Michel Petrucciani
Renowned jazz pianist and composer
A prominent jazz pianist and composer, recognized for exceptional technique and emotive playing style. Born in France, faced physical challenges due to a genetic condition affecting bone growth. Relocated to the United States where collaborations with various jazz legends took place. Recorded multiple albums throughout the career, showcasing a blend of jazz, classical, and world music. Gained acclaim for live performances and contributed to the jazz genre until passing at a young age.
Released critically acclaimed albums like 'Petrucciani' and 'The Trio'
Performed with artists such as Wayne Shorter and Herbie Hancock
Other People Born on December 28th
Tomáš 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 ReadingBrendan Hines
Actor in 'Lie to Me' and musician
Born
December 28th, 1976 48 years ago
An American actor and singer, notable work includes the series 'Lie to Me' where a complex character was portrayed. Additional roles in 'The Mindy Project' and 'Scorpion' showcased versatility in acting. Also pursued a music career, releasing songs that highlight musical talents.
Continue ReadingCharles Bennett
English middle-distance runner, Olympian
Born
December 28th, 1870 154 years ago
Died
1949 76 years ago — 79 years old
Competed in middle-distance running events, representing England in the early 20th century. Achieved a silver medal in the 1900 Summer Olympics in the 800 meters, becoming one of the pioneers in the sport. Also participated in multiple national championships, showcasing talent in various distances.
Continue ReadingLinus Torvalds
Computer Programmer, Developer of Linux
Born
December 28th, 1969 55 years ago
Born in Finland, a computer programmer developed the Linux kernel, an open-source operating system that has become foundational in the computing world. In 1991, released the first version of the Linux kernel, initiating a significant evolution in software development. The project has attracted contributions from thousands of developers worldwide and has been widely adopted by organizations, corporations, and individual users alike. In addition to the Linux kernel, involvement in the Git version control system further established a reputation as a key figure in software engineering.
Continue ReadingTed Lyons
Baseball pitcher and Hall of Famer
Born
December 28th, 1900 124 years ago
Died
1986 39 years ago — 86 years old
A professional baseball pitcher, played for the Chicago White Sox from 1923 to 1946. Achieved significant success in Major League Baseball, securing a place in the Hall of Fame in 1973. Contributed to the team's pitching staff with consistent performances and a strong presence on the mound. Retired with notable statistics that solidified a lasting legacy in the sport.
Continue ReadingJohn Molson
Canadian brewer and businessman
Born
December 28th, 1763 261 years ago
Died
January 11th, 1836 189 years ago — 72 years old
Founded the Molson Brewing Company in 1786, establishing one of North America's oldest breweries. The successful enterprise contributed significantly to the beer industry in Canada. Under leadership, the brewery expanded its operations, becoming a major player in the North American beverage market. Molson also engaged in various business ventures and was involved in community interests, including the establishment of the first Montreal theater.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on January 6th
Lamin Sanneh
American professor and author
Born
1942 83 years ago
Died
January 6th, 2019 6 years ago — 77 years old
Born in Gambia, this individual was a prominent professor of missions and world Christianity. Held academic positions at Yale University and authored several influential works. Focused on the intersection of Christianity and culture, providing insights into the dynamics of religious belief in global contexts. Championed the study of African Christianity and contributed to understanding the role of religion in societal frameworks. This individual’s work has been integral in shaping modern discussions on faith and globalization.
Continue ReadingRoberta Wohlstetter
Political Scientist and Historian
Born
1912 113 years ago
Died
January 6th, 2007 18 years ago — 95 years old
Contributed to the study of intelligence and military history. Authored significant works, including 'Pearl Harbor: Warning and Decision,' which analyzed the intelligence failures preceding the attack on Pearl Harbor. Served as a professor at the University of California, Berkeley, where focus was placed on history and international relations. Participated in various governmental advisory boards and contributed to strategic assessments during the Cold War era.
Continue ReadingOm Puri
Indian actor in critically acclaimed films
Born
1950 75 years ago
Died
January 6th, 2017 8 years ago — 67 years old
An accomplished actor, recognized for performances in Indian cinema and international films. Starred in critically acclaimed movies such as 'Salaam Bombay!', 'The Hundred-Foot Journey', and 'City of Joy'. Active in the industry for several decades, contributed to parallel cinema and mainstream Bollywood films. Participated in theatre and served as a versatile performer across various genres, displaying a wide range of emotional depth and character portrayal. Also involved in television, featured in series and documentaries reflecting social issues.
Continue ReadingBurt Munro
Motorcycle racer and record holder
Born
1899 126 years ago
Died
January 6th, 1978 47 years ago — 79 years old
A motorcycle racer from New Zealand achieved significant recognition for setting land speed records. Remarkably, the individual set a record of 183.586 mph at Bonneville Salt Flats in 1967 on a modified 1920 Indian motorcycle. This accomplishment remained unbeaten in its class for decades. The effort to push the limits of speed involved considerable innovation and engineering on the motorcycle to enhance performance. The story of this racer gained further attention with the release of the film 'The World's Fastest Indian'.
Continue ReadingGordon Renwick
Ice hockey administrator and businessman
Born
1935 90 years ago
Died
January 6th, 2021 4 years ago — 86 years old
An influential figure in Canadian ice hockey, played a key role in the development of the sport at both amateur and professional levels. Served as president of the Canadian Amateur Hockey Association and was integral in promoting the growth of youth hockey programs across Canada. Additionally, contributed to the management of professional teams and ensured the establishment of fair play standards and regulations within the sport. Focused on advancing the interests of ice hockey players and fostering a culture of excellence throughout the hockey community.
Continue ReadingOctavio Lepage
Venezuelan politician and president
Born
1923 102 years ago
Died
January 6th, 2017 8 years ago — 94 years old
Served as the President of Venezuela from 1991 to 1993. Focused on economic reforms and governance during a politically tumultuous period in the country. October 1992 saw an attempted coup against his administration, leading to significant political challenges. Resigned from the presidency after a series of protests and political instability. Contributed to discussions about democracy and political structures in Venezuela following his term.
Continue Reading