Rana Bhagwandas
Chief Justice of Pakistan
A prominent Pakistani lawyer and judge, served as Chief Justice of Pakistan. Contributed to various legal reforms and emphasized judicial independence. Held significant positions in the judiciary, impacting the legal landscape of Pakistan. His tenure included adjudicating on pivotal cases that defined constitutional law in the country. Engaged in promoting the rule of law throughout his career.
Served as Chief Justice of Pakistan
Oversaw key constitutional cases
Other People Born on December 20th
Edwin Abbott Abbott
Theologian, author of 'Flatland'
Born
December 20th, 1838 187 years ago
Died
October 12th, 1926 99 years ago — 87 years old
An English theologian, author, and educator contributed significantly to literature and education in the 19th century. Wrote 'Flatland: A Romance of Many Dimensions', which explores complex ideas of dimensions and social hierarchy through a satirical narrative. Worked as a headmaster at the City of London School, influencing educational approaches and curriculum development. Engaged in theological discussions and authored several texts on theology, contributing to academic thought during his time.
Continue ReadingJaroslav Heyrovský
Chemist and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
December 20th, 1890 135 years ago
Died
March 27th, 1967 58 years ago — 76 years old
A prominent Czech chemist and academic contributed significantly to the field of electrochemistry. Developed the polarography technique, which revolutionized chemical analysis by allowing the measurement of minute quantities of substances. Received the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1959 for this work, establishing a foundation for many modern electrochemical applications. In addition to research, held various academic positions and influenced the study of chemistry in Czech universities.
Continue ReadingJarrod Bowen
English football player for West Ham United
Born
December 20th, 1996 29 years ago
Professional football player, played primarily as a winger. Started career at Hereford United before moving to Hull City in 2014, where notable performances contributed to the team's promotion to the EFL Championship. Transferred to West Ham United in 2020, becoming a key player for the team. Contributed to West Ham's success in the UEFA Europa Conference League, securing the title in 2023. Represented the England national team at various youth levels, later making senior team appearances.
Continue ReadingFabian Schär
Swiss footballer and national team player
Born
December 20th, 1991 34 years ago
A Swiss professional footballer, played as a center-back. Started career at FC Wil before moving to FC Basel, winning multiple Super League titles. Later played for Newcastle United in the Premier League. Represented Switzerland in international competitions, including the UEFA European Championship and FIFA World Cup.
Continue ReadingAudrey Totter
American actress of film noir
Born
December 20th, 1917 108 years ago
Died
December 12th, 2013 12 years ago — 95 years old
Debuted in films in the late 1930s, earning recognition in the film noir genre. Gained popularity for roles in various productions throughout the 1940s and 1950s. Achieved significant success in the films 'The Set-Up' and 'Lady in the Lake'. Transitioned to television in the 1960s, appearing in several series and shows. Continued acting into the late 20th century, maintaining a presence in the entertainment industry until retirement.
Continue ReadingGeoffrey Howe
Deputy Prime Minister of the UK
Born
December 20th, 1926 99 years ago
Died
October 9th, 2015 10 years ago — 88 years old
Served as a prominent British politician and lawyer. Held the office of Deputy Prime Minister from 1979 to 1987 under Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher. Played a crucial role in shaping economic policies during the 1980s. Was a Member of Parliament for over 25 years, also serving as Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs. Contributed significantly to the UK's stance in European affairs.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on February 23rd
Franciscus Vieta
French mathematician and algebra pioneer
Born
1540 485 years ago
Died
February 23rd, 1603 422 years ago — 63 years old
A significant figure in the development of algebra, contributions to the field included the introduction of letters to represent known and unknown quantities in equations. Vieta's formulas provided connections between coefficients and roots of polynomials. His work laid groundwork for modern algebraic notation. Vieta published several influential works, among them 'In Artem Analyticam Isagoge'. His techniques were key in moving from rhetorical algebra to symbolic algebra.
Continue ReadingFriedrich von Esmarch
Surgeon and academic with a focus on medicine
Born
January 9th, 1823 202 years ago
Died
February 23rd, 1908 117 years ago — 85 years old
Born in 1823, this German surgeon and academic contributed significantly to the field of medicine. He became a professor of surgery and authored influential textbooks used in medical education. One of his prominent works was the development of antiseptic techniques in surgery, which enhanced surgical safety and outcomes. He also played a crucial role in establishing medical education standards in Germany. His contributions laid the groundwork for modern surgical practices.
Continue ReadingLi Keyong
Shatuo military governor and warlord
Died
February 23rd, 908 1117 years ago — None years old
A military governor during the Tang dynasty, he established control over key regions in northern China. Initially serving in the army, he rose to prominence through his military campaigns against rival factions and enemies of the Tang. His strategies and leadership were pivotal in defending territories and maintaining order amid the decline of the dynasty. His influence extended over several provinces, and he played a significant role in the power struggles of the era, leaving a legacy that impacted subsequent Southern and Northern dynasties.
Continue ReadingHowie Epstein
Bass player and producer for Tom Petty
Born
July 21st, 1955 70 years ago
Died
February 23rd, 2003 22 years ago — 47 years old
A prominent bass player, songwriter, and producer, contributed significantly to rock music through work with major artists. Played the bass guitar for the Heartbreakers from 1982 until 1992, participating in the recording of several albums including 'Southern Accents' and 'Let Me Up (I've Had Enough)'. Formed a productive partnership with numerous musicians, securing a respected position in the music industry. Collaborated on various notable projects and songs, showcasing talent in songwriting and production.
Continue ReadingHerbert Howells
English organist and composer
Born
October 17th, 1892 133 years ago
Died
February 23rd, 1983 42 years ago — 90 years old
An English organist and composer specialized in choral music and organ compositions. Served as a Professor of Music at the University of Bristol and worked as an organist at various churches, including St John's College, Cambridge. Composed significant works in the English choral tradition, with a focus on sacred music. Contributed to the development of English music in the 20th century through both performance and composition.
Continue ReadingZygmunt Krasiński
Polish poet and playwright, 'Nieboska Komedia'
Born
1812 213 years ago
Died
February 23rd, 1859 166 years ago — 47 years old
A prominent figure in Polish literature during the Romantic period, this individual contributed significantly through poetry and drama. As a member of the Polish aristocracy, this person expressed national themes and explored existential questions in works. 'Nieboska Komedia', a notable play, highlighted the struggle between good and evil while examining human destiny. Additionally, the individual wrote various poems that further advanced Polish literary expression. The influence of this literary figure extended beyond poetry, impacting the development of theatre in Poland.
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