What Happened This Year 1928

Born in 1928

Bertram Wainer

Australian physician and activist
Born
1928 97 years ago
Died
January 16th, 1987 38 years ago — 59 years old

Contributed significantly to the fight for the rights of LGBTQ+ individuals in Australia. Actively campaigned against unjust laws and practices that discriminated against the gay community. Established the first conference for gay and lesbian rights in Australia. Advocated for the decriminalization of homosexuality in his country.

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Alexis Korner

Singer-songwriter and guitarist, blues innovator
Born
1928 97 years ago
Died
January 1st, 1984 41 years ago — 56 years old

A prominent figure in the British blues movement, a French-English singer-songwriter and guitarist helped introduce rhythm and blues to the UK music scene. In the late 1950s and early 1960s, formed bands such as Blues Incorporated, which featured future members of The Rolling Stones and Cream. Collaborated with artists including Cyril Davies and Charlie Watts, influencing the development of blues in Britain. Released several albums, showcasing a blend of blues and rock music. Contributed significantly to the emergence of the British rock genre, shaping the sounds of numerous musicians that followed. His work paved the way for later rock musicians to explore blues roots.

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Hattie N. Harrison

American educator and politician
Born
1928 97 years ago
Died
January 28th, 2013 12 years ago — 85 years old

An educator and politician engaged in community service and governance. Attended Central State University and pursued a career in education. Served as a school board member, advocating for educational improvements. Held the position of the first African American woman to be elected to the West Virginia State Legislature, representing the 6th district. Contributed to the development of educational policies and community initiatives throughout her career.

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Shulamit Aloni

Israeli lawyer, 11th Minister of Education
Born
1928 97 years ago
Died
January 24th, 2014 11 years ago — 86 years old

A lawyer and politician, served as the 11th Minister of Education in Israel. Played a vital role in advocating for civil rights and education reforms. Contributed to the establishment of the Israeli Civil Rights Movement and was a prominent figure in promoting liberal policies. Founded the left-wing Meretz party and served as a member of the Knesset for several terms.

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Syed Hussein Alatas

Malaysian sociologist and politician
Born
1928 97 years ago
Died
January 23rd, 2007 18 years ago — 79 years old

A prominent sociologist and politician from Malaysia, focused on issues of development and social justice. Contributed significantly to the field of sociology through published works that examined social control and the development process in Malaysia. Served as a university professor and held the position of Minister of Culture, Youth, and Sports in the Malaysian government. His academic work emphasized the importance of understanding societal dynamics within the Southeast Asian context.

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Bernice Sandler

Women's rights activist and Title IX advocate
Born
1928 97 years ago
Died
January 5th, 2019 6 years ago — 91 years old

A prominent women's rights activist, dedicated efforts focused on gender equity in education. Played a crucial role in the development and implementation of Title IX, a federal law that prohibits sex-based discrimination in federally funded education programs. Contributed to various advocacy organizations and worked extensively to raise awareness regarding women's rights and equity issues within educational institutions.

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Cathy Ubels-Veen

Dutch politician and public leader
Born
1928 97 years ago
Died
February 17th, 2015 10 years ago — 87 years old

Served as a member of the Dutch political landscape, participating in significant legislative processes. Contributed to the development of various social policies and engaged in local governance. Championed causes that focused on community welfare and public service improvements. Held prominent positions that influenced decision-making and community initiatives.

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Zhang Wannian

Chinese general and military leader
Born
1928 97 years ago
Died
January 14th, 2015 10 years ago — 87 years old

Served as a senior general in the People's Liberation Army of China. Held significant military leadership positions, particularly during the China-India War in 1962. Contributed to strategic military planning and operations during various conflicts, including the Sino-Vietnamese War in 1979. Appointed as a member of the Central Military Commission and promoted to the rank of General. Involved in military reform and modernization efforts during the late 20th century. Also represented China in several international military dialogues and negotiations.

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Bob Holness

Radio and television host for Blockbusters
Born
1928 97 years ago
Died
January 6th, 2012 13 years ago — 84 years old

A radio and television host in South Africa and England co-hosted the popular game show Blockbusters. Hosted the show from its inception in 1983 until 1990, becoming a recognisable figure in British television. Worked in radio, contributing to various stations, including the BBC. Also, hosted other television programs and was involved in charity work throughout his career.

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