Alexandre de Serpa Pinto

Portuguese soldier and explorer

Alexandre de Serpa Pinto - Explorers & Adventurers born 1846
Born

1846
180 years ago

Died
Category

Explorers & Adventurers

Country

Portugal

Links & References

Served as a military officer and explored much of Africa during the late 19th century. Participated in the first Portuguese expedition to cross the African continent from west to east. Documented experiences and collected valuable information about the geography and cultures encountered. Authored a detailed account of explorations in 'Across Africa', contributing to the body of knowledge regarding African regions during that era.

Led the first Portuguese expedition across Africa

Published 'Across Africa'

Other People Who Died on December 28th

Harry Reid

American politician and senator
Born
December 2nd, 1939 86 years ago
Died
December 28th, 2021 4 years ago — 82 years old

Served as a U.S. Senator from Nevada from 1987 to 2017. Held the position of Senate Majority Leader from 2007 to 2015. Managed significant legislative initiatives and played a critical role in healthcare reform and energy policy. Prior to the Senate, served as the 25th Lieutenant Governor of Nevada from 1971 to 1975 and was a member of the Nevada Assembly. Focused on issues pertinent to the state and national interests throughout Congressional career.

Continue Reading

Francesco Maria Grimaldi

Italian mathematician and physicist, wave theory
Born
April 2nd, 1618 408 years ago
Died
December 28th, 1663 362 years ago — 45 years old

Born in 1618, significant contributions to the fields of mathematics and physics were made. Grimaldi is recognized for his studies in optics and the wave theory of light. His experimentation with diffraction led to a better understanding of light behavior. These contributions were foundational for subsequent optical research.

Continue Reading

Katharine McCormick

Biologist, philanthropist, women's rights advocate
Born
August 27th, 1875 151 years ago
Died
December 28th, 1967 58 years ago — 92 years old

Born in 1875, a prominent biologist and philanthropist contributed significantly to women's reproductive rights. Played a vital role in funding research for the development of the birth control pill. Actively participated in the women's suffrage movement and improved access to education for women in science. Co-founded several organizations focused on women's rights and health.

Continue Reading

William L. Shirer

Journalist and historian of WWII broadcasts
Born
February 23rd, 1904 122 years ago
Died
December 28th, 1993 32 years ago — 89 years old

A prominent journalist and historian, this individual covered major events during World War II. Early in his career, worked for the Chicago Tribune and later joined CBS, becoming a key radio correspondent in Europe. Provided live radio broadcasts during pivotal moments of the war, including the fall of Paris and the end of the conflict. Authored several historical works, with 'The Rise and Fall of the Third Reich' being the most notable, offering a comprehensive history of Nazi Germany and its leaders. The comprehensive research and narrative style contributed significantly to the field of historical journalism.

Continue Reading

Philippe Panneton

Canadian physician and diplomat
Born
April 30th, 1895 131 years ago
Died
December 28th, 1960 65 years ago — 65 years old

Born in 1895, a prominent Canadian physician and academic contributed significantly to medicine and international diplomacy. Held various academic positions, including serving as a professor at a prominent Canadian university. Actively participated in diplomatic efforts representing Canada in international health organizations. His work focused on public health and medical education, bridging gaps between academia and government policy. Retired from active practice but remained involved in health-related initiatives until the later years of life.

Continue Reading

Joseph Ruskin

American actor and producer
Born
April 14th, 1924 102 years ago
Died
December 28th, 2013 12 years ago — 89 years old

An American actor and producer, had a career spanning over six decades. Appeared in numerous television series and films, with appearances in popular shows such as 'Star Trek', 'The Twilight Zone', and 'Mission: Impossible'. Additionally, featured in films including 'The Way We Were' and 'The Gambler'. Gained recognition for versatility in portraying a wide range of characters, particularly in roles that required a strong presence, often embodying characters of authority or gravitas.

Continue Reading