Mark Eaton
Basketball player and sportscaster
Played for the Utah Jazz in the National Basketball Association (NBA) from 1982 to 1993. Renowned for defensive skills, earned the NBA Defensive Player of the Year award twice. After retirement, transitioned to sports broadcasting, providing analysis for various networks.
Played for the Utah Jazz
Won NBA Defensive Player of the Year twice
Other People Born on January 24th
Charles Hawes
Historian and author of 'The Sea of Grass'
Born
January 24th, 1889 136 years ago
Died
1923 102 years ago — 34 years old
American historian and author focused on American history, particularly the West. Gained recognition for contributions to historical literature through detailed works examining the American experience. Notably published 'The Sea of Grass,' which explored life in the American Southwest. His writings reflected extensive research and often included personal narratives intertwined with historical events, contributing to a richer understanding of the era.
Continue ReadingGeorges Lautner
Film director and screenwriter
Born
January 24th, 1926 99 years ago
Died
November 22nd, 2013 12 years ago — 87 years old
A notable figure in French cinema, contributions spanned several decades, predominantly from the 1950s to the 2000s. Directed a range of films, often popular in France, showcasing a unique blend of action and comedy. Collaborated frequently with screenwriters Michel Audiard and producers, creating a distinctive style that attracted a dedicated audience. Some works explored themes of crime and social commentary, while others emphasized humor. Received acclaim for multiple films within the genre, becoming a respected name in French film history.
Continue ReadingGottfried von Einem
Austrian composer and pianist
Born
January 24th, 1918 107 years ago
Died
1996 29 years ago — 78 years old
Worked as a composer and pianist, contributing significantly to 20th-century classical music. Created operas, concertos, and chamber music that highlighted dramatic themes and complex structures. Gained recognition for operatic works such as 'Der Prozess' based on Franz Kafka's novel and received numerous awards, including the Austrian State Prize for Music. Served as a professor at the University of Music and Performing Arts in Vienna, influencing future generations of musicians.
Continue ReadingPaula Hawkins
American politician, U.S. Senator
Born
January 24th, 1927 98 years ago
Died
2009 16 years ago — 82 years old
Paula Hawkins served as a U.S. Senator from Florida from 1977 to 1989. She was the first woman elected to the U.S. Senate from Florida. Prior to her Senate service, Hawkins was involved in Florida state politics and served as a member of the Florida House of Representatives. During her tenure in the Senate, she focused on issues such as women's rights, health care, and environmental protection. After leaving the Senate, she remained active in politics and public service.
Continue ReadingGustav III of Sweden
King of Sweden and cultural patron
Born
January 24th, 1746 279 years ago
Died
1792 233 years ago — 46 years old
Ascended to the throne in 1771, the monarch implemented significant reforms in Sweden, including promoting the arts and liberal economic policies. Gustav III was a patron of the theatre, founding the Royal Dramatic Theatre in Stockholm. He also sought to modernize the country, advocating for agricultural advancements and enhancing education. Gustav III engaged in political maneuvering, strengthening the monarchy's power by limiting the influence of the nobility. His reign was marked by conflicts, including the Russo-Swedish War, and he faced assassination in 1792.
Continue ReadingGene Mako
Tennis player and film actor
Born
January 24th, 1916 109 years ago
Died
2013 12 years ago — 97 years old
Competed in professional tennis during the mid-20th century and achieved notable success in doubles events. Partnered with partners such as Jack Kramer, winning the 1940 U.S. National Championships men's doubles title. Transitioned into acting, appearing in films including 'The Kid from Brooklyn' and 'The Fleet's In'.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on May 28th
Edward VIII of the United Kingdom
Former King of the United Kingdom
Born
1894 131 years ago
Died
May 28th, 1972 53 years ago — 78 years old
Ascended to the throne in January 1936 but abdicated in December 1936 in favor of his brother due to his desire to marry Wallis Simpson, an American divorcée. The abdication marked the first voluntary resignation of a British monarch. After abdication, served as Governor of the Bahamas during World War II. Lived in France for many years, remaining a controversial figure in British history.
Continue ReadingEzzard Charles
Boxer and World Heavyweight Champion
Born
July 7th, 1921 104 years ago
Died
May 28th, 1975 50 years ago — 53 years old
Became a professional boxer in 1940, winning the World Heavyweight Championship in 1949. Established a reputation as one of the best fighters in the heavyweight division during his career. Fought several notable matches against top contenders and former champions, contributing to a significant legacy in boxing history. Engaged in memorable bouts against Jersey Joe Walcott and Joe Louis, demonstrating skill and determination in the ring.
Continue ReadingMalcolm Glazer
Businessman and owner of NFL teams
Born
August 15th, 1928 97 years ago
Died
May 28th, 2014 11 years ago — 85 years old
A businessman and investor, acquired the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 1995 and the Manchester United football club in 2005. Established an investment firm, the First Allied Corporation, which focused on varied sectors including real estate and restaurants. Became a prominent figure in the sports industry due to ownership of these high-profile teams, influencing their operations and branding. Oversaw the Buccaneers' Super Bowl victory in 2003, marking a significant achievement in American football.
Continue ReadingCornelia Frances
English-Australian actress, The Young Doctors
Born
April 7th, 1941 84 years ago
Died
May 28th, 2018 7 years ago — 77 years old
Born in England and later moving to Australia, a notable actress specialized in television. Significant roles included appearances in the long-running Australian soap operas, particularly 'The Young Doctors' and 'Home and Away'. Her performances contributed to the popularity of these shows, making her a well-recognized figure in the Australian entertainment industry. Over the years, engaged in various theater productions and television dramas, showcasing versatility across different genres.
Continue ReadingNoah Webster
American lexicographer and dictionary creator
Born
October 16th, 1758 267 years ago
Died
May 28th, 1843 182 years ago — 84 years old
Born in 1758, a prominent figure in American linguistics, dedicated a career to the improvement of language and education in the United States. Published the first American dictionary, 'An American Dictionary of the English Language' in 1828, which distinguished American English from British English. Engaged in educational reform efforts contributing to the establishment of American spellings and grammar. Advocated for a national language to unify the country post-independence, emphasizing the importance of standardizing American English.
Continue ReadingMary Lou Williams
American jazz pianist and composer
Born
May 8th, 1910 115 years ago
Died
May 28th, 1981 44 years ago — 71 years old
A prominent figure in jazz music, contributed significantly to the development of various jazz styles. Williams performed with notable musicians including Duke Ellington and Benny Goodman. She composed a wide range of pieces, including sacred music and big band scores. Williams also played a pivotal role in mentoring younger musicians, helping to shape the next generation of jazz artists. Throughout her career, she worked to elevate the genre and bridge the gap between traditional jazz and its modern forms.
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