What Happened This Year 1928

Born in 1928

Lothar Schmid

German chess player and arbiter
Born
May 10th, 1928 96 years ago
Died
May 18th, 2013 11 years ago — 85 years old

Accomplished chess player and international arbiter. Played in numerous tournaments throughout the 20th century. Achieved the title of International Arbiter in 1984. Contributed to various chess publications and served as an organizer for major chess events. Actively participated in the chess community, promoting the game across different platforms.

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Burt Bacharach

Singer-songwriter and composer of film scores
Born
May 12th, 1928 96 years ago
Died
2023 2 years ago — 95 years old

A prominent figure in the music industry, this artist gained recognition for composing numerous hit songs and film scores. Collaborations with lyricist Hal David resulted in iconic tracks such as 'Raindrops Keep Fallin' on My Head' and 'I'll Never Fall in Love Again.' The artist also received critical acclaim for creating the soundtrack for the film 'Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid.' With a unique style incorporating elements of jazz, pop, and classical music, contributed to a significant body of work across several decades. In addition to songwriting, involved in producing and arranging music, leading to a distinguished career that influenced many contemporary artists.

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Enrique Bolaños

Nicaraguan politician, President of Nicaragua
Born
May 13th, 1928 96 years ago
Died
2021 4 years ago — 93 years old

Served as the President of Nicaragua from 2002 to 2007. Held the position after winning the presidential elections as a candidate for the Liberal Constitutional Party. Prior to presidency, served in various government roles, including as a business executive and leader within the party. Focused on economic reforms and fostering international relations during the presidency. Post-presidency, remained active in Nicaraguan politics and continued to influence national discourse.

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Frederik H. Kreuger

Dutch engineer and academic author
Born
May 14th, 1928 96 years ago
Died
2015 10 years ago — 87 years old

An engineer and author contributed to the field of engineering through academic works and publications. Focused on systems theory and control engineering, made significant contributions that influenced both academic and practical applications. Held a position at a prestigious university, mentoring students and engaging in research projects. Published several influential papers and books, shaping the understanding of various engineering concepts.

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Billy Martin

Baseball player and manager with Yankees
Born
May 16th, 1928 96 years ago
Died
December 25th, 1989 35 years ago — 61 years old

Played as a second baseman in Major League Baseball, primarily with the New York Yankees, and later served as a manager for several teams, including multiple stints with the Yankees. Contributed to five World Series championships as a player with the Yankees from 1949 to 1953. After retiring as a player, shifted to coaching and managerial roles, gaining a reputation for his fiery demeanor and leadership style in the dugout. Also managed the Detroit Tigers, Texas Rangers, and Oakland Athletics during career in baseball management.

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Pernell Roberts

American actor known for Bonanza
Born
May 18th, 1928 96 years ago
Died
January 24th, 2010 15 years ago — 81 years old

An American actor gained prominence through a role as Adam Cartwright in the television series 'Bonanza'. Starred in the series from 1959 to 1965, becoming a significant figure in the show's early success. Later, portrayed the character Trapper John in 'Trapper John, M.D.' from 1979 to 1986, which solidified a later career in television. Engaged in theater and advocated for various social causes throughout his life.

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Colin Chapman

British engineer and founder of Lotus Cars
Born
May 19th, 1928 96 years ago
Died
December 16th, 1982 42 years ago — 54 years old

An English engineer and businessman founded Lotus Cars, a marque synonymous with innovative automotive design. Established in 1952, the company gained recognition for its lightweight sports cars and Formula One racing vehicles. The innovative use of materials and engineering principles revolutionized the racing industry. Chapman played a significant role in the development of the Lotus 49, which was the first car to use a rear-mounted engine, leading to numerous successes in Formula One during the 1960s. His contributions to automotive engineering left a lasting legacy, influencing car design well beyond his time.

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Dolph Schayes

Basketball player and coach, NBA All-Star
Born
May 19th, 1928 96 years ago
Died
December 10th, 2015 9 years ago — 87 years old

A prominent basketball figure, played as a power forward and center in the NBA from 1948 to 1964. Spent the majority of career with the Syracuse Nationals, leading the team to the 1955 NBA Championship. After retirement from playing, transitioned to coaching, guiding teams in the ABA and NBA. Schayes's contributions to the game encompassed scoring, rebounding, and defensive prowess, establishing him as a key player during the early years of professional basketball.

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Gil McDougald

Baseball player and coach, New York Yankees
Born
May 19th, 1928 96 years ago
Died
2010 15 years ago — 82 years old

This individual played as a second baseman and third baseman in Major League Baseball for the New York Yankees from 1951 to 1960. During a successful career, was part of five World Series championship teams. After retiring as a player, transitioned into coaching and contributed to the development of future baseball talent within the sport. His contributions to the team and later coaching roles left a mark on the organization.

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