António Manoel de Vilhena
Grand Master of the Order of Saint John
Served as Grand Master of the Order of Saint John from 1722 to 1736. Focused on the fortifications of Valletta and the naval capabilities of the order. Led military campaigns against the Ottoman Empire during the Great Turkish War. Improved the management of Malta and its economy through various infrastructure projects and reforms.
Strengthened the fortifications of Valletta
Led successful military campaigns against the Ottomans
Reformed the economic infrastructure of Malta
Other People Born on May 28th
Ruby Payne-Scott
Australian physicist and astronomer
Born
May 28th, 1912 113 years ago
Died
May 25th, 1981 44 years ago — 68 years old
Contributed significantly to radio astronomy in Australia. Worked at the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO), where research advanced understanding of solar emissions and their effects on the Earth. Played a key role in developing techniques for detecting solar radio bursts, which enhanced knowledge of solar activity. Provided foundational work in radio astronomy during a time when women faced significant barriers in the scientific community.
Continue ReadingGeorge Ashlin
Irish architect, co-designer of St Colman's Cathedral
Born
May 28th, 1837 188 years ago
Died
1921 105 years ago — 84 years old
An architect from Ireland, contributed to the design of St Colman's Cathedral located in Cobh, County Cork. The cathedral was built in the Gothic Revival style, characterized by its intricate stonework and stunning stained glass. Ashlin collaborated with his partner, Edward Welby Pugin, throughout the construction process, which began in 1868 and completed in 1915. His work showcased the architectural trends of the 19th century, emphasizing the revival of Gothic elements in ecclesiastical buildings.
Continue ReadingYouri Egorov
Pianist acclaimed for classical performances
Born
May 28th, 1954 71 years ago
Died
April 16th, 1988 37 years ago — 33 years old
Acclaimed Russian pianist specialized in classical music. Gained prominence during the 1980s and earned recognition for exceptional technique and emotional depth in performances. Became a notable figure in the international music scene, performing across Europe and recording several albums. Contributed significantly to the repertoire performance of composers like Chopin and Rachmaninoff. Despite a shortened career due to health issues, left a lasting legacy through recordings that are still celebrated today.
Continue ReadingShlomo Riskin
Rabbi and educator, founded Lincoln Square Synagogue
Born
May 28th, 1940 85 years ago
Born in 1940, an American rabbi and academic, founded the Lincoln Square Synagogue in New York City. Played a vital role in modern Orthodox Judaism and promoted Jewish education. Served as the chief rabbi of Efrat, Israel, contributing to Jewish communal life and public discourse. Authored numerous works on Jewish law and philosophy, influencing both synagogue practices and educational structures.
Continue ReadingJodie Burrage
British tennis player with ITF titles
Born
May 28th, 1999 26 years ago
A professional tennis player from Britain, recognized for competing on the Women's Tennis Association tour. Achievements include successful runs in various international competitions and representing Britain in the Fed Cup. Focused on building a career on the professional circuit after showcasing talent in junior championships.
Continue ReadingZelda Rubinstein
American actress noted for film roles
Born
May 28th, 1933 92 years ago
Died
January 27th, 2010 16 years ago — 76 years old
An actress with a notable career in film and television, recognized for a distinctive voice and presence. Gained prominence for a role in the 1982 film 'Poltergeist', portraying Tangina Barrons, a medium who helps a family deal with supernatural disturbances. Other significant works include appearances in television series such as 'Picket Fences', where she played the role of Ruth Warchowski. Involved in various advocacy efforts, particularly for issues related to size acceptance and the LGBTQ+ community.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on December 10th
Thomas Johann Seebeck
Physicist known for thermoelectricity
Born
April 9th, 1770 255 years ago
Died
December 10th, 1831 194 years ago — 61 years old
This physicist contributed significantly to the field of thermoelectricity. In 1821, conducted experiments that led to the discovery of the thermoelectric effect. This phenomenon describes how a voltage is generated in a wire when subjected to a temperature difference. Served as a professor at the University of Berlin and contributed to the understanding of magnetic fields and their effects on electrical circuits. Published various scientific papers that laid foundational principles in physics.
Continue ReadingMax Clifford
English publicist known for celebrity PR
Born
April 6th, 1943 82 years ago
Died
December 10th, 2017 8 years ago — 74 years old
A prominent publicist and journalist, gained recognition in the 1970s. Worked with various high-profile clients in the entertainment industry, providing public relations services. Founded Max Clifford Associates, a public relations agency that represented several celebrities and figures from various spheres. Played a significant role in shaping media narratives and celebrity publicity, frequently appearing in the media to discuss PR strategies and the dynamics of fame. Engaged in high-profile media stories, often at the center of celebrity scandals and controversies. Authored two books on public relations and the media.
Continue ReadingCurtis W. Harris
American Minister and Civil Rights Leader
Born
1924 102 years ago
Died
December 10th, 2017 8 years ago — 93 years old
Served as a minister and community leader in the American civil rights movement. Advocated for social justice and equality through religious teachings and community organizing. Focused on promoting civil rights and empowerment within the African American community. Engaged in various initiatives aimed at improving education and opportunities for marginalized groups.
Continue ReadingAlice Tully
Soprano and philanthropist
Born
September 14th, 1902 123 years ago
Died
December 10th, 1993 32 years ago — 91 years old
Acclaimed as a leading soprano in the 20th century, significant contributions to the classical music scene included performances at the Metropolitan Opera. Established the Alice Tully Hall in New York City, enhancing the prominence of chamber music and providing a venue for emerging artists and established musicians. Actively engaged in philanthropy, supporting educational initiatives in the arts.
Continue ReadingOtis Redding
Soul singer-songwriter with classic hits
Born
September 9th, 1941 84 years ago
Died
December 10th, 1967 58 years ago — 26 years old
A prominent figure in the soul music genre, contributions included powerful vocal performances and emotive songwriting. Redding's career began in the early 1960s, gaining attention with songs that featured a blend of gospel influences and rhythm and blues. The release of the iconic track 'Try a Little Tenderness' in 1966 solidified his position in the music scene. Other major hits such as '(Sittin' On) The Dock of the Bay' showcased his ability to convey deep emotion through music. Tragically, a plane crash in 1967 cut his life short, yet his influence on subsequent artists and the genre remains significant.
Continue ReadingDamon Runyon
American newspaperman and short story writer
Born
October 4th, 1880 145 years ago
Died
December 10th, 1946 79 years ago — 66 years old
An influential newspaperman and short story writer contributed significantly to the literary scene in the early 20th century. Work primarily appeared in the New York Evening News, where vivid portrayals of Broadway life captured the essence of the era. Short stories often featured colorful characters, many of which became iconic representations of New York's theatrical underbelly. The collection 'Runyon on Broadway' compiled these narratives, becoming a staple in American literature. Also, stories inspired the hit musical 'Guys and Dolls', which highlighted the popularity and cultural significance of his work.
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