John DeWitt

American football player and hammer thrower

John DeWitt - American football player and hammer thrower
Born

October 29th, 1881
143 years ago

Died

July 28th, 1930
95 years ago — 48 years old

Category

Athletes & Sports Figures

Country

United States

Links & References

Played college football at the University of Michigan, contributing significantly to the team's success. Competed in hammer throw at national athletics competitions, showcasing athletic prowess in both football and track. Achieved recognition as a dual-sport athlete during the early 20th century, demonstrating versatile skills in competitive sports.

Played for the University of Michigan football team

Competed in hammer throw at national events

Other People Born on October 29th

Narcisa de Leon

Filipino film producer and actress
Born
October 29th, 1877 147 years ago
Died
1966 59 years ago — 89 years old

Born in 1877, a film producer and actress in the Philippine cinema industry. Co-founded the first major film production company in the Philippines, Lvn Pictures, in 1939. Contributed significantly to the development of local cinema. Produced several notable films that showcased Filipino culture and stories. Also acted in various films during the early years of the Philippine film industry.

Continue Reading

Chris Baio

Bass player for Vampire Weekend
Born
October 29th, 1984 40 years ago

A bass player contributed to the indie rock band Vampire Weekend. The ensemble was recognized for blending eclectic sounds with sharp lyrics. Participated in the composing of numerous tracks that showcased a mix of African rhythms and Western pop influences. Engaged in various tours that brought the band's music to a global audience. Additionally, ventured into solo projects displaying a range of musical styles beyond the band’s genre.

Continue Reading

A. J. Ayer

Philosopher and author of Language, Truth, and Logic
Born
October 29th, 1910 114 years ago
Died
June 27th, 1989 36 years ago — 78 years old

Born in 1910, Ayer was a prominent figure in 20th-century philosophy, primarily associated with logical positivism. The work 'Language, Truth, and Logic' established key principles of the verification theory, arguing that meaningful statements must be either analytically true or empirically verifiable. Ayer also made significant contributions to discussions on ethics and metaphysics, emphasizing a scientific approach to philosophy. He held a prominent academic position at the University of Oxford and influenced many students and philosophers. In addition to his philosophical writings, Ayer wrote extensively for a wider audience, bridging the gap between academic philosophy and public discourse.

Continue Reading

Robert Hardy

English actor, portrayed Siegfried Farnon
Born
October 29th, 1925 99 years ago
Died
2017 8 years ago — 92 years old

Born in 1925 in England, an actor starred in the BBC television series All Creatures Great and Small, which was based on the books by James Herriot. The portrayal of Siegfried Farnon, a veterinary surgeon, showcased well-honed skills in drama and comedy. A distinguished career spanned several decades and included both stage performances and film roles. Achievements extended beyond television, with notable work in Shakespearean plays and movies such as 1984's The Return of the Soldier. His contributions to theatre were recognized with various awards. In addition to acting, interest in history led to a successful career as a writer and a frequent presence on television documentaries.

Continue Reading

Michael Vaughan

Cricketer and sportscaster
Born
October 29th, 1974 50 years ago

An English cricketer and sportscaster, this individual played as an opening batsman for England's national cricket team. He captained the team to a historic Ashes victory against Australia in 2005, restoring England's status in international cricket. Following retirement from playing, transitioned to a successful career in sports broadcasting, providing analysis and commentary on cricket matches.

Continue Reading

Robert Pires

French footballer and World Cup winner
Born
October 29th, 1973 51 years ago

This individual was a professional footballer who played as a winger and attacking midfielder. A significant part of the career was spent at Arsenal FC from 2000 to 2006, where contributions helped the team secure multiple titles. Before joining Arsenal, played for Marseille, winning the Ligue 1 championship. Achieved international success with France, participating in the 1998 FIFA World Cup victory and the UEFA Euro 2000 triumph.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on July 28th

Bernard Cribbins

Actor known for Doctor Who and films
Born
December 29th, 1928 96 years ago
Died
July 28th, 2022 3 years ago — 93 years old

Career spanned over seven decades, featuring a variety of roles in television and film. Gained prominence through work in the children's television series 'Jackanory' and the long-running sci-fi series 'Doctor Who', portraying characters such as Tom Campbell. Appeared in films including 'The Railway Children' and 'Daleks' Invasion Earth: 2150 A.D.'. Contributed to British entertainment through both comedic and dramatic performances.

Continue Reading

Nishinoumi Kajirō III

Japanese sumo wrestler, 30th yokozuna
Born
1890 135 years ago
Died
July 28th, 1933 92 years ago — 43 years old

Achieved the rank of yokozuna in the sport of sumo wrestling, becoming one of the only individuals to hold this prestigious title. Competed during the early 20th century and contributed to the professional sumo wrestling landscape in Japan. Retired from active competition after a successful career that included numerous tournament victories. Post-retirement, engaged in various roles promoting the sport and training the next generation of wrestlers. Died in 1933.

Continue Reading

Karl Gotch

Wrestler and trainer in professional wrestling
Born
1924 101 years ago
Died
July 28th, 2007 18 years ago — 83 years old

A Belgian-American wrestler and trainer, Gotch gained recognition for contributions to professional wrestling, particularly in the world of catch wrestling. In the mid-20th century, he became a prominent figure in the wrestling scene in the United States. Gotch trained many future stars in professional wrestling and advocated for the technical side of the sport. He became a notable figure in the wrestling world, influencing generations of wrestlers with his grappling techniques and training methods. His legacy continues through the wrestlers he mentored and the techniques he popularized within the sport.

Continue Reading

Guillén de Castro y Bellvis

Spanish playwright of 'Las mocedades del Cid'
Born
1569 456 years ago
Died
July 28th, 1631 394 years ago — 62 years old

A prominent figure in the Spanish Golden Age of literature, this playwright contributed significantly to the development of Spanish drama. His most renowned work, 'Las mocedades del Cid', was pivotal in shaping the genre. In addition to comedies and tragedies, the playwright engaged with themes of honor and heroism, influencing the theatrical landscape of the period. Many of his plays were performed in the royal courts and attracted attention for their intricate plots and character development. The legacy of this playwright rests in the rich tradition of Spanish literature and the evolution of its theatrical forms.

Continue Reading

Edward Woodville

Lord Scales at Battle of St. Aubin
Died
July 28th, 1488 537 years ago — None years old

Served as a military leader during the late 15th century. Played a significant role in the Battle of St. Aubin-du-Cormier in 1488, which was part of the Breton War of Succession. His efforts in the battle reflected the ongoing conflict in Brittany, a region of France, at that time. Held the title of Lord Scales, which indicated a position of nobility and military leadership.

Continue Reading

Cyrano de Bergerac

French author and playwright
Born
March 6th, 1619 406 years ago
Died
July 28th, 1655 370 years ago — 36 years old

An author and playwright from France, produced significant works in the 17th century. Notably contributed to the genre of science fiction with writings that explored themes of space travel and philosophical ideas. The works featured sharp wit and social commentary. The most recognized play, 'Cyrano de Bergerac', revolves around the complexities of love and the struggles of an eloquent swordsman. These literary contributions highlighted both romantic and satirical elements.

Continue Reading