What Happened This Year 1928

Born in 1928

Dave Dudley

Singer-songwriter of truck-driving songs
Born
May 3rd, 1928 96 years ago
Died
2003 22 years ago — 75 years old

A prominent figure in country music, celebrated for contributions to the genre, particularly during the 1960s and 1970s. Gained recognition with the hit song "Six Days on the Road," which became synonymous with truck-driving culture. Released numerous albums that featured themes of the open road and life as a truck driver. Helped popularize the sub-genre of truck-driving country music, influencing many artists and songwriters in the field. Passed away in 2003, leaving a legacy within the country music community.

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Jacques-Louis Lions

Mathematician and partial differential equations expert
Born
May 3rd, 1928 96 years ago
Died
May 17th, 2001 23 years ago — 73 years old

Contributed to the field of mathematics with a focus on partial differential equations and control theory. Served as a professor at the Collège de France. Collaborated with various researchers to advance mathematical theories and techniques. Authored several influential papers and books that shaped modern analysis and numerical methods.

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Hosni Mubarak

Egyptian President and Air Marshal
Born
May 4th, 1928 96 years ago
Died
2020 5 years ago — 92 years old

Served as the fourth President of Egypt from 1981 to 2011. Attended military academy and rose through the ranks of the Egyptian Air Force, eventually leading it as air marshal. Oversaw significant economic reforms and maintained peace with Israel through the Camp David Accords. Presided over Egypt during various regional conflicts and uprisings, notably during the Arab Spring. Resigned amidst public protests against his rule and faced legal proceedings following his departure from office.

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Betsy Rawls

American golfer with multiple major wins
Born
May 4th, 1928 96 years ago
Died
2023 2 years ago — 95 years old

A prominent golfer, achieved significant success in women's golf during the mid-20th century. Won 8 major championships, making a mark on the sport with impressive performances in various tournaments. Played regularly on the LPGA Tour and contributed to the growth of women's golf. Became a member of the World Golf Hall of Fame in recognition of accomplishments in the sport.

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Maynard Ferguson

Trumpet player, big band leader
Born
May 4th, 1928 96 years ago
Died
August 23rd, 2006 18 years ago — 78 years old

Born in Canada, a prominent trumpet player and bandleader became a major figure in the jazz music scene. Gained recognition for innovative techniques on the trumpet and energetic performances. Led several big bands that featured top musicians and produced multiple successful albums. Played an influential role in popularizing jazz through education, teaching younger generations the art of big band music. Conducted tours that drew large audiences and showcased the power of the trumpet in jazz.

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Ted Sorensen

American lawyer, White House Counsel
Born
May 8th, 1928 96 years ago
Died
October 31st, 2010 14 years ago — 82 years old

A prominent lawyer and advisor served as the 8th White House Counsel during the Kennedy administration. Played a key role in shaping presidential speeches, including the iconic inaugural address delivered by President Kennedy in 1961. Contributed significantly to the development of policies during a pivotal era in American history, particularly during the Cuban Missile Crisis. Authored several books on politics and political communication.

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Barbara Ann Scott

Canadian figure skater and Olympic champion
Born
May 9th, 1928 96 years ago
Died
September 30th, 2012 12 years ago — 84 years old

Achieved success as a competitive figure skater during the late 1940s and early 1950s. Won the gold medal at the 1948 Winter Olympics in St. Moritz, becoming the first Canadian to win Olympic gold in figure skating. Secured multiple Canadian championships and world titles during her career, establishing a prominent legacy in the sport. After retiring from competition, transitioned to professional performances and exhibitions, further popularizing figure skating in Canada and abroad.

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Pancho Gonzales

American tennis champion and legend
Born
May 9th, 1928 96 years ago
Died
July 3rd, 1995 29 years ago — 67 years old

A prominent American tennis player, celebrated for dominating the sport in the 1950s. Achieved significant success in both singles and doubles, winning numerous championship titles. Excelled on grass courts and hard courts. Secured the U.S. Championships in 1948, 1949, and 1950, and was the first player to earn a significant sum for competing professionally. Known for fierce rivalries and engaging playing style, contributed greatly to the popularity of tennis.

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Arnold Rüütel

Estonian politician and President
Born
May 10th, 1928 96 years ago
Died
December 31st, 2024 0 years ago — 96 years old

An agronomist and politician, served as the President of Estonia from 2001 to 2006. Elected to the Riigikogu, the Estonian parliament, in 1990, played a significant role in Estonia's transition to independence from the Soviet Union. During presidency, focused on strengthening national identity and international relations. Prior to presidency, held various positions in the agricultural sector, contributing to the country's development in post-Soviet times.

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