Ilya Prigogine
Chemist and Nobel Prize laureate
Contributions to thermodynamics and physical chemistry included the formulation of the theory of dissipative structures. This work highlighted the behavior of complex systems far from equilibrium. Served as director of the International Solvay Institutes and held a professorship at the Université Libre de Bruxelles. In 1977, received the Nobel Prize in Chemistry for contributions that advanced the understanding of thermodynamic processes.
Received the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1977
Formulated the theory of dissipative structures
Other People Born on January 25th
Apostolos Giannou
Greek-Australian professional footballer
Born
January 25th, 1990 35 years ago
Born in 1990, this athlete has played as a striker and represented multiple clubs in Australia and Europe. Initiated a professional career at Central Coast Mariners before moving to various international teams, including a notable stint at A-League's Brisbane Roar. Represented Australia at various youth levels and earned caps for the senior national team. Contributed to team efforts in various domestic league campaigns as well as Asian competitions.
Continue ReadingVladimir Vysotsky
Russian singer-songwriter and actor
Born
January 25th, 1938 87 years ago
Died
July 25th, 1980 45 years ago — 42 years old
Born in 1938, this individual emerged as a prominent figure in Russian music and theater. Gaining recognition as a singer-songwriter, composed over 600 songs characterized by deep poetry and emotional intensity. Additionally, performed major roles in theatrical productions, particularly at the Taganka Theatre in Moscow. His songs often addressed social and political topics, resonating with audiences during a time of great change in the Soviet Union. The cultural legacy includes a profound influence on the Russian bard movement, with many songs remaining popular in contemporary Russian culture.
Continue ReadingMilt Stegall
Football player, sportscaster
Born
January 25th, 1970 55 years ago
Played as a wide receiver in the Canadian Football League (CFL) primarily for the Winnipeg Blue Bombers. Achieved numerous records during a professional career spanning from 1995 to 2010. Later transitioned to sports broadcasting, contributing insights and analysis on various platforms. Inducted into the Canadian Football Hall of Fame in 2012.
Continue ReadingGaspar Fagel
Dutch politician and diplomat
Born
January 25th, 1634 391 years ago
Died
December 15th, 1688 337 years ago — 54 years old
Born in 1634, this individual served as a prominent politician and diplomat in the Dutch Republic during the tumultuous 17th century. Played a crucial role in various diplomatic negotiations, particularly during the Second Anglo-Dutch War. Held positions including Pensionary of Amsterdam and played a significant part in the shaping of Dutch foreign policy. Actively engaged in discussions that influenced trade and military strategies. Partook in the Assembly of the States General and contributed to the governance of the provinces.
Continue ReadingRobert Boyle
Chemist and physicist, Boyle's Law
Born
January 25th, 1627 398 years ago
Died
December 31st, 1691 333 years ago — 64 years old
An Anglo-Irish chemist and physicist contributed significantly to the development of modern chemistry. Boyle's pioneering experiments laid the groundwork for the scientific method, emphasizing experimentation over philosophy. He published 'The Sceptical Chymist' in 1661, which challenged the classical elements theory and proposed a new understanding of chemical substances. His work in gas laws, particularly Boyle's Law, demonstrated the relationship between the pressure and volume of gases. Boyle was also a key figure in the founding of the Royal Society in London. Throughout his career, he conducted extensive experiments that established fundamental principles of chemistry and physics.
Continue ReadingTheodosius Dobzhansky
Geneticist and evolutionary biologist
Born
January 25th, 1900 125 years ago
Died
December 18th, 1975 50 years ago — 75 years old
Born in the Russian Empire, a prominent geneticist and evolutionary biologist significantly contributed to the understanding of genetics and evolution. Key work included research on the role of population genetics in evolutionary theory, which helped to synthesize genetics with Darwinian evolution. Spent a major part of the career at Columbia University and published influential papers and books, including 'Genetics and the Origin of Species' in 1937, which became a fundamental text in the field. Contributed to the development of the modern synthesis of evolutionary biology by demonstrating how Mendelian genetics clarified issues in evolutionary theory.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on May 28th
Mary Lou Williams
American jazz pianist and composer
Born
May 8th, 1910 115 years ago
Died
May 28th, 1981 44 years ago — 71 years old
A prominent figure in jazz music, contributed significantly to the development of various jazz styles. Williams performed with notable musicians including Duke Ellington and Benny Goodman. She composed a wide range of pieces, including sacred music and big band scores. Williams also played a pivotal role in mentoring younger musicians, helping to shape the next generation of jazz artists. Throughout her career, she worked to elevate the genre and bridge the gap between traditional jazz and its modern forms.
Continue ReadingThorleif Schjelderup
Norwegian ski jumper and Olympic champion
Born
January 20th, 1920 105 years ago
Died
May 28th, 2006 19 years ago — 86 years old
Competed in ski jumping, winning a gold medal at the 1948 St. Moritz Olympics in the large hill event. Authored books on skiing and the sport's techniques, contributing to the literature of winter sports. Continued involvement in skiing beyond competition years, promoting the sport's development in Norway.
Continue ReadingReynaldo Rey
Actor and screenwriter from 'The Milagro Beanfield War'
Born
January 27th, 1940 85 years ago
Died
May 28th, 2015 10 years ago — 75 years old
An American actor and screenwriter, celebrated for contributions to film and television. Worked on various projects over several decades, prominently featuring in 'The Milagro Beanfield War' and 'The Undercover Brother'. Actively participated in the entertainment industry, both in front of and behind the camera, demonstrating a commitment to storytelling through diverse characters.
Continue ReadingEddie Romero
Filipino film director and producer
Born
July 7th, 1924 101 years ago
Died
May 28th, 2013 12 years ago — 88 years old
Contributed to the Filipino film industry as a director, producer, and screenwriter. Directed several films that garnered both national and international acclaim. Collaborated with various actors and filmmakers, establishing a legacy in Philippine cinema. Received recognition at prestigious film festivals, showcasing Filipino culture through cinematic storytelling.
Continue ReadingMark Eaton
Basketball player and sportscaster
Born
January 24th, 1957 68 years ago
Died
May 28th, 2021 4 years ago — 64 years old
Played for the Utah Jazz in the National Basketball Association (NBA) from 1982 to 1993. Renowned for defensive skills, earned the NBA Defensive Player of the Year award twice. After retirement, transitioned to sports broadcasting, providing analysis for various networks.
Continue ReadingEzzard Charles
Boxer and World Heavyweight Champion
Born
July 7th, 1921 104 years ago
Died
May 28th, 1975 50 years ago — 53 years old
Became a professional boxer in 1940, winning the World Heavyweight Championship in 1949. Established a reputation as one of the best fighters in the heavyweight division during his career. Fought several notable matches against top contenders and former champions, contributing to a significant legacy in boxing history. Engaged in memorable bouts against Jersey Joe Walcott and Joe Louis, demonstrating skill and determination in the ring.
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