Jan Oort
Dutch astronomer and academic
Contributed significantly to the field of astronomy, particularly in the study of galaxies and the structure of the Milky Way. Proposed the existence of the Oort Cloud, a theoretical cloud of icy bodies believed to surround the solar system. Served as a professor at Leiden University and published numerous papers in astrophysics. Played a crucial role in advancing radio astronomy in the Netherlands.
Proposed the existence of the Oort Cloud
Studied the rotation of the Milky Way
Advanced radio astronomy in the Netherlands
Other People Born on April 28th
Eva Samková
Czech snowboarder, Olympic gold medalist
Born
April 28th, 1993 32 years ago
This athlete achieved significant success in snowboarding, specializing in snowboard cross. Competed in multiple Winter Olympic Games, securing a gold medal at the Sochi 2014 Olympics. Also earned medals at FIS World Championships and contributed to the growth of the sport in the Czech Republic through both performance and presence in various competitions.
Continue ReadingKurt Gödel
Mathematician and philosopher; incompleteness theorem
Born
April 28th, 1906 119 years ago
Died
January 14th, 1978 48 years ago — 71 years old
A mathematician and philosopher made significant contributions to mathematical logic and the philosophy of mathematics. Developed the incompleteness theorems, which demonstrated inherent limitations in formal axiomatic systems. These theorems had profound implications for the foundations of mathematics and prompted extensive philosophical discussions. Held a position at the Institute for Advanced Study in Princeton, New Jersey, influencing numerous areas of mathematics and philosophy. Engaged with contemporary thinkers and contributed to discussions around computability and set theory.
Continue ReadingMelanie Martinez
American singer with notable album Cry Baby
Born
April 28th, 1995 30 years ago
Born in 1995, a singer gained prominence with the debut EP 'Dollhouse' and the successful studio album 'Cry Baby.' The album featured hits that charted on Billboard, showcasing a unique blend of pop and alternative styles. In addition to music, contributed to visual art through distinctive music videos and a characteristic aesthetic. The artist's work often explores themes of childhood and emotional struggles, appealing to a wide audience and developing a dedicated fan base.
Continue ReadingYves Klein
French painter of monochrome works
Born
April 28th, 1928 97 years ago
Died
June 6th, 1962 63 years ago — 34 years old
An influential figure in the post-war art movement, this painter developed a distinctive style characterized by bold colors and innovative techniques. In 1956, he created the International Klein Blue, a deep shade of ultramarine that became signature to his work. The artist’s practice included performance art as well as the use of fire and water in his creative processes, establishing a connection between visual art and physical experience. His work challenged traditional perceptions of art and materiality, solidifying a legacy that would influence generations of artists.
Continue ReadingAnthony Volpe
Baseball player for the New York Yankees
Born
April 28th, 2001 24 years ago
A professional baseball player, debuted in Major League Baseball with the New York Yankees. Played as a shortstop and quickly gained attention for exceptional skills on the field. In 2023, contributed significantly to the team's performance, showcasing strong batting and defensive abilities. Volpe's transition from the minor leagues to the major leagues exemplified his dedication and talent. A standout player in youth and collegiate baseball prior to entering the MLB.
Continue ReadingSong Yu-bin
South Korean singer and actor
Born
April 28th, 1998 27 years ago
Born in 1998, a singer and actor gained popularity through participation in the reality television show 'K-pop Star' in 2012. Later joined the South Korean boy group MYTEEN, debuting in 2017 with the EP 'Myteen GO!' and contributing significantly to the group's music and performances. In addition to music, engaged in acting, securing a role in the K-drama 'Love Revolution'.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on November 5th
Lane Evans
American lawyer and politician
Born
1951 75 years ago
Died
November 5th, 2014 11 years ago — 63 years old
Served as a U.S. Congressman from Illinois from 1993 to 2007. During tenure, focused on veterans' affairs, labor rights, and health care issues. Advocated for policies enhancing the welfare of veterans and worked on various legislation affecting the middle class. Retired from politics due to health issues and contributed to community initiatives in the region.
Continue ReadingKanō Motonobu
Japanese painter, Kano school founder
Born
August 28th, 1476 549 years ago
Died
November 5th, 1559 466 years ago — 83 years old
A prominent Japanese painter from the 16th century, he played a significant role in establishing the Kano school of painting. Active during the Muromachi period, he developed a style that combined traditional Japanese techniques with influences from Chinese painting. His works often featured landscapes, figures, and a variety of nature themes, embodying the aesthetics of the time. He served as an official painter to the shogunate and contributed to several important decorative projects within the imperial court. His legacy continues through the Kano school, which became a leading force in Japanese painting for centuries.
Continue ReadingLuis Cernuda
Spanish poet, critic, and author
Born
September 21st, 1902 123 years ago
Died
November 5th, 1963 62 years ago — 61 years old
A prominent figure in the Spanish Generation of '27, this poet is recognized for contributions to Spanish literature through various poetic forms and critical essays. His work often explored themes of desire, exile, and identity. Important collections include 'Los placeres prohibidos' and 'La realidad y el deseo'. His literary career spanned several decades, marked by a commitment to blending traditional and avant-garde styles in poetry. Cernuda spent much of his life in exile due to the Spanish Civil War, residing in places such as Mexico and the United States, where his writings continued to evolve and gain recognition.
Continue ReadingJames Clerk Maxwell
Physicist known for the electromagnetic theory
Born
June 13th, 1831 194 years ago
Died
November 5th, 1879 146 years ago — 48 years old
Contributed significantly to the field of physics and mathematics during the 19th century. Formulated the classical theory of electromagnetic radiation, bringing together electricity, magnetism, and light as manifestations of the same phenomenon. Developed Maxwell's equations, which describe how electric and magnetic fields interact and propagate through space. Also made contributions to thermodynamics and statistical mechanics, laying groundwork for modern physics. Worked in academia and published extensively, influencing future generations of scientists.
Continue ReadingAbdelwahab Meddeb
Tunisian-French author and poet
Born
1946 80 years ago
Died
November 5th, 2014 11 years ago — 68 years old
An author, poet, and scholar engaged with themes of identity, culture, and the modern Arab world. Received education in Tunisia and France, enriching the literary landscape with a distinctive voice. Contributed significantly to literature with a rich blend of prose and poetry, exploring the complexities of the Mediterranean socio-political climate. Authored works in both French and Arabic, highlighting the nuances of intercultural dialogue. Selected works include the novel 'Talismano' and contributions to various literary journals and anthologies.
Continue ReadingGeorge Barris
Car designer and engineering innovator
Born
1925 101 years ago
Died
November 5th, 2015 10 years ago — 90 years old
An American car designer and engineer, contributed significantly to automotive culture through iconic custom vehicles. Founded Barris Kustom Industries in the 1940s, which became prominent for creating innovative and extravagant car designs. Gained widespread recognition for designing the Batmobile for the 1960s television series 'Batman'. Worked on various other notable projects including custom cars for celebrities and films. Established a legacy within the automotive community and is remembered for his unique contributions to car aesthetics and customization.
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