Nelson Algren
Novelist and short story writer
An American novelist and short story writer focused on the struggles of the marginalized in society. Early works included The Last Carousel and Somebody in Boots. The Man with the Golden Arm, published in 1949, received critical acclaim and won the National Book Award for Fiction. Algren's writing often explored themes of poverty and the human condition, drawing inspiration from his experiences in Chicago, which served as a backdrop for many of his stories. His gritty portrayal of urban life distinguished his narrative style and led to significant recognition in American literature.
The Man with the Golden Arm, National Book Award
The Last Carousel
Somebody in Boots
Other People Born on March 28th
Robert Ashley
Soldier and avant-garde composer
Born
March 28th, 1930 95 years ago
Died
March 3rd, 2014 12 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 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 ReadingRick Barry
Basketball player, NBA champion, Hall of Famer
Born
March 28th, 1944 81 years ago
A professional basketball player, made significant contributions to the sport during the 1960s and 1970s. Played primarily as a forward and was known for a unique underhand free throw shooting style. Played for the Golden State Warriors, helping the team secure an NBA Championship in 1975. Inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 1987 for individual achievements and contributions to the game. Also represented the United States in the Olympics, winning a gold medal in 1964.
Continue ReadingMichael Parkinson
Journalist and author of significant interviews
Born
March 28th, 1935 90 years ago
Died
2023 3 years ago — 88 years old
A prominent journalist and author in England, established a long career in media starting from the 1960s. Gained recognition as a television presenter with 'Parkinson', a chat show that featured a wide array of celebrity interviews. Authored several books reflecting on his experiences in journalism. Contributed significantly to British television with a focus on engaging and conversational interviewing techniques, influencing the format of talk shows.
Continue ReadingGeno Atkins
NFL defensive tackle, Pro Bowler
Born
March 28th, 1988 37 years ago
Professional football player played as a defensive tackle in the NFL. Spent the majority of a career with the Cincinnati Bengals. Achieved multiple Pro Bowl selections and received All-Pro honors for outstanding performance on the field. Contributed significantly to the Bengals' defensive lineup, supporting the team's competitive edge during various seasons.
Continue ReadingKen Howard
American actor and award-winning performer
Born
March 28th, 1944 81 years ago
Died
March 23rd, 2016 10 years ago — 71 years old
An American actor who gained prominence for a career spanning several decades in film, television, and theater. Best recognized for the role of Coach Ken Reeves in the television series "The White Shadow." Received a Tony Award for Best Featured Actor in a Musical for the Broadway production of "Child's Play". Served as president of the Screen Actors Guild from 2009 to 2011, advocating for the rights of performers. In addition to television and stage work, appeared in films including "Caprice" and "The Descendants."
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on May 9th
Ernst von Lasaulx
German philologist and politician
Born
March 16th, 1805 221 years ago
Died
May 9th, 1861 164 years ago — 56 years old
Born in 1805, a significant philologist and politician, primarily focused on the study and promotion of classical languages. Contributed extensively to the fields of linguistics and education in Germany. Engaged in political activities that advocated for educational reform and liberal policies during a time of social upheaval in Europe. Participated actively in various scholarly societies and published numerous works that explored the relationship between language, culture, and politics.
Continue ReadingKeith Whitley
Country singer and guitarist
Born
July 1st, 1954 71 years ago
Died
May 9th, 1989 36 years ago — 34 years old
A prominent figure in country music, this artist gained recognition in the 1980s and early 1990s for contributions to the genre. Released influential albums including 'L.A. to Miami' and 'Don't Close Your Eyes,' which showcased a blend of traditional country sounds with emotive lyrics. Enjoyed a string of hits that resonated with audiences and defined his legacy in the Nashville music scene. Tragically, a battle with substance abuse cut a promising career short at a young age.
Continue ReadingFrançois Faber
Cyclist and Tour de France winner
Born
January 26th, 1887 139 years ago
Died
May 9th, 1915 110 years ago — 28 years old
Born in 1887, a professional cyclist represented both France and Luxembourg throughout a successful career. Achieved significant recognition by winning the Tour de France in 1909, becoming the first person to complete the race in less than 30 hours. Competed in multiple prestigious cycling events and established a reputation as one of the leading cyclists of the early 20th century. His contributions to the sport were notable for their competitive spirit and athleticism.
Continue ReadingAnthony Wilding
New Zealand tennis player and cricketer
Born
October 31st, 1883 142 years ago
Died
May 9th, 1915 110 years ago — 31 years old
Competed prominently in tennis and cricket early in the 20th century. Achieved significant success in tennis, capturing four Wimbledon singles titles between 1910 and 1913. Gained recognition for outstanding athletic abilities, becoming a leading figure in New Zealand sports. Also represented New Zealand in cricket, showcasing versatility in both individual and team sports. His contributions laid the groundwork for future generations in New Zealand athletics.
Continue ReadingErnest de Silva
Sri Lankan banker and businessman
Born
1887 139 years ago
Died
May 9th, 1957 68 years ago — 70 years old
Contributed significantly to the banking sector in Sri Lanka as a prominent banker and businessman. Played a major role in the establishment and growth of various financial institutions. Engaged in numerous entrepreneurial ventures, enhancing economic activities within the country. Active in philanthropic efforts, supporting education and welfare initiatives.
Continue ReadingJoseph Louis Gay-Lussac
French physicist and chemist, gas laws
Born
December 6th, 1778 247 years ago
Died
May 9th, 1850 175 years ago — 71 years old
Significant contributions were made in the fields of physics and chemistry. Published findings on gas laws, notably Gay-Lussac's Law, detailing the relationship between pressure and temperature of gases. Conducted pioneering work in the study of gases, including the behavior of gases at varying temperatures. Also involved in the development of the technique of using a high-altitude balloon to study the atmosphere.
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