Natalya Gorbanevskaya

Poet and activist advocating for rights

Natalya Gorbanevskaya - Poet and activist advocating for rights
Born

May 26th, 1936
89 years ago

Died

November 29th, 2013
11 years ago — 77 years old

Category

Activists & Humanitarians

Country

Poland

Links & References

Born in 1936, a Russian-Polish poet and activist emerged as a significant figure in the dissent against the Soviet regime. Gorbanevskaya participated in the 1968 Red Square demonstration, protesting the Soviet invasion of Czechoslovakia. Following her arrest, she faced extensive legal repercussions, including imprisonment and exile. Throughout her life, she published various works highlighting the plight of political prisoners and the need for freedom of speech. Gorbanevskaya's literary contributions often focused on themes of human rights and social justice, reflecting her commitment to these causes during a repressive era in her home country. In her later years, she lived in Poland, continuing to write and advocate for human rights.

Participated in the 1968 Red Square demonstration

Published works advocating for political prisoners

Other People Born on May 26th

Mathew Barzal

Ice hockey player; New York Islanders center
Born
May 26th, 1997 28 years ago

A professional ice hockey player, made his NHL debut with the New York Islanders in the 2017-2018 season. Played a significant role in the Islanders' playoff runs, demonstrating exceptional skills as a center. Won the Calder Memorial Trophy as the NHL's Rookie of the Year in 2018. Contributed to Team Canada in international competitions, showcasing talent on a global stage.

Continue Reading

Stevie Nicks

Singer-songwriter and Fleetwood Mac member
Born
May 26th, 1948 77 years ago

A prominent figure in rock music, a successful singer-songwriter emerged in the late 1960s and became a member of the band Fleetwood Mac. The collaboration with the band resulted in the critically acclaimed album 'Rumours,' which achieved significant commercial success. In addition to her work with Fleetwood Mac, a successful solo career featured hit singles such as 'Edge of Seventeen' and 'Stand Back.' The artist's distinctive voice and captivating stage presence contributed to a lasting legacy within the music industry.

Continue Reading

Dani Samuels

Australian discus thrower and champion
Born
May 26th, 1988 37 years ago

An accomplished discus thrower, this athlete gained recognition for her achievements in international competitions. In 2009, secured the gold medal at the World Championships held in Berlin, marking a significant milestone in her career. Competed in the 2008 Beijing Olympics and represented Australia in multiple World Championships and Commonwealth Games. Achieved personal best throws that ranked among the top in the world during her peak years. Over the course of her career, earned multiple National Championships titles.

Continue Reading

Bobcat Goldthwait

Actor and director; 'Shakes the Clown'
Born
May 26th, 1962 63 years ago

An American actor, director, and screenwriter. Gained recognition for a unique comic style, characterized by a distinctive voice and eccentric delivery. Achieved fame through the cult classic film 'Shakes the Clown', which was both directed and co-written. Also appeared in the TV series 'One Crazy Summer' and lent voice to various animated projects. Transitioned into directing with films such as 'Windy City Heat' and 'God Bless America', showcasing a blend of dark comedy and satire.

Continue Reading

John Wayne

American actor in western films
Born
May 26th, 1907 118 years ago
Died
June 11th, 1979 46 years ago — 72 years old

An iconic American film actor, director, and producer, became prominent in the western genre. Starred in films such as 'Stagecoach', 'True Grit', and 'The Searchers', which solidified his place in cinema history. Won the Academy Award for Best Actor for 'True Grit' in 1970. Also appeared in war films and action dramas throughout his career, contributing to a legacy of classic Hollywood performances.

Continue Reading

Bob Fitzsimmons

Boxer and three-weight world champion
Born
May 26th, 1863 162 years ago
Died
October 22nd, 1917 107 years ago — 54 years old

Born in England and later moved to New Zealand, this boxer became a prominent figure in the sport during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Achieving fame in the ring, this athlete was the first three-weight world champion, holding titles in middleweight, light heavyweight, and heavyweight divisions. With a reputation for exceptional skill and power, the boxer faced and defeated many prominent contenders of the time, gaining recognition and accolades in the boxing community.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on November 29th

Jørn Utzon

Danish architect, Sydney Opera House designer
Born
April 9th, 1918 107 years ago
Died
November 29th, 2008 16 years ago — 90 years old

An architect from Denmark, significant for the innovative design of the Sydney Opera House, completed in 1973. The design featured a series of large, shell-like structures that became a global symbol of architectural brilliance. His vision for the Opera House was initially met with criticism regarding its complexity, but it has since garnered appreciation and recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage site. After completing this landmark project, he withdrew from the public eye and settled in his homeland. Throughout his life, he received several awards for architectural excellence and has influenced the field of architecture through his pioneering work and design philosophy.

Continue Reading

Henry Kissinger

Political Scientist and Secretary of State
Born
May 27th, 1923 102 years ago
Died
November 29th, 2023 1 years ago — 100 years old

A German-American political scientist and politician, served as the 56th United States Secretary of State from 1973 to 1977. Played a significant role in U.S. foreign policy during the Nixon and Ford administrations, focusing on the policy of détente with the Soviet Union and opening relations with China. Instrumental in the negotiation of the Paris Peace Accords, which aimed to establish peace in Vietnam and ended U.S. involvement in the Vietnam War. Received the Nobel Peace Prize in 1973 for efforts to negotiate a ceasefire in Vietnam, though his policies also faced criticism.

Continue Reading

Philipp Nicodemus Frischlin

German philologist and mathematician
Born
September 22nd, 1547 477 years ago
Died
November 29th, 1590 434 years ago — 43 years old

Born in 1547, a German philologist, mathematician, astronomer, and poet. Contributed significantly to the field of philology, focusing on classical languages and literature. Also engaged in mathematical studies, producing works that merged poetry with mathematical concepts. Worked on astronomical observations, further enhancing the understanding of celestial bodies during the Renaissance period. He held positions in various educational institutions where he combined teaching with scholarly pursuits.

Continue Reading

Gene Rayburn

Game show host of Match Game
Born
December 22nd, 1917 107 years ago
Died
November 29th, 1999 25 years ago — 81 years old

A game show host and actor hailed for contributions to television entertainment. Served as the host of the popular game show "Match Game" from 1973 to 1982, which featured a unique blend of humor and celebrity participation. Additionally appeared in various television series and films, showcasing versatility in performance. Career spanned several decades, with a strong presence in the entertainment industry during the 1960s, 70s, and 80s.

Continue Reading

Walter Beech

Aviator and aviation entrepreneur
Born
1891 134 years ago
Died
November 29th, 1950 74 years ago — 59 years old

Contributed to the early development of commercial aviation through founding Beech Aircraft Corporation in 1932. Pioneered aircraft innovations such as the Beechcraft Model 17 Staggerwing, which gained acclaim for its design and performance. Played a significant role in promoting general aviation during a formative time in the industry. His efforts also included advocating for pilot training and safety standards.

Continue Reading

Wayne Northrop

American actor in daytime television
Born
April 12th, 1947 78 years ago
Died
November 29th, 2024 0 years ago — 77 years old

This actor has appeared in numerous daytime soap operas. Most recognized for roles in 'Days of Our Lives' and 'The Young and the Restless.' Active in the entertainment industry since the 1970s, he portrayed various characters that contributed to the popularity of the shows. His performances have garnered attention and appreciation from audiences throughout his career.

Continue Reading