Heinrich Bär
German pilot and Luftwaffe colonel
Served as a colonel in the Luftwaffe during World War II. Achieved recognition as a fighter ace, credited with over 200 enemy aircraft kills. Participated prominently in the defense of Germany, engaging in numerous aerial battles. Bär flew the Messerschmitt Bf 109 and was part of several renowned units such as Jagdgeschwader 77. After the war, he faced denazification proceedings but later returned to aviation, working in various capacities within the airline industry.
Achieved over 200 aerial victories
Commanded units in Jagdgeschwader 77
Piloted the Messerschmitt Bf 109
Other People Born on May 25th
David Pastrňák
Czech ice hockey forward, Stanley Cup champion
Born
May 25th, 1996 29 years ago
Born in 1996, this ice hockey player gained recognition in the NHL, playing for the Boston Bruins. He was selected in the first round of the 2014 NHL Draft. Displaying exceptional skill and scoring ability, he quickly became one of the league's premier forwards. The player has regularly contributed to team success during the playoffs, leading efforts that culminated in a Stanley Cup championship. Off the ice, this player has participated in international competitions, representing the Czech Republic in various tournaments.
Continue ReadingDemba Ba
French footballer with Chelsea FC tenure
Born
May 25th, 1985 40 years ago
Born in 1985, this professional footballer played primarily as a striker. His career began at Rouen and included stints at clubs like Mouscron, Hoffenheim, and Newcastle United. The player gained prominence in the Premier League, especially during a successful time at Newcastle, where he demonstrated significant goal-scoring ability. In 2013, a transfer to Chelsea FC followed, furthering his career in top-flight football. Representing Senegal internationally, he participated in major tournaments including the Africa Cup of Nations and the FIFA World Cup.
Continue ReadingTheodore Hesburgh
American priest and university president
Born
May 25th, 1917 108 years ago
Died
February 26th, 2015 10 years ago — 97 years old
Served as the president of the University of Notre Dame from 1952 to 1987. Played a significant role in the growth of the university and its academic reputation. Involved in various national and international educational and social issues. Contributed to the civil rights movement in the United States and engaged in dialogue on peace and justice. Awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2000.
Continue ReadingRobert Ludlum
American author of spy novels
Born
May 25th, 1927 98 years ago
Died
March 12th, 2001 24 years ago — 73 years old
An author known for creating thrilling espionage narratives. Wrote the Jason Bourne series, which includes the novels 'The Bourne Identity,' 'The Bourne Supremacy,' and 'The Bourne Ultimatum.' Contributed extensively to the genre of political and espionage thrillers through numerous bestsellers. Works often depicted complex conspiracies and intricate plots, capturing the tension of the Cold War era.
Continue ReadingClaire Liu
American tennis player, US Open junior champion
Born
May 25th, 2000 25 years ago
A professional tennis player from the United States, gained prominence in the junior circuit by winning the 2017 US Open girls' singles title. Transitioned successfully to the professional ranks, competing in various WTA events. Achieved a career-high singles ranking within the top 100 and participated in significant tournaments, showcasing notable skills on both hard and clay courts.
Continue ReadingBo Dallas
Professional wrestler, WWE Champion
Born
May 25th, 1990 35 years ago
A professional wrestler competed in World Wrestling Entertainment. Achieved prominence with a character that emphasized positivity and resilience. Made a name within the WWE's developmental territory, NXT, where captured the NXT Championship. Transitioned to the main roster, participating in various storylines and matches, building a reputation for engaging personas and in-ring performances.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on April 28th
Antônio Abujamra
Brazilian actor and theater director
Born
1932 93 years ago
Died
April 28th, 2015 10 years ago — 83 years old
A prominent Brazilian theater director and actor, primarily recognized for contributions to Brazilian theater. Founded the company 'Os Pioneiros' to promote innovative performances. Directed and performed in numerous productions, notably the adaptations of works by playwrights such as Tennessee Williams and Bertolt Brecht. Worked extensively in television, featuring in popular series and movies, helping to shape contemporary Brazilian culture.
Continue ReadingJames Hylton
Race car driver with NASCAR accomplishments
Born
1934 91 years ago
Died
April 28th, 2018 7 years ago — 84 years old
Accomplished American race car driver won the 1966 NASCAR Rookie of the Year award. Competed in the NASCAR Grand National Series and participated in multiple Daytona 500 races. Achieved notable success in the 1970s, finishing in the top ten in points standings several times. Recognized for longevity in racing, participating in races for over four decades until 2018. Continued to influence the sport through mentorship.
Continue ReadingJános Starker
Cellist known for Bach Cello Suites
Born
July 5th, 1924 101 years ago
Died
April 28th, 2013 12 years ago — 88 years old
Born in Hungary, an accomplished cellist gained recognition as a soloist and educator. Studied at the Franz Liszt Academy of Music, later taught at esteemed institutions including Indiana University. Weekly performances included collaborations with orchestras and chamber groups. Renowned for masterful interpretations, particularly of Bach's Cello Suites. Contributions extended to recording, producing numerous albums that set a standard in classical music.
Continue ReadingJohannes Peter Müller
German physiologist and anatomist
Born
July 14th, 1801 224 years ago
Died
April 28th, 1858 167 years ago — 56 years old
Contributed significantly to the fields of physiology and anatomy during the 19th century. Conducted extensive research on sensory organs and established foundational concepts in comparative anatomy. Served as a professor at the University of Berlin and published key works that influenced future studies in physiology. Advocated for the use of experimental methods in physiological research.
Continue ReadingMagnus 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 ReadingBrad Lesley
Baseball player and actor
Born
1958 67 years ago
Died
April 28th, 2013 12 years ago — 55 years old
Played professional baseball as a relief pitcher in Major League Baseball (MLB). Competed for the Milwaukee Brewers and the California Angels during the 1980s. Transitioned into acting, appearing in the film 'The Sandlot' and several television shows. Also participated in the Japanese Nippon Professional Baseball league.
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