Fred Marriott
Race car driver and land speed record holder
Began racing in the early 1900s, competing in various automobile events. Achieved prominence by setting a world land speed record on a motorcycle in 1907, reaching a speed of 202.7 miles per hour at Ormond Beach, Florida. Later transitioned to automobile racing, participating in numerous events including the Vanderbilt Cup. Contributed to the popularity of racing during the early years of motorsport. Continued to compete until the 1920s, becoming an influential figure in the racing community.
Set a world land speed record in 1907
Competed in the Vanderbilt Cup
Other People Born on December 31st
Gonzalo Fernández de Córdoba
Spanish general and politician, Governor of Milan
Born
December 31st, 1585 439 years ago
Died
February 16th, 1645 380 years ago — 59 years old
A significant military and political figure in Spanish history, served as the 24th Governor of the Duchy of Milan in the early 17th century. Played a crucial role in the military engagements of the Thirty Years' War and the Italian Wars. Demonstrated strong leadership in both military and governance, contributing to the stability of Spanish rule in Italy during a turbulent period. Oversaw various administrative reforms in the Duchy aimed at improving governance and economic conditions.
Continue ReadingHugh Nelson
Politician and Premier of Queensland
Born
December 31st, 1833 191 years ago
Died
January 1st, 1906 119 years ago — 72 years old
Served as the 11th Premier of Queensland from 1866 to 1867. Nelson was a Scottish-Australian farmer who transitioned into politics, contributing to the political landscape of Queensland during the colony's formative years. His leadership occurred during a period of growth and development within the region. His political career included involvement in various local government initiatives and reforms aimed at improving agricultural practices and infrastructure.
Continue ReadingSimon Forman
English occultist and astrologer with writings
Born
December 31st, 1552 472 years ago
Died
1611 414 years ago — 59 years old
Born in 1552, this individual became a significant figure in astrology and the occult during the late 16th and early 17th centuries. Operating in London, practiced astrology and medicine, attracting a clientele that included notable figures. Authored works on astrology, including a well-known book documenting horoscopes and astrological predictions. Developed a reputation as a skilled medical practitioner, often combining medical advice with astrological insights. Forman's enthusiasm for the supernatural and uncanny left a lasting influence on both astrology and early modern medicine.
Continue ReadingGiovanni Pascoli
Italian poet and scholar with major works
Born
December 31st, 1855 169 years ago
Died
1912 113 years ago — 57 years old
Born in Italy in 1855, a significant poet and scholar of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. His poetry dealt with themes of nature, rural life, and the human condition, reflecting personal experiences and universal emotions. Contributed to the Symbolist movement in Italy, blending personal narratives with broader societal themes. His collections, such as 'Myricae' and 'Poemi del Fanciullo,' established a foundation for modern Italian poetry. Emphasized simplicity in language and depth in emotion, influencing later generations of poets. Also served as a professor of Italian literature at the University of Bologna.
Continue ReadingArima Yoriyuki
Mathematician and educator in Japan
Born
December 31st, 1714 310 years ago
Died
1783 242 years ago — 69 years old
Active during the early 18th century, contributed significantly to mathematics as a mathematician and educator. Developed a unique approach to arithmetic and algebra, influencing future generations of mathematicians in Japan. Engaged in educational efforts, fostering mathematical knowledge among students and peers. His works included advancements in the understanding of number theory and algebraic concepts.
Continue ReadingFriedrich Robert Faehlmann
Estonian philologist and physician
Born
December 31st, 1798 226 years ago
Died
April 22nd, 1850 175 years ago — 51 years old
Contributed to the study of Estonian linguistics and culture. Completed significant research in philology, particularly focusing on the Estonian language. Made advancements in medical science, serving as a physician while engaging in linguistic studies. His work laid foundational elements for the development of Estonian literature and scholarship.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on April 28th
Magnus Julius De la Gardie
Swedish general and politician
Born
April 14th, 1669 356 years ago
Died
April 28th, 1741 284 years ago — 72 years old
Born in 1669, this individual served as a significant military leader and politician in Sweden during the 17th century. Active in the Great Northern War, he held various high-ranking positions, contributing to military strategies and governance. His career was marked by involvement in political reforms and military campaigns, particularly focusing on the defense of Swedish territories.
Continue ReadingRichard Lugar
American politician and mayor of Indianapolis
Born
April 4th, 1932 93 years ago
Died
April 28th, 2019 6 years ago — 87 years old
Served as the 44th mayor of Indianapolis from 1968 to 1975. Assisted in urban development and improvement projects during tenure. Later became a prominent U.S. senator from Indiana, serving from 1977 to 2013. Focused on issues such as foreign policy, agriculture, and education. Played a key role in nuclear non-proliferation efforts and was a proponent of the National Endowment for Democracy.
Continue ReadingRichard Hughes
English author and playwright of 'A Comedy of Life'
Born
April 19th, 1900 125 years ago
Died
April 28th, 1976 49 years ago — 76 years old
An English author, poet, and playwright contributed significantly to literature during the 20th century. Known for the play 'A Comedy of Life' and the novel 'In Hazard', works often explored themes of human experience and adversity. Hughes's writing exhibited a deep understanding of character and moral complexity. His influences included personal experiences from multiple travels, which enriched his storytelling. In addition to plays and novels, Hughes wrote poetry and essays, reflecting a multifaceted approach to literature. His work continues to be studied and appreciated for its insight into the human condition.
Continue ReadingMichael Collins
American astronaut and Apollo 11 pilot
Born
October 31st, 1930 95 years ago
Died
April 28th, 2021 4 years ago — 90 years old
An American astronaut played a key role in the Apollo 11 mission, which successfully landed the first humans on the Moon in 1969. Serving as the command module pilot, operated the command module Columbia while Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin explored the lunar surface. His contributions to space exploration extended beyond Apollo 11, with earlier missions including Gemini 10. Later, engaged in public advocacy for space exploration and education, emphasizing the importance of scientific progress.
Continue ReadingJohn Singleton
Film director of 'Boyz n the Hood'
Born
January 6th, 1968 57 years ago
Died
April 28th, 2019 6 years ago — 51 years old
A prominent American director, producer, and screenwriter gained recognition for directing the groundbreaking film 'Boyz n the Hood' in 1991. The film was significant for its raw portrayal of life in South Central Los Angeles and addressed issues of race and violence. Singleton's work often explored themes related to African-American culture and identity. He became the first African-American to receive a Best Director Academy Award nomination for this debut feature. In addition to 'Boyz n the Hood', Singleton directed several other films, including 'Poetic Justice' and 'Shaft'. He also contributed to television, serving as a director and executive producer for the series 'Snowfall'.
Continue ReadingAbbot Hugh of Cluny
Abbot and Reformer of Cluniac Monasteries
Born
1024 1001 years ago
Died
April 28th, 1109 916 years ago — 85 years old
Led the Cluniac reform movement during the early 11th century. Played a pivotal role in restoring the rule of St. Benedict within the Cluniac order. Contributed to the expansion of the Cluniac network across Europe, emphasizing communal worship, stability, and the pursuit of holiness. Served as abbot at Cluny Abbey and established additional monasteries that adhered to the Cluniac model. His leadership helped to position Cluny Abbey as a central religious institution in medieval Christian Europe.
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