Liu Xiaobo
Chinese author and Nobel Peace Prize laureate
An author, academic, and activist, contributed to debates on democracy and human rights in China. Played a significant role in the pro-democracy movement during the Tiananmen Square protests. Authored numerous essays advocating for political reform and freedom of expression. Awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2010 while imprisoned for his activism. His writings focused on the need for reform and respect for human rights in China, garnering international attention.
Awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2010
Co-authored the Charter 08 document
Other People Born on December 28th
Khalid Boulahrouz
Dutch footballer and defender
Born
December 28th, 1981 43 years ago
Played professional football primarily as a defender from 1999 to 2017. Played for clubs including Ajax, RKC Waalwijk, and VfB Stuttgart in Germany. Represented the Netherlands national team, contributing to entries in multiple international tournaments. Known for robust defensive skills.
Continue ReadingMauricio Lemos
Footballer; played for club teams
Born
December 28th, 1995 29 years ago
Born in 1995, a Uruguayan footballer played as a defender. Began professional career with Club Atlético Cerro. Later transferred to represent several clubs, including U.D. Las Palmas in Spain and then to their parent club's connection with Crotone in Italy. Participated in various international competitions and contributed to club successes both domestically and in European tournaments.
Continue ReadingTomáš Jurčo
Slovak ice hockey player, Stanley Cup champion
Born
December 28th, 1992 32 years ago
Played as a right winger and contributed to the NHL with the Detroit Red Wings and the Chicago Blackhawks. Achieved significant milestones during the career, including participation in the Stanley Cup playoffs. Competed internationally for Slovakia in several tournaments, showcasing skills on the global stage.
Continue ReadingDhirubhai Ambani
Indian businessman and Reliance founder
Born
December 28th, 1932 92 years ago
Died
July 6th, 2002 23 years ago — 69 years old
Founded Reliance Industries, a conglomerate with interests in petrochemicals, telecommunications, textiles, and more. Launched the company in 1960, which became one of India's largest private sector companies. Pioneered the use of equity markets to raise capital for growth, democratizing wealth generation in India. Instrumental in establishing a strong presence in global markets.
Continue ReadingPatrick Rafter
Tennis player and US Open champion
Born
December 28th, 1972 52 years ago
Achieved recognition as a professional tennis player with a career-high singles ranking of World No. 1. Excelled in Grand Slam tournaments, winning the US Open twice in 1997 and 1998. Known for an effective serve-and-volley style and competitive spirit on the court. Transitioned into a modeling career and made appearances in various promotional events after retiring from tennis.
Continue ReadingShigematsu Sakaibara
Japanese admiral and military leader
Born
December 28th, 1898 126 years ago
Died
June 18th, 1947 78 years ago — 48 years old
An admiral in the Imperial Japanese Navy, Sakaibara served during World War II. He played significant roles in naval operations, including participation in the battles of the Pacific Theatre. After the war, he contributed to post-war military efforts and Japanese naval reform.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on July 13th
Henrik Sillem
Dutch target shooter and mountaineer
Born
August 12th, 1866 159 years ago
Died
July 13th, 1907 118 years ago — 40 years old
Born in the Netherlands, a target shooter participated in international competitions and achieved recognition in the sport. Also pursued a career in mountaineering, achieving notable ascents and contributing to the climbing community. Additionally worked as a jurist, applying legal expertise in various capacities.
Continue ReadingBronisław Geremek
Polish historian and Minister of Foreign Affairs
Born
March 6th, 1932 93 years ago
Died
July 13th, 2008 17 years ago — 76 years old
Born in 1932, studied history at the University of Warsaw. Contributed to Solidarity, the Polish trade union movement, in the 1980s. Served as Minister of Foreign Affairs from 1997 to 2000, advocating for Poland's integration into the European Union and NATO. Played a key role in the transition of Poland from communism to democracy. Participated in numerous international conferences, emphasizing human rights and democratic values.
Continue ReadingAbu'l-Qasim
Kalbid emir of Sicily
Died
July 13th, 982 1043 years ago — None years old
Ruled as emir in Sicily during a significant period of Islamic governance. Contributed to the administration and cultural development of the island. His leadership coincided with a flourishing of arts and sciences. Engaged in conflicts with both Christian and Muslim rivals, securing the emirate's position in the region. Played a pivotal role in the complex political landscape of 10th century Southern Italy.
Continue ReadingLeslie Groves
General in the US Army, Manhattan Project
Born
August 17th, 1896 129 years ago
Died
July 13th, 1970 55 years ago — 73 years old
An American general and engineer played a crucial role during World War II as the director of the Manhattan Project. Oversaw the development of the atomic bomb, coordinating efforts among various scientific and military personnel. The project culminated in the successful test of the first atomic bomb in July 1945, known as the Trinity Test. After the war, continued service in the Army, making contributions to the military infrastructure and leadership training.
Continue ReadingCompay Segundo
Cuban singer-songwriter and guitarist
Born
November 18th, 1907 118 years ago
Died
July 13th, 2003 22 years ago — 95 years old
A prominent figure in Cuban music, a musician contributed significantly to the genre of son cubano. He gained international recognition as a member of the Buena Vista Social Club. His guitar playing and unique singing style showcased traditional Cuban music to a global audience. Through a prolific career spanning several decades, music drew from Afro-Cuban rhythms, creating sounds celebrating the cultural heritage of Cuba.
Continue ReadingGabriel Lippmann
Physicist and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
August 16th, 1845 180 years ago
Died
July 13th, 1921 104 years ago — 75 years old
A physicist and academic, contributed significantly to the field of physics. Developed the method of color photography known as integral photography, which utilized the principles of light interference. In recognition of these advancements, received the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1908. His work laid the foundation for later developments in photographic technology and optics.
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