Hermann Oberth
Physicist known for rocketry advancements
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.
Published 'Die Rakete zu den Planetenräumen' in 1923
Contributed to the development of V-2 rocket
Influenced early NASA space exploration efforts
Other People Born on June 25th
Natalia Alexeievna of Russia
Empress Consort of Russia, Palace Reformer
Born
June 25th, 1755 270 years ago
Died
1776 249 years ago — 21 years old
Empress consort of Russia, played a significant role in the court during her husband's reign. Married to Emperor Paul I, she influenced various court decisions and social events. Oversaw the establishment of several charitable organizations and facilitated cultural developments in the empire. Maintained close relationships with leading figures of her time and contributed to the administrative and social frameworks of the Russian Empire.
Continue ReadingAlbert Costa
Spanish tennis player and coach, French Open winner
Born
June 25th, 1975 50 years ago
A Spanish tennis player achieved significant success in the late 1990s and early 2000s. Obtained a career-high ATP singles ranking of World No. 10. Won the French Open in 2002, marking a high point in a professional playing career that included multiple titles. Transitioned to coaching after retirement, contributing to the development of players in the Spanish tennis scene.
Continue ReadingBeatriz Sheridan
Mexican actress and director of plays
Born
June 25th, 1934 91 years ago
Died
2006 19 years ago — 72 years old
Born in 1934, a prominent figure in Mexican theater, directing influential plays and establishing a legacy in performing arts. Worked extensively in television, particularly in series that explored social issues. Contributed to the development of dramatic arts in Mexico, shaping the cultural landscape through artistic expression.
Continue ReadingHenry H. Arnold
American General, Army Air Forces leader
Born
June 25th, 1886 139 years ago
Died
January 15th, 1950 75 years ago — 63 years old
A significant figure in the development of the United States Army Air Forces, played a pivotal role during World War II, overseeing extensive air operations. Instrumental in the transition from a primarily ground-based military structure to an air-centric one, emphasizing the importance of strategic bombing. Served as the first five-star general in the U.S. Air Force, and the only officer to hold a five-star rank in two services. Contributed to the establishment of the U.S. Air Force as a separate branch of the military in 1947.
Continue ReadingDikembe Mutombo
Basketball player and humanitarian
Born
June 25th, 1966 59 years ago
Died
September 30th, 2024 1 years ago — 58 years old
Born in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, a professional basketball player transitioned to the NBA, where a career spanned from 1991 to 2009. Primarily played as a center for teams such as the Philadelphia 76ers, Atlanta Hawks, and Houston Rockets. Achieved significant recognition as a defensive specialist, earning four NBA Defensive Player of the Year awards. Contributed to teams reaching the playoffs multiple times, including a standout performance in leading the 76ers to the Eastern Conference Finals in 2001. Retired from basketball and established the Dikembe Mutombo Foundation, focusing on health and education in Africa.
Continue ReadingBoris Trajkovski
Macedonian politician and president
Born
June 25th, 1956 69 years ago
Died
February 26th, 2004 21 years ago — 47 years old
Served as the second President of the Republic of Macedonia from 1999 until death in 2004. Focused on promoting peace and stability within the country during a period of ethnic tensions. Worked on furthering Macedonia's intentions to join the European Union and NATO. Advocated for governmental reforms and national dialogue across ethnic lines, enhancing cooperation among diverse communities.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on December 28th
Terry Peder Rasmussen
American serial killer and criminal
Born
December 23rd, 1943 82 years ago
Died
December 28th, 2010 14 years ago — 67 years old
Active in the United States during the 1970s and 1980s, committed multiple murders across several states. Linked to various cold cases, including the disappearance of several individuals. Adopted different aliases to evade law enforcement, complicating investigations. Convicted for the murders of at least four people, with evidence suggesting involvement in several others. Executed a series of killings often in connection with his tumultuous personal life. Death occurred while serving a prison sentence.
Continue ReadingKonrad Peutinger
German humanist and antiquarian
Born
October 14th, 1465 560 years ago
Died
December 28th, 1547 477 years ago — 82 years old
Born in 1465, this individual was a prominent figure in the study of antiquity and geography during the Renaissance. Initiated into humanist circles, this person contributed to the preservation and understanding of classical texts and artifacts. The extensive collection gathered included maps, manuscripts, and rare books, significantly enriching the scope of knowledge about the ancient world. This individual held a particular interest in Roman history and geography, which led to the creation of a renowned map of the ancient Roman Empire. The map served as an important resource for scholars and historians in later periods, aiding in the study of ancient roads and territories. The legacy remained influential in the fields of history and cartography.
Continue ReadingVijayakanth
Indian actor and politician
Born
1952 73 years ago
Died
December 28th, 2023 1 years ago — 71 years old
A prominent figure in Tamil cinema and politics, this individual served as a Member of the Legislative Assembly in Tamil Nadu. The film career began in the early 1990s, with notable performances in films such as 'Enthiran' and 'Kavalan'. Transitioning to politics, a political party was founded, and the individual contested in several elections, securing a seat in the Tamil Nadu assembly. The individual’s work spanned decades, with a reputation built in both film and political arenas.
Continue ReadingFrancis de Sales
Bishop and saint of the Catholic Church
Born
August 21st, 1567 458 years ago
Died
December 28th, 1622 402 years ago — 55 years old
A bishop in Geneva during the Protestant Reformation, he became a prominent figure for his efforts in the Counter-Reformation through writing and preaching. His significant contributions to spiritual literature include 'Introduction to the Devout Life' and 'Treatise on the Love of God'. Francis founded the Order of the Visitation of Holy Mary, which focused on the education of women and service to the poor. Canonized in 1665, he was later declared a Doctor of the Church in 1877.
Continue ReadingRose Marie
Actress and singer from The Dick Van Dyke Show
Born
August 15th, 1923 102 years ago
Died
December 28th, 2017 7 years ago — 94 years old
Rose Marie began a career in entertainment at a young age, gaining acclaim as a singer and actress. Major recognition came from the role of Sally Rogers on the television series The Dick Van Dyke Show, which aired from 1961 to 1966. In addition to her television work, she had a successful career in vaudeville, showcasing her singing talent. Her contributions to the entertainment industry spanned several decades, with appearances in television shows and films, as well as live performances.
Continue ReadingGrichka Bogdanoff
Television presenter and scientific essayist
Born
1949 76 years ago
Died
December 28th, 2021 3 years ago — 72 years old
Accomplished in the fields of television and scientific discourse. Presented and co-created the series 'Temps X' which aired from 1979 to 1987, focusing on science and futurism. Authored several works on science, philosophy, and science fiction themes. Played a significant role in popularizing complex scientific concepts in an accessible manner through media. Contributed to the intersection of science and entertainment, influencing public interest in these topics.
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