What Happened This Year 1928

Born in 1928

Clarence 13X

Religious leader, founded Nation of Gods and Earths
Born
February 22nd, 1928 97 years ago
Died
1969 56 years ago — 41 years old

A religious leader established the Nation of Gods and Earths, also referred to as the Five Percent Nation, in the 1960s. This movement emphasized a unique interpretation of Islam, seeing its members as the 'Gods' of the planet. The ideology attracted followers primarily in urban communities, offering a distinctive philosophy rooted in self-awareness and empowerment. The teachings incorporated aspects of African heritage and the importance of knowledge of self. The organization has played a significant role in cultural expression, influencing music, particularly hip-hop, and various social movements over the decades.

Continue Reading

Bruce Forsyth

Television host and entertainer
Born
February 22nd, 1928 97 years ago
Died
August 18th, 2017 7 years ago — 89 years old

An English singer and television host, contributed significantly to entertainment over several decades. Gained widespread popularity through hosting the BBC show 'Strictly Come Dancing' and the game show 'The Generation Game'. His career spanned numerous roles in variety shows, showcasing talent in music and comedy. Built a reputation for engaging performances and charismatic presence on television, appealing to a wide audience base. Forsyth also participated in multiple theater productions and musical performances, demonstrating versatility in the entertainment field. His work led to numerous awards and honors recognizing a long-standing commitment to the entertainment industry.

Continue Reading

Thomas E. Kurtz

Computer Scientist and Educator
Born
February 22nd, 1928 97 years ago
Died
November 12th, 2024 0 years ago — 96 years old

Contributed significantly to the development of computer programming languages, particularly BASIC. Co-created the programming language at Dartmouth College in the 1960s, aiming to make computing accessible to students. Served as an educator and influenced generations of computer scientists through teaching and research. Active in promoting computer literacy and the educational potential of computers.

Continue Reading

Paul Dooley

Actor in 'Sixteen Candles'
Born
February 22nd, 1928 97 years ago

An American actor born in 1928, became recognized for roles in film and television. Gained acclaim for portraying the father in 'Sixteen Candles' and appeared in various comedies and dramas throughout a career spanning several decades. Participated in voice work for animated features and contributed to theater productions. Often identified for his distinctive voice and comedic timing, established a notable presence in the entertainment industry.

Continue Reading

Vasily Lazarev

Russian astronaut and physician
Born
February 23rd, 1928 97 years ago
Died
December 31st, 1990 34 years ago — 62 years old

Served as a colonel in the Soviet Air Force and contributed to the Soviet space program as a physician and cosmonaut. Participated in the Soyuz 14 mission in 1974, which involved a successful docking with the Salyut 7 space station. Conducted scientific research during the mission that contributed to the understanding of long-duration spaceflight effects on the human body.

Continue Reading

Hans Herrmann

German racing driver and Le Mans champion
Born
February 23rd, 1928 97 years ago

Born in Germany, a prominent racing driver participated in Formula One and sports car racing. Competed in the 1950s and 1960s, achieving recognition for driving for teams such as Porsche and Ferrari. Won the 1960 24 Hours of Le Mans alongside his co-driver. Contributed to Porsche's success in endurance racing during this era. Retired from competitive racing in the late 1960s.

Continue Reading

Paul Elvstrøm

Danish Olympic Yachtsman and Sailor
Born
February 25th, 1928 97 years ago
Died
2016 9 years ago — 88 years old

Born in 1928, a prominent yachtsman won four Olympic gold medals in sailing. Competed in the Finn class at the Olympics held in 1948 in London, 1952 in Helsinki, 1956 in Melbourne, and 1960 in Rome. Established a reputation for excellence and innovation in sailing techniques. Contributed to the development of sailing equipment and authored books on sailing strategies. Further engaged in the sport through event organization and promotion, influencing future generations of sailors.

Continue Reading

A. Leon Higginbotham Jr.

Civil Rights Advocate and Judge
Born
February 25th, 1928 97 years ago
Died
December 14th, 1998 26 years ago — 70 years old

Birth occurred in 1928. Served as a judge on the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit. Contributed significantly to civil rights law, focusing on racial equality and social justice. Authored several influential books on law and history, including 'In the Matter of Color: Race and the American Legal Process'. Played a key role in numerous landmark cases related to civil rights. Participated in various professional organizations that advanced the cause of civil rights. Engaged in academia as a professor of law and held positions at institutions such as the University of Pennsylvania.

Continue Reading

Larry Gelbart

American screenwriter and playwright
Born
February 25th, 1928 97 years ago
Died
September 11th, 2009 15 years ago — 81 years old

An influential author and screenwriter who significantly contributed to television and theater. Created the acclaimed television series M*A*S*H, based on the 1970 film. Gelbart's talent extended to Broadway, where he wrote the book for the musical A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum, which won a Tony Award. His career spanned decades, with works that showcased sharp wit and comedic writing. Gelbart's contributions to the entertainment industry are widely recognized.

Continue Reading