Rajiv Gandhi
Indian politician, 6th Prime Minister
A lawyer and politician, served as the 6th Prime Minister of India from 1984 to 1989. Ascended to office following the assassination of his mother, Indira Gandhi. Focused on modernizing India's telecommunication infrastructure and promoting technology and education. Advocated for various economic reforms during tenure and was instrumental in initiating several significant economic policies.
Served as Prime Minister of India from 1984 to 1989
Promoted technological advancements in India
Introduced economic reforms for modernization
Other People Born on August 20th
Demi Lovato
Singer-songwriter and actress from Disney
Born
August 20th, 1992 33 years ago
Singer-songwriter and actress rose to prominence with the Disney Channel series 'Camp Rock' and its sequel. Released multiple albums, achieving commercial success with hits such as 'Skyscraper' and 'Heart Attack'. Made contributions to the music industry as a judge on 'The X Factor' and known for advocacy on mental health issues.
Continue ReadingLeigh Griffiths
Scottish footballer, Celtic FC striker
Born
August 20th, 1990 35 years ago
Born in 1990, a professional footballer played as a striker. Started career at Livingston and gained experience with Dundee and Wolverhampton Wanderers. Achieved recognition after joining Celtic FC in 2014, where played a vital role in securing multiple Scottish Premiership titles. Known for exceptional goal-scoring ability and free-kick expertise. Competed for the Scottish national team in international tournaments.
Continue ReadingGeorge Zuverink
Baseball player with notable MLB tenure
Born
August 20th, 1924 101 years ago
Died
September 8th, 2014 11 years ago — 90 years old
A professional baseball player, contributed significantly to Major League Baseball during the 1950s. Primarily played as a pitcher, Zuverink appeared in games for teams like the Detroit Tigers, the Baltimore Orioles, and the Chicago White Sox. His career spanned from 1948 to 1957. He had a successful stint primarily as a pitcher, showcasing skills that garnered attention across multiple teams. After retiring from professional baseball, stayed involved in the sport through various capacities, influencing the game after his playing days.
Continue ReadingJyrki Jokipakka
Finnish NHL hockey player
Born
August 20th, 1991 34 years ago
A professional ice hockey defenseman, played in the National Hockey League (NHL) primarily with the Dallas Stars and Calgary Flames. Jokipakka started his career in Finland, showcasing talent in junior leagues before moving to North America. He made his NHL debut in the 2014-2015 season and contributed to various teams throughout his career with solid defensive skills and consistency. Jokipakka played internationally for Finland, participating in various tournaments including the World Championships.
Continue ReadingMitchell Trubisky
American Football Quarterback
Born
August 20th, 1994 31 years ago
Played quarterback in the National Football League (NFL). Selected second overall in the 2017 NFL Draft by the Chicago Bears. Started as a rookie in 2017, leading the Bears to the playoffs in 2018. In 2020, signed with the Buffalo Bills as a backup quarterback. Contributed to the team's success in the 2020 season, including a trip to the playoffs.
Continue ReadingBradley Klahn
Tennis player and NCAA champion
Born
August 20th, 1990 35 years ago
Competed professionally in tennis, achieving significant success on the ATP tour. Won the 2010 NCAA singles championship while playing for Stanford University. Reached a career-high ATP singles ranking of No. 63 in 2014, which highlighted the professional career. Participated in various Grand Slam tournaments, including the US Open and Australian Open, showcasing talents at the highest levels of the sport.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on May 21st
Evgraf Fedorov
Mathematician and crystallographer
Born
December 22nd, 1853 172 years ago
Died
May 21st, 1919 106 years ago — 65 years old
Contributed significantly to the field of mathematics, particularly in crystallography and mineralogy. Developed fundamental theories related to the symmetry of crystals and their classification. His work laid the groundwork for subsequent advancements in the study of crystalline structures and their properties. Fedorov's research is widely regarded in scientific literature and has influenced both academic and practical applications in mineralogy.
Continue ReadingPaul Delph
American singer-songwriter and producer
Born
1957 68 years ago
Died
May 21st, 1996 29 years ago — 39 years old
A singer-songwriter and producer, contributed to the music scene with a unique blend of rock, pop, and new wave. Released the album 'The Eternal Return' in 1986, which showcased distinct songwriting and production skills. Collaborated with various artists and gained recognition in the 1980s music landscape. Became involved in the music production process, helping other artists shape their sound and style. Continued to influence and inspire through various projects until untimely passing in 1996.
Continue ReadingBob Thompson
Pianist and composer, Jazz works
Born
1924 101 years ago
Died
May 21st, 2013 12 years ago — 89 years old
An American pianist and composer contributed to the jazz genre through performances and compositions. Worked with notable artists and participated in various music festivals. Renowned for innovative approaches in jazz, influencing future musicians. Released several albums that showcased a unique style, combining traditional elements with contemporary influences.
Continue ReadingJohnny Gray
American middle-distance runner and coach
Born
June 19th, 1960 65 years ago
Died
May 21st, 2014 11 years ago — 53 years old
An accomplished middle-distance runner and coach, this individual specialized in the 800 meters. Competed at the 1992 Summer Olympics in Barcelona, representing the United States. Secured the gold medal at the 1985 Pan American Games and set a personal best of 1:43.59 in the 800 meters. Transitioned into coaching, influencing many athletes in various competitive levels.
Continue ReadingWilliamina Fleming
Astronomer; cataloged over 10,000 stars
Born
May 15th, 1857 168 years ago
Died
May 21st, 1911 114 years ago — 54 years old
A Scottish-American astronomer and academic contributed to the field of astronomy while working at the Harvard College Observatory. Developed a system for classifying stars based on their spectral characteristics. Played a key role in the identification of variable stars and made significant contributions to the study of nebulae. Her work included creating the Henry Draper Catalogue, which documented stellar classifications.
Continue ReadingBill Stewart
American football coach, West Virginia University
Born
1952 73 years ago
Died
May 21st, 2012 13 years ago — 60 years old
Coached a college football team and led the program to notable success. Served as the head coach for West Virginia University from 2008 to 2012. Achieved a winning record during tenure and secured a victory in the 2012 Orange Bowl against Clemson. His coaching career included prior positions at several universities, contributing to the development of various players in college football.
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