Al Wistert
American football player and coach, Eagles
Played as a tackle in the NFL, primarily for the Philadelphia Eagles from 1943 to 1951. Transitioned to coaching, leading various teams at the high school and college levels after completing his playing career. Recognized for his contributions to the sport during his tenure as a player and coach, and honored with induction into the Pennsylvania Sports Hall of Fame.
Played tackle for the Philadelphia Eagles
Coached at various high schools and colleges
Inducted into the Pennsylvania Sports Hall of Fame
Other People Born on December 28th
Mauricio Lemos
Footballer; played for club teams
Born
December 28th, 1995 30 years ago
Born in 1995, a Uruguayan footballer played as a defender. Began professional career with Club Atlético Cerro. Later transferred to represent several clubs, including U.D. Las Palmas in Spain and then to their parent club's connection with Crotone in Italy. Participated in various international competitions and contributed to club successes both domestically and in European tournaments.
Continue ReadingMichel Petrucciani
Renowned jazz pianist and composer
Born
December 28th, 1962 63 years ago
Died
January 6th, 1999 27 years ago — 36 years old
A prominent jazz pianist and composer, recognized for exceptional technique and emotive playing style. Born in France, faced physical challenges due to a genetic condition affecting bone growth. Relocated to the United States where collaborations with various jazz legends took place. Recorded multiple albums throughout the career, showcasing a blend of jazz, classical, and world music. Gained acclaim for live performances and contributed to the jazz genre until passing at a young age.
Continue ReadingKhalid Boulahrouz
Dutch footballer and defender
Born
December 28th, 1981 44 years ago
Played professional football primarily as a defender from 1999 to 2017. Played for clubs including Ajax, RKC Waalwijk, and VfB Stuttgart in Germany. Represented the Netherlands national team, contributing to entries in multiple international tournaments. Known for robust defensive skills.
Continue ReadingAndré Holland
Actor in 'Moonlight' and 'The Knick'
Born
December 28th, 1979 46 years ago
Born in 1979, an American actor gained recognition for roles in film and television. Achievements include starring in the Academy Award-winning film 'Moonlight' as Kevin, and playing Dr. Algernon Edwards in the acclaimed series 'The Knick'. Training in theatre led to a successful career on stage as well. Holland's performances encompass a range of genres, illustrating versatility and dedication to the craft.
Continue Reading12th Dalai Lama
Religious leader and spiritual figure
Born
December 28th, 1856 169 years ago
Died
April 25th, 1875 151 years ago — 18 years old
The 12th Dalai Lama served as a prominent spiritual leader in Tibetan Buddhism. Significant contributions included advocating for peace, compassion, and the promotion of Tibetan culture and religion. Ascending to leadership at a young age, the Dalai Lama engaged in various political and spiritual matters for Tibet, representing the Tibetan people during challenging periods. The Dalai Lama's teachings emphasized the importance of compassion, loving-kindness, and unity among diverse communities.
Continue ReadingJohn Molson
Canadian brewer and businessman
Born
December 28th, 1763 262 years ago
Died
January 11th, 1836 190 years ago — 72 years old
Founded the Molson Brewing Company in 1786, establishing one of North America's oldest breweries. The successful enterprise contributed significantly to the beer industry in Canada. Under leadership, the brewery expanded its operations, becoming a major player in the North American beverage market. Molson also engaged in various business ventures and was involved in community interests, including the establishment of the first Montreal theater.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on March 5th
Joseph Weizenbaum
Computer Scientist and Author of ELIZA
Born
January 8th, 1923 103 years ago
Died
March 5th, 2008 18 years ago — 85 years old
Born in Germany, contributed significantly to computer science and artificial intelligence. Developed ELIZA, an early natural language processing program which simulated conversation. This work explored the relationship between human and machine communication. In addition to his programming work, authored several influential texts on the ethical implications of artificial intelligence and technology's impact on society. Immigrated to the United States in the early 1930s, where he continued his research at various academic institutions.
Continue ReadingKurt Moll
German opera singer with Wagnerian roles
Born
1938 88 years ago
Died
March 5th, 2017 9 years ago — 79 years old
A renowned opera singer, specialized in bass performances. Gained recognition for roles in operas such as Wagner's 'Die Meistersinger von Nürnberg' and 'Tannhäuser'. Contributed to major opera houses, including the Bayreuth Festival and the Vienna State Opera. Possessed a powerful voice, which made an enduring impact in the operatic world.
Continue ReadingCharles B. Pierce
American director and screenwriter of cult films
Born
1938 88 years ago
Died
March 5th, 2010 16 years ago — 72 years old
A director, producer, and screenwriter, Charles B. Pierce specialized in low-budget horror and regional films. He began his career in the 1970s, creating works that became cult classics, particularly known for blending suspense with a unique storytelling style. His film 'The Legend of Boggy Creek' (1972) focused on the folklore surrounding a Bigfoot-like creature and gained significant attention, contributing to the popularity of the docudrama genre. He later directed 'The Town That Dreaded Sundown' (1976), inspired by real-life events in Texas. Pierce's films often featured local talent and settings that reflected the culture of the American South, establishing a distinct cinematic voice.
Continue ReadingPierre-Simon Laplace
French mathematician and astronomer
Born
March 23rd, 1749 277 years ago
Died
March 5th, 1827 199 years ago — 77 years old
Contributions to mathematics and astronomy significantly influenced the development of these fields. Introduced the concept of Laplace transforms, providing tools for solving differential equations. Collaborated on the formulation of celestial mechanics and worked extensively on the stability of the solar system. Published the treatise 'Mécanique Céleste', which synthesized and expanded Newton's theories, earning recognition in both mathematics and physics.
Continue ReadingOla L. Mize
American colonel, Medal of Honor recipient
Born
August 28th, 1931 95 years ago
Died
March 5th, 2014 12 years ago — 82 years old
Served as a colonel in the United States Army. Participated in the Vietnam War, where significant acts of valor occurred. Awarded the Medal of Honor for extraordinary heroism during a combat mission in 1969. After military service, engaged in various veteran support initiatives.
Continue ReadingPhilip Madoc
Welsh-English actor, most famous for 'The Siege of Jadotville'
Born
1934 92 years ago
Died
March 5th, 2012 14 years ago — 78 years old
An accomplished actor with a career spanning several decades, performed in numerous television series and films. Gained recognition for roles in 'Doctor Who', 'The Drought', and 'The Siege of Jadotville'. Also had notable appearances in British television classics such as 'The Sweeney' and 'Midsomer Murders'. Participated in the Royal Shakespeare Company, showcasing a strong theatre background. Contributed to the arts until the end of life, with various roles highlighting his versatile acting skills.
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