Eugene B. Fluckey
Admiral and Medal of Honor recipient
An American admiral served in the United States Navy during World War II. Fluckey commanded the USS Barb (SS-220), a submarine recognized for its aggressive and successful patrols against Japanese shipping. Under Fluckey's command, the Barb became the first submarine to successfully transport land-based raids on enemy territory. Following the war, significant contributions continued in various naval roles, including commanding officer for the Submarine Force, Atlantic Fleet. Fluckey received the Medal of Honor for valor during his service, marking one of the highest military honors.
Commanded USS Barb during World War II
Received the Medal of Honor
Other People Born on October 5th
Curtis Sanford
Canadian ice hockey player, goaltender
Born
October 5th, 1979 46 years ago
Played as a goaltender in the National Hockey League (NHL) and the American Hockey League (AHL). Experienced a lengthy career in professional ice hockey, including stints with the St. Louis Blues, Vancouver Canucks, and the Manitoba Moose. Was recognized for strong performances in goal, contributing to team success throughout various seasons.
Continue ReadingM. King Hubbert
Geophysicist and creator of Hubbert peak theory
Born
October 5th, 1903 122 years ago
Died
October 11th, 1989 36 years ago — 86 years old
A prominent geophysicist and academic, contributed significantly to the study of fossil fuel depletion and resource management. Developed the Hubbert peak theory, which predicts the rising and falling of oil production in a region. Worked for the U.S. Geological Survey and Shell Oil Company, showcasing expertise in geology and geophysics. Engaged in teaching and lecturing on geology, influencing future generations of scientists and analysts.
Continue ReadingMary of Modena
Queen consort of England
Born
October 5th, 1658 367 years ago
Died
May 7th, 1718 307 years ago — 59 years old
Married James II of England and became Queen consort. Played a significant role during the Glorious Revolution, which led to the overthrow of her husband. Fled to France after the revolution and lived in exile. Supported the Jacobite cause to restore her husband and later her son to the throne.
Continue ReadingLouise Fitzhugh
American author of children's books
Born
October 5th, 1928 97 years ago
Died
November 19th, 1974 51 years ago — 46 years old
An author and illustrator, created the celebrated children's book 'Harriet the Spy,' which portrays the adventures and observations of a young girl. The story explores themes of childhood, relationships, and the complexities of growing up. Additionally, produced other significant works such as 'The Lonely Doll' and 'Nate the Great.' Fitzhugh's books often featured strong female protagonists and addressed social issues.
Continue ReadingLarry Fine
Comedian and member of The Three Stooges
Born
October 5th, 1902 123 years ago
Died
January 24th, 1975 51 years ago — 72 years old
A prominent American comedian, Fine became a core member of the comedy team The Three Stooges. This group, characterized by its slapstick humor and physical comedy, gained wide acclaim during the early to mid-20th century. Fine's unique curly hair and violin-playing skills set him apart within the trio. The Stooges appeared in over 190 films, blending laughter with physical antics. Their work continues to influence comedy today.
Continue ReadingA. R. Penck
German painter noted for abstract works
Born
October 5th, 1939 86 years ago
Died
2017 9 years ago — 78 years old
A prominent German painter and sculptor, contributed significantly to the development of abstract art in the late 20th century. Created a distinctive visual language that combined elements of primitivism and modernism. Engaged in the artistic discourse of the time while residing in East Germany, Penck's work often critiqued social and political themes. Emigrated to the West in the 1980s, where his art gained international recognition. Also worked as a musician and developed a unique style that further expanded his artistic expression.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on June 28th
Billy Mays
Television salesman and infomercial pitchman
Born
July 20th, 1958 67 years ago
Died
June 28th, 2009 16 years ago — 50 years old
American salesman gained prominence through infomercials, particularly for products such as OxiClean. Served as a pitchman for numerous products on television, establishing a distinctive style characterized by enthusiasm and energy. His presence in the late-night infomercial market helped popularize direct sales techniques to consumers. Developed a following due to memorable slogans and the captivating presence that resonated with audiences. Also appeared in various television shows and commercials, further broadening his reach beyond standard advertising formats. His career contributed to the evolution of televised product marketing, giving rise to a new era of salesmanship.
Continue ReadingAlexander Berkman
Lithuanian-American anarchist author
Born
November 21st, 1870 155 years ago
Died
June 28th, 1936 89 years ago — 65 years old
Born in Lithuania, engaged in anarchist activism in the United States. Played a crucial role in the labor movement, especially through involvement with the 1892 Homestead Strike. Served time in prison for an assassination attempt on industrialist Henry Clay Frick, which aimed to advance the anarchist cause. Authored several works, including 'ABC of Anarchism', contributing to anarchist literature. Advocated for revolutionary change through direct action and was involved with several anarchist publications.
Continue ReadingSophie, Duchess of Hohenberg
Noble figure and consort
Born
1868 158 years ago
Died
June 28th, 1914 111 years ago — 46 years old
Born into the House of Habsburg, this noble figure became the Duchess of Hohenberg through marriage. The individual has a significant historical association with the Habsburg dynasty and is remembered primarily for the marriage to Archduke Franz Ferdinand of Austria, an event that played a critical role in the lead-up to World War I. The duchess's life was closely intertwined with the political landscape of her time. The death on June 28, 1914, alongside her husband, marked a pivotal moment in European history, leading to the outbreak of the war.
Continue ReadingVannevar Bush
Engineer and academic, creator of ENIAC
Born
March 11th, 1890 136 years ago
Died
June 28th, 1974 51 years ago — 84 years old
An American engineer and academic, contributed significantly to the development of analog computing and the early stages of digital computer technology. Played a pivotal role during World War II in coordinating wartime research as the head of the Office of Scientific Research and Development. Helped establish the foundations of the modern computing paradigm through the introduction of the concept of the memex, which envisioned a system of information organization that prefigured the internet. Advocated for the importance of science and technology in policy-making through various publications and initiatives.
Continue ReadingAbraham Ortelius
Flemish cartographer, created Theatrum Orbis Terrarum
Born
April 14th, 1527 498 years ago
Died
June 28th, 1598 427 years ago — 71 years old
A notable cartographer and geographer, this individual significantly contributed to the field of map-making during the late Renaissance. He published the first modern atlas, Theatrum Orbis Terrarum, in 1570, which compiled maps and geographical information from various sources. Recognized for the systematic organization of map representations, the work influenced subsequent atlas publications. He provided insights into the correlation between maps and emerging geographical knowledge. His methodologies and perspectives formed a foundational basis for modern cartography, making maps more accessible and informative for scholars and navigators of the time.
Continue ReadingTerry Fox
Canadian runner and cancer activist
Born
July 28th, 1958 67 years ago
Died
June 28th, 1981 44 years ago — 22 years old
A Canadian runner and activist launched the Marathon of Hope in 1980 to raise money for cancer research after losing a leg to the disease. Starting in St. John's, Newfoundland and Labrador, the journey spanned over 3,300 miles before it was cut short by the return of his cancer. Fox became a national symbol of perseverance and philanthropy. His efforts led to significant contributions in cancer research funding and inspired many across Canada and beyond.
Continue Reading