What happened today in history?

What happened
today in history?
[ Oct 28 ]

2023 - The Untimely Death of Matthew Perry

Matthew Perry, the beloved actor known for his role as Chandler Bing on Friends, tragically drowned at 54 following a cardiac arrest in a jacuzzi. His unexpected passing shocked fans worldwide, highlighting his talent and the personal struggles he bravely faced.

The Untimely Death of Matthew Perry

2022 - The Passing of Rock Legend Jerry Lee Lewis

Jerry Lee Lewis, the legendary rock and country musician, passed away on October 28, 2022. Known for hits like 'Great Balls Of Fire', he transformed the music landscape with his energetic performances and influential sound, leaving behind a remarkable legacy.

The Passing of Rock Legend Jerry Lee Lewis

2021 - The Life and Legacy of Dick Szymanski

Dick Szymanski, an esteemed American football center and executive with the Baltimore Colts, passed away at 89. A Pro Bowler in the 1950s and 1960s, his impact on the team and legacy in football are fondly remembered.

2020 - The Legacy of Billy Joe Shaver: A Country Music Icon

Billy Joe Shaver, a prominent American country singer-songwriter best known for his song "When I Get My Wings," passed away from a stroke at the age of 81 in 2020. His legacy continues to influence country music through his heartfelt storytelling and authentic songwriting.

2020 - Bobby Ball: A Comedic Legend Passes Away

Bobby Ball, the beloved British comedian and one-half of the duo Cannon and Ball, passed away at the age of 76 in 2020. Known for his infectious humor and memorable performances, he left a lasting legacy in the world of entertainment.

2020 - The Life and Legacy of Miguel Ángel Castellini

Miguel Ángel Castellini, a renowned Argentinian boxer and former WBA champion, passed away from COVID-19 in 2020 at the age of 73. His legacy in the boxing world remains profound, celebrated for both his skill in the ring and his resilience in life.

2013 - Remembering Ike Skelton: An American Politician's Legacy

Ike Skelton, a prominent American politician and advocate for military families, passed away from pneumonia on October 28, 2013, at age 81. His legacy includes significant contributions to defense policy and education throughout his lengthy congressional career.

2013 - Remembering Tetsuharu Kawakami: A Baseball Legend's Legacy

Tetsuharu Kawakami, a legendary baseball figure in Japan, passed away in 2013 at the age of 93. Renowned as a first baseman and manager for the Yomiuri Giants, Kawakami's contributions to baseball earned him multiple titles and a place in the Japanese Baseball Hall of Fame.

2011 - Remembering Beryl Davis: A Life in Music

Beryl Davis, a British-American cabaret and big band singer known for her work with Quintette du Hot Club de France and Glenn Miller's US Army Air Force Orchestra, passed away in 2011 from complications related to Alzheimer's disease at age 87.

2010 - The Life and Legacy of James MacArthur

James MacArthur, famed for his role as Danny Williams in ‘Hawaii 5-0’, passed away in October 2010 at the age of 72. His impactful performances and contributions to the arts have left a lasting legacy in the entertainment industry.

2007 - The Legacy of Porter Wagoner: A Country Music Icon

Porter Wagoner, a country music icon who discovered Dolly Parton, died of lung cancer at age 80 in 2007. Known for hits like 'Y'All Come' and 'A Satisfied Mind', his influential career shaped the world of country music and left a lasting legacy.

2006 - The Life and Legacy of Marijohn Wilkin

Marijohn Wilkin, an iconic American songwriter known for hits like 'One Day at a Time' and 'Long Black Veil', passed away on March 28, 2006, due to heart disease at the age of 86. Her music continues to inspire and resonate with audiences.

2006 - The Passing of Red Auerbach: A Basketball Legend

Red Auerbach, the legendary coach and executive of the Boston Celtics, passed away in 2006 at the age of 89 from a heart attack. Known for winning nine NBA Championships and pioneering strategies, he left an indelible mark on basketball history.

The Passing of Red Auerbach: A Basketball Legend

2006 - The Tragic Death of Boxer Trevor Berbick

Trevor Berbick, a celebrated Jamaican boxer and WBC heavyweight champion, tragically died in 2006 following a violent incident involving his nephew. His untimely death at age 52 shocked the boxing community and left a lasting legacy in sports history.

The Tragic Death of Boxer Trevor Berbick

2005 - The Legacy of Bob Broeg: A Sportswriting Icon

Bob Broeg, a distinguished American sportswriter known for his work with the St. Louis Post-Dispatch covering the St. Louis Cardinals, died in 2005 at the age of 87, leaving behind a rich legacy in sports journalism.

2005 - The Legacy of Fernando Quejas: A Cape Verdean Music Icon

Fernando Quejas, born in 1922 in Cape Verde, was a celebrated singer and musician who left a lasting impact on the Cape Verdean music scene. His unique sound combined traditional rhythms with modern influences, resonating deeply with audiences until his death in 2005.

2005 - Remembering Richard Smalley: A Legacy in Chemistry

Richard Smalley, born in 1943, was a renowned American chemist and Nobel Prize laureate, celebrated for his discovery of fullerenes in 1985, significantly impacting nanotechnology. He passed away in 2005, leaving a profound legacy in science education and research.

2004 - The Life and Legacy of Gil Mellé

Gil Mellé, a prominent American jazz saxophonist and composer, passed away in 2004 at the age of 72. Known for his innovative blend of jazz and electronic music, Mellé's legacy continues to influence musicians and delight audiences.

1998 - The Life and Legacy of Ted Hughes

Ted Hughes, the celebrated English poet and translator, died on October 28, 1998, at 68. His contributions as the British Poet Laureate from 1984 to 1998 left an indelible mark on modern poetry, exploring deep themes of nature and human emotions.

The Life and Legacy of Ted Hughes

1996 - The Legacy of Morey Amsterdam: A Comedic Pioneer

Morey Amsterdam, renowned American comedian, actor, and cellist, passed away in 1996 at the age of 87. Best known for his role in The Dick Van Dyke Show, Amsterdam left a lasting impact on the world of comedy and entertainment.

1993 - Tragic Loss of a Young Talent: Carmino Baelen

Carmino Baelen, a talented Belgian sledding athlete, tragically died at the age of 22 during a race in 1993, leaving a lasting impact on the sledding community. His legacy continues to inspire young athletes to this day.

1993 - The Life and Death of Doris Duke: A Philanthropic Legacy

Doris Duke, the American heiress and philanthropist, passed away on October 28, 1993, at the age of 80, due to cardiac arrest following a stroke. Renowned for her charitable efforts through the Doris Duke Foundation, her legacy continues to impact many fields.

1991 - Tragic Passing of Lydia Hodson Copeland

Lydia Hodson Copeland, who became America's Jr Miss in 1972, tragically passed away at the young age of 37 in 1991. Her legacy continues to inspire young women today, reflecting her influence in beauty and empowerment.

1990 - The Legacy of Frankie Masters: A Musical Pioneer

Frankie Masters, an influential American banjo player, guitarist, vocalist, and big band leader, passed away in 1990. Known for his hit "Scatter-Brain," Masters left a significant mark on the music scene and is remembered for his contribution to jazz and big band music.

1987 - The Legacy of Andre Masson: A Surrealist Visionary

Andre Masson, the French surrealist artist known for his emotional and dreamlike compositions, passed away on October 28, 1987, at the age of 91. His work, particularly 'Labyrinth,' continues to influence artists and evoke thoughts on the subconscious.

1984 - The Life and Legacy of Giuseppe Savagnone

Giuseppe Savagnone, the renowned Italian composer, passed away in 1984 at the age of 81. His contributions to classical music and unique incorporation of Sicilian folk elements made a lasting impact on the musical landscape.

1984 - The Life and Legacy of Knut Nordahl

Knut Nordahl, a prominent Swedish soccer midfielder and Olympic gold medalist, passed away in 1984 at the age of 64. His legacy includes 26 caps for the national team and significant contributions to the sport, particularly during his time at AS Roma.

1977 - Remembering Kaj Birket-Smith: A Pioneer of Anthropology

Kaj Birket-Smith, a renowned Danish philologist and anthropologist, passed away in 1977 at the age of 84. His extensive research into Inuit and Eyak cultures left a lasting legacy in anthropology, highlighting the significance of indigenous languages and traditions.

1973 - The Life and Legacy of Sergio Tofano

Sergio Tofano, an esteemed Italian actor born in 1883, passed away in 1973, leaving a legacy in theatre and cinema. His multifaceted talent as a playwright and director further cemented his impact on the performing arts in Italy.

1970 - The Untimely Death of Baby Huey

Baby Huey, born James Ramey, was an influential American rock and soul singer who passed away in 1970 at just 26 years old due to a drug-related heart attack. His powerful voice and impactful music continue to inspire artists today.

1969 - The Life and Legacy of Constance Dowling

Constance Dowling, a talented actress best known for her role in 'Blind Spot', tragically passed away at 49 due to cardiac arrest in 1969. Her contributions to the film industry remain influential, and her legacy endures despite her untimely death.

1968 - The Life and Legacy of Henricus W. J. M. Keuls

Henricus W. J. M. Keuls, a notable Dutch lawyer and poet, passed away in 1968 at the age of 85. His literary masterpiece, 'Dancing Lamp', reflects his deep engagement with human emotions and societal issues, leaving an indelible mark on both literature and law.

1965 - The Life and Legacy of Earl Bostic

Earl Bostic, a profound jazz alto saxophonist known for hits like 'Flamingo' and 'Temptation,' left an indelible mark on jazz music before his untimely death at 52 in 1965.

1963 - The Life and Death of Mart Saar: A Compositional Legacy

Mart Saar, an influential Estonian composer, passed away in 1963 at the age of 81. His unique blend of folk and classical music shaped Estonian cultural identity and influenced future composers. His legacy continues through celebrations of his works and music education initiatives.

1957 - The Legacy of Tony Morabito: Founder of the 49ers

Tony Morabito, founder of the San Francisco 49ers, left a lasting legacy in American football before his untimely death from a heart attack at 47 in 1957. His vision and dedication shaped a pioneering franchise that remains influential today.

1952 - The Death of Billy Hughes: A Legacy Remembered

Billy Hughes, the 7th Prime Minister of Australia, passed away at 90 in 1952. His political impact spanned both the Labor and Nationalist parties during significant national events, especially World War I. His legacy remains notable in Australian politics.

1944 - The Martyrdom of Iman Jacob van den Bosch

Iman Jacob van den Bosch, a Dutch WWII resistance fighter, was shot and executed at the Westerbork Transit Camp in 1944. His bravery and sacrifice continue to inspire those who fight against oppression.

1940 - The Legacy of Composer Andrea d'Angeli

Andrea d'Angeli, the renowned Italian composer, passed away in 1940 at the age of 71. His contributions to music continue to resonate, influencing countless musicians and captivating audiences long after his death.

1939 - The Life and Legacy of Alice Brady

Alice Brady, an iconic American actress known for her work in both silent and talkie films, died of cancer in 1939 at the young age of 46, leaving behind a legacy of remarkable performances in classics like 'My Man Godfrey' and 'The Gay Divorcee'.

1929 - The Untimely Death of Hermann Ungar

In 1929, Moravian writer Hermann Ungar tragically died at the age of 36 during an appendectomy. Known for his modernist works, his untimely death left a significant impact on literature and his legacy continues to resonate today.

1919 - The Life and Legacy of Ted Wainwright

Ted Wainwright, an accomplished English cricket all-rounder, passed away in 1919 at the age of 54. Known for his contributions to Yorkshire cricket and his performances in Test matches, he left a lasting legacy in the sport.

1918 - Remembering Edward Bouchet: The First African American Ph.D. Recipient

Edward Bouchet, the first African American to receive a Ph.D. in the United States, passed away at the age of 66 in 1918. His contributions to physics and education paved the way for future generations of scientists. He faced significant challenges due to racial discrimination but became a symbol of perseverance in academia.

1918 - The Death of Ulisse Dini: A Legacy in Mathematics

Ulisse Dini, an influential Italian mathematician and politician known for his work in real variable functions, passed away in 1918 at the age of 72. His contributions significantly shaped the field of mathematics and continue to inspire future generations.

1917 - The Death of Prince Christian of Schleswig-Holstein

Prince Christian of Schleswig-Holstein, a prominent nobleman and advocate for peace, passed away in 1917. His life intertwined with major European royal families and his legacy remains significant in the historical narrative of Schleswig-Holstein.

1914 - The Death of Adelgunde of Bavaria in 1914

Adelgunde of Bavaria, a German princess and wife of the Duke of Modena, passed away in 1914 at the age of 91. Her life was marked by royal duties and cultural contributions, symbolizing an era of changing monarchies in Europe.

1914 - The Death of Composer Richard Heuberger in 1914

In 1914, Richard Heuberger, the esteemed Austrian opera composer known for his work 'Der Opernball', passed away at the age of 64. His contributions to operatic music left a lasting legacy in Vienna's rich cultural history.

1905 - The Life and Death of Alphonse Allais

Alphonse Allais, the renowned French humorist and author of 'Le Chat Noir,' passed away in 1905 at the age of 51. His legacy endures as he continues to inspire with his unique blend of wit and absurdity.

1900 - The Legacy of Max Müller: His Life and Death

Max Müller, a prominent German-born British orientalist, passed away in 1900 at the age of 76. His contributions to the study of Eastern texts and cultures left a lasting influence on academia, marking him as a key figure in the field of Indology.

1899 - The Death of Grant Allen: A Canadian Literary Figure

Grant Allen, a Canadian writer known for his influential work 'The Woman Who Did', passed away on October 16, 1899, at the age of 51. His contributions to literature remain significant, particularly in discussions around women's rights and social issues.

1897 - The Life and Legacy of Hercules Robinson

Hercules Robinson, a prominent British colonial administrator, died in 1897 at the age of 72. His career spanned significant roles in Ceylon, Fiji, New Zealand, and South Africa, leaving behind a legacy in colonial governance before his passing.

1818 - The Life and Legacy of Abigail Adams

Abigail Adams, the 2nd First Lady of the United States, played a pivotal role in American history. She died of typhoid fever on October 28, 1818, at the age of 73. Her legacy as a strong advocate for women's rights continues to inspire generations.

The Life and Legacy of Abigail Adams

1800 - The Death of Artemas Ward: A Revolutionary Figure

Artemas Ward, a significant figure in the American Revolutionary War, died at 72 in 1800. His contributions as a major general and politician shaped the early military efforts against British forces and left a lasting legacy in American history.

1792 - The Death of Paul Möhring: A Pioneer in Medicine

Paul Möhring, a notable German physician and scientist, passed away in 1792 at the age of 82. His lifelong contributions to medicine significantly advanced the understanding of anatomy and diseases, leaving a lasting impact on the medical field.

1755 - The Death of Joseph Bodin de Boismortier: A Composer's Legacy

Joseph Bodin de Boismortier, a notable French composer, passed away on May 28, 1755, at the age of 65. He was influential in early classical music, particularly known for his flute compositions and innovative approach to instrumental works. His legacy continues in the music world today.

1708 - The Death of Prince George of Denmark in 1708

Prince George of Denmark, Prince Consort to Queen Anne of England, died on October 28, 1708, at the age of 55. His death marked a significant moment in English history, impacting the royal family's dynamics and the political landscape of the time.

1704 - The Death of John Locke: Father of Liberalism

John Locke, the influential English empiricist philosopher and 'Father of Liberalism,' died at 72. His ideas profoundly shaped Enlightenment thinking, challenging existing ideas about government and liberty through seminal works like 'Two Treatises of Government.'

The Death of John Locke: Father of Liberalism

1703 - The Death of John Wallis: A Mathematician's Legacy

John Wallis (1616-1703), an influential English mathematician known for introducing the symbol ∞ for infinity, passed away at the age of 86. His contributions to mathematics and cryptography left a significant legacy, shaping future generations of scholars.

The Death of John Wallis: A Mathematician's Legacy

1676 - The Death of Jean Desmarets: A Literary Loss

In 1676, France mourned the death of Jean Desmarets, a talented writer born in 1595. His literary contributions profoundly impacted French literature, showcasing a versatile gift for poetry and prose that resonated with life’s complexities.

1627 - The Death of Jahangir: A Turning Point in Mughal History

Jahangir, the fourth Mughal Emperor of India, died on February 28, 1627, at the age of 58. His reign marked a culturally rich period in the Mughal Empire, known for its advancements in art and architecture. His death initiated a power struggle that impacted the course of Indian history.