Hugo Chávez
Venezuelan politician and president
A Venezuelan colonel and politician served as President of Venezuela from 1999 until death in 2013. Chávez founded the United Socialist Party of Venezuela and promoted a political movement called 'Bolivarianism', which sought to establish a socialist state. His presidency was characterized by significant social programs aimed at reducing poverty and increasing literacy, funded by the country's oil revenues. Chávez was a prominent figure in Latin American politics and developed close relationships with countries such as Cuba and Bolivia. He implemented numerous reforms in health care, education, and housing, which drew both support and criticism domestically and internationally.
Served as President of Venezuela
Founded the United Socialist Party of Venezuela
Implemented significant social programs
Other People Born on July 28th
Arsen Dedić
Croatian singer-songwriter and poet
Born
July 28th, 1938 87 years ago
Died
2015 10 years ago — 77 years old
Born in 1938, a prominent figure in Croatian music, with a career spanning several decades. Primarily associated with the genre of chanson, combined folk music elements and poetic lyrics. Composed and performed numerous songs that resonated with audiences, often reflecting personal and national themes. Worked on various projects including music, poetry, and theater. Received accolades and recognition for contributions to Croatian culture.
Continue ReadingGerald Casale
Musician and director of Devo
Born
July 28th, 1948 77 years ago
A prominent figure in the music industry, contributed as a founding member of Devo, a band recognized for its unique new wave sound. The group achieved significant acclaim with the hit single 'Whip It' and the influential album 'Q: Are We Not Men? A: We Are Devo!' Additionally, engaged in directing music videos and film projects that further shaped the band's artistic vision.
Continue ReadingSally Struthers
Television actress and activist
Born
July 28th, 1947 78 years ago
An actress and activist, gained recognition for the role of Gloria Stivic on the television series 'All in the Family'. Also provided voice work for the animated series 'The Jetsons' and 'Rugrats'. Struthers became active in various charitable efforts, particularly advocating for the welfare of children globally.
Continue ReadingGlenn A. Baker
Australian journalist and author
Born
July 28th, 1952 73 years ago
A journalist and author, contributions include writing on music and entertainment. Worked extensively as a music journalist, serving as a commentator and presenter. Developed a reputation for producing comprehensive and engaging pieces on various musical subjects. Authored several books focusing on the history and cultural impact of rock music, showcasing extensive research and insight into the genre.
Continue ReadingBill Bradley
Basketball player and U.S. Senator
Born
July 28th, 1943 82 years ago
A professional basketball player achieved notable success with the New York Knicks, winning two NBA championships in 1970 and 1973. After retiring from basketball, served as a U.S. Senator for New Jersey from 1979 to 1997. Pursued a career in politics focusing on economic and educational reform. Also worked as an author and public speaker, contributing to discussions on social issues and policy.
Continue ReadingSusan Roces
Filipino actress and producer
Born
July 28th, 1941 84 years ago
Died
May 20th, 2022 3 years ago — 80 years old
An accomplished actress in the Philippine film industry, Roces began her career in the early 1950s and became a prominent figure in both movies and television. She starred in over 300 films, earning a significant following and critical acclaim. Roces also produced films, showcasing her versatility in the industry. Her performance in the film 'Pahiram ng Isang Umaga' received a Best Actress award at the 1989 Metro Manila Film Festival. Roces was also a beloved figure on television, notably portraying a matriarch in the long-running series 'Marinella'. Throughout her career, she remained influential, earning multiple awards and recognition from various organizations.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on March 5th
Shimazu Yoshihisa
Japanese daimyō of the Shimazu clan
Born
February 9th, 1533 492 years ago
Died
March 5th, 1611 414 years ago — 78 years old
Shimazu Yoshihisa served as the 16th head of the Shimazu clan during the Sengoku period. His leadership marked significant territorial expansion in Kyushu. Coming to power after the death of his father, he engaged in numerous battles to consolidate the clan's influence and protect its interests against rival clans. He became involved in the campaign against the Ōtomo clan and played a crucial role in the clan's military endeavors, including the Siege of Nakamura Castle. His reign was noted for the clan's growing military strength and political maneuvering during a turbulent era of Japanese history.
Continue ReadingVlada Divljan
Serbian singer-songwriter and guitarist
Born
1958 67 years ago
Died
March 5th, 2015 10 years ago — 57 years old
A prominent figure in the Serbian music scene, contributed significantly as a singer-songwriter and guitarist. Initiated a career in the late 1970s and became known as a founding member of the influential rock band Riblja Čorba. Successfully merged rock music with poetic lyrics, producing several albums that resonated with the public during the 1980s and 1990s. Engaged in various musical projects throughout a prolific career, gaining recognition for both solo work and collaborations with other artists. His music often explored themes of love, society, and personal introspection, and he maintained an active public presence until his passing in 2015.
Continue ReadingDavid Dunbar Buick
Automobile manufacturer, founded Buick
Born
September 17th, 1854 171 years ago
Died
March 5th, 1929 96 years ago — 74 years old
A Scottish-American businessman founded Buick Motor Company in 1899. Focused on developing internal combustion engines, he introduced the first successful overhead valve engine. Buick's innovative designs and engineering helped establish the brand as a leader in the automobile industry. After selling his interest in the company, automotive ventures continued with varying degrees of success. The brand became known for luxury vehicles and was one of the first of its kind in the United States. The significance of Buick's contributions to the automotive world is evident in the continued popularity of the brand.
Continue ReadingAl Wistert
American football player and coach, Eagles
Born
December 28th, 1920 104 years ago
Died
March 5th, 2016 9 years ago — 95 years old
Played as a tackle in the NFL, primarily for the Philadelphia Eagles from 1943 to 1951. Transitioned to coaching, leading various teams at the high school and college levels after completing his playing career. Recognized for his contributions to the sport during his tenure as a player and coach, and honored with induction into the Pennsylvania Sports Hall of Fame.
Continue ReadingFriedrich Blass
German philologist and academic scholar
Born
1843 182 years ago
Died
March 5th, 1907 118 years ago — 64 years old
Contributed significantly to the field of philology and classical studies. Played a key role in the study of Greek literature and language. Published critical works on ancient texts, focusing on authors such as Sophocles and Thucydides. Served as a professor, shaping the educational framework for philology in Germany during the late 19th century. Engaged in scholarly debates on the interpretation and linguistic analysis of classical works.
Continue ReadingTom Pryce
Race car driver with Formula One influence
Born
1949 76 years ago
Died
March 5th, 1977 48 years ago — 28 years old
Began motorsport career in karting, achieving significant success before transitioning to single-seaters. Competed in Formula One from 1974 until 1977. Joined the Shadow team in 1975, where notable performances highlighted skill and talent. Recorded a remarkable sixth place finish at the 1975 Monaco Grand Prix, establishing a strong reputation in the racing community. Tragically lost life during a race at the South African Grand Prix in 1977, marking a premature end to a promising career.
Continue Reading