Maximilian III Joseph
Elector of Bavaria, significant ruler
Served as Elector of Bavaria from 1745 until 1777. As a ruler, focused on consolidating power and enhancing the administration of the electorate. Implemented reforms that improved the financial situation and developed the region's infrastructure. Fostered the arts and culture, supporting figures like the composer Leopold Mozart. Held an important role in the political landscape of the Holy Roman Empire during his reign, navigating relations with neighboring states.
Ruled as Elector of Bavaria from 1745 to 1777
Supported the arts, including Leopold Mozart
Implemented significant administrative reforms
Other People Born on March 28th
Andrew Kippis
English minister and biographer
Born
March 28th, 1725 300 years ago
Died
October 8th, 1795 230 years ago — 70 years old
Served as a prominent English minister and authored several influential works. Contributed significantly to religious literature and biographical studies during the 18th century. Held the position of a pastor at a Presbyterian congregation in London. Was an influential member of the Congregational Union and engaged in various literary activities.
Continue ReadingBuck Shaw
American football coach and player
Born
March 28th, 1899 126 years ago
Died
1977 49 years ago — 78 years old
Played college football at the University of San Francisco, where he also began coaching. Served as head coach for the University of San Francisco and later at Santa Clara University, leading both teams to competitive seasons. Achieved success in the coaching realm, especially during the early days of collegiate football. Developed strategies that contributed to the evolution of the game during mid-20th century.
Continue ReadingRobert Ashley
Soldier and avant-garde composer
Born
March 28th, 1930 95 years ago
Died
March 3rd, 2014 11 years ago — 83 years old
Served in the United States Army during the Korean War, achieving the rank of captain. Later pursued a career in music, creating unique compositions that blended opera with avant-garde techniques. Established the ONCE Group, which focused on experimental music and theatre. Composed several operas, including 'Perfect Lives', which gained attention for its innovative narrative and staging style.
Continue ReadingRonnie Ray Smith
American sprinter Olympic medalist
Born
March 28th, 1949 76 years ago
Died
2013 13 years ago — 64 years old
Competed in track and field, specializing in sprint events. Achieved success in the 100 meters and 200 meters. Secured a gold medal in the 4x100 meter relay at the 1968 Mexico City Olympics, contributing to a historic performance for the United States. Additionally, earned a bronze medal in the 200-meter dash during the same Olympics. Demonstrated remarkable speed and consistency in races throughout the career.
Continue ReadingKeith Tkachuk
Ice hockey player; 2-time NHL All-Star
Born
March 28th, 1972 53 years ago
Drafted 19th overall in the 1st round of the 1990 NHL Entry Draft, played for the Winnipeg Jets, Phoenix Coyotes, St. Louis Blues, and Atlanta Thrashers. Represented the United States in international competitions, including the Olympics. Achieved a career high of 50 goals in the 1996-97 NHL season with the Coyotes.
Continue ReadingCayetana Fitz-James Stuart
18th Duchess of Alba and aristocrat
Born
March 28th, 1926 99 years ago
Died
November 20th, 2014 11 years ago — 88 years old
Born into a prominent Spanish noble family, held the title of 18th Duchess of Alba from 1955 until death. Became a significant figure in Spanish high society and inherited a vast collection of art and historical properties. Gained attention for her numerous titles and was regarded as one of the last grandees of Spain, representing a unique tradition of Spanish nobility. Engaged in various philanthropic efforts, particularly related to the arts and culture in Spain.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on December 30th
Era Bell Thompson
Journalist and author of 'American Daughter'
Born
August 10th, 1905 120 years ago
Died
December 30th, 1986 39 years ago — 81 years old
Born in 1905, this individual contributed significantly to journalism and literature through the experiences of African Americans. As a writer, published works included the autobiography 'American Daughter', which detailed life experiences and offered insights into race and identity in America. The individual served as editor of various national publications, providing a platform for voice and representation during pivotal moments in history. Education included attendance at a prestigious university, which led to a career that would influence future generations of writers and journalists.
Continue ReadingRona Jaffe
American novelist with The Best of Everything
Born
June 12th, 1931 94 years ago
Died
December 30th, 2005 20 years ago — 74 years old
An American novelist achieved recognition through numerous literary works throughout the 20th century. 'The Best of Everything', published in 1958, explored the lives of young women in the workforce and became a cultural touchstone. Jaffe published several novels, many of which were adapted into films and television series. In addition to her novels, Jaffe wrote for magazines and worked as a screenwriter. The themes in her works often featured strong female characters and societal issues relevant to women. She continued to write well into her later years, contributing to the genre of women's fiction.
Continue ReadingHan van Meegeren
Painter and art forger
Born
October 10th, 1889 136 years ago
Died
December 30th, 1947 78 years ago — 58 years old
Born in the Netherlands, a painter and art forger achieved notoriety during the early to mid-20th century. Initially trained in traditional painting, later shifted focus to forgery. Created a series of forgeries that were passed off as original works by the Dutch master Johannes Vermeer. One of the most significant forgeries, 'Christ and the Woman of Samaria,' led to a high-profile court case after its sale to a Nazi officer. Conviction in the art world followed, marking a controversial chapter in art history. Despite the scandal, continued to influence discussions on authenticity in art.
Continue ReadingMichel Plasse
Canadian ice hockey goaltender
Born
June 1st, 1948 77 years ago
Died
December 30th, 2006 19 years ago — 58 years old
An ice hockey goaltender played in the National Hockey League (NHL) primarily for the St. Louis Blues during the 1970s. His professional career began in the late 1960s, and he played a significant role in the league during his tenure. Plasse participated in over 100 NHL games, showcasing his skills in the net and contributing to his team's efforts. He also played in various minor leagues, where he continued to develop his abilities and gained further experience in the sport, leading to his selection for the NHL.
Continue ReadingWang Shenzhi
Founder of the Min Kingdom
Died
December 30th, 925 1100 years ago — None years old
Founded the Min Kingdom in 909 during the chaotic Five Dynasties and Ten Kingdoms period. Established a regime that maintained a level of independence from the central authorities of the time. Set the groundwork for the regional governance of the area now known as Fujian Province in China. Governed until death in 925, shaping local politics and culture during his reign.
Continue ReadingTerry Becker
Actor and director on 'Voyage to the Bottom of the Sea'
Born
August 5th, 1921 104 years ago
Died
December 30th, 2014 11 years ago — 93 years old
Born in 1921, this American actor and director gained recognition for work in film and television. Significant contributions included a prominent role in the series 'Voyage to the Bottom of the Sea', where portrayal of Captain Lee Crane was notable. In addition to acting, directed several episodes of the series. Active in the entertainment industry for decades, engaged in various theatrical productions and films throughout career before passing.
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