Johannes Hevelius
Astronomer and politician from Poland
An astronomer and politician, contributed significantly to the field of astronomy in the 17th century. Established an observatory in Gdańsk, where extensive observations of celestial bodies were conducted. Published several important works, including 'Machina Coelestis', which explained the use of telescopes and the process of celestial navigation. Developed detailed star charts and was one of the first to use the telescope for astronomical observations, furthering the study of the moon and planets. Engaged in local politics, serving as a member of the Gdańsk council.
Published 'Machina Coelestis'
Constructed an observatory in Gdańsk
Developed detailed star charts
Other People Born on January 28th
Siem de Jong
Dutch footballer, FC Utrecht captain
Born
January 28th, 1989 37 years ago
Professional footballer played primarily as a midfielder. Developed skills at the Ajax youth academy before transitioning to the senior team. Contributed to Ajax's success in the Eredivisie, securing multiple league titles. Later joined FC Utrecht, becoming the team captain. Recognized for leadership on the field and ability to score important goals.
Continue ReadingDick Taylor
English guitarist and songwriter
Born
January 28th, 1943 83 years ago
Co-founded the rock band The Rolling Stones in 1962, contributing to the band's early sound. After leaving the band, pursued a career in music production and continued to perform with various groups. Also collaborated with notable artists, bringing a distinctive style to guitar work. Had influences in the British rock scene throughout the 1960s and 1970s.
Continue ReadingBrian Bilbray
American politician and former congressman
Born
January 28th, 1951 75 years ago
Served as a U.S. Representative from California from 2000 to 2001 and again from 2006 to 2013. Engaged in various legislative efforts, particularly focusing on issues related to immigration and border security. Represented the 50th congressional district and played a key role in local Republican politics during his tenure. Prior to congressional service, held the office of a San Diego County supervisor. Contributed to discussions on environmental and healthcare policies throughout his political career.
Continue ReadingJoan II
Queen of Navarre and Countess of Champagne
Born
January 28th, 1312 714 years ago
Died
1349 677 years ago — 37 years old
Born in 1312, served as Queen of Navarre from 1328 until death. Ascended to the throne following her mother, after the death of her father. Sought to consolidate power and navigate the complexities of medieval politics. Managed affairs of Navarre during a tumultuous period marked by conflicts with neighboring regions. Involved in notable alliances and marriages to strengthen her reign.
Continue ReadingNicky Southall
Footballer and manager with coaching roles
Born
January 28th, 1972 54 years ago
Played professionally as a midfielder for several clubs including Notts County and Cardiff City. Transitioned to management after retiring from playing, overseeing teams in the lower leagues of English football. Worked as an assistant manager and took on various coaching roles in youth football. In the later stages of the career, focused on developing young talent in football academies.
Continue ReadingLibby Trickett
Australian swimmer and Olympian
Born
January 28th, 1985 41 years ago
A prominent Australian swimmer, this athlete excelled in freestyle and butterfly events. She competed in multiple Olympic Games and secured gold medals in events including the 100m freestyle and 4x100m freestyle relay. Achievements also included multiple world records and numerous medals at World Championships. The swimmer was recognized as one of Australia's elite athletes during her career, making significant contributions to the sport.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on January 28th
Hattie N. Harrison
American educator and politician
Born
1928 98 years ago
Died
January 28th, 2013 13 years ago — 85 years old
An educator and politician engaged in community service and governance. Attended Central State University and pursued a career in education. Served as a school board member, advocating for educational improvements. Held the position of the first African American woman to be elected to the West Virginia State Legislature, representing the 6th district. Contributed to the development of educational policies and community initiatives throughout her career.
Continue ReadingJorge Obeid
Argentinian politician and governor
Born
1947 79 years ago
Died
January 28th, 2014 12 years ago — 67 years old
An engineer and politician, served as the Governor of Santa Fe Province in Argentina from 2003 to 2007. Played a significant role in provincial politics and contributed to various public policies during his tenure. Engaged in numerous political initiatives and focused on issues related to education, health care, and infrastructure development. His leadership aimed to address the challenges faced by the province and its citizens.
Continue ReadingRoman Juszkiewicz
Polish astronomer and astrophysicist
Born
1952 74 years ago
Died
January 28th, 2012 14 years ago — 60 years old
Contributed significantly to the fields of astronomy and astrophysics. Conducted extensive research on cosmology, focusing on the structure and evolution of the Universe. Helped advance understanding of the role of gravitational lensing in the study of galaxies. Contributed to several scholarly articles and was involved in various national and international scientific collaborations.
Continue ReadingSpytihněv II
Duke of Bohemia
Born
1031 995 years ago
Died
January 28th, 1061 965 years ago — 30 years old
Ruled as Duke of Bohemia from 1055 until death in 1061. Succeeded Spytihněv I after a brief power struggle. His reign was characterized by conflicts with surrounding territories and internal challenges in consolidating power. Worked to strengthen the dukedom's influence, often through alliances and military engagements. Contributed to the early establishment of Bohemia as a crucial region in Central Europe.
Continue ReadingYue Fei
Chinese general and folk hero
Born
March 24th, 1103 923 years ago
Died
January 28th, 1142 884 years ago — 38 years old
A general during the Song Dynasty, played a significant role in military campaigns against the Jurchen invaders during the Jin-Song Wars. Recognized for exceptional leadership and military strategy, commanded forces in several key battles that aimed to reclaim lost territories. Sought to protect the Song Dynasty from external threats. Executed in the ensuing political strife, transformed into a symbol of loyalty and patriotism in Chinese culture.
Continue ReadingShotaro Ishinomori
Japanese manga artist and author
Born
January 25th, 1938 88 years ago
Died
January 28th, 1998 28 years ago — 60 years old
A prominent manga artist and author, contributed significantly to the development of manga in Japan. Created series such as 'Cyborg 009' and 'Kamen Rider', which became cultural phenomena. Began a career in the 1950s, publishing numerous works that captured the imagination of audiences. His style and storytelling techniques influenced a generation of manga artists and helped establish manga as an important form of entertainment.
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