Rohana Wijeweera

Sri Lankan rebel leader and politician

Rohana Wijeweera - Leaders & Politicians born 1943
Born

1943
82 years ago

Died
Category

Leaders & Politicians

Country

Sri Lanka

Links & References

A prominent figure in Sri Lankan politics, played a significant role in the country's leftist movements. Founded the Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP), advocating for revolutionary socialism and social equity. Engaged in armed insurrections during the late 1970s and early 1980s, which aimed to challenge government policies and practices. Arrested and imprisoned, later released and continued political activities until death.

Founded the Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP)

Led the JVP insurgency against the government

Other People Who Died on November 13th

Red Holzman

Basketball coach and champion of the Knicks
Born
August 10th, 1920 105 years ago
Died
November 13th, 1998 27 years ago — 78 years old

A prominent figure in professional basketball, served as the head coach for the New York Knicks. Led the team to two NBA championships in 1970 and 1973. Played college basketball at the University of Kentucky before transitioning to coaching. Inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 1986.

Continue Reading

Olga Bergholz

Russian poet and author of wartime poetry
Born
May 16th, 1910 115 years ago
Died
November 13th, 1975 50 years ago — 65 years old

Born in 1910, a significant literary figure in 20th century Russia, particularly noted for poetry written during World War II. Began publishing in the 1930s and gained prominence for works reflecting the experiences of wartime. Served as a radio broadcaster during the Siege of Leningrad, where her broadcasts offered hope and encouragement. Continued to write after the war, focusing on themes of love, loss, and the human experience. Authored several poetry collections and received recognition in the Soviet literary circles.

Continue Reading

Alexander Grothendieck

Mathematician recognized for algebraic geometry
Born
March 28th, 1928 97 years ago
Died
November 13th, 2014 11 years ago — 86 years old

A mathematician and theorist developed many foundational concepts in algebraic geometry. Contributed to the development of schemes, a central concept in modern algebraic geometry. Worked on homological algebra and category theory, influencing numerous areas in mathematics. During the mid-20th century, received the Fields Medal, the highest honor in mathematics, in 1966. Later in life, shifted focus to various philosophical and political issues, distancing from professional mathematics.

Continue Reading

Antal Doráti

Conductor known for orchestral leadership
Born
April 9th, 1906 119 years ago
Died
November 13th, 1988 37 years ago — 82 years old

Born in Hungary, Antal Doráti became a prominent conductor and composer, contributing significantly to the world of classical music. His career spanned several decades, during which he led renowned orchestras, including the London Symphony Orchestra and the Minneapolis Symphony Orchestra. Doráti also served as music director for various prestigious ensembles, creating a legacy of innovative interpretations of classical repertoires. His contributions to the recording industry include several acclaimed discographies, showcasing works by composers such as Stravinsky and Bartók. Renowned for his leadership style and musical vision, Doráti shaped the performances and interpretations of orchestras he conducted, influencing the classical music landscape.

Continue Reading

Thomas M. Foglietta

American diplomat, Ambassador to Italy
Born
December 3rd, 1928 97 years ago
Died
November 13th, 2004 21 years ago — 75 years old

Served as the United States Ambassador to Italy from 1993 to 1997. Held the position of a Philadelphia city councilman prior to his ambassadorship. Taught at the University of Pennsylvania and continued involvement in various community and educational initiatives.

Continue Reading

Karen Silkwood

Labor union activist and whistleblower
Born
February 19th, 1946 79 years ago
Died
November 13th, 1974 51 years ago — 28 years old

Worked as a plant worker at Kerr-McGee plutonium processing plant in Cimarron, Oklahoma. Raised concerns about unsafe working conditions and contamination, which led to her involvement with the Oil, Chemical and Atomic Workers Union. Conducted investigations into worker health issues and exposure to radioactive materials. Died in a car accident under suspicious circumstances while en route to deliver evidence to a New York Times reporter, prompting further inquiries and public interest in worker safety and nuclear regulation.

Continue Reading