Taraki Sivaram

Sri Lankan journalist and author

Taraki Sivaram - Sri Lankan journalist and author
Born

August 11th, 1959
65 years ago

Died

April 28th, 2005
20 years ago — 45 years old

Category

Thinkers & Philosophers

Country

Sri Lanka

Links & References

Contributed significantly to journalism in Sri Lanka, focusing on political issues and human rights. Worked as a senior journalist for prominent newspapers and was among the first to advocate for freedom of expression in a challenging political environment. Authored books that explored the complexities of Sri Lankan society and the ethnic conflict. Actively engaged in debate and analysis regarding the repercussions of the civil war and the struggles of marginalized communities.

Wrote extensively on the Sri Lankan civil war

Advocated for freedom of expression

Other People Born on August 11th

Arlene Dahl

American actress and businesswoman
Born
August 11th, 1925 99 years ago
Died
November 29th, 2021 3 years ago — 96 years old

An actress, businesswoman, and writer. Rose to prominence in the 1940s and 1950s, specializing in roles that showcased beauty and charisma. Gained significant recognition for performances in films such as "Step by Step" and "Journey to the Center of the Earth." Transitioned into a successful business career, founding a beauty and wellness company. Authored several books, including works on beauty and personal development.

Continue Reading

Joe Rogan

Podcaster and comedian, hosted Fear Factor
Born
August 11th, 1967 57 years ago

An American actor, comedian, and television host, began a career in stand-up comedy in the late 1980s. Gained recognition on the NBC reality show 'Fear Factor' from 2001 to 2006. Developed a successful career as a podcaster with 'The Joe Rogan Experience,' which started in 2009 and became one of the most popular podcasts globally. Transitioned from acting roles in sitcoms like 'NewsRadio' to a focus on comedy and podcasts, garnering a wide audience through thought-provoking discussions with diverse guests. Also served as a color commentator for the UFC, contributing to its growth in popularity.

Continue Reading

John Ellison

Musician and songwriter, 'Somebody's Watching Me'
Born
August 11th, 1941 83 years ago

An American-Canadian musician and songwriter, contributed significantly to the music industry with a blend of genres. Ellison wrote and recorded 'Somebody's Watching Me', a hit that achieved major success in the 1980s. The song gained recognition for its catchy melody and unique themes, becoming a staple in pop culture. Apart from this, played an influential role in various musical collaborations and projects throughout a long career, showcasing talent in songwriting and performance.

Continue Reading

Marvin Harrison Jr.

American football wide receiver, Ohio State.
Born
August 11th, 2002 22 years ago

Played college football at Ohio State University as a wide receiver. Achieved significant success during the 2022 NCAA football season, recording a remarkable 1,263 receiving yards and 14 touchdown receptions. Earned the Big Ten Receiver of the Year honors and was selected as a consensus All-American for his contributions on the field.

Continue Reading

Gemma Hayes

Irish singer-songwriter with acclaimed albums
Born
August 11th, 1977 47 years ago

An Irish singer-songwriter emerged in the early 2000s, releasing several acclaimed albums. The debut album, 'Night on My Side', received critical praise and earned a Meteor Music Award for Best Irish Female. Subsequent albums, such as 'The Hollow of Morning' and 'Let It Break', further showcased musical talent and lyrical depth, leading to a dedicated fanbase. In addition to solo work, collaborations with various artists occurred, enhancing creative output. Live performances demonstrated strong vocal abilities and emotional resonance, with appearances at major music festivals, including Glastonbury and Other Voices.

Continue Reading

Izzy Asper

Canadian lawyer and businessman, founded Canwest
Born
August 11th, 1932 92 years ago
Died
2003 22 years ago — 71 years old

A lawyer and businessman initiated a significant media empire in Canada. Founded Canwest Global Communications Corp, which became one of the largest media companies in the country. Played a vital role in transforming the Canadian broadcasting landscape. Engaged in politics and was a member of the Manitoba Legislative Assembly. Advocated for various media and broadcasting initiatives, contributing to the evolution of journalism in Canada.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on April 28th

Arthur Leonard Schawlow

Physicist, Nobel Prize Laureate
Born
May 5th, 1921 104 years ago
Died
April 28th, 1999 26 years ago — 77 years old

Contributed significantly to the field of laser technology and optics. Earned a Ph.D. in physics from Columbia University. Worked at Bell Laboratories, where developed methods to produce laser light and co-invented the laser. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1981 for contributions to laser spectroscopy. Later served as a professor at Stanford University. Recognized for extensive academic contributions and advancements in scientific research.

Continue Reading

Antônio Abujamra

Brazilian actor and theater director
Born
1932 93 years ago
Died
April 28th, 2015 10 years ago — 83 years old

A prominent Brazilian theater director and actor, primarily recognized for contributions to Brazilian theater. Founded the company 'Os Pioneiros' to promote innovative performances. Directed and performed in numerous productions, notably the adaptations of works by playwrights such as Tennessee Williams and Bertolt Brecht. Worked extensively in television, featuring in popular series and movies, helping to shape contemporary Brazilian culture.

Continue Reading

Hermann Fegelein

German general during WWII
Born
October 30th, 1906 118 years ago
Died
April 28th, 1945 80 years ago — 38 years old

Served as a general in the Waffen-SS during World War II. Initially joined the SS and gained rapid promotion due to military success. Participated in significant campaigns on the Eastern Front, demonstrating leadership during critical operations. In the late stages of the war, served as a liaison officer with the command of Hitler's personal guard. Captured by Soviet forces in 1945 and executed shortly after the war.

Continue Reading

Clas Thunberg

Speed skater and Olympic medalist
Born
April 5th, 1893 132 years ago
Died
April 28th, 1973 52 years ago — 80 years old

Competed in speed skating during the early 20th century. Achieved significant success in international competitions, particularly in the 1924 and 1928 Winter Olympics. Won a total of five Olympic medals, including three golds and two silvers, establishing a reputation as one of the top speed skaters of the time. Dominated European Championships and won several titles, including the 5000 meters at the 1924 Olympics. Contributed to the popularity of speed skating in Finland and was a pivotal figure in the sport's history.

Continue Reading

Thomas Pitt

Businessman and English politician
Born
July 5th, 1653 372 years ago
Died
April 28th, 1726 299 years ago — 72 years old

A prominent figure in 18th century England, played key roles in both business and politics. Served as the Member of Parliament for the borough of Old Sarum. Established significant trade links and engaged in the development of the East India Company, contributing to its prominence during the period. Became a notable influence in local governance and economic initiatives. His career reflected a blend of commercial ambition and public service.

Continue Reading

Rolf Landauer

Physicist known for Landauer's principle
Born
February 4th, 1927 98 years ago
Died
April 28th, 1999 26 years ago — 72 years old

A German-American physicist and academic, made significant contributions in the field of theoretical physics, particularly information theory and its relation to thermodynamics. In 1961, introduced Landauer's principle, which established a fundamental link between information processing and energy consumption. Worked at IBM Thomas J. Watson Research Center and contributed to the development of quantum computing and noise in electronic devices. Held various academic positions, including professor at universities in the United States.

Continue Reading