Oleg Penkovsky

Russian military officer and spy

Oleg Penkovsky - Russian military officer and spy
Born

April 23rd, 1919
105 years ago

Died

1963
62 years ago — 44 years old

Category

Military & Warriors

Country

Russia

Links & References

A Soviet military officer worked as a double agent for the United States and United Kingdom during the Cold War. Provided crucial intelligence on Soviet missiles and military capabilities. Information contributed to the resolution of the Cuban Missile Crisis and improved Western understanding of Soviet intentions. Captured by Soviet authorities in 1962 and subsequently executed for espionage.

Provided critical intelligence during the Cold War

Assisted in averting nuclear confrontation in 1962

Other People Born on April 23rd

Johann Stumpf

Swiss writer and chronicler of Zurich
Born
April 23rd, 1500 524 years ago
Died
1576 449 years ago — 76 years old

Born in Zurich, contributions to literature included significant works that documented the history and culture of the region. Worked as a schoolmaster and engaged in various writings that reflected the life and events of Zurich during the Reformation. Created detailed accounts of local customs, making them valuable historical resources. The significant work, 'Zürcher Chronik', captured the city's history from its origins to contemporary times, serving as an important reference for later historians.

Continue Reading

Paul Vaughan

Rugby league player for St. George Illawarra
Born
April 23rd, 1991 33 years ago

A rugby league player represented Australia and Italy at the international level. Played primarily as a prop and spent the majority of professional career at St. George Illawarra Dragons in the National Rugby League. Debuted in the NRL in 2013 and became a prominent player known for strong defensive and offensive capabilities.

Continue Reading

Frans Koppelaar

Dutch painter recognized for landscapes
Born
April 23rd, 1943 81 years ago

Born in 1943, a painter specializing in landscape artworks, particularly known for capturing the serene beauty of natural surroundings. Exhibitions showcased artwork across various platforms, representing the essence of Dutch scenery. The work often features intricate details and vivid colors, emphasizing the connection between nature and light. The artist's contribution to the art community has been acknowledged through various exhibitions and participation in art fairs.

Continue Reading

Lester B. Pearson

Canadian Prime Minister and Nobel laureate
Born
April 23rd, 1897 127 years ago
Died
December 27th, 1972 52 years ago — 75 years old

Served as the 14th Prime Minister of Canada from 1963 to 1968. Played a significant role in establishing Canada's modern welfare state and promoting peacekeeping initiatives. Instrumental in the creation of the United Nations Emergency Force, which aimed to resolve the Suez Crisis. Received the Nobel Peace Prize in 1957 for efforts in peacekeeping and international diplomacy.

Continue Reading

Carolina Alves

Tennis player with WTA tour titles
Born
April 23rd, 1996 28 years ago

A professional tennis player from Brazil, participated in various tournaments on the Women's Tennis Association (WTA) tour. Achieved success in doubles play, securing multiple titles. Competed in Grand Slam events, contributing to the Brazilian representation in international tennis.

Continue Reading

Stephen A. Douglas

American politician and educator
Born
April 23rd, 1813 211 years ago
Died
June 3rd, 1861 163 years ago — 48 years old

This individual served as the 7th Secretary of State of Illinois. Elected to the U.S. House of Representatives, this individual later became a U.S. Senator from Illinois. Played a significant role in the politics of the 1850s, including advocacy for the expansion of slavery into the territories. Engaged in the historic Lincoln-Douglas debates in 1858 against Abraham Lincoln, which highlighted issues of slavery and states' rights. Also promoted the passage of the Kansas-Nebraska Act in 1854, which allowed territories to decide on the legality of slavery.

Continue Reading