Saddam Hussein
Iraqi President and military leader
Served as the 5th President of Iraq from 1979 until 2003. Played a significant role in the Ba'ath Party and became a leading figure in Iraq's politics during the late 20th century. Oversaw the Iran-Iraq War from 1980 to 1988 and initiated the Gulf War in 1990 by invading Kuwait. After the 2003 invasion of Iraq by a coalition led by the United States, was captured, tried for crimes against humanity, and executed in 2006.
Served as President of Iraq from 1979 to 2003
Led Iraq during the Iran-Iraq War
Initiated the invasion of Kuwait in 1990
Other People Born on April 28th
Lee Falk
Cartoonist and creator of The Phantom
Born
April 28th, 1911 115 years ago
Died
March 13th, 1999 27 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 ReadingRon Zook
American football coach and player
Born
April 28th, 1954 72 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 ReadingYves Klein
French painter of monochrome works
Born
April 28th, 1928 98 years ago
Died
June 6th, 1962 64 years ago — 34 years old
An influential figure in the post-war art movement, this painter developed a distinctive style characterized by bold colors and innovative techniques. In 1956, he created the International Klein Blue, a deep shade of ultramarine that became signature to his work. The artist’s practice included performance art as well as the use of fire and water in his creative processes, establishing a connection between visual art and physical experience. His work challenged traditional perceptions of art and materiality, solidifying a legacy that would influence generations of artists.
Continue ReadingEva Samková
Czech snowboarder, Olympic gold medalist
Born
April 28th, 1993 33 years ago
This athlete achieved significant success in snowboarding, specializing in snowboard cross. Competed in multiple Winter Olympic Games, securing a gold medal at the Sochi 2014 Olympics. Also earned medals at FIS World Championships and contributed to the growth of the sport in the Czech Republic through both performance and presence in various competitions.
Continue ReadingHertha Marks Ayrton
Engineer and physicist, first woman member of the IEE
Born
April 28th, 1854 172 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 158 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 December 30th
Pope Innocent IX
Pope and Head of the Catholic Church
Born
July 20th, 1519 506 years ago
Died
December 30th, 1591 434 years ago — 72 years old
Elected as Pope in 1591, held office for a brief period before death. Focused on addressing challenges within the Church and maintaining Catholic doctrine during a time of reformations and political complexities in Europe. Worked to consolidate the papacy's influence and strengthen Church governance.
Continue ReadingRona Jaffe
American novelist with The Best of Everything
Born
June 12th, 1931 95 years ago
Died
December 30th, 2005 20 years ago — 74 years old
An American novelist achieved recognition through numerous literary works throughout the 20th century. 'The Best of Everything', published in 1958, explored the lives of young women in the workforce and became a cultural touchstone. Jaffe published several novels, many of which were adapted into films and television series. In addition to her novels, Jaffe wrote for magazines and worked as a screenwriter. The themes in her works often featured strong female characters and societal issues relevant to women. She continued to write well into her later years, contributing to the genre of women's fiction.
Continue ReadingJohn Gregory Dunne
Novelist and screenwriter of 'Play It as It Lays'
Born
May 25th, 1932 94 years ago
Died
December 30th, 2003 22 years ago — 71 years old
An American novelist, screenwriter, and critic contributed significantly to literature and film through a career spanning several decades. Authored several novels, including 'Play It as It Lays', which explored themes of despair and disillusionment in modern society. Collaborated with wife Joan Didion on screenplays such as 'Panic in Needle Park' and 'The Seven-Per-Cent Solution'. Additionally, served as a critic for various publications, offering insights into contemporary American culture. Dunne's writing often reflected personal experiences and societal observations, garnering attention for its incisive prose and depth of characterization.
Continue ReadingEgwin of Evesham
Bishop of Worcester and saint
Died
December 30th, 717 1308 years ago — None years old
Served as Bishop of Worcester from 693 until death in 717. Founded the monastery at Evesham, which became an important religious center. Canonized as a saint, recognized for contributions to the church and for promoting monastic life in England. His feast day is celebrated on December 30.
Continue ReadingTerry Becker
Actor and director on 'Voyage to the Bottom of the Sea'
Born
August 5th, 1921 104 years ago
Died
December 30th, 2014 11 years ago — 93 years old
Born in 1921, this American actor and director gained recognition for work in film and television. Significant contributions included a prominent role in the series 'Voyage to the Bottom of the Sea', where portrayal of Captain Lee Crane was notable. In addition to acting, directed several episodes of the series. Active in the entertainment industry for decades, engaged in various theatrical productions and films throughout career before passing.
Continue ReadingHan van Meegeren
Painter and art forger
Born
October 10th, 1889 136 years ago
Died
December 30th, 1947 78 years ago — 58 years old
Born in the Netherlands, a painter and art forger achieved notoriety during the early to mid-20th century. Initially trained in traditional painting, later shifted focus to forgery. Created a series of forgeries that were passed off as original works by the Dutch master Johannes Vermeer. One of the most significant forgeries, 'Christ and the Woman of Samaria,' led to a high-profile court case after its sale to a Nazi officer. Conviction in the art world followed, marking a controversial chapter in art history. Despite the scandal, continued to influence discussions on authenticity in art.
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