Esther Borja

Cuban soprano and actress

Esther Borja - Cuban soprano and actress
Born

December 5th, 1913
111 years ago

Died

December 28th, 2013
11 years ago — 100 years old

Category

Performers & Entertainers

Country

Cuba

Links & References

A prominent soprano and actress from Cuba, distinguished for contributions to opera and theater during the 20th century. Significant performances included roles in operas such as 'Carmen' and 'La Traviata'. Her career spanned decades, captivating audiences both in Cuba and internationally. Borja was celebrated for her vocal talent and artistry, becoming a notable figure in the cultural landscape of Cuban music. She also participated in various theatrical productions, showcasing her versatility as a performer.

Performed in 'Carmen'

Starred in 'La Traviata'

Other People Born on December 5th

Moshe Katsav

8th President of Israel
Born
December 5th, 1945 79 years ago

Born in Iran, one individual immigrated to Israel in childhood. This person served as the 8th President of Israel from 2000 to 2007. Prior to the presidency, held various political positions, including Minister of Tourism and Minister of Transportation. Promoted initiatives for education and economic development. Faced legal challenges post-presidency, including charges of sexual misconduct, leading to conviction and imprisonment.

Continue Reading

Eduard Seler

German anthropologist and ethnohistorian
Born
December 5th, 1849 175 years ago
Died
1922 103 years ago — 73 years old

Contributed significantly to the study of Mesoamerican culture and languages, focusing on the history and mythology of ancient Maya civilization. Worked extensively on the interpretation of iconography and inscriptions. Published numerous works that offered insights into the cultures of Mexico and Central America, including studies on codices and regional histories. Engaged with various academic institutions and garnered respect for linguistic and ethnographical research.

Continue Reading

Olli Jokinen

Ice hockey player with NHL All-Star selection
Born
December 5th, 1978 46 years ago

Played professional ice hockey, primarily as a center. Spent significant time with the Florida Panthers, where he became a prominent scorer. Participated in the NHL All-Star Game in 2003. Also played for teams including the Los Angeles Kings, New York Islanders, and Calgary Flames during an extensive NHL career. Contributed to the Finnish national team in multiple international tournaments, achieving success at the World Championships.

Continue Reading

Konstantin Korovin

Painter and set designer with iconic works
Born
December 5th, 1861 163 years ago
Died
September 11th, 1939 86 years ago — 77 years old

Born in 1861, this individual was a Russian-French painter and set designer, recognized for contributions to theatrical art and impressionist painting. Studied at the Moscow School of Painting, Sculpture, and Architecture, and later in Paris, where exposure to European art influenced style. Created vivid landscapes and dynamic stage designs, emphasizing color and light. Served as the chief designer for major productions at the Moscow Art Theatre. Works were characterized by emotional depth and vibrant hues, reflecting experiences in both Russia and France.

Continue Reading

Yury Vlasov

Weightlifter and politician
Born
December 5th, 1935 89 years ago
Died
2021 4 years ago — 86 years old

Born in Ukraine, a prominent weightlifter achieved notable success in the sport during the 1960s. Competed for the Soviet Union, securing three gold medals at the World Weightlifting Championships in 1959, 1962, and 1964. Also won Olympic gold in the heavyweight category at the 1960 Rome Games. Transitioned to a political career after retiring from weightlifting, becoming a member of the Supreme Soviet in the 1990s. Vlasov's contributions to both sports and politics made a significant mark in his country's history.

Continue Reading

Zbigniew Oleśnicki

Polish cardinal and statesman
Born
December 5th, 1389 635 years ago
Died
April 1st, 1455 570 years ago — 65 years old

Served as the cardinal and metropolitan of Gniezno. Played a significant role in Polish politics during the 15th century. Acted as a key advisor to several kings, influencing the governance of the Kingdom of Poland. Engaged in ecclesiastical matters and was involved in various diplomatic efforts.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on December 28th

Elie Nadelman

Polish-American sculptor and artist
Born
February 20th, 1882 143 years ago
Died
December 28th, 1946 78 years ago — 64 years old

A Polish-American sculptor and artist, contributed to the development of modern sculpture in the early 20th century. Nadelman established a reputation with his stylized figures and ornamental designs, drawing inspiration from classical themes and folk art. Relocating to the United States, Nadelman became involved in the New York art scene and cultivated relationships with prominent artists and collectors. His works often featured themes of romance and femininity. Nadelman's major public commissions include the design of the bronze gates for the New York Public Library. The artist also produced a significant body of work in plaster, stone, and wood, maintaining a strong interest in expressionism throughout his career.

Continue Reading

Rob Roy MacGregor

Scottish outlaw and folk hero
Born
March 7th, 1671 354 years ago
Died
December 28th, 1734 290 years ago — 63 years old

Born in 1671, this individual became a notorious figure in Scotland, leading a life that blended rebellion and romance. During the early 18th century, he engaged in various actions against both the English crown and rival clans. The conflict over land and power in the Scottish Highlands fueled a legendary status that would endure through tales and literary accounts. These stories, particularly those documented in the early 19th century, captured the essence of a life marked by defiance and resilience. His exploits have been remembered in ballads and historical texts as emblematic of the struggles faced by Scottish clansmen of that era.

Continue Reading

Victor Emmanuel III of Italy

King of Italy during World War I
Born
November 11th, 1869 155 years ago
Died
December 28th, 1947 77 years ago — 78 years old

Reigned as King of Italy from 1900 to 1946. Oversaw Italy during World War I and faced significant political challenges, including the rise of Fascism and the abdication of his throne after World War II. The reign ended with the establishment of the Italian Republic in 1946. After abdication, lived in exile in Egypt until death in 1947.

Continue Reading

Thomas Babington Macaulay

Historian and Secretary at War
Born
1800 225 years ago
Died
December 28th, 1859 165 years ago — 59 years old

Served as a prominent historian and politician in England. Macaulay played a central role in shaping historical narratives with his multi-volume work, 'The History of England from the Accession of James II'. As a member of the Whig party, he also held the position of Secretary at War, contributing to military administration. His writings emphasized historical analysis and social commentary, merging personal insights with detailed accounts of political events.

Continue Reading

Hermann Oberth

Physicist known for rocketry advancements
Born
June 25th, 1894 131 years ago
Died
December 28th, 1989 35 years ago — 95 years old

A physicist and engineer contributed significantly to the field of rocketry and space technology. Published the influential book 'Die Rakete zu den Planetenräumen' in 1923, which outlined principles of space travel. Worked with the German Rocket Society and was involved in early developments of the V-2 rocket during World War II. Later emigrated to the United States, where he continued to support and influence space exploration efforts with NASA. His work laid foundational theories for later advancements in astronautics.

Continue Reading

Dennis Miller Bunker

American painter, noted for Impressionism
Born
1861 164 years ago
Died
December 28th, 1890 134 years ago — 29 years old

A prominent American painter associated with the Impressionism movement, played a significant role in introducing French artistic techniques to the United States. Studied at the Académie Julian in Paris and was influenced by notable artists. Created works characterized by loose brushwork and vibrant color palettes. His career was tragically cut short by his untimely death at the age of 29, but his contributions to American art remain recognized.

Continue Reading