Afonso IV of Portugal
King of Portugal, Battle of Atoleiros
Ruled as king from 1325 to 1357, focused on consolidating power and territorial expansion. Engaged in conflicts against the Kingdom of León and facilitated the military efforts during the Battle of Atoleiros, which solidified Portuguese resistance against external threats. Promoted royal authority and maintained the stability of the kingdom through strategic marriages and alliances. Issued significant legal reforms and established the first Portuguese criminal law, contributing to the development of the legal system.
Oversaw the victory at the Battle of Atoleiros in 1337
Established the first Portuguese criminal law in 1340
Expanded territorial holdings through strategic marriages
Other People Born on February 8th
Leighton Vander Esch
American football linebacker, Pro Bowler
Born
February 8th, 1996 29 years ago
An accomplished linebacker, played for the Dallas Cowboys in the National Football League (NFL). Achieved significant recognition after a standout collegiate career at Boise State. Drafted in the first round of the 2018 NFL Draft, quickly made an impact on the Cowboys' defense as a rookie. Earned a Pro Bowl selection in 2019, showcasing skills in tackling and coverage. Overcame injuries to continue contributing to the team in subsequent seasons, known for strong performances in critical games.
Continue ReadingJoshua Kimmich
German footballer and Bayern Munich star
Born
February 8th, 1995 30 years ago
A professional footballer, acclaimed for versatility and competitiveness on the field. Primarily played as a midfielder and right-back, contributing significantly to team dynamics. Began his career at VfB Stuttgart before transferring to Bayern Munich in 2015. Established strong performances, garnering attention for tactical intelligence and stamina. Has been part of numerous Bundesliga championship-winning squads and played a pivotal role in Bayern's 2019-2020 UEFA Champions League triumph.
Continue ReadingZakir Husain
Indian politician and academic leader
Born
February 8th, 1897 128 years ago
Died
May 3rd, 1969 56 years ago — 72 years old
An influential academic and politician, served as the 3rd president of India from 1967 until death in 1969. Earned a reputation as a key figure in education and administration, contributing significantly to India's development in these areas. Also held the position of vice president of India prior to the presidency and was instrumental in various educational reforms.
Continue ReadingZac Guildford
Rugby player, World Cup participant
Born
February 8th, 1989 36 years ago
A rugby player represented New Zealand at various levels, including the national team. Guildford played as a winger and made notable contributions in multiple international matches. Participation in the 2011 Rugby World Cup highlighted skills and performance on the field. Guildford's domestic career included significant time with the Crusaders in Super Rugby, where strong performances contributed to the team’s success.
Continue ReadingPaula Modersohn-Becker
German painter of expressive works
Born
February 8th, 1876 149 years ago
Died
November 20th, 1907 118 years ago — 31 years old
Born in 1876, a German painter emerged as a significant figure in early 20th-century art. Modersohn-Becker developed a unique style that combined elements of post-impressionism and expressionism. Emphasizing themes of motherhood and the female experience, artwork highlighted the role of women in society. The artist produced notable self-portraits and paintings that featured intimate depictions of rural life. Tragically, her career was cut short when she died at the age of 31, yet several of her works gained recognition posthumously.
Continue ReadingKlay Thompson
NBA basketball player, 3-time champion
Born
February 8th, 1990 35 years ago
Professional basketball player, Thompson played for the Golden State Warriors in the NBA. He was selected 11th overall in the 2011 NBA Draft. As a shooting guard, he earned a reputation as one of the league's most prolific shooters. He contributed to the Warriors' championships in 2015, 2017, and 2018. Thompson is also a 5-time NBA All-Star and holds records for three-point shooting.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on May 28th
Frank Cowper
Yachtsman, author, and illustrator
Born
January 14th, 1849 176 years ago
Died
May 28th, 1930 95 years ago — 81 years old
Engaged in competitive yacht racing and authored several works about yachting. Contributed illustrations to books about maritime activities. Involved in the design and development of yachts and wrote extensively on sailing techniques and navigation. Played a significant role in promoting yacht racing in England during the early 20th century.
Continue ReadingMalcolm Glazer
Businessman and owner of NFL teams
Born
August 15th, 1928 97 years ago
Died
May 28th, 2014 11 years ago — 85 years old
A businessman and investor, acquired the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 1995 and the Manchester United football club in 2005. Established an investment firm, the First Allied Corporation, which focused on varied sectors including real estate and restaurants. Became a prominent figure in the sports industry due to ownership of these high-profile teams, influencing their operations and branding. Oversaw the Buccaneers' Super Bowl victory in 2003, marking a significant achievement in American football.
Continue ReadingSy Oliver
American singer-songwriter and trumpeter
Born
December 17th, 1910 115 years ago
Died
May 28th, 1988 37 years ago — 77 years old
A prominent figure in American music, contributed significantly to the big band era as a trumpeter and arranger. Worked with notable orchestras, including the Cab Calloway Orchestra and the Tommy Dorsey Orchestra. Developed a style that blended jazz and popular music, and composed many memorable songs that became standards. Collaborated with various artists and groups, showcasing talents in both performance and composition.
Continue ReadingJohn Tolos
Wrestler with legendary career achievements
Born
September 18th, 1930 95 years ago
Died
May 28th, 2004 21 years ago — 73 years old
A notable figure in professional wrestling, Tolos achieved significant success in the sport. Competed primarily during the 1950s to the 1980s, Tolos earned recognition for his performances in various wrestling promotions across North America. His high-profile rivalries and ability to connect with audiences contributed to his popularity. In addition to his in-ring career, Tolos was known as a trainer, sharing wrestling knowledge with younger talents. He also played a role in promoting wrestling events, showcasing his skills beyond the ring.
Continue ReadingEddie Romero
Filipino film director and producer
Born
July 7th, 1924 101 years ago
Died
May 28th, 2013 12 years ago — 88 years old
Contributed to the Filipino film industry as a director, producer, and screenwriter. Directed several films that garnered both national and international acclaim. Collaborated with various actors and filmmakers, establishing a legacy in Philippine cinema. Received recognition at prestigious film festivals, showcasing Filipino culture through cinematic storytelling.
Continue ReadingJens Christian Skou
Chemist and Nobel Laureate in Chemistry
Born
October 8th, 1918 107 years ago
Died
May 28th, 2018 7 years ago — 99 years old
A Danish chemist and physiologist contributed significantly to the understanding of ion transport in cells. In 1957, conducted groundbreaking research on Na+/K+ ATPase, an enzyme crucial for maintaining sodium and potassium balance across cell membranes. Established foundational concepts in biochemistry and physiology that have influenced various fields of medical research. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1997 for discoveries related to ion transport.
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