What Happened This Year 1928

Born in 1928

Tom Johnson

Ice hockey player and coach for Montreal
Born
1928 97 years ago
Died
November 21st, 2007 18 years ago — 79 years old

A Canadian-American ice hockey player and coach, contributed to the sport both on and off the ice. Played as a defenseman in the National Hockey League, primarily for the Montreal Canadiens, where he secured multiple Stanley Cup championships. Transitioned into coaching after retirement, taking charge of various teams and influencing player development. His legacy includes a long-standing impact in the sport's community and a commitment to mentorship.

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John W. Cahn

Metallurgist and academic innovator
Born
1928 97 years ago
Died
March 14th, 2016 9 years ago — 88 years old

Contributed significantly to the field of materials science, particularly in the study of phase transformations and alloy behaviors. Worked at the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) and held various academic positions. Published influential research papers that advanced the understanding of metallic systems and their properties. Awarded the National Medal of Science for exceptional contributions to metallurgical science.

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Marco Ferreri

Italian film director and screenwriter
Born
1928 97 years ago
Died
May 9th, 1997 28 years ago — 69 years old

An influential figure in Italian cinema, contributed significantly to the film industry through directing and screenwriting. Gained recognition for connecting social commentary with avant-garde storytelling. Carried out collaborations with many artists and actors, creating a distinctive style that often blended surrealism with stark realism. Notable works include 'La Grande Bouffe', which explored themes of excess and consumption, and 'Dillinger is Dead', showcasing existentialism and absurdity. The unique cinematic approach often challenged traditional narratives and audience expectations.

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Seymour Papert

Mathematician and computer scientist
Born
1928 97 years ago
Died
July 31st, 2016 9 years ago — 88 years old

A prominent mathematician and computer scientist, contributed to the development of artificial intelligence and educational technology. Participated in the creation of the Logo programming language, which emphasizes learning through exploration. Worked at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), where significant research focused on the intersection of education and technology. Authored influential works that addressed how children learn and interact with technology in educational settings.

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Pete Franklin

American radio host and sports commentator
Born
1928 97 years ago
Died
November 23rd, 2004 21 years ago — 76 years old

A prominent sports radio host, contributed significantly to sports talk radio during the late 20th century. Hosted various programs, showcasing a mix of sports commentary and entertainment. Gained recognition through a long tenure at radio stations such as KNBR in San Francisco, engaging listeners with commentary on local and national sports. Also hosted a popular television show that brought insights into the world of sports and entertainment. Advocated for various sports causes throughout his career.

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Constance Bartlett Hieatt

American scholar and linguistic expert
Born
1928 97 years ago
Died
December 29th, 2011 13 years ago — 83 years old

Constance Bartlett Hieatt contributed significantly to the field of linguistics and medieval studies. Hieatt focused on Old and Middle English literature, providing insights into various texts from these periods. Hieatt was a professor at both the University of Toronto and the University of Alberta, where her work influenced studies in medieval language and literature. She edited and authored several important works, enhancing the understanding of gender roles in medieval texts. Hieatt's expertise also extended to the analysis of dialects and semantics in linguistics.

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Bipan Chandra

Indian historian and academic
Born
1928 97 years ago
Died
August 30th, 2014 11 years ago — 86 years old

An influential historian and academic, focused primarily on modern Indian history. Contributed extensively to the fields of nationalism and the freedom struggle in India. Worked as a professor at various esteemed institutions, including Jawaharlal Nehru University. Published numerous books, including 'India's Struggle for Independence', which analyzed the socio-political landscape of colonial India. Engaged in the development of critical historiography in India.

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Eddie Creatchman

Canadian wrestling manager and referee
Born
1928 97 years ago
Died
March 9th, 1994 31 years ago — 66 years old

Involved in the professional wrestling industry, held roles as a manager and referee. Managed various wrestling talents, including notable figures in the sport. Was recognized for contributions to wrestling promotion and development during the latter half of the 20th century. His career spanned several decades in which he was associated with different wrestling promotions, impacting the personalities involved in the industry.

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Al Lettieri

Actor in The Godfather, The Getaway
Born
1928 97 years ago
Died
October 18th, 1975 50 years ago — 47 years old

Al Lettieri was an American actor recognized for his roles in significant films during the 1970s. Lettieri gained prominence through performances in iconic works such as 'The Godfather' and 'The Getaway'. His portrayal of Sollozzo in 'The Godfather' highlighted his ability to embody complex characters, contributing to the film's critical and commercial success. Lettieri's career also included appearances in television series and various movies, showcasing versatility as an actor.

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