Xanana Gusmão

Timorese soldier and 1st President

Xanana Gusmão - Timorese soldier and 1st President
Born

June 20th, 1946
78 years ago

Category

Leaders & Politicians

Country

East Timor

Links & References

A significant figure in the struggle for East Timorese independence, played a crucial role in the resistance against Indonesian occupation. As a leader of the armed resistance and later as a political figure, contributed to the establishment of East Timor as an independent nation. Served as the first president from 2002 to 2007, overseeing the early years of statehood and nation-building efforts. Transitioned to a role in government as the Prime Minister from 2015 to 2017, promoting development and stability in the fledgling nation.

Led the resistance against Indonesian occupation

Served as the first President of East Timor

Held the position of Prime Minister of East Timor

Other People Born on June 20th

Audie Murphy

Lieutenant and Medal of Honor recipient
Born
June 20th, 1925 99 years ago
Died
May 28th, 1971 54 years ago — 45 years old

Served in the United States Army during World War II, earning the Medal of Honor for extraordinary heroism in combat. After the war, pursued a career in acting, becoming well known for the film 'To Hell and Back,' which detailed his experiences. Portrayed himself in the movie, which became a commercial success. Also acted in several other Westerns and war films, including 'Red Badge of Courage' and 'The Wild and the Innocent.'

Continue Reading

Simin Behbahani

Iranian poet and activist
Born
June 20th, 1927 97 years ago
Died
August 19th, 2014 10 years ago — 87 years old

Born in Tehran, this poet became an influential figure in contemporary Persian literature. With a career spanning several decades, contributions included extensive poetry collections and numerous social activism efforts. Works often addressed themes of women’s rights and freedom. Her poetry was characterized by traditional styles infused with modern perspectives. International literary recognition came alongside advocacy for civil rights in Iran, particularly during political upheavals. Behbahani received numerous accolades both in Iran and globally for her literary contributions, including the title of 'Lioness of Iran.'

Continue Reading

Jacob De la Gardie

Swedish soldier and Lord High Constable
Born
June 20th, 1583 441 years ago
Died
August 22nd, 1652 372 years ago — 69 years old

Born in 1583, served as a soldier and politician in Sweden. Held the title of Lord High Constable. Participated in military campaigns during the Thirty Years' War and played a significant role in Swedish politics. Commanded troops and contributed to various military strategies for the Swedish army. Engaged in building and developing the Swedish territory, including involvement in the establishment of cities and infrastructure.

Continue Reading

Alan Longmuir

Scottish bass player and songwriter
Born
June 20th, 1948 76 years ago
Died
July 2nd, 2018 6 years ago — 70 years old

A prominent bass player and songwriter contributed significantly to the music scene during the 1970s and 1980s. Co-founded the band Bay City Rollers, which gained immense popularity with their upbeat pop sound and catchy melodies. The group achieved multiple chart-topping hits across the globe, with a notable presence in the UK and the US. Longmuir's musical talents and contributions were integral to the band's success during its heyday, including several albums that charted well.

Continue Reading

Georges Dufrénoy

French painter and academic
Born
June 20th, 1870 154 years ago
Died
December 9th, 1943 81 years ago — 73 years old

A painter and academic active in the early to mid-20th century. Associated with the Fauvism movement, contributed to the development of modern French painting. Served as a professor at the École des Beaux-Arts in Paris, influencing a generation of artists. Engaged with various artistic styles, maintaining a focus on landscape and portrait painting throughout the career.

Continue Reading

Wilhelm Zaisser

German soldier and politician
Born
June 20th, 1893 131 years ago
Died
1958 67 years ago — 65 years old

Born in 1893, the individual served in the military during World War I. Post-war, the person became involved in politics, joining the Socialist Unity Party of Germany. From 1949 until 1954, held the position of Minister of State Security in East Germany, overseeing the Stasi, the official state security service. This role included significant influence in shaping the security and surveillance strategies of the East German government during the Cold War.

Continue Reading