Madge Sinclair
Jamaican-American actress in film and TV
Born
Died
Category
Performers & Entertainers
Country
United States
Links & References
Born in Jamaica, an actress made a significant mark in film and television. Moved to the United States to pursue acting and became a prominent figure in various productions. Starred in the classic film 'Coming to America' alongside Eddie Murphy, as well as in the television series 'Roots' which highlighted the historical struggles of enslaved African Americans. Recognized for powerful performances that brought depth to her roles, she became one of the first Black actresses to hold leading roles in mainstream media.
Starred in 'Roots' as Bell
Played a key role in 'Coming to America'
Other People Born on April 28th
Ron Zook
American football coach and player
Born
April 28th, 1954 71 years ago
Played college football at the University of Florida as a defensive back. Served as an assistant coach in various collegiate programs, including a role as the head coach at the University of Florida from 2002 to 2004. Led the team to a Peach Bowl victory in 2002. Also coached at the University of Illinois from 2005 to 2011, overseeing a team that reached the Rose Bowl in 2008.
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 ReadingJan Oort
Dutch astronomer and academic
Born
April 28th, 1900 125 years ago
Died
November 5th, 1992 33 years ago — 92 years old
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.
Continue ReadingKenneth Kaunda
Zambian politician and educator
Born
April 28th, 1924 101 years ago
Died
June 17th, 2021 4 years ago — 97 years old
An educator and politician served as the first president of Zambia from independence in 1964 until 1991. Played a significant role in the Zambian liberation struggle against colonial rule. Led the United National Independence Party (UNIP) and established a one-party state during tenure. Implemented policies aimed at social and economic development. After losing the election in 1991, transitioned Zambia to a multi-party democracy.
Continue ReadingLionel Barrymore
Actor and director in 'It's a Wonderful Life'
Born
April 28th, 1878 147 years ago
Died
November 15th, 1954 71 years ago — 76 years old
Active in the early to mid-20th century, this individual contributed to film and theater as both an actor and a director. Highly praised for performances, highlighted in the classic film 'It's a Wonderful Life' as Mr. Potter. Worked extensively in silent films before transitioning to talkies, earning acclaim in various dramatic roles. Besides film, directed multiple stage productions and showcased talent on radio.
Continue ReadingTariq Aziz
Iraqi journalist and politician
Born
April 28th, 1936 89 years ago
Died
June 5th, 2015 10 years ago — 79 years old
An Iraqi journalist and politician served as the Minister of Foreign Affairs from 2001 to 2003. Played a significant role in Iraq's foreign diplomatic relations during a challenging period. Participated actively in various international conferences addressing issues pertinent to the Middle East. Contributed to Iraq's representation in global forums, advocating for national interests while navigating the complexities of regional politics.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on December 20th
Katharina von Bora
Reformer and Wife of Martin Luther
Born
January 29th, 1499 527 years ago
Died
December 20th, 1552 473 years ago — 53 years old
Born in 1499, a nun who fled her convent, later married Martin Luther in 1525. She managed the household and raised six children. Played a significant role in the Reformation, supporting her husband's work and promoting his ideas. Demonstrated financial acumen in managing the family's household and properties, contributing to their stability amid the tumultuous changes of the Reformation. Katharina became a prominent figure in the movement, exemplifying the role of women in the Reformation and offering a model of partnership in marriage. Died in 1552, leaving a lasting legacy in religious history.
Continue ReadingBobby Darin
Singer-songwriter and actor with hits.
Born
May 14th, 1936 89 years ago
Died
December 20th, 1973 52 years ago — 37 years old
Acclaimed as a singer-songwriter and actor, this performer gained significant popularity in the 1960s. Early hits included 'Splish Splash,' 'Dream Lover,' and 'Mack the Knife,' showcasing a blend of pop, rock, and jazz styles. Transitioning into acting, received critical recognition for performances in film and television. The individual's artistic contributions earned multiple Grammy Awards, solidifying a legacy in American music and cinema.
Continue ReadingAndré Jolivet
French composer and music innovator
Born
August 8th, 1905 120 years ago
Died
December 20th, 1974 51 years ago — 69 years old
A prominent French composer, contributions to modern music spanned various styles, often incorporating elements of spirituality and mysticism. Studied under Paul Dukas and worked to develop a unique voice in the 20th century classical music landscape. Founded the Music Action group, focusing on the integration of improvisation in contemporary compositions. Collaborated with various musicians, enhancing the musical dialogue among composers of the era.
Continue ReadingJoão Ferreira Sardo
Founder of Gafanha da Nazaré
Born
September 1st, 1873 152 years ago
Died
December 20th, 1925 100 years ago — 52 years old
Founded the fishing community of Gafanha da Nazaré. Actively participated in religious and social initiatives within the community. Served as Prior, leading local church activities and fostering communal growth. Contributed to the establishment of infrastructure and services that benefitted the residents of Gafanha da Nazaré.
Continue ReadingAugustus Quirinus Rivinus
Physician and botanist, Plant Taxonomy
Born
December 9th, 1652 373 years ago
Died
December 20th, 1723 302 years ago — 71 years old
A prominent physician and botanist, contributed significantly to the field of botany during the 17th century. Developed a systematic approach to plant classification, which influenced future botanical studies. Authored several publications that laid the groundwork for modern plant taxonomy. His work emphasized the importance of morphological features in classifying plants, which became a foundation for future botanists. Engaged in the study of medicinal plants and their uses in medicine, merging botanical research with practical applications in healthcare.
Continue ReadingJuhan Simm
Estonian composer and conductor
Born
August 12th, 1885 140 years ago
Died
December 20th, 1959 66 years ago — 74 years old
Born in 1885, this composer and conductor contributed significantly to Estonian music. Studied at the St. Petersburg Conservatory, focusing on composition and conducting. Established a strong presence in the Estonian music scene through compositions that integrated local folk themes. Actively involved in promoting Estonian music, held various positions in music education, and led orchestras to enhance the cultural landscape of Estonia.
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