Odette Hallowes
French nurse and World War II spy
Served as a nurse in World War II and worked with the Special Operations Executive in the United Kingdom. Conducted several missions in occupied France, including the establishment of escape routes and the gathering of intelligence. Captured by the Gestapo, endured torture but maintained resilience. Eventually rescued and returned to Britain, receiving recognition for bravery and service.
Worked as a spy for the Special Operations Executive
Received the George Cross for bravery
Other People Born on April 28th
Ron Zook
American football coach and player
Born
April 28th, 1954 71 years ago
Played college football at the University of Florida as a defensive back. Served as an assistant coach in various collegiate programs, including a role as the head coach at the University of Florida from 2002 to 2004. Led the team to a Peach Bowl victory in 2002. Also coached at the University of Illinois from 2005 to 2011, overseeing a team that reached the Rose Bowl in 2008.
Continue ReadingJames Monroe
5th President of the United States
Born
April 28th, 1758 267 years ago
Died
July 4th, 1831 194 years ago — 73 years old
Served as the 5th President of the United States from 1817 to 1825. Prior to the presidency, engaged in military service during the American Revolutionary War and participated in the drafting of the U.S. Constitution. Played a key role in the Louisiana Purchase negotiations and established the Monroe Doctrine, which asserted American influence in the Western Hemisphere. Contributed to the founding of the Democratic-Republican Party and held various governmental positions including diplomat and Governor of Virginia.
Continue ReadingGeorgy Voronoy
Mathematician known for Voronoi diagrams
Born
April 28th, 1868 157 years ago
Died
November 20th, 1908 117 years ago — 40 years old
Contributed significantly to mathematics, particularly in the field of number theory and geometry. Developed Voronoi diagrams, which are used in various scientific and engineering applications. Served as a professor and contributed to mathematical education and research. Involved with mathematical modeling and theoretical aspects of geometry throughout academic career.
Continue ReadingRoberto Bolaño
Chilean novelist and poet
Born
April 28th, 1953 72 years ago
Died
July 15th, 2003 22 years ago — 50 years old
A prominent figure in contemporary literature, this novelist, short-story writer, poet, and essayist produced a significant body of work that gained international recognition. Born in Chile, he spent much of his life in Mexico and later moved to Spain. His notable works include 'The Savage Detectives' and '2666', which both received critical acclaim and contributed to his reputation as an influential voice in literature. His writing often explored themes of exile, violence, and the complexities of the human experience. Bolaño received several awards posthumously, including the Neustadt International Prize for Literature.
Continue ReadingMargo Dydek
Basketball player and coach
Born
April 28th, 1974 51 years ago
Died
May 27th, 2011 14 years ago — 37 years old
A Polish basketball player and coach played professionally for several teams in Europe and the WNBA. Spent a significant part of her career with the Utah Starzz and Miami Sol in the WNBA. Her height of 7 feet 2 inches made her one of the tallest female basketball players in history. Transitioned to coaching roles after retirement, contributing to the development of young players in her home country.
Continue ReadingMadge Sinclair
Jamaican-American actress in film and TV
Born
April 28th, 1938 87 years ago
Died
December 20th, 1995 30 years ago — 57 years old
Born in Jamaica, an actress made a significant mark in film and television. Moved to the United States to pursue acting and became a prominent figure in various productions. Starred in the classic film 'Coming to America' alongside Eddie Murphy, as well as in the television series 'Roots' which highlighted the historical struggles of enslaved African Americans. Recognized for powerful performances that brought depth to her roles, she became one of the first Black actresses to hold leading roles in mainstream media.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on March 13th
Johan Laidoner
Estonian-Russian general and military leader
Born
February 12th, 1884 141 years ago
Died
March 13th, 1953 72 years ago — 69 years old
Born in 1884, served as a key military leader in Estonia. Played a crucial role in the Estonian War of Independence, leading Estonian forces to victory against Bolshevik and German troops. Held the position of Commander-in-Chief of the Estonian Army from 1919 to 1920 and later served again from 1924 until 1940. Contributed to the establishment of a national military framework and strategic defense initiatives.
Continue ReadingAhmad Tejan Kabbah
Sierra Leonean politician and President
Born
February 16th, 1932 93 years ago
Died
March 13th, 2014 11 years ago — 82 years old
Served as the 3rd President of Sierra Leone from 1996 to 1997 and again from 1998 to 2007. Played a significant role in the peace process that ended the civil war in Sierra Leone. Before his presidency, worked as an economist and lawyer, holding various positions in the government and international organizations, including the United Nations. Kabbah focused on rebuilding the country's institutions and promoting national reconciliation after years of conflict.
Continue ReadingJimmy Johnstone
Scottish footballer and Celtic legend
Born
September 30th, 1944 81 years ago
Died
March 13th, 2006 19 years ago — 61 years old
A prominent Scottish footballer played for Celtic from 1961 to 1975. During his time with the team, became a key figure in the club's history, contributing to multiple domestic and European successes. Johnstone was known for exceptional dribbling skills and creativity on the field. He played an integral role in Celtic's triumph in the 1967 European Cup, helping the team to become the first British club to win the title. Following his successful career at Celtic, he also played for the San Jose Earthquakes in the North American Soccer League. Johnstone's legacy in Scottish football remains influential, celebrated by fans for his dedication and talent.
Continue ReadingWilliam Hurt
American actor in cinema and theater
Born
1950 75 years ago
Died
March 13th, 2022 3 years ago — 72 years old
An award-winning actor with a career spanning over four decades. Gained prominence for roles in films such as 'Kiss of the Spider Woman', 'The Big Chill', and 'A History of Violence'. Recognized for a distinct gravitas in performances across a variety of genres. Furthered the craft in both independent and mainstream cinema, showcasing versatility and depth. Contributed to theater performances as well, reflecting a robust foundation in the performing arts.
Continue ReadingGarson Kanin
American director and screenwriter
Born
November 24th, 1912 113 years ago
Died
March 13th, 1999 26 years ago — 86 years old
Director and screenwriter contributed significantly to film and theater throughout the 20th century. Worked on classics such as 'Born Yesterday' and 'The Deep Blue Sea'. Besides directing, engaged in screenwriting, with notable films like 'Roman Holiday'. Also involved in television, producing and directing various productions. Recognized for a distinctive style that blended humor with serious themes.
Continue ReadingMarvelous Marvin Hagler
Professional Boxer, Middleweight Champion
Born
May 23rd, 1954 71 years ago
Died
March 13th, 2021 4 years ago — 66 years old
Renowned as a professional boxer, achieved notable success in the middleweight division. Holds the record for the longest reign as the undisputed middleweight champion from 1980 to 1987. Fought in legendary bouts against opponents such as Thomas Hearns and Sugar Ray Leonard. Retired with an impressive record, highly regarded within the boxing community.
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