story. Played a vital role in advancing education and community engagement through various initiatives and organizations. Advocated for the importance of preserving Canadian heritage.
Continue ReadingJames Mirrlees
Economist and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
July 5th, 1936 89 years ago
Died
August 29th, 2018 7 years ago — 82 years old
Contributions focused on the theory of incentives and information asymmetry in economics. Developed the Mirrlees model, which analyzes how tax systems can be designed to maximize social welfare while accounting for individual responses to taxation. Served as a professor at various institutions, including the University of Cambridge. Critically engaged with topics such as public economics and economic policy.
Continue ReadingLale Andersen
Chanson singer-songwriter with 'Lili Marleen'
Born
March 23rd, 1905 121 years ago
Died
August 29th, 1972 53 years ago — 67 years old
Born in 1905 in Germany, a chanson singer-songwriter gained prominence in the 1940s with the song 'Lili Marleen', which became an enduring war-time anthem. Originally a cabaret performer, she transitioned to recording and gained widespread popularity throughout Europe. Her music captured the emotions of her time, resonating deeply with both soldiers and civilians during World War II. Following the war, continued to perform and record, leaving a lasting legacy in the German music scene.
Continue ReadingPierre Lallement
Bicycle inventor and businessman
Born
1843 183 years ago
Died
August 29th, 1891 134 years ago — 48 years old
An influential figure in transportation history, contributed to the development of the bicycle. Invented the pedal-powered bicycle in 1866, which incorporated a chain mechanism. Promoted the bicycle's use in both Europe and the United States, impacting personal mobility. Established businesses related to bicycle manufacturing and sales, navigating early market challenges.
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