Zillur Rahman
Bangladeshi politician, 19th President
A politician served as the 19th President of Bangladesh from 2009 until 2013. Prior to this role, held various positions including Minister of Law and Parliamentary Affairs. Active in politics since the 1950s, affiliated with the Awami League party. Contributed to debates on important national issues and was involved in several legislative reforms. Demonstrated a commitment to the values and goals of the Awami League throughout a political career spanning several decades.
Served as the 19th President of Bangladesh
Held various ministerial roles in government
Other People Born on March 9th
Johnnie Johnson
Air marshal and distinguished pilot
Born
March 9th, 1915 110 years ago
Died
January 30th, 2001 24 years ago — 85 years old
An English air marshal and pilot, made significant contributions during World War II. Served in the Royal Air Force, where played a crucial role as a fighter pilot. Known for engaging in numerous combat missions and becoming one of the most decorated pilots in RAF history. Commanded various squadrons, demonstrating leadership skills and tactical expertise. After the war, continued to serve in the RAF and held several high-ranking positions, contributing to the development of air strategy in post-war Britain.
Continue ReadingDavid Weatherall
Physician and geneticist, pioneer in hemoglobin disorders
Born
March 9th, 1933 92 years ago
Died
December 8th, 2018 7 years ago — 85 years old
A prominent physician and geneticist, contributions centered on research into hemoglobin disorders, particularly thalassemia and sickle cell disease. Served as a professor at the University of Oxford, influencing the field of genetics and medicine. Contributed to the understanding of inherited blood disorders through both research and clinical work. Championed the study of genetics in health care, advocating for advancements in treatment and prevention strategies. Authored numerous publications and textbooks, which shaped the education of future generations in molecular medicine.
Continue ReadingRobert Calvert
English singer-songwriter and playwright
Born
March 9th, 1945 80 years ago
Died
August 14th, 1988 37 years ago — 43 years old
An English singer-songwriter and playwright, contributions spanned music and theater. In the early 1970s, became a member of the space rock band Hawkwind, known for albums including "Doremi Fasol Latido" and "Warrior on the Edge of Time." Following his work with Hawkwind, embarked on a solo career with albums such as "Captain Lockheed and the Starfighters," which displayed unique storytelling and musical style. Also engaged in theatrical projects, writing plays that often incorporated elements of his musical background.
Continue ReadingClara Rockmore
Classical violinist and theremin virtuoso
Born
March 9th, 1911 114 years ago
Died
1998 27 years ago — 87 years old
A prominent violin prodigy, significant contributions were made to classical music through the theremin. Rockmore gained recognition in the 20th century for her performances and technical mastery of the instrument. Collaborations with composers and musicians, including Leonard Bernstein and Aaron Copland, showcased her innovative playing style. She actively promoted the theremin, broadening its acceptance in concert settings. Numerous recordings highlight the unique tonal qualities of her theremin performances, leading to the establishment of the instrument as a serious musical entity.
Continue ReadingAndrew Viterbi
Engineer and Qualcomm co-founder
Born
March 9th, 1935 90 years ago
An American engineer and businessman, co-founded Qualcomm Inc., a global leader in wireless technology. Developed the Viterbi algorithm, a fundamental statistical decoding algorithm widely used in digital communication, including mobile phones and satellite communications. Made significant contributions to coding theory and telecommunications, influencing the design and efficiency of communication systems. Served as a professor at the University of California, San Diego, influencing many through academia.
Continue ReadingGeorge Lincoln Rockwell
Founder of the American Nazi Party
Born
March 9th, 1918 107 years ago
Died
August 25th, 1967 58 years ago — 49 years old
An American commander and politician, founded the American Nazi Party in 1959. Advocated for white supremacy and antisemitism through speeches and publications. Challenged the mainstream political discourse of the 1960s with extreme right ideology. Assassinated in 1967, leaving a controversial legacy regarding race relations in America.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on March 20th
James Justinian Morier
Turkish-English author and diplomat
Born
1780 245 years ago
Died
March 20th, 1849 176 years ago — 69 years old
An influential author and diplomat primarily active in the early 19th century. Morier served as a diplomat in Persia, where his experiences greatly informed his literary works. His notable publications include 'The Adventures of Hajji Baba of Ispahan', which satirizes the Persian culture and provides insights into Persian life during that era. The book gained significant acclaim and was pivotal in introducing Western audiences to Persian society and customs. Morier’s work is recognized for its rich narrative and detail, reflecting his deep understanding of the region.
Continue ReadingAdegoke Adelabu
Nigerian politician and journalist
Born
1915 110 years ago
Died
March 20th, 1958 67 years ago — 43 years old
A prominent merchant and journalist in Nigeria, played a significant role in the political landscape during the mid-20th century. Founded the reformist newspaper, the 'Nigerian Mint,' which addressed socio-political issues. Served as the first member of the Western House of Assembly representing the Ibadan Constituency. Established the Western Nigeria Youth Movement, advocating for the rights of the youth. His political career was marked by a commitment to social change within the Yoruba community. Passed away in 1958, leaving behind a legacy in Nigerian journalism and politics.
Continue ReadingHennie Aucamp
South African poet and author
Born
January 20th, 1934 91 years ago
Died
March 20th, 2014 11 years ago — 80 years old
Born in 1934, this individual was a poet, author, and academic in South Africa. A significant contributor to Afrikaans literature, numerous works were published including poetry collections and novels. Academic roles included teaching literature at universities, influencing a generation of writers and poets. The literary community recognized contributions through various awards.
Continue ReadingJuliana of the Netherlands
Queen of the Netherlands (1948-1980)
Born
April 30th, 1909 116 years ago
Died
March 20th, 2004 21 years ago — 94 years old
Ruled as queen from 1948 to 1980, serving during a period of national rebuilding post-World War II. Advocated for social welfare and education reform. Worked on diplomatic relations, notably strengthening ties within the European community. Abdicated in 1980 in favor of her daughter, Beatrix.
Continue ReadingStewart Udall
American Secretary of the Interior
Born
January 31st, 1920 105 years ago
Died
March 20th, 2010 15 years ago — 90 years old
Served as the 37th United States Secretary of the Interior from 1961 to 1969 under Presidents John F. Kennedy and Lyndon B. Johnson. Played a key role in the creation of several national parks, including the expansion of the National Park System. Focused on environmental issues and advocated for conservation efforts during a transformative era in American environmental policy. Worked on the establishment of the Land and Water Conservation Fund, which aimed to protect natural resources.
Continue ReadingThomas Seymour
English general and politician, 1st Baron
Born
1508 517 years ago
Died
March 20th, 1549 476 years ago — 41 years old
1st Baron Seymour of Sudeley served as an English general and politician during the Tudor period. He was appointed Lord Warden of the Cinque Ports. Seymour was a prominent figure in court politics and held significant power during the reign of Edward VI. He married Catherine Parr, the widow of Henry VIII, which elevated his status. After Parr's death, his ambitions led to political intrigue and conflict with the governing council. His attempts to consolidate power ultimately resulted in his arrest and execution for treason in 1549.
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