Terry Pratchett
Author of Discworld series
An English author and journalist, created a vast and satirical fantasy universe through the Discworld series, which spans over 40 novels. These works blend humor, social commentary, and fantasy elements, gaining a significant following. Also wrote several novels outside the Discworld universe, including 'Good Omens' in collaboration with Neil Gaiman. Pratchett received numerous accolades, including the British Fantasy Award and the World Fantasy Award for Lifetime Achievement.
Wrote the Discworld series
Co-authored 'Good Omens'
Received the British Fantasy Award
Other People Born on April 28th
Saeb Erekat
Chief Palestinian negotiator
Born
April 28th, 1955 70 years ago
Died
November 10th, 2020 5 years ago — 65 years old
Born in 1955, this figure played a significant role in the Palestinian peace process. He served as the chief negotiator for the Palestine Liberation Organization and was instrumental in pivotal negotiations, including the Oslo Accords. This individual also held various positions within the Palestinian Authority, contributing to diplomatic efforts and political strategies aimed at establishing peace in the region.
Continue ReadingEva Samková
Czech snowboarder, Olympic gold medalist
Born
April 28th, 1993 32 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 ReadingMatt Chapman
Baseball player for the Oakland Athletics
Born
April 28th, 1993 32 years ago
Born in 1993, played professional baseball as a third baseman. Achieved prominence as a member of the Oakland Athletics in Major League Baseball. Showcased exceptional defensive skills and power-hitting abilities. Contributed significantly to the team's success across multiple seasons and earned recognition for his performance in the All-Star game.
Continue ReadingVictoria De Angelis
Italian musician and bassist for Måneskin
Born
April 28th, 2000 25 years ago
Born in 2000, a musician who gained international recognition as the bassist of the band Måneskin. The band achieved fame after winning the Eurovision Song Contest 2021 with the song 'Zitti e buoni'. In addition to their Eurovision success, the group topped charts globally, with the single 'Beggin'' drawing significant attention. The band's energetic rock style and distinctive fashion contributed to their popularity, and they toured extensively to promote their music. The work extended beyond music as they influenced contemporary pop culture and fashion trends.
Continue ReadingDick 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 ReadingSimin Daneshvar
Iranian author and academic with 'Savushun'
Born
April 28th, 1921 104 years ago
Died
March 8th, 2012 14 years ago — 90 years old
An Iranian author and academic, contributed significantly to Persian literature and cultural discourse. Authored 'Savushun', a celebrated novel depicting the struggles of a woman during the political upheaval in Iran. Engaged in various literary and academic activities, focusing on the representation of women in literature. Also served as an editor for various literary journals, enhancing the visibility of contemporary Iranian literature on both national and international stages.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on March 12th
Howard Fast
American novelist and screenwriter
Born
November 11th, 1914 111 years ago
Died
March 12th, 2003 23 years ago — 88 years old
A prominent American novelist and screenwriter, contributed greatly to literature and film. Wrote over 50 novels, with significant works including 'Citizen Tom Paine', a biography of the American revolutionary, and 'Spartacus', which was adapted into a motion picture in 1960. Early works often reflected socialist themes and historical narratives, leading to political controversy during the McCarthy era. Served a prison sentence for refusing to testify before Congress regarding communist affiliations. Additionally, wrote screenplays, achieving recognition in both literary and cinematic fields.
Continue ReadingMorton Downey Jr.
Talk show host and pop culture figure
Born
December 9th, 1933 92 years ago
Died
March 12th, 2001 25 years ago — 67 years old
A talk show host and singer-songwriter, gained prominence in the late 1980s with a controversial format focusing on confrontational and sensational topics. Hosted 'The Morton Downey Jr. Show,' which featured heated debates and unfiltered discussions, attracting a significant audience. The show became a precursor to later tabloid talk shows, setting a tone for sensationalist television. Downey also recorded several music albums, adding to his profile as a multi-faceted entertainer. His career was marked by both popularity and controversy, often engaging in public feuds and outspoken commentary.
Continue ReadingRafiq Azad
Bangladeshi poet and author
Born
1942 84 years ago
Died
March 12th, 2016 10 years ago — 74 years old
A significant figure in Bengali literature and poetry. Azad's work is characterized by emotional depth and exploration of themes like love, nature, and human experience. His poetry often reflects personal and social struggles. He contributed to various literary and cultural movements in Bangladesh. In addition to poetry, he authored essays and critiques that enriched the Bengali literary scene. He was also engaged in public discussions about literature and culture.
Continue ReadingLloyd Shapley
Mathematician and economist, Nobel laureate
Born
June 2nd, 1923 102 years ago
Died
March 12th, 2016 10 years ago — 92 years old
Contributions included the development of game theory and economic allocation mechanisms. Authored many influential papers and co-created the Shapley value, a solution concept for cooperative games that allocates payouts fairly among players based on their contributions. Worked on matching theory, which has applications in various fields including economics and market design. Shapley was awarded the Nobel Prize in Economic Sciences in 2012 for contributions to the analysis of economic processes.
Continue ReadingJorge Guinzburg
Argentinian journalist and TV producer
Born
1949 77 years ago
Died
March 12th, 2008 18 years ago — 59 years old
A prominent figure in Argentine journalism, contributed significantly to the media landscape as a television producer and host. Created and hosted influential programs that shaped political and cultural discussions in Argentina. Gained recognition for wit and incisive commentary, which resonated with audiences. Developed a unique style that blended satire with serious journalism, attracting a loyal following throughout the years. His work included various formats, from news programs to entertainment shows, highlighting societal issues and engaging the public in current affairs. Passed away in 2008, leaving a legacy in Argentine television.
Continue ReadingLazare Ponticelli
Soldier and last surviving French poilu
Born
1897 129 years ago
Died
March 12th, 2008 18 years ago — 111 years old
Born in Italy, Ponticelli migrated to France and served in the French Army during World War I. After the war, he worked as a laborer and lived a long life, becoming the last verified French combat veteran of World War I. Ponticelli reached the age of 110 and became widely recognized for his status as a supercentenarian, providing insights into the experiences of soldiers during the war.
Continue Reading