Arthur Võõbus
Theologist and orientalist
Born in Estonia, a theologist and orientalist contributed significantly to the study of Eastern religions and cultures. Emigrating to the United States, focused on teaching and research in Eastern philosophy and languages. Authored several influential works analyzing the intersection of Christianity and Eastern thought. Played a pivotal role in developing curricula in Eastern studies at various academic institutions.
Authored 'The Eastern Orthodox Church'
Contributed to the study of Eastern religions
Other People Born on April 28th
Jan Oort
Dutch astronomer and academic
Born
April 28th, 1900 125 years ago
Died
November 5th, 1992 33 years ago — 92 years old
Contributed significantly to the field of astronomy, particularly in the study of galaxies and the structure of the Milky Way. Proposed the existence of the Oort Cloud, a theoretical cloud of icy bodies believed to surround the solar system. Served as a professor at Leiden University and published numerous papers in astrophysics. Played a crucial role in advancing radio astronomy in the Netherlands.
Continue ReadingKenneth Kaunda
Zambian politician and educator
Born
April 28th, 1924 101 years ago
Died
June 17th, 2021 4 years ago — 97 years old
An educator and politician served as the first president of Zambia from independence in 1964 until 1991. Played a significant role in the Zambian liberation struggle against colonial rule. Led the United National Independence Party (UNIP) and established a one-party state during tenure. Implemented policies aimed at social and economic development. After losing the election in 1991, transitioned Zambia to a multi-party democracy.
Continue ReadingBarry Larkin
Baseball player and sportscaster
Born
April 28th, 1964 61 years ago
Played shortstop for the Cincinnati Reds from 1986 to 2004. Helped the team win the World Series in 1990. Managed in the Arizona Fall League after retirement and later became a sportscaster. Inducted into the National Baseball Hall of Fame in 2012.
Continue ReadingSimin Daneshvar
Iranian author and academic with 'Savushun'
Born
April 28th, 1921 104 years ago
Died
March 8th, 2012 13 years ago — 90 years old
An Iranian author and academic, contributed significantly to Persian literature and cultural discourse. Authored 'Savushun', a celebrated novel depicting the struggles of a woman during the political upheaval in Iran. Engaged in various literary and academic activities, focusing on the representation of women in literature. Also served as an editor for various literary journals, enhancing the visibility of contemporary Iranian literature on both national and international stages.
Continue ReadingMargo Dydek
Basketball player and coach
Born
April 28th, 1974 51 years ago
Died
May 27th, 2011 14 years ago — 37 years old
A Polish basketball player and coach played professionally for several teams in Europe and the WNBA. Spent a significant part of her career with the Utah Starzz and Miami Sol in the WNBA. Her height of 7 feet 2 inches made her one of the tallest female basketball players in history. Transitioned to coaching roles after retirement, contributing to the development of young players in her home country.
Continue ReadingTariq Aziz
Iraqi journalist and politician
Born
April 28th, 1936 89 years ago
Died
June 5th, 2015 10 years ago — 79 years old
An Iraqi journalist and politician served as the Minister of Foreign Affairs from 2001 to 2003. Played a significant role in Iraq's foreign diplomatic relations during a challenging period. Participated actively in various international conferences addressing issues pertinent to the Middle East. Contributed to Iraq's representation in global forums, advocating for national interests while navigating the complexities of regional politics.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on September 25th
Jeff Cooper
American target shooter and author
Born
1920 105 years ago
Died
September 25th, 2006 19 years ago — 86 years old
Established modern techniques in precision shooting and tactical firearms training. Founded the American Pistol Institute, which became a leading resource for pistol training. Authored multiple influential books on shooting, including 'The Art of the Rifle' and 'To Ride, Shoot Straight, and Speak the Truth'. Contributed to the development of the Scout Rifle concept, emphasizing accuracy and versatility.
Continue ReadingJohn Bond
Football Manager and Player
Born
December 17th, 1932 93 years ago
Died
September 25th, 2012 13 years ago — 79 years old
A footballer and manager, played as a defender primarily for Bournemouth and Norwich City. Transitioned to management, leading clubs such as Norwich City, where significant achievements included guiding the team through 1959 to 1961 seasons. Later served as an assistant manager, contributing to the development of several teams in English football.
Continue ReadingGeorge Plimpton
Journalist and actor, initiated participatory journalism
Born
March 18th, 1927 98 years ago
Died
September 25th, 2003 22 years ago — 76 years old
Engaged in participatory journalism, contributing to various publications, including The Paris Review as a founding editor. Pursued an acting career, appearing in films such as 'Paper Lion' and productions like 'The Great Gatsby'. Authored multiple books that chronicled experiences in sports and literature, blending narrative non-fiction with immersive methods.
Continue ReadingMarion Zimmer Bradley
Author of Darkover series and fantasy novels
Born
June 3rd, 1930 95 years ago
Died
September 25th, 1999 26 years ago — 69 years old
An American author and poet, noted for contributions to the fantasy and science fiction genres. Achieved prominence with the Darkover series, a richly developed fictional universe that combines elements of fantasy and science fiction. Also wrote the novel The Mists of Avalon, which retells the Arthurian legends from a female perspective, receiving acclaim for its feminist themes and character development. Edited several anthologies, showcasing the works of other writers in the genre. Involved in feminist and gay rights advocacy throughout life, promoting inclusivity within the literary community.
Continue ReadingJan Tříska
Czech actor in The Unbearable Lightness
Born
1936 89 years ago
Died
September 25th, 2017 8 years ago — 81 years old
An acclaimed actor, renowned for work in film and theater. Achieved significant recognition in the Czech Republic and abroad. Gained international fame through performances in notable films such as 'The Unbearable Lightness of Being' and 'The Shop on Main Street'. Contributed to various theatrical productions, showcasing a range of skills from dramatic to comedic roles. Worked extensively in television, becoming a well-respected figure in the performing arts community.
Continue ReadingWangari Maathai
Environmental activist and Nobel Laureate
Born
April 1st, 1940 85 years ago
Died
September 25th, 2011 14 years ago — 71 years old
An environmental activist and politician contributed significantly to environmental conservation and women's rights in Kenya. Founded the Green Belt Movement, which focused on tree planting, environmental restoration, and the empowerment of women through sustainable development. Received the Nobel Peace Prize in 2004, becoming the first African woman to receive this honor. Served in various political roles, including Assistant Minister for Environment and Natural Resources in Kenya's government, advocating for ecological stewardship and democratic governance.
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