Paul Sacher
Conductor and philanthropist
Significant contributions to classical music included conducting major orchestras and supporting contemporary composers. Founded several music festivals, promoting new works and artists. Established the Sacher Foundation, aiding in the preservation of music and supporting musicians. Collaborated with prominent composers, including Stravinsky and Bartók, showcasing modern compositions.
Founded the Basel Chamber Orchestra
Conducted for the London Symphony Orchestra
Other People Born on April 28th
Dick Ayers
Comic book artist and illustrator
Born
April 28th, 1924 101 years ago
Died
May 4th, 2014 11 years ago — 90 years old
Contributed significantly to the comic book industry as an illustrator and author. Worked primarily for Marvel Comics during the 1950s and 1960s. Provided artwork for numerous titles, including 'Ghost Rider' and 'The Avengers'. Collaborated with various writers, enhancing visual storytelling in comics.
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 ReadingKurt Gödel
Mathematician and philosopher; incompleteness theorem
Born
April 28th, 1906 119 years ago
Died
January 14th, 1978 48 years ago — 71 years old
A mathematician and philosopher made significant contributions to mathematical logic and the philosophy of mathematics. Developed the incompleteness theorems, which demonstrated inherent limitations in formal axiomatic systems. These theorems had profound implications for the foundations of mathematics and prompted extensive philosophical discussions. Held a position at the Institute for Advanced Study in Princeton, New Jersey, influencing numerous areas of mathematics and philosophy. Engaged with contemporary thinkers and contributed to discussions around computability and set theory.
Continue ReadingTobias Asser
Nobel Prize-winning lawyer and scholar
Born
April 28th, 1838 187 years ago
Died
July 29th, 1913 112 years ago — 75 years old
A lawyer and scholar specialized in international law and arbitration. Played a significant role in the formation of international legal standards. Received the Nobel Peace Prize in 1911 for contributions to the peaceful resolution of international disputes. Advocated for the establishment of the Hague Conference and promoted arbitration as a means to resolve conflicts. Engaged in various legal reform efforts throughout his career.
Continue ReadingJan Oort
Dutch astronomer and academic
Born
April 28th, 1900 125 years ago
Died
November 5th, 1992 33 years ago — 92 years old
Contributed significantly to the field of astronomy, particularly in the study of galaxies and the structure of the Milky Way. Proposed the existence of the Oort Cloud, a theoretical cloud of icy bodies believed to surround the solar system. Served as a professor at Leiden University and published numerous papers in astrophysics. Played a crucial role in advancing radio astronomy in the Netherlands.
Continue ReadingHertha Marks Ayrton
Engineer and physicist, first woman member of the IEE
Born
April 28th, 1854 171 years ago
Died
1923 103 years ago — 69 years old
Born in 1854, engaged in engineering, mathematics, and physics. Became the first woman to present a paper to the Institution of Electrical Engineers in 1899. Recognized for contributions to the study of electric arcs and alternating currents. Pioneered research that resulted in notable advances in electrical engineering. Received the Hughes Medal from the Royal Society in 1899 for work on electrical phenomena. Actively involved in the women's suffrage movement and advocated for women's education in engineering and the sciences.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on May 26th
Otto Muehl
Austrian-Portuguese painter and director
Born
June 16th, 1925 100 years ago
Died
May 26th, 2013 12 years ago — 87 years old
Born in 1925, this artist worked primarily in the visual arts and theater. He was a key figure in the Viennese Actionism movement, known for avant-garde performances that challenged societal norms. Muehl founded the 'Actionism' group, which promoted radical performance art in the 1960s. In 1970, he established a commune in Portugal that blended art with communal living. His work often involved provocative themes that aimed to provoke social and emotional engagement.
Continue ReadingMiodrag Radulovacki
Neuropharmacologist and academic
Born
April 28th, 1933 92 years ago
Died
May 26th, 2014 11 years ago — 81 years old
Born in 1933, a career in neuropharmacology led to significant contributions in understanding the effects of drugs on the nervous system. Held academic positions, influencing future research in the field. Worked extensively on the mechanisms of drug action and their therapeutic applications. Emphasized the importance of education and training in advancing neuropharmacology.
Continue ReadingRuth Laredo
Pianist and educator
Born
November 20th, 1937 88 years ago
Died
May 26th, 2005 20 years ago — 67 years old
An accomplished American pianist and educator, contributions included performances and recordings of works by notable composers. Laredo studied under prominent teachers and became proficient in the interpretations of classical pieces. She also played a significant role in music education, dedicating efforts to teaching and mentoring young musicians. Laredo's collaboration with orchestras and solo performances garnered attention, particularly for renditions of concertos. Her recordings have enriched the classical music repertoire, expanding access to various works for audiences.
Continue ReadingJack Vance
Author of science fiction masterpieces
Born
August 28th, 1916 109 years ago
Died
May 26th, 2013 12 years ago — 96 years old
An influential American author born in 1916, published numerous novels, short stories, and essays throughout a prolific career spanning over six decades. Vance's literary works, particularly in the science fiction and fantasy genres, include the well-known Dying Earth series which debuted in the 1950s. An adept world-builder, the narrative style combined rich descriptions with inventive vocabulary, showcasing a unique imagination. In addition to science fiction, Vance wrote mystery and adventure novels and contributed to role-playing games.
Continue ReadingPaul Hawkins
Australian race car driver with Le Mans success
Born
October 12th, 1937 88 years ago
Died
May 26th, 1969 56 years ago — 31 years old
A race car driver from Australia, achieved notable success in motorsport during the 1960s. Participated in the 24 Hours of Le Mans, driving for the prestigious team Aston Martin. Developed a reputation for skillful driving and competitive spirit in endurance racing. Competed in various Australian and international racing events, making significant contributions to the sport.
Continue ReadingLes Johnson
Australian politician and legislator
Born
November 22nd, 1924 101 years ago
Died
May 26th, 2015 10 years ago — 90 years old
A prominent Australian politician, served as a member of the House of Representatives from 1975 to 1983. Represented the Division of Hughes as a member of the Liberal Party. Sought to influence policies within the Australian government during a period of significant change. Actively participated in parliamentary debates and committees.
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