Hal Finney

Cryptographer and Bitcoin pioneer

Hal Finney - Cryptographer and Bitcoin pioneer
Born

1956
69 years ago

Died

August 28th, 2014
10 years ago — 58 years old

Category

Scientists & Innovators

Country

United States

Links & References

Contributed to the development of cryptographic systems and digital currencies. Played a significant role in the early days of Bitcoin, being the first person to receive a Bitcoin transaction from its creator, Satoshi Nakamoto. Developed the reusable proof of work concept, which became fundamental to Bitcoin's operation. Involved in various projects in the field of cryptography and privacy technologies, influencing future developments in those areas.

First recipient of a Bitcoin transaction

Developed reusable proof of work concept

Other People Who Died on August 28th

Béla Guttmann

Football manager with European Cup wins
Born
1899 126 years ago
Died
August 28th, 1981 43 years ago — 82 years old

A Hungarian footballer, coach, and manager, became prominent in the mid-20th century. Managed several clubs across Europe, achieving significant success. Notably, led Benfica to two consecutive European Cup victories in 1961 and 1962. Emphasized attacking play and player development, influencing future generations in the sport. Also had a successful playing career before transitioning to management.

Continue Reading

Russell Lee

American photographer and journalist
Born
July 21st, 1903 121 years ago
Died
August 28th, 1986 38 years ago — 83 years old

Worked as a photographer for the Farm Security Administration, capturing the plight of farm workers during the Great Depression. Contributed to documentary photography in America, focusing on rural life and social issues. Later served in the U.S. Army during World War II, producing photography for military publications. Published a significant body of work that illustrated the challenges faced by families and communities in America.

Continue Reading

Hilly Kristal

Founder of legendary punk club CBGB
Born
September 23rd, 1931 93 years ago
Died
August 28th, 2007 17 years ago — 75 years old

A businessman established a music venue in New York City that became a cornerstone of the punk rock and new wave movements. Opened CBGB in 1973, creating a space for emerging bands to perform. The club hosted iconic groups including The Ramones, Blondie, and Talking Heads, shaping the city's music scene. Closed in 2006 due to landlord disputes, the club’s legacy continued to influence artists and musicians. Passed away in 2007.

Continue Reading

Junípero Serra

Spanish missionary and founder of missions
Born
November 24th, 1713 311 years ago
Died
August 28th, 1784 240 years ago — 70 years old

A Spanish priest and missionary, this individual played a crucial role in establishing missions in California during the 18th century. Arriving in the New World in 1749, he dedicated himself to the spread of Christianity among the Indigenous peoples. Throughout his life, he founded nine missions, including Mission San Diego de Alcalá and Mission San Juan Capistrano. His work not only aimed to convert locals but also to introduce European agricultural practices. The missions established by this individual significantly shaped the cultural landscape of California. In 1988, he was beatified by the Roman Catholic Church and later canonized in 2015.

Continue Reading

John Anthony Walker

American soldier and spy
Born
1937 88 years ago
Died
August 28th, 2014 10 years ago — 77 years old

Served as a U.S. Navy signalman and later engaged in espionage activities on behalf of the Soviet Union. Walker recruited family members and friends to assist in the espionage operation, providing classified information over several years. His actions compromised naval intelligence operations and caused a significant breach of security for the United States. Arrested in 1985, he was sentenced to life in prison for his espionage activities.

Continue Reading

Axel Oxenstierna

Swedish Lord High Chancellor, statesman
Born
June 16th, 1583 441 years ago
Died
August 28th, 1654 370 years ago — 71 years old

Born in 1583, a prominent Swedish statesman served as the Lord High Chancellor of Sweden during a period of political and military expansion. Played a crucial role in the Thirty Years' War, enhancing Sweden's influence in Europe. Administratively reformed the Swedish government and military, laying groundwork for Sweden's rise as a great power in the 17th century. Advocated for centralization of power and was instrumental in developing Sweden's administrative structure that included a more efficient taxation system and military organization. His policies had lasting effects on Swedish politics and governance.

Continue Reading