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
Melody Thornton
Singer-songwriter and dancer, The Pussycat Dolls
Born
September 28th, 1984 42 years ago
Born in 1984, a singer-songwriter and dancer gained prominence as a member of the girl group The Pussycat Dolls. The group achieved significant commercial success with hits like 'Don't Cha' and 'Buttons'. Following the group's hiatus, pursued a solo career, releasing various singles and participating in television projects. Apart from music, engaged in dance and modeling, showcasing artistic versatility.
Continue ReadingJohann Mattheson
German composer and music theorist
Born
September 28th, 1681 345 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 ReadingPanna Udvardy
Hungarian tennis player and doubles champion
Born
September 28th, 1998 28 years ago
Hungarian tennis player competed professionally primarily in singles and doubles. Achievements include reaching the quarterfinals of the 2021 French Open women's doubles event. Udvardy garnered multiple titles on the ITF Women's Circuit, contributing to her ranking within the top 100 of the Women's Tennis Association rankings. In addition to her success in doubles, she has also participated in various WTA tournaments, showcasing talent and competitiveness on the international stage.
Continue ReadingCarl Clauberg
Nazi physician known for medical experiments
Born
September 28th, 1898 128 years ago
Died
August 9th, 1957 69 years ago — 58 years old
A German physician involved in the notorious medical experiments during World War II, Clauberg's work took place primarily in concentration camps. He specialized in gynecological experiments, particularly focusing on sterilization procedures. After the war, he was captured by Soviet forces, where he was tried and sentenced for his actions. Following his release, he practices medicine in Germany before his death in 1957.
Continue ReadingHiranuma Kiichirō
Japanese Prime Minister and lawyer
Born
September 28th, 1867 159 years ago
Died
1952 74 years ago — 85 years old
Served as the 35th Prime Minister of Japan from 1939 to 1940. Had a legal background, contributing to various legal reforms during the Taishō and Shōwa eras. Played a crucial role in national politics during a turbulent period in Japanese history.
Continue ReadingBen E. King
Singer-songwriter of 'Stand By Me'
Born
September 28th, 1938 88 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 ReadingOther People Who Died on May 8th
John 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 ReadingEdmund G. Ross
Politician and 13th Governor of New Mexico
Born
1826 200 years ago
Died
May 8th, 1907 119 years ago — 81 years old
Served as the 13th Governor of New Mexico Territory from 1851 to 1854. Played a key role in the establishment of territorial governance. Prior to governorship, served as a soldier in the Mexican-American War. Held various local offices and was involved in the development of New Mexico's infrastructure and legal framework during his term.
Continue ReadingJohn Beresford
Irish polo player and champion
Born
December 5th, 1866 159 years ago
Died
May 8th, 1925 101 years ago — 58 years old
A leading figure in the sport of polo, played during the late 19th century. Achievements included participation in high-profile tournaments and contributions to the development of the sport in Ireland. Competed at a time when polo gained popularity among the British aristocracy and was involved in establishing polo clubs that fostered further interest in the sport.
Continue ReadingHaakon V
King of Norway
Born
1270 756 years ago
Died
May 8th, 1319 707 years ago — 49 years old
Ruled as King of Norway from 1299 until death in 1319. Focused efforts on consolidating the kingdom and strengthening its governance. Engaged in conflicts which helped secure territorial integrity, particularly against Sweden. Initiated development projects that improved the infrastructure of Norway, and was involved in establishing laws that contributed to the kingdom's stability.
Continue ReadingRikissa of Denmark
Queen of Sweden
Died
May 8th, 1220 806 years ago — None years old
Served as queen consort of Sweden through marriage. Completed her role in the royal family during the early 13th century, significantly influencing dynastic alliances. Demonstrated political acumen during her tenure in a time of significant territorial and political changes in Northern Europe.
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 Reading