What Happened This Year 1928

Born in 1928

Shirley Temple

Actress and diplomat, child star
Born
April 23rd, 1928 96 years ago
Died
February 10th, 2014 11 years ago — 85 years old

An American actress gained fame as a child star during the Great Depression. Starred in several popular films including 'Bright Eyes' and 'Curly Top'. Transitioned to a career in diplomacy, serving as the United States Ambassador to Ghana and Czechoslovakia. Received numerous accolades, including a special Academy Award at age six for her contributions to the film industry. Worked extensively in charitable activities throughout her life.

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Tommy Docherty

Football manager and player of the 1970s
Born
April 24th, 1928 96 years ago
Died
2020 5 years ago — 92 years old

Played as a professional footballer primarily as a defender with clubs including Arsenal and Chelsea. Transitioned into management, leading several teams in the English football league system. Achieved notable success as the manager of Manchester United, guiding the team to victory in the FA Cup in 1977. His tenure at clubs like Chelsea and QPR also highlighted a significant coaching career in British football.

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Johnny Griffin

Jazz saxophonist and composer
Born
April 24th, 1928 96 years ago
Died
2008 17 years ago — 80 years old

Born in 1928, a prominent jazz saxophonist, gained recognition in the bebop jazz scene. Played the tenor saxophone and was known for his virtuosic improvisation and dynamic performances. Collaborated with influential musicians and contributed significantly to the jazz idiom. In the 1950s, performed with the Thelonious Monk Quartet and recorded acclaimed albums that showcased his unique style. Moved to Europe in the 1960s and continued to perform and record, becoming a key figure in the international jazz community until his death in 2008.

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Cy Twombly

Painter and sculptor of abstract art
Born
April 25th, 1928 96 years ago
Died
July 5th, 2011 13 years ago — 83 years old

American-Italian painter and sculptor contributed significantly to the field of abstract expressionism. Twombly's work blended elements of painting and writing, often incorporating graffiti-like scribbles and vibrant colors. Major exhibitions featured pieces that reflected themes of mythology, history, and personal experiences. Notable works include 'Leda and the Swan' and the 'Fifty Days at Iliam' series. Throughout the career, Twombly's art was exhibited in prestigious galleries and museums around the world, establishing a lasting presence in contemporary art.

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Yves Klein

French painter of monochrome works
Born
April 28th, 1928 96 years ago
Died
June 6th, 1962 62 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.

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Eugene Merle Shoemaker

Geologist and astronomer, Lunar mapping
Born
April 28th, 1928 96 years ago
Died
1997 28 years ago — 69 years old

This individual contributed significantly to the field of planetary science and geology. Played a key role in the Apollo program, particularly in mapping the Moon's surface. Co-founded the Planetary Studies Institute and conducted extensive research on impact craters. Helped establish the concept of planetary geology and its importance to understanding celestial bodies. This individual's research laid groundwork for later missions to other planets.

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Heinz Wolff

Physiologist and engineer, Wolff's Periodic Table
Born
April 29th, 1928 96 years ago
Died
December 15th, 2017 7 years ago — 89 years old

A physiologist and engineer, contributed significantly to the fields of physiology and biomedical engineering. Served as a professor at Brunel University in London and was a prominent figure in promoting science education through television programs. Developed the Wolff's Periodic Table as a tool in psychophysics and engineering. His work focused on the relationship between physiology and engineering principles.

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Orlando Sirola

Italian tennis player with Grand Slam titles
Born
April 30th, 1928 96 years ago
Died
1995 30 years ago — 67 years old

An Italian tennis player achieved prominence in the 1950s and 1960s. Won the 1959 Italian Championships and reached the semifinals of both the French Open and Wimbledon during his career. Competed in the Davis Cup, contributing to Italy's victory in 1976. Known for playing doubles alongside various partners, achieving considerable success in mixed doubles.

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Sonny James

Country music singer-songwriter and guitarist
Born
May 1st, 1928 96 years ago
Died
February 22nd, 2016 9 years ago — 87 years old

A prominent figure in country music, this singer-songwriter and guitarist began a career in the late 1950s and achieved significant success throughout the 1960s and 1970s. The music style combined traditional country with a soft pop influence, appealing to a broad audience. Several hit songs topped the country charts, and a notable career highlight included a lengthy string of 16 consecutive number one hits. The artist also became a member of the Grand Ole Opry, representing the genre on a prominent stage.

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