Thorleif Schjelderup
Norwegian ski jumper and Olympic champion
Competed in ski jumping, winning a gold medal at the 1948 St. Moritz Olympics in the large hill event. Authored books on skiing and the sport's techniques, contributing to the literature of winter sports. Continued involvement in skiing beyond competition years, promoting the sport's development in Norway.
Won gold in ski jumping at the 1948 Olympics
Authored several books on skiing techniques
Other People Born on January 20th
Arnaud Kalimuendo
French footballer, notable striker
Born
January 20th, 2002 24 years ago
Born in 2002, a French footballer who plays as a striker. Began professional career at Paris Saint-Germain, showcasing talent in youth competitions. Joined RC Lens on loan, significantly contributing to the team’s performance in Ligue 1. Earned recognition for skillful play and goal-scoring ability, attracting attention from various clubs. Represents France in international youth competitions.
Continue ReadingPolona Hercog
Tennis player with WTA titles
Born
January 20th, 1991 35 years ago
A professional tennis player competed on the WTA Tour. Achieved a career-high singles ranking of No. 35 in 2012. Notable performances include winning two WTA singles titles and reaching the third round of the French Open in 2012. Contributed to the Slovenia national team in the Fed Cup. Active in both singles and doubles with several titles across both formats.
Continue ReadingHampus Lindholm
Ice Hockey Player, NHL All-Star
Born
January 20th, 1994 32 years ago
This professional ice hockey player was born in Sweden and plays as a defenseman in the National Hockey League (NHL). Debuting in the NHL with the Anaheim Ducks, this player made significant contributions to the team's defensive lineup. Later, joined the Boston Bruins, where the player continued to excel. Received recognition for outstanding performances, including selections for the NHL All-Star Game. Known for contributing to team success in both regular seasons and playoffs.
Continue ReadingCharles III of Spain
King of Spain and influential monarch
Born
January 20th, 1716 310 years ago
Died
December 14th, 1788 237 years ago — 72 years old
Ruled as King of Spain from 1759 until death in 1788. Charles III implemented extensive reforms to modernize Spain, enhancing the economy and administrative efficiency. His reign is marked by significant cultural developments, including patronage of the arts and architecture. Established the Royal Academy of Fine Arts of San Fernando and promoted science, education, and public works. Efforts towards secularization and a focus on the Enlightenment ideals defined his leadership.
Continue ReadingJ. J. McCarthy
American football quarterback, Michigan
Born
January 20th, 2003 23 years ago
A professional American football player played quarterback for the University of Michigan. Achieved recognition for leadership and performance on the field during collegiate competitions. In efforts to lead the team, contributed to significant victories and team advancement in rankings. Displayed strong athleticism and decision-making skills throughout college football career, garnering attention from professional scouts.
Continue ReadingAntonia Ružić
Croatian tennis player
Born
January 20th, 2003 23 years ago
A professional tennis player from Croatia, born in 2003. Achieved prominence on the ITF Women’s Circuit, earning several titles. Gained recognition for strong performances in junior tournaments, particularly during 2019 and 2020. Competed in WTA events and represented Croatia in international competitions.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on May 28th
Edward VIII of the United Kingdom
Former King of the United Kingdom
Born
1894 132 years ago
Died
May 28th, 1972 53 years ago — 78 years old
Ascended to the throne in January 1936 but abdicated in December 1936 in favor of his brother due to his desire to marry Wallis Simpson, an American divorcée. The abdication marked the first voluntary resignation of a British monarch. After abdication, served as Governor of the Bahamas during World War II. Lived in France for many years, remaining a controversial figure in British history.
Continue ReadingSimion Bărnuțiu
Romanian historian and politician
Born
July 21st, 1808 217 years ago
Died
May 28th, 1864 161 years ago — 55 years old
A prominent historian and politician, contributed significantly to Romanian historiography and the national movement during the 19th century. Advocated for the rights of Romanians in Transylvania and participated in the 1848 Revolution in the region. Served as a professor and was instrumental in the establishment of academic institutions. Worked on editing historical documents and was deeply involved in public life, promoting education and national unity.
Continue ReadingSy Oliver
American singer-songwriter and trumpeter
Born
December 17th, 1910 115 years ago
Died
May 28th, 1988 37 years ago — 77 years old
A prominent figure in American music, contributed significantly to the big band era as a trumpeter and arranger. Worked with notable orchestras, including the Cab Calloway Orchestra and the Tommy Dorsey Orchestra. Developed a style that blended jazz and popular music, and composed many memorable songs that became standards. Collaborated with various artists and groups, showcasing talents in both performance and composition.
Continue ReadingEzzard Charles
Boxer and World Heavyweight Champion
Born
July 7th, 1921 104 years ago
Died
May 28th, 1975 50 years ago — 53 years old
Became a professional boxer in 1940, winning the World Heavyweight Championship in 1949. Established a reputation as one of the best fighters in the heavyweight division during his career. Fought several notable matches against top contenders and former champions, contributing to a significant legacy in boxing history. Engaged in memorable bouts against Jersey Joe Walcott and Joe Louis, demonstrating skill and determination in the ring.
Continue ReadingLeopold Mozart
Austrian composer and violinist
Born
November 14th, 1719 306 years ago
Died
May 28th, 1787 238 years ago — 67 years old
Austrian composer and violinist contributed significantly to the development of violin pedagogy. Wrote the treatise 'Versuch einer gründlichen Violinschule' which laid foundational techniques for violin playing. Worked as a court musician in Salzburg and taught music to his children, including Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. His approach to music education influenced generations of musicians.
Continue ReadingMalcolm Glazer
Businessman and owner of NFL teams
Born
August 15th, 1928 97 years ago
Died
May 28th, 2014 11 years ago — 85 years old
A businessman and investor, acquired the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 1995 and the Manchester United football club in 2005. Established an investment firm, the First Allied Corporation, which focused on varied sectors including real estate and restaurants. Became a prominent figure in the sports industry due to ownership of these high-profile teams, influencing their operations and branding. Oversaw the Buccaneers' Super Bowl victory in 2003, marking a significant achievement in American football.
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