Shankar Dayal Sharma

9th President of India and academic

Shankar Dayal Sharma - Leaders & Politicians born 1918
Born

1918
108 years ago

Died
Category

Leaders & Politicians

Country

India

Links & References

Served as the 9th President of India from 1992 to 1997, following a career as an academic and politician. Held various positions in government, including Governor of Punjab and Chief Minister of Madhya Pradesh. Contributed to the Indian National Congress party and was involved in many educational initiatives. Was an advocate for social and educational reform throughout his career. Academic pursuits led to significant involvement in the promotion of education in India.

Served as President of India from 1992 to 1997

Held the role of Governor of Punjab

Was Chief Minister of Madhya Pradesh

Other People Who Died on December 26th

Tetsuro Watsuji

Japanese historian and philosopher
Born
March 1st, 1889 136 years ago
Died
December 26th, 1960 65 years ago — 71 years old

A historian and philosopher contributed to the fields of ethics and aesthetics, heavily influenced by existentialism. Wrote significant works such as 'Fūdo' which explored the relationship between climate, culture, and human behavior, establishing a framework for understanding the impact of environment on society. Engaged in comparative philosophy, integrating Western and Eastern thought, and delving into the concept of human existence in society. Taught at various universities, including the University of Tokyo, shaping future generations of philosophers and historians.

Continue Reading

Gasparo Gozzi

Italian playwright and critic
Born
December 4th, 1713 312 years ago
Died
December 26th, 1786 239 years ago — 73 years old

Born in 1713 in Italy, a playwright and critic emerged as an influential figure in the world of theater. Contributions to the Commedia dell'arte form were notable, enriching the landscape of Italian drama. Gozzi's work bridged traditional and modern approaches to playwriting, often blending fantasy with social commentary. The theater pieces and writings spurred discussions around theatrical innovation and artistic integrity. Held a position as a critic for various theatrical productions, offering insights that shaped public perception of theater during the 18th century.

Continue Reading

Erich Topp

German admiral and U-boat commander
Born
July 2nd, 1914 111 years ago
Died
December 26th, 2005 20 years ago — 91 years old

Served as a commander of U-boats during World War II. Achieved significant success in naval warfare against Allied shipping. Participated in multiple successful patrols in the Atlantic, contributing to the effectiveness of the German submarine campaign. After the war, Topp remained active in naval affairs and wrote about his experiences in the U-boat service.

Continue Reading

Heinrich Schliemann

Archaeologist and businessman, Troy excavator
Born
January 6th, 1822 204 years ago
Died
December 26th, 1890 135 years ago — 68 years old

Born in Germany, contributed significantly to archaeology through the excavation of ancient sites. Focused on the legendary city of Troy, Schliemann conducted excavations in the 1870s that uncovered significant artifacts. His work challenged prevailing views of the historical accuracy of Homer's epics. Published multiple works detailing archaeological findings and supported the authenticity of historical narratives. Additionally, contributed to the understanding of the Mycenaean civilization through excavations in Greece, particularly at Mycenae and Tiryns.

Continue Reading

Desmond Tutu

South African Archbishop, Nobel laureate
Born
October 7th, 1931 94 years ago
Died
December 26th, 2021 4 years ago — 90 years old

An archbishop and anti-apartheid activist played a significant role in advocating for human rights and justice in South Africa. As the first black Archbishop of Cape Town, contributed to the establishment of a multiracial democracy in the country. In 1984, received the Nobel Peace Prize for efforts in peacefully opposing the apartheid regime. Dedicated work included chairing the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, which aimed to address the atrocities committed during apartheid and promote healing in the nation.

Continue Reading

Claude Adrien Helvétius

French philosopher and social theorist
Born
January 26th, 1715 311 years ago
Died
December 26th, 1771 254 years ago — 56 years old

Born in 1715 in Paris, this philosopher contributed significantly to the Enlightenment. Studied philosophy and medicine at the University of Reims. Published the influential work 'De l'esprit' in 1758, which examined the nature of human thought and understanding, arguing that all mental faculties were developed through experience and education. Held significant discussions on moral philosophy and education, emphasizing the importance of knowledge in shaping individual and social outcomes. Engaged with prominent contemporaries, including Diderot and Rousseau. His ideas fostered dialogue in philosophical and educational reform.

Continue Reading