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
Bill Blackbeard
Author and illustrator of comics history
Born
April 28th, 1926 99 years ago
Died
March 10th, 2011 14 years ago — 84 years old
A prominent author and illustrator, contributed significantly to the preservation and appreciation of comic strip art. Played a crucial role in increasing awareness of comic history through various publications. Established and edited the critical comic history magazine 'The Nostalgia Journal'. Authored numerous books and articles on the subject, including 'The Smithsonian Book of Comic-Book Comics'. Served as a curator for the San Francisco Academy of Comic Art.
Continue ReadingLee Falk
Cartoonist and creator of The Phantom
Born
April 28th, 1911 114 years ago
Died
March 13th, 1999 26 years ago — 87 years old
A cartoonist active from the 1930s, created the comic strip The Phantom in 1936, known as the first superhero to wear a costume. The Phantom was groundbreaking for its depiction of a hero in a jungle setting. Falk also co-created the comic strip Mandrake the Magician in 1934. In addition to his work as a cartoonist, he was a playwright and director, contributing to theatrical adaptations of his creations.
Continue ReadingEdward IV
King of England during the Wars of the Roses
Born
April 28th, 1442 583 years ago
Died
April 9th, 1483 542 years ago — 40 years old
Ascended to the throne in 1461, served as King of England and was a central figure in the Wars of the Roses, a series of civil wars for control of the throne. His reign faced challenges from rival houses and internal conflict. Throughout his rule, he demonstrated military prowess, notably at the battles of Towton and Tewkesbury. He successfully restored stability to the realm after taking the throne from Henry VI. His reign ended in 1483, and he died at a relatively young age, leaving behind a legacy intertwined with the turbulent history of England in the 15th century.
Continue ReadingRon 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 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 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 ReadingOther People Who Died on May 26th
Al Simmons
Baseball player and coach, Hall of Famer
Born
May 22nd, 1902 123 years ago
Died
May 26th, 1956 69 years ago — 54 years old
A prominent baseball player and coach from the early 20th century. Played primarily as an outfielder. Spent the majority of his career with the Philadelphia Athletics, achieving great success in Major League Baseball. Accumulated over 2,000 hits and maintained a high batting average throughout his career. Inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1953, solidifying a legacy as one of the game's greats. Later took on coaching roles, contributing to the development of future baseball talent.
Continue ReadingÉdouard Michelin
Businessman and tire industry leader
Born
1963 63 years ago
Died
May 26th, 2006 19 years ago — 43 years old
Co-founded a tire manufacturing company that developed innovative rubber products. Led Michelin as it expanded internationally and introduced key advancements in tire technology. Instrumental in the creation and promotion of the Michelin Guide, which began as an automobile travel guide and evolved into a prestigious restaurant rating system.
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 ReadingBaselios Thoma Didymos I
Indian Metropolitan of the Malankara Church
Born
October 29th, 1921 104 years ago
Died
May 26th, 2014 11 years ago — 92 years old
Served as the Metropolitan of the Malankara Orthodox Syrian Church starting in 1975. Played a crucial role in the administration and spiritual guidance of the church, representing it in various ecumenical platforms. Actively participated in interfaith dialogues and focused on social issues affecting the community. Oversaw the establishment of several educational institutions and hospitals under the church's auspices.
Continue ReadingVicente Aranda
Spanish Director of 'Carmen' and 'Los Zurdos'
Born
November 9th, 1926 99 years ago
Died
May 26th, 2015 10 years ago — 88 years old
Director, producer, and screenwriter contributed significantly to Spanish cinema. Directed 'Carmen', a notable adaptation of the opera, and 'Los Zurdos', which examined the lives of left-handed individuals. Work showcased a commitment to exploring complex characters and stories within Spanish cultural contexts. Also engaged in television, creating several acclaimed series. Recognized for a distinctive narrative style and ability to blend various genres in film.
Continue ReadingArthur Decabooter
Belgian cyclist and Tour de France participant
Born
1936 90 years ago
Died
May 26th, 2012 13 years ago — 76 years old
Competed in professional cycling and participated in multiple editions of the Tour de France. Achieved notable success in various cycling events throughout the career. Had a significant presence in the Belgian cycling community and contributed to the sport during an era that saw considerable development in competitive cycling.
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