Pietro Mennea
Italian sprinter and politician
An accomplished sprinter, made a significant mark in athletics, particularly in the 200 meters. Set a world record in 1979 that stood for 17 years, achieving a time of 19.72 seconds. Competed in the 1980 Moscow Olympics, winning a gold medal in the 200 meters. Transitioned into a political career after retiring from athletics, serving as a member of the Italian Parliament and advocating for sports and education.
Won gold in 200 meters at the 1980 Moscow Olympics
Set a world record in the 200 meters in 1979
Other People Born on June 28th
Kang Min-hyuk
South Korean singer and actor
Born
June 28th, 1991 34 years ago
A South Korean singer, drummer, and actor. Gained recognition as a member of the band CNBlue, contributing to their success with several hit songs. Transitioned into acting with significant roles in television dramas, particularly in 'The Heirs' and 'Lucky Romance'. Also appeared in 'My Husband Got a Family' which boosted popularity in the acting field.
Continue ReadingHussein
Crown Prince of Jordan
Born
June 28th, 1994 31 years ago
Crown Prince of Jordan, born in 1994, has served as a key representative of the Jordanian monarchy. Focused on youth engagement, modernization, and national development, during his tenure, he has prioritized initiatives in various sectors including education and technology. He has undertaken official visits abroad to foster international relations and improve Jordan's standing on the global stage. In 2019, he participated in a historical virtual meeting of Arab youth to discuss various challenges facing the region. Crown Prince has played an active role in promoting peace and stability in the Middle East through dialogues and engagement with other political leaders.
Continue ReadingOscar Hiljemark
Swedish footballer and national team player
Born
June 28th, 1992 33 years ago
A professional footballer from Sweden, played primarily as a midfielder. Began career at the youth academy of Helsingborgs IF before making the professional debut in 2010. Transferred to PSV Eindhoven in the Netherlands, where played for several seasons. Later joined clubs including Balken and GIF Sundsvall. Represented the Swedish national team at various youth levels and earned senior caps. Participation included being part of the squad for UEFA European Championship qualification matches.
Continue ReadingSeohyun
South Korean singer, dancer, and actress
Born
June 28th, 1991 34 years ago
A prominent singer, dancer, and actress from South Korea, contributed significantly to the K-pop scene as a member of the girl group Girls' Generation, which debuted in 2007. The group achieved widespread acclaim for their hits such as 'Gee' and 'I Got a Boy'. Transitioned into acting with roles in popular dramas including 'Scarlet Heart: Ryeo' and 'Time'. Actively participated in musical theater, showcasing versatile talents beyond the music stage. Also involved in various philanthropic efforts, amplifying social issues through art.
Continue ReadingCarl Friedrich von Weizsäcker
Physicist and philosopher with key theories
Born
June 28th, 1912 113 years ago
Died
April 28th, 2007 18 years ago — 94 years old
A German physicist and philosopher contributed significantly to nuclear physics and the philosophy of science. Worked on the development of nuclear weapons during World War II as part of the German atomic bomb project. After the war, shifted focus to philosophical inquiries, particularly in the areas of ethics and the implications of scientific advancements. Co-authored important texts exploring the relationship between science and philosophy and the responsibilities of scientists in society. Held a prominent academic career, influencing various fields of study through lectures and publications.
Continue ReadingDonna Vekić
Croatian tennis player with WTA titles
Born
June 28th, 1996 29 years ago
Born in Croatia in 1996, this tennis player turned professional at 14. Achieved significant success on the Women's Tennis Association tour, reaching a career-high singles ranking of 19 in February 2020. Competed in all Grand Slam tournaments, with notable performances including reaching the quarterfinals of the 2019 US Open. Displayed versatility on various surfaces, winning multiple WTA titles throughout her career. Represented Croatia in international competitions, contributing to the national team's efforts in tournaments such as the Fed Cup.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on March 21st
Nawal El Saadawi
Egyptian feminist writer and activist
Born
October 27th, 1931 94 years ago
Died
March 21st, 2021 4 years ago — 89 years old
An Egyptian secularist and feminist, dedicated decades to advocating for women's rights and social justice. Authored multiple influential books including 'Woman at Point Zero', which addresses the struggles faced by women in patriarchal societies. Founded the Arab Women's Solidarity Association and served in various capacities within organizations focused on gender equality and women's empowerment. Experiencing periods of imprisonment and exile due to political activism, continued to inspire future generations through writings and lectures until passing in 2021.
Continue ReadingWillem Mengelberg
Conductor with the Concertgebouw Orchestra
Born
1871 154 years ago
Died
March 21st, 1951 74 years ago — 80 years old
Born in 1871, a Dutch conductor and composer, led the Concertgebouw Orchestra in Amsterdam for over half a century. His tenure brought the orchestra to international prominence, championing the works of Mahler, Brahms, and Wagner. Mengelberg was influential in programming contemporary composers, advancing musical interpretation techniques. His performances were characterized by spontaneity and emotional intensity, which garnered critical acclaim. Despite facing controversies during World War II, Mengelberg continued to shape the musical landscape until retirement in the late 1940s. He passed away in 1951.
Continue ReadingMohit Sharma
Indian soldier and military leader
Born
January 13th, 1978 47 years ago
Died
March 21st, 2009 16 years ago — 31 years old
Born in 1978, a soldier served in the Indian Army, contributing to significant military operations. Achieved leadership roles within the armed forces, demonstrating commitment to national security. Participated in various missions aimed at counter-terrorism and maintaining peace in conflict zones. Maintained a focus on training and mentorship for younger soldiers, fostering skills necessary for modern warfare. The dedication to duty resulted in recognition and prestigious awards within the military ranks.
Continue ReadingUmar Wirahadikusumah
Indonesian general, 4th Vice President
Born
1924 101 years ago
Died
March 21st, 2003 22 years ago — 79 years old
Served as a general in the Indonesian National Armed Forces and played a significant role in the country's military and political landscape. Held the position of Vice President of Indonesia from 1993 to 1998, contributing to governmental policies and national defense strategies during a transformative period in the nation's history. Involved in various military operations throughout the Indonesian archipelago and participated in efforts to bolster Indonesia's national security. Transitioned into political roles, advocating for stabilization and reform within the government structure.
Continue ReadingRobert II
Duke of Burgundy and leader
Born
1248 777 years ago
Died
March 21st, 1306 719 years ago — 58 years old
Served as Duke of Burgundy from 1272 until death in 1306. Played a significant role in regional politics and asserted the influence of the duchy. Engaged in various conflicts and alliances, particularly during the turbulent era of the late 13th century. Participated in the power struggles of the time, which included relations with the Kingdom of France and other neighboring territories. Undertook efforts to strengthen the duchy's economy and governance.
Continue ReadingPocahontas
Algonquian Indigenous woman, mediator
Died
March 21st, 1617 408 years ago — None years old
An Algonquian Indigenous woman born around 1595, served as an intermediary between English settlers and Indigenous peoples. Married Englishman John Rolfe, contributing to peace between the Powhatan Confederacy and English settlers in Jamestown. Her life was marked by significant meetings with influential figures, including King James I of England, furthering diplomatic relations. Died in England in 1617 after experiencing European culture.
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