Ernst Lindemann
German naval captain during WWII
Served as captain of the battleship Bismarck during World War II. Played a crucial role in naval operations. Engaged in the sinking of the HMS Hood in May 1941. The Bismarck was ultimately sunk shortly after, leading to multiple strategic lessons in naval warfare.
Commanded the battleship Bismarck
Led the German fleet in the North Atlantic
Other People Born on March 28th
Irving Paul Lazar
Talent agent representing top authors
Born
March 28th, 1907 119 years ago
Died
1993 33 years ago — 86 years old
A prominent talent agent specialized in representing writers. Worked with significant literary figures, securing deals that shaped the publishing industry. Established a reputation for negotiating lucrative contracts for clients across various mediums, including television, film, and theater. Played a crucial role in adapting literary works into successful productions. Operated a successful agency that became influential in shaping the careers of many authors.
Continue ReadingRick Barry
Basketball player, NBA champion, Hall of Famer
Born
March 28th, 1944 82 years ago
A professional basketball player, made significant contributions to the sport during the 1960s and 1970s. Played primarily as a forward and was known for a unique underhand free throw shooting style. Played for the Golden State Warriors, helping the team secure an NBA Championship in 1975. Inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 1987 for individual achievements and contributions to the game. Also represented the United States in the Olympics, winning a gold medal in 1964.
Continue ReadingRobert Ashley
Soldier and avant-garde composer
Born
March 28th, 1930 96 years ago
Died
March 3rd, 2014 12 years ago — 83 years old
Served in the United States Army during the Korean War, achieving the rank of captain. Later pursued a career in music, creating unique compositions that blended opera with avant-garde techniques. Established the ONCE Group, which focused on experimental music and theatre. Composed several operas, including 'Perfect Lives', which gained attention for its innovative narrative and staging style.
Continue ReadingKyrle Bellew
English theatre actor renowned for 'Othello'
Born
March 28th, 1850 176 years ago
Died
November 2nd, 1911 115 years ago — 61 years old
Performed extensively in the English theatre during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, particularly noted for roles in Shakespearean productions. Gained recognition for performances in classics such as 'Othello' and 'The Merchant of Venice'. Transitioned to silent films in the early 20th century, bringing stage expertise to the silver screen. Had a significant presence in theatrical circles and contributed to the growth of performance art during this period. Remained active in the theatre scene until his death.
Continue ReadingBuck Shaw
American football coach and player
Born
March 28th, 1899 127 years ago
Died
1977 49 years ago — 78 years old
Played college football at the University of San Francisco, where he also began coaching. Served as head coach for the University of San Francisco and later at Santa Clara University, leading both teams to competitive seasons. Achieved success in the coaching realm, especially during the early days of collegiate football. Developed strategies that contributed to the evolution of the game during mid-20th century.
Continue ReadingWang Xiyu
Chinese tennis player with WTA titles
Born
March 28th, 2001 25 years ago
A professional tennis player from China, began competing on the international circuit in her teens. Achieved success on the junior level, winning the Australian Open girls' singles title in 2018. Progressed to the professional circuit, earning recognition for strong performances in various WTA tournaments. Overcame notable competitors and built a reputation for versatility on the court.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on May 27th
Gil Scott-Heron
American singer-songwriter and author
Born
April 1st, 1949 77 years ago
Died
May 27th, 2011 15 years ago — 62 years old
An influential figure in music and literature, contributed significantly to the spoken word genre. His work combined elements of poetry, jazz, and soul, often addressing social issues such as racial inequality and urban life. Released landmark albums such as 'Pieces of a Man' and 'Winter in America'. Authored the critically acclaimed book 'The Vulture'. Recognized for a unique style that blended music and political commentary, which inspired future generations of artists.
Continue ReadingRobert B. Meyner
American politician, 44th Governor of New Jersey
Born
July 3rd, 1908 118 years ago
Died
May 27th, 1990 36 years ago — 81 years old
Served as the 44th Governor of New Jersey from 1954 to 1960. Focused on expanding educational opportunities and improving the state’s infrastructure. Advocated for the creation of a state college system and supported various social programs during tenure. Prior to governorship, worked as a lawyer and served in the New Jersey State Assembly. After leaving office, remained active in political and civic affairs.
Continue ReadingGretchen Wyler
American actress and Broadway performer
Born
February 16th, 1932 94 years ago
Died
May 27th, 2007 19 years ago — 75 years old
An American actress, singer, and dancer recognized for significant contributions to theater and television. Gained prominence in Broadway productions, particularly in 'Fiddler on the Roof' and 'Mame'. Also appeared in television shows, including 'The Twilight Zone' and 'Murder, She Wrote'. Active in animal rights, founded the organization Actors and Others for Animals, advocating for animal welfare throughout her life.
Continue ReadingErnst Ruska
German physicist, Nobel Prize winner
Born
December 25th, 1906 119 years ago
Died
May 27th, 1988 38 years ago — 81 years old
A physicist specializing in microscopy, contributions revolutionized the field of electron microscopy. Developed the first electron microscope, enabling the visualization of objects at the nanometer scale. Earned the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1986 for significant advancements in high-resolution electron microscopy. Served as a professor at the Technical University of Berlin where research continued to influence both physics and materials science.
Continue ReadingPayut Ngaokrachang
Thai animator and director of 'Tawipob'
Born
April 1st, 1929 97 years ago
Died
May 27th, 2010 16 years ago — 81 years old
Contributed significantly to the Thai animation industry during a career spanning several decades. Founded the first Thai animation studio, developing unique animated content that reflected Thai culture and folklore. Directed 'Tawipob', the first Thai animated feature film, released in 1977. Helped form the Thai Animation Association and promoted education in animation through various initiatives, fostering new generations of animators in Thailand.
Continue ReadingGregg Allman
Musician, founding member of The Allman Brothers
Born
December 8th, 1947 78 years ago
Died
May 27th, 2017 9 years ago — 69 years old
A prominent musician, played a key role in the Southern rock genre. Co-founded The Allman Brothers Band, which formed in 1969 and became influential in the rock music scene. Achieved commercial success with albums such as 'At Fillmore East' and 'Brothers and Sisters.' Contributed to the band's signature sound through keyboard and guitar work, as well as distinctive vocals. Also performed as a solo artist, releasing multiple albums including 'Laid Back' and 'Searching for Simplicity.' Inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1995 for contributions to music.
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