Avery Brundage
Sports administrator and art collector
Businessman and art collector served as the President of the International Olympic Committee from 1952 to 1972. Played a key role in the organization and direction of the Olympic Games, overseeing events such as the 1968 Mexico City Olympics and the controversial 1972 Munich Olympics. Brundage was instrumental in promoting the Olympic movement and expanding its global reach, while also being an avid art collector with a focus on American works. His tenure was marked by both achievements and criticisms, particularly regarding the handling of political issues in sports.
Presided over International Olympic Committee
Oversaw 1968 Mexico City Olympics
Handled 1972 Munich Olympics controversy
Other People Born on September 28th
Henry Fox
English politician and statesman
Born
September 28th, 1705 320 years ago
Died
July 1st, 1774 252 years ago — 68 years old
Served as a prominent English politician during the 18th century. Held the title of 1st Baron Holland and the position of Secretary of State for the Southern Department. Engaged in various political endeavors, contributing to the administration under different monarchs. Played a significant role in shaping policies during a turbulent period in British history, facilitating negotiations and fostering political alliances.
Continue ReadingBen E. King
Singer-songwriter of 'Stand By Me'
Born
September 28th, 1938 87 years ago
Died
April 30th, 2015 11 years ago — 76 years old
A prominent American singer-songwriter and record producer, contributed significantly to the music scene from the 1950s onward. Gained fame as a member of The Drifters, serving as the lead singer on hits like 'There Goes My Baby' and 'Save the Last Dance for Me'. Launched a successful solo career with the release of 'Stand By Me' in 1961, a song that became a classic and has been covered by numerous artists. Continued to write and perform throughout his life, leaving a lasting legacy in the music industry until passing away in 2015.
Continue ReadingJohann Mattheson
German composer and music theorist
Born
September 28th, 1681 344 years ago
Died
April 17th, 1764 262 years ago — 82 years old
Contributed significantly to music theory and lexicography in the Baroque period. Authored several key works, including 'Der vollkommene Capellmeister,' which explored compositional techniques and the role of the conductor. Composed operas and vocal music, notably 'Boris Gudunov,' which gained attention during his lifetime. Facilitated discussions on music and aesthetics through writings and his involvement in musical circles.
Continue ReadingAugustus FitzRoy
Prime Minister of Great Britain
Born
September 28th, 1735 290 years ago
Died
March 14th, 1811 215 years ago — 75 years old
Served as Prime Minister of Great Britain from 1768 to 1770, overseeing a period marked by political instability. Managed the government during the early stages of the American Revolutionary War. Facilitated legislative measures and attempted to maintain British interests in the American colonies, facing significant challenges due to colonial unrest. Held the title of 3rd Duke of Grafton and was a member of the Whig party, contributing to the political landscape of the time. Engaged in various administrative roles prior to premiership, including serving as a Lord of the Treasury and as a Secretary of State for the Southern Department.
Continue ReadingMariya Kiselyova
Russian swimmer and Olympic participant
Born
September 28th, 1974 51 years ago
Participated in competitive swimming events. Achieved significant success in various championships during the 1990s. Competed in the 2000 Summer Olympics representing Russia. Notably excelled in freestyle and individual medley events. Held multiple records in national and international competitions.
Continue ReadingFrankie Jonas
American actor, singer, and songwriter
Born
September 28th, 2000 25 years ago
Born on September 28, 2000, an American actor, singer, and songwriter rose to prominence as a voice actor in animated series and films. Gained early recognition as the youngest member of the Jonas family. Voiced the character Axl in the animated film 'Ponyo' and appeared in the series 'Jonas'. Released music that contributed to his growing presence in the entertainment industry.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on May 8th
Ahmed Sanjar
Seljuk Sultan and military leader
Born
1086 940 years ago
Died
May 8th, 1157 869 years ago — 71 years old
Ruled as a Sultan of the Great Seljuk Empire during the 12th century, one of the last prominent rulers of the Seljuk dynasty. Established a brief reign characterized by military campaigns against various factions and significant control over Persian territories. Oversaw the expansion of the empire into regions of modern-day Iran and parts of Central Asia. Experienced defeats against rival states but maintained authority over important areas until the decline of Seljuk power.
Continue ReadingJohn Fraser
Canadian soccer player
Born
March 18th, 1931 95 years ago
Died
May 8th, 1959 67 years ago — 28 years old
Played professional soccer for multiple clubs in Canada and the United Kingdom. Participated in key matches that helped popularize soccer in Canada during the early 20th century. Contributed to the development of the sport at both club and amateur levels. Initially played for the Toronto Scottish and later joined other teams, showcasing notable skills on the field.
Continue ReadingJohn Stafford
English nobleman and 1st Earl of Wiltshire
Born
November 24th, 1427 598 years ago
Died
May 8th, 1473 553 years ago — 45 years old
Born in 1427, an English nobleman served as a prominent figure during the Wars of the Roses. He was appointed Bishop of Bath and Wells in 1443 and later became the Earl of Wiltshire in 1449. Stafford played a significant role in the conflicts between the houses of York and Lancaster, navigating the political landscape of 15th-century England. His influence extended into the church and noble community through various political and ecclesiastical appointments. Stafford's loyalty was primarily towards the Lancastrians, and he participated in multiple campaigns and treaties during the tumultuous period.
Continue ReadingSamuel Chandler
English minister and theological author
Born
1693 333 years ago
Died
May 8th, 1766 260 years ago — 73 years old
Chandler served as an English minister and made significant contributions to theological literature. Active during the 18th century, he wrote extensively on various religious matters, including works related to dissenting opinions and the principles of Christianity. Chandler was instrumental in addressing issues pertinent to the Nonconformist religious community, often emphasizing the importance of reason and scriptural authority in faith. His writings reflected a commitment to clarify theological concepts and engage with contemporary debates within Christianity. Chandler's role extended beyond his writings, as he also engaged in public speaking and pastoral work, influencing both his congregation and the broader theological discourse of his time.
Continue ReadingJohn Robertson
Politician, 5th Premier of New South Wales
Born
October 15th, 1816 209 years ago
Died
May 8th, 1891 135 years ago — 74 years old
Served as the 5th Premier of New South Wales, holding office from 1860 to 1861 and again from 1868 to 1870. Known for leading the colony during a time of economic growth. Contributed to the establishment of democratic reforms in the region. Engaged in significant education and land reforms that affected the populace.
Continue ReadingTore Svennberg
Swedish actor and film director
Born
February 28th, 1858 168 years ago
Died
May 8th, 1941 85 years ago — 83 years old
Born in Sweden, a prominent figure in early cinema and theater. Worked extensively in film and stage productions, contributing to the growth of the arts in the region. Directed several films and participated in numerous theatrical performances, highlighting the evolution of Swedish entertainment. Also took part in the burgeoning movement of cinema during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, influencing the artistic landscape of the time.
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