Ben E. King
Singer-songwriter of 'Stand By Me'
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.
Sang lead on The Drifters' hit 'There Goes My Baby'
Released the iconic song 'Stand By Me'
Other People Born on September 28th
Kayla Day
Tennis player with junior Grand Slam title
Born
September 28th, 1999 26 years ago
Achieved recognition as a professional tennis player. Won the Wimbledon Junior Championships in 2016, marking a significant milestone in a budding career. Competed in various professional tournaments, including the US Open and Australian Open, showcasing talent on an international stage. Reached a career-high ranking of world No. 48 in singles in 2017. Played in several doubles events, contributing to overall rankings and experience.
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 ReadingHenri Moissan
Chemist, Nobel Prize laureate in Chemistry
Born
September 28th, 1852 173 years ago
Died
February 20th, 1907 119 years ago — 54 years old
A French chemist and academic, contributed significantly to the understanding of chemical processes and elements. Conducted groundbreaking research on fluorine, isolating this previously unexamined element for the first time. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1906 for the development of the electric arc furnace and the extraction of fluorine from minerals. Led scientific advancements in high-temperature chemistry and materials.
Continue ReadingCarl Clauberg
Nazi physician known for medical experiments
Born
September 28th, 1898 127 years ago
Died
August 9th, 1957 68 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 ReadingEddie Rosario
Baseball player, World Series champion
Born
September 28th, 1991 34 years ago
Born in Puerto Rico, this baseball player debuted in Major League Baseball (MLB) in 2015. Playing primarily as an outfielder, key contributions were made to the Minnesota Twins before joining the Atlanta Braves. Successful seasons included notable offensive performances, leading to significant postseason participation. Achieved the title of World Series champion in 2021 with the Braves, significantly contributing to the team's success during that playoff run.
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 ReadingOther People Who Died on April 30th
Possum Bourne
Race Car Driver, Bathurst 1000 Champion
Born
1956 70 years ago
Died
April 30th, 2003 23 years ago — 47 years old
Possum Bourne was a race car driver from New Zealand. Active primarily in the 1990s and early 2000s, Bourne participated extensively in rallying and achieved notable success in the sport. He competed in the World Rally Championship representing New Zealand. His talent in rally car racing was highlighted by multiple victories in the prestigious Rally New Zealand. Bourne became a celebrated figure in the motorsport community, known for his driving skill and competitive spirit. He had a successful career in the Australian Rally Championship, where he secured multiple titles. Bourne tragically died in 2003 following an accident.
Continue ReadingAgnes Moorehead
American actress in film and television
Born
December 6th, 1900 125 years ago
Died
April 30th, 1974 52 years ago — 73 years old
An actress active in the mid-20th century, gained prominence through roles in film, radio, and television. Best recognized for the character Endora in the television series 'Bewitched'. Her career spanned several decades, during which significant performances were noted in films such as 'Citizen Kane' and 'The Magnificent Ambersons'. Achieved critical acclaim for work across multiple mediums, earning a reputation as a versatile performer.
Continue ReadingTabinshwehti
Burmese king and military leader
Born
April 16th, 1516 510 years ago
Died
April 30th, 1550 476 years ago — 34 years old
Ascended to the throne in 1531, established the Taungoo dynasty. Initiated numerous military campaigns to unify Burma, including successful conquests over Ava and Prome. Implemented administrative reforms that strengthened the central government and improved trade. His reign marked a significant period of expansion and consolidation in the territory that would become modern-day Myanmar.
Continue ReadingRobert FitzRoy
English admiral and meteorologist
Born
July 5th, 1805 220 years ago
Died
April 30th, 1865 161 years ago — 59 years old
Served as an admiral in the Royal Navy and made significant contributions to meteorology and oceanography. Commanded the HMS Beagle during Charles Darwin's famous voyage, allowing for crucial scientific observations that influenced evolutionary theory. Became the second Governor of New Zealand, overseeing early colonial governance and interactions with the Māori people. Advocated for scientific research and created the first system of weather forecasting in the United Kingdom.
Continue ReadingSigismund III Vasa
King of Poland and Sweden
Born
June 20th, 1566 460 years ago
Died
April 30th, 1632 394 years ago — 65 years old
Born in 1566, ruled as King of Poland from 1587 and King of Sweden from 1592 until 1599. His reign saw involvement in the wars against Russia and the conflicts with Sweden. Sigismund attempted to strengthen the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth and promoted Catholicism in both realms. His reign was marked by political strife, particularly regarding his claims to the Swedish throne, which culminated in his deposition in Sweden. Sigismund's relationship with the nobility in both kingdoms was complex, often leading to tension and conflict over power and governance. His legacy includes significant contributions to the cultural and political landscape of both Poland and Sweden during the period.
Continue ReadingNizar Qabbani
Syrian poet and diplomat celebrated for love
Born
March 21st, 1923 103 years ago
Died
April 30th, 1998 28 years ago — 75 years old
A prominent Syrian poet, publisher, and diplomat, contributed significantly to Arabic literature. Published many volumes of poetry exploring themes of love, feminism, and social issues. Established the publishing house Qabbani & Sons, promoting literary works in the Arab world. Served as a diplomat in several countries, including Turkey and the UK, where exposure to different cultures influenced literary style. Regarded as a leading figure in modern Arabic poetry, both in terms of style and thematic exploration, with works being translated into various languages.
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