Joseph Bazalgette
Civil engineer and sewerage system designer
Born
Died
Category
Scientists & Innovators
Country
United Kingdom
Links & References
An engineer developed the modern sewerage system in London. Initiated the construction of a vast network of sewers completed in the 1860s, which effectively addressed the city's sanitation issues. The system eliminated the problem of sewage disposal into the River Thames, drastically improving public health conditions during a time of rapid urbanization.
Created London's main sewerage system
Reduced cholera outbreaks in London
Other People Born on March 28th
Ken Howard
American actor and award-winning performer
Born
March 28th, 1944 82 years ago
Died
March 23rd, 2016 10 years ago — 71 years old
An American actor who gained prominence for a career spanning several decades in film, television, and theater. Best recognized for the role of Coach Ken Reeves in the television series "The White Shadow." Received a Tony Award for Best Featured Actor in a Musical for the Broadway production of "Child's Play". Served as president of the Screen Actors Guild from 2009 to 2011, advocating for the rights of performers. In addition to television and stage work, appeared in films including "Caprice" and "The Descendants."
Continue ReadingHenry Schoolcraft
Geographer and ethnologist; Indian Affairs
Born
March 28th, 1793 233 years ago
Died
1864 162 years ago — 71 years old
Served as a geographer, geologist, and ethnologist in the 19th century. Conducted extensive studies on Native American tribes, focusing on culture and customs. Contributed to documentation of the origins of the Mississippi River. Played a significant role in American Indian affairs and wrote extensively about Native American history and geography.
Continue ReadingMichael Parkinson
Journalist and author of significant interviews
Born
March 28th, 1935 91 years ago
Died
2023 3 years ago — 88 years old
A prominent journalist and author in England, established a long career in media starting from the 1960s. Gained recognition as a television presenter with 'Parkinson', a chat show that featured a wide array of celebrity interviews. Authored several books reflecting on his experiences in journalism. Contributed significantly to British television with a focus on engaging and conversational interviewing techniques, influencing the format of talk shows.
Continue ReadingJean Benner
French artist and landscape painter
Born
March 28th, 1836 190 years ago
Died
October 28th, 1906 119 years ago — 70 years old
Born in France, an artist specialized in landscape painting. His works often reflected the serene beauty of nature and incorporated elements of the Impressionist movement. Active during the late 19th century, many of his paintings captured the vibrant colors and light of various French landscapes and rural settings. Exhibited at notable venues, contributed to the evolution of French art through unique styles and techniques. Recognized in art circles for a dedication to portraying the nuances of light and color in natural scenes.
Continue ReadingConsalvo Sanesi
Italian race car driver, Mille Miglia winner
Born
March 28th, 1911 115 years ago
Died
July 28th, 1998 27 years ago — 87 years old
Achieved prominence as an Italian race car driver. Competed in prestigious events throughout the 1930s, showcasing skills on various race courses. Gained recognition for performances in endurance races, notably the Mille Miglia, where strategic driving and speed were essential. Had a successful partnership with Alfa Romeo, piloting their cars to multiple victories. Endured challenges of pre-World War II racing, contributing to the development of motorsport in Italy.
Continue ReadingConchata Ferrell
American actress from 'Two and a Half Men'
Born
March 28th, 1943 83 years ago
Died
October 12th, 2020 5 years ago — 77 years old
An actress, she gained acclaim for her role as Berta on the television series 'Two and a Half Men'. Her career spanned several decades, beginning in the late 1960s. Ferrell appeared in a range of television shows and films, showcasing her talent in both comedic and dramatic roles. In addition to 'Two and a Half Men', she featured in 'Mystic Pizza' and 'Erin Brockovich'. Ferrell received multiple award nominations throughout her career, reflecting her contributions to television and film.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on March 15th
Thora Hird
English actress in comedy and drama
Born
May 28th, 1911 114 years ago
Died
March 15th, 2003 23 years ago — 91 years old
A prominent figure in British television and film, gained recognition for performances in various genres throughout a lengthy career. Featured in the sitcom 'Last of the Summer Wine' in a role that became iconic. Starred in numerous films, earning acclaim for both comedic and dramatic roles. Had a strong presence in radio and performed in plays, showcasing versatility as a performer.
Continue ReadingArthur Compton
Physicist and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
September 10th, 1892 133 years ago
Died
March 15th, 1962 64 years ago — 69 years old
An American physicist contributed significantly to the understanding of X-rays and the Compton effect, which describes the scattering of X-rays by electrons. Held academic positions at several prestigious institutions including the University of Chicago and Washington University in St. Louis. Received the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1927 for discovering the phenomenon that illustrated the particle nature of light. His work laid foundational principles for both quantum mechanics and radiation physics, making substantial contributions to both theoretical and experimental physics.
Continue ReadingCollins Chabane
South African politician and minister
Born
1960 66 years ago
Died
March 15th, 2015 11 years ago — 55 years old
A prominent figure in South African politics, served as the Minister of Performance, Monitoring, and Evaluation. Contributed to the African National Congress as a member and held various leadership roles throughout a political career that spanned several years. Focused on promoting efficiency and accountability within government departments. Actively participated in the fight against apartheid and worked towards the establishment of a democratic South Africa.
Continue ReadingTom Harmon
Football player and sportscaster
Born
1919 107 years ago
Died
March 15th, 1990 36 years ago — 71 years old
An American football player and later a sportscaster, achieved prominence in the 1940s. Played as a halfback for the University of Michigan, leading the team to a national championship in 1947. Received the Heisman Trophy in 1940. After college football, transitioned to a successful career in broadcasting, notably covering sports events. Gained recognition for insightful commentary and analysis during broadcasts.
Continue ReadingH. P. Lovecraft
Horror fiction writer; Cthulhu Mythos
Born
August 20th, 1890 135 years ago
Died
March 15th, 1937 89 years ago — 46 years old
A prominent American writer who specialized in weird fiction and horror. Significant contributions to the genre included the creation of the Cthulhu Mythos, a shared fictional universe populated by ancient cosmic entities and the exploration of existential dread. Worked as an editor and wrote many short stories and novellas that have influenced horror literature. Despite limited recognition during his lifetime, posthumous acclaim led to a reevaluation of his work, cementing his status within American literature. Writings, including 'The Call of Cthulhu' and 'At the Mountains of Madness', showcase a unique blend of science fiction, fantasy, and horror.
Continue ReadingHenry Bessemer
Engineer who developed the Bessemer process
Born
January 19th, 1813 213 years ago
Died
March 15th, 1898 128 years ago — 85 years old
An English engineer and businessman developed the Bessemer process, a method for producing steel from pig iron that revolutionized steelmaking. This process allowed for the mass production of steel, making it stronger and cheaper, which contributed significantly to the development of railways and construction during the Industrial Revolution. Bessemer also held various patents related to steel manufacturing and was involved in the establishment of the Bessemer and Lake Erie Railroad. His innovations facilitated advancements in industrial technology, shaping modern engineering practices and infrastructure.
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