Velupillai Prabhakaran

Sri Lankan rebel leader, LTTE founder

Velupillai Prabhakaran - Leaders & Politicians born November 26th, 1954
Born
Died
Category

Leaders & Politicians

Country

Sri Lanka

Links & References

A prominent figure in Sri Lankan conflict, played a significant role in the establishment of the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) in 1976. The organization sought an independent Tamil state in the north and east of Sri Lanka, engaged in an armed struggle against the Sri Lankan government for decades. Under leadership, the LTTE was involved in numerous military operations, including suicide bombings and targeted assassinations. The conflict escalated into a prolonged civil war that lasted until 2009. Prabhakaran was ultimately killed in the final stages of the civil war.

Founded the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam

Led a prolonged civil war for Tamil independence

Implemented guerrilla warfare tactics

Other People Born on November 26th

Margaret Boden

Computer scientist and psychologist
Born
November 26th, 1936 89 years ago

A pioneer in artificial intelligence and cognitive science, this English scholar extensively researched the intersection of psychology and computer science. Contributions included the development of theories on creativity and the role of AI in understanding intellectual processes. Authored influential works that helped shape the field, particularly in the understanding of human thought processes and machine intelligence. Engaged in establishing the foundations for current AI paradigms.

Continue Reading

V. K. Murthy

Cinematographer for acclaimed films
Born
November 26th, 1923 102 years ago
Died
April 7th, 2014 12 years ago — 90 years old

A prominent Indian cinematographer, contributed to the Indian film industry with a distinguished career spanning several decades. Worked with acclaimed directors and was integral to the visual storytelling in Indian cinema. Notably, partnered with Satyajit Ray on films such as 'Pather Panchali' and 'The Apu Trilogy', which received international recognition. Received the prestigious Dadasaheb Phalke Award in 2008 for lifetime achievement in cinema, highlighting contributions to the craft of cinematography.

Continue Reading

Des Walker

Footballer and England national team player
Born
November 26th, 1965 60 years ago

Played as a central defender in professional football. Made over 500 appearances in the Football League and represented the England national team in international competitions. Played a significant role in Nottingham Forest's defense during the late 1980s and early 1990s. Had a successful club career with notable stints at Sheffield Wednesday and Nottingham Forest, contributing to league campaigns and cup competitions.

Continue Reading

Richard Hauptmann

Murderer in the Lindbergh kidnapping case
Born
November 26th, 1899 126 years ago
Died
April 3rd, 1936 90 years ago — 36 years old

A German-American carpenter was convicted of the 1932 kidnapping and murder of Charles Lindbergh Jr., the infant son of aviator Charles Lindbergh and Anne Morrow Lindbergh. Hauptmann was arrested when authorities traced ransom money back to him. He maintained innocence throughout the trial, but the evidence presented, including a missing step ladder found at the crime scene linked to him, led to a guilty verdict. The trial garnered massive media attention, marking it as one of the most publicized criminal cases in American history. Hauptmann was sentenced to death and executed in 1936.

Continue Reading

Katharine Drexel

American nun and saint known for philanthropy
Born
November 26th, 1858 167 years ago
Died
1955 71 years ago — 97 years old

A prominent figure in American Catholicism, established the Sisters of the Blessed Sacrament, focusing on education for Native Americans and African Americans. Founded numerous schools and missions across the United States. Recognized for her efforts to promote education and religious instruction among marginalized communities, reinforcing the role of the Catholic Church in social justice. Canonized as a saint in 2000 by Pope John Paul II.

Continue Reading

Jean-Jacques d'Ortous de Mairan

Geophysicist and astronomer
Born
November 26th, 1678 347 years ago
Died
February 20th, 1771 255 years ago — 92 years old

Contributed to celestial mechanics and the study of atmospheric phenomena. Devised explanations for the variations in the length of day and night. Researched the nature of tides and lunar influence on Earth. Served as a member of the French Academy of Sciences, contributing to the development of scientific knowledge in the 18th century.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on May 18th

Lothar Schmid

German chess player and arbiter
Born
May 10th, 1928 98 years ago
Died
May 18th, 2013 13 years ago — 85 years old

Accomplished chess player and international arbiter. Played in numerous tournaments throughout the 20th century. Achieved the title of International Arbiter in 1984. Contributed to various chess publications and served as an organizer for major chess events. Actively participated in the chess community, promoting the game across different platforms.

Continue Reading

Dolla

American rapper known for 'Who the F**k Is That?'
Born
1987 39 years ago
Died
May 18th, 2009 17 years ago — 22 years old

Born in the United States, this rapper gained recognition for his single 'Who the F**k Is That?' in the late 2000s. The song showcased a unique style that contributed to the rising popularity of hip-hop during that era. Collaborations with artists like T-Pain and Akon also marked a significant part of his career. Despite a promising start, the life of this rapper ended tragically in 2009 when he was killed in a shooting in Los Angeles.

Continue Reading

Jeannette Rankin

Social worker and first female congresswoman
Born
June 11th, 1880 146 years ago
Died
May 18th, 1973 53 years ago — 92 years old

A prominent figure in American politics and social work, this individual became the first woman elected to the United States Congress in 1916. Serving as a Republican representative from Montana, this individual advocated for pacifism, women's suffrage, and labor reforms. Initially elected before the passage of the Nineteenth Amendment, this individual was outspoken against World War I and maintained a strong anti-war stance throughout the career. Re-elected to Congress in 1940, this individual continued to champion peace and social justice, reflecting personal beliefs on disarmament and social equity.

Continue Reading

Steve Forrest

American drummer, played for Placebo
Born
September 25th, 1986 39 years ago
Died
May 18th, 2013 13 years ago — 26 years old

A drummer, prominently associated with the band Placebo since 2006. Contributed to the band's sound through various albums and tours. Prior to joining Placebo, worked with other bands and gained experience in the music industry. Active in live performances and studio recordings, showcasing a blend of alternative rock styles.

Continue Reading

Eric IX of Sweden

King of Sweden, established Christianity
Died
May 18th, 1160 866 years ago — None years old

Ruled as King of Sweden from 1156 until death in 1160. Played a significant role in the Christianization of Sweden, promoting the spread of Christianity among the Swedish people. Successfully formed alliances with neighboring regions and strengthened the monarchy's authority. Undertook military campaigns to protect and expand the realm, including conflicts with both internal rivals and external threats. His reign contributed to the establishment of Sweden as a more unified state.

Continue Reading

Hal Chase

Baseball player and manager
Born
February 13th, 1883 143 years ago
Died
May 18th, 1947 79 years ago — 64 years old

Played as a first baseman for teams including the Chicago White Sox and the New York Yankees. Managed the New York Yankees and the Newark Bears, contributing to the development of the teams. Involved in a major gambling scandal that influenced the game's integrity and rules. Inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1982, recognizing professional contributions to baseball.

Continue Reading