Zainul Abedin
Bangladeshi painter and academic
Born in 1914, an influential painter and academic contributed significantly to the art scene in Bangladesh. Studied at the Government Art College in Kolkata and played a pivotal role in the establishment of the East Pakistan Arts Council. His work primarily focused on the plight of the rural poor, using mediums such as ink and watercolor to depict their struggles and everyday lives. Abedin's paintings reflect themes of social justice and national identity, particularly during the tumultuous period of the Bengal famine and the liberation war. He served as the first principal of the Faculty of Fine Arts at the University of Dhaka, cultivating a new generation of artists.
Founded the Faculty of Fine Arts at the University of Dhaka
Created the iconic 'Famine Series' highlighting the 1943 Bengal Famine
Pioneered modern art in Bangladesh
Other People Born on December 29th
Shlomo Venezia
Greek-Italian Holocaust survivor and author
Born
December 29th, 1923 102 years ago
Died
October 1st, 2012 13 years ago — 88 years old
Born in Greece, a survivor of the Holocaust, documented experiences in Auschwitz and other camps. After the war, settled in Italy, where personal narratives highlighted the brutality faced during this period. Worked to educate others about the Holocaust, emphasizing the importance of remembrance and truth. Authored influential works that served to preserve the memory of the victims and the horrors endured. Contributed to various initiatives aimed at Holocaust education.
Continue ReadingWomesh Chunder Bonnerjee
Indian barrister and Congress leader
Born
December 29th, 1844 181 years ago
Died
1906 120 years ago — 62 years old
Born in 1844, this individual was an Indian barrister and a prominent political figure. This person played a crucial role in the formation of the Indian National Congress in 1885, serving as its first president. His work laid the groundwork for future political movements in India, advocating for greater representation and rights for Indians under British rule. In addition to legal practice, this individual contributed to various socio-political discussions, focusing on the rights of the Indian populace. His leadership during the early stages of organized Indian politics marked a significant moment in the country's journey toward independence.
Continue ReadingBilly Mitchell
General and aviation pioneer
Born
December 29th, 1879 146 years ago
Died
February 19th, 1936 89 years ago — 56 years old
Served as a United States Army general and became a leading advocate for air power in the military. Played a pivotal role in the development of strategic bombing doctrine. Advocated for the formation of an independent air force, emphasizing the importance of aviation in modern warfare. In the 1920s, conducted numerous tests showcasing the capabilities of bombers against naval targets, leading to significant shifts in military strategy. Faced opposition from military leaders and retired in 1926, continuing to promote air power until death in 1936.
Continue ReadingRonald Coase
Economist and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
December 29th, 1910 115 years ago
Died
September 2nd, 2013 12 years ago — 102 years old
An economist and author, contributed significantly to the fields of law and economics. Developed the Coase theorem, which states that under certain conditions, private parties can negotiate without government intervention. Authored influential works such as 'The Nature of the Firm' and 'The Firm, the Market, and the Law'. Had a notable academic career with decades spent teaching at various institutions, including the University of Chicago. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Economic Sciences in 1991 for contributions to economic theory.
Continue ReadingKuvempu
Indian author and poet, created 'Sri Ramayana Darshanam'
Born
December 29th, 1904 121 years ago
Died
November 10th, 1994 31 years ago — 89 years old
Birth occurred on December 29, 1904. This individual served as a prominent figure in Kannada literature. Contributions include poetry, novels, and plays that explored themes of culture and human values. The celebrated work 'Sri Ramayana Darshanam' presents a unique interpretation of the Ramayana through a Kannada lens. This author also advocated for the use of Kannada as a medium of instruction in education and was instrumental in efforts to enhance the status of Kannada literature.
Continue ReadingSydney Young
English chemist and educator
Born
December 29th, 1857 168 years ago
Died
1937 89 years ago — 80 years old
An English chemist born in 1857, contributed significantly to the field of chemistry through education and research. Served as a professor at various institutions, shaping the curriculum and advancing scientific knowledge. Published papers that focused on analytical chemistry and its applications in industry. Actively engaged in scientific societies, promoting collaboration and research among chemists.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on May 28th
Francisco Varela
Chilean biologist and philosopher
Born
1946 80 years ago
Died
May 28th, 2001 24 years ago — 55 years old
A prominent figure in biology and philosophy, contributions included the development of enaction as a framework for understanding cognition, which emphasized the role of embodied experience. Collaborated with cognitive science, neuroscience, and philosophy, establishing interdisciplinary links. Worked on biological theories of cognition and explored the phenomenology of life. Co-authored 'The Embodied Mind', integrating Buddhist concepts with cognitive science.
Continue ReadingMartha Scott
American actress, acclaimed for Stage and Film
Born
September 22nd, 1912 113 years ago
Died
May 28th, 2003 22 years ago — 90 years old
An American actress gained prominence in theater and film throughout the mid-20th century. Primarily recognized for stage roles, significant achievements include playing Emily in the original Broadway production of 'Our Town.' Transitioned successfully to film, starring in notable movies such as 'The Ten Commandments' and 'The Dark at the Top of the Stairs.' In addition to stage and film work, appeared in television productions, contributing to the medium in the 1970s and 1980s. Awards included a Tony Award for her performance in 'Our Town,' showcasing her talent in live performing arts.
Continue ReadingHarambe
Cincinnati Zoo western lowland gorilla
Born
1999 27 years ago
Died
May 28th, 2016 9 years ago — 17 years old
A western lowland gorilla lived at the Cincinnati Zoo. Gained attention after a three-year-old boy fell into the gorilla's enclosure. The zoo staff made the decision to shoot the gorilla to protect the child, which sparked a global debate on animal rights and zoo safety. The incident led to widespread media coverage and discussions concerning wildlife conservation and ethical treatment of animals in captivity.
Continue ReadingB. Vittalacharya
Indian film director and producer
Born
1920 106 years ago
Died
May 28th, 1999 26 years ago — 79 years old
B. Vittalacharya was a director and producer in the Indian film industry, primarily known for contributions to Kannada cinema. Active from the 1950s to the 1990s, worked on several films that blended mythology with mass appeal. Took charge of directing notable films that included 'Bhakta Prahlada' and 'Brahma Vishnu Maheshwara', establishing a unique style that resonated with audiences. Held significant influence in shaping Kannada film narratives during his career, and received accolades for many of his productions.
Continue ReadingGary Coleman
American actor in 'Diff'rent Strokes'
Born
February 8th, 1968 57 years ago
Died
May 28th, 2010 15 years ago — 42 years old
Born in 1968, an American actor gained fame for the role of Arnold Jackson in the television series 'Diff'rent Strokes.' The show aired from 1978 to 1986 and explored the lives of two girls who are adopted by a wealthy businessman and his family. Coleman became a prominent figure in pop culture, recognized for his catchphrase, 'What'choo talkin' 'bout, Willis?' After 'Diff'rent Strokes,' faced a range of challenges and transitions in both personal and professional life, including significant legal battles regarding finances and contracts. Despite these difficulties, continued to make guest appearances in television and worked in various capacities within the entertainment industry until the end of his career.
Continue ReadingFyodor Okhlopkov
Russian sniper during World War II
Born
1908 118 years ago
Died
May 28th, 1968 57 years ago — 60 years old
Served as a sergeant and sniper in the Soviet Army during World War II. Achieved significant recognition for marksmanship and effectiveness in combat. Participated in several key battles on the Eastern Front. After the war, continued service in the military and contributed to sniper training.
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