Mikhail S. Gorbachev   Russia: Protagonist of ‘glasnost’ Born : 1931 After the Russian revolution, the Russian people were living behind an `iron curtain’ as Stalin and his successors ruled that country in an autocratic manner. It was Khrushchev and Bulganin who initiated a policy of liberalisation. With the emergence of Mikhail Sergeyevich Gorbachev, this policy of liberalisation found full play. Gorbachev would always find a distinctive position in history for...

Shakuntala Devi India: Human Computer   Hailed as a ‘Human Computer’ because of her extraordinary talents in solving complex mathematical problems, Shakuntala Devi also found her place in the Guinness Book of Records. She has astonished scientists across the world by her capacity to solve mathematical problems in a jiffy without any mechanical aid. Usually these complex mathematical calculations are carried at lightning speed on computers. It can be said that...

Christine Keeler   England: Heroine of Profumo scandal She he had what is generally described as ‘body beautiful’. Her dazzling beauty created such a political storm in England that the Defence Minister John Profumo had to resign from the cabinet ending his promising political career. Keeler was a ‘call girl’ lending her passion to the elite of Great Britain. Her father was a soldier who died when she was just a...

Jacqueline Kennedy   America: Priestess of fashion Jacqueline Kennedy in her prime was considered as one of the most beautiful, mod and liberated women. She had a very glamorous personality and had a penchant for expensive garments. Her wardrobe was discussed all over the world and copied by adoring fans. She was always in the news because of her charming personality and costly costumes. She also visited India in 1962 and...

Ben Johnson Canada: Sprinter Ben Johnson is one of the most discussed short distance runners in the B world of athletics. His rivalry with Carl Lewis of US in the 100 metre sprint is as well known as of Mary Decker and Zola Budd amongst women athletes. By the way, Zola Budd is also called ‘Floe Jo’ in the world of sports. Ben Johnson, born in Jamaica, was the sixth child...

Sebastian Coe   Great Britain: Ace middle distance runner Born :  1956 A part from being an ace middle distance runner, Sebastian Coe won undying fame by partaking in Moscow Olympics in 1980 despite the US boycott with other countries for political reasons. His participation was a befitting reply to those who tried to play politics in sports. Newbold Sebastian Coe was born on September 29, 1956 at, London. He was...

Sergey Bubka   Russia: Unexcelled pole-vault record holder Born : 1963 If there is any athlete who left the audiences completely mesmerised by his astonishing performances, it is Sergey Bubka of Russia. He is a pole-vaulter par excellence, who has broken his own records at least 25 times. His performance in every competition leaves the audience only with an impression, and i.e., he may reach a height that could be difficult„...

Mike Tyson America: Boxing Born : 1966 Mike Tyson burst upon the boxing scene with a bang in 1985. He was labelled as ‘the iron man with a perfect body’. He became the world’s heavyweight champion at the early age of 20, which in itself was a remarkable feat. He earned in two years what the legendary Mohammad All (Cassius Marcellus Clay) earned in 15 years. It was presumed that he...