28 August - Kanō Motonobu birth anniversary

 

Kanō Motonobu (1476–1559) was a renowned Japanese painter who left an indelible mark on the country's artistic landscape. Born in 28 Aug 1476, he emerged during the Muromachi period as a key figure in the development of the Kanō school of painting. This school would go on to become one of Japan's most influential artistic lineages.

Motonobu's artistic style was a fusion of traditional Japanese techniques and the influence of Chinese painting. He demonstrated a masterful command of brushwork, skillfully employing color and composition to create visually striking and dynamic works. His subjects often ranged from historical and religious themes to portraits of esteemed samurai and court figures.

Beyond his artistic prowess, Motonobu's legacy extended to the establishment of the Kanō school as a prominent artistic tradition. His teachings and techniques were passed down through generations, cementing the school's enduring influence on Japanese art for centuries to come.

Kanō Motonobu's passing in 1559 marked the end of a remarkable era in Japanese art history. His contributions not only enriched the artistic landscape of his time but also laid the foundation for the continued evolution of Japanese painting.

 

28 August - Emirati Women's Day

 

Emirati Women's Day is celebrated on August 28th each year in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). It's a day dedicated to honoring the achievements, contributions, and advancements of Emirati women in various fields, including education, business, healthcare, arts, and more. The day also highlights the progress made in promoting gender equality and women's empowerment in the UAE.

 Emirati Women's Day reflects the UAE's commitment to promoting gender equality, women's empowerment, and the recognition of women's accomplishments in all aspects of society. It's an occasion to celebrate the progress made and to continue working towards a future where women have equal opportunities and representation.

28 August - P V Sindhu won the silver medal at the Badminton World Championships 2017

 

PV Sindhu won the silver medal at the Badminton World Championships on August 28, 2017. The championship took place in Glasgow, Scotland, and Sindhu's remarkable performance during that tournament showcased her talent and determination in the sport of badminton. Her achievement added to her growing list of accolades and established her as a prominent figure in international badminton.

Pusarla Venkata Sindhu, commonly known as PV Sindhu, is an Indian professional badminton player who has achieved remarkable success in the sport. She won the silver medal at the Badminton World Championships on multiple occasions, showcasing her prowess on the international stage.

PV Sindhu's achievements at the Badminton World Championships:

1. 2017: PV Sindhu won her first silver medal at the World Championships in Glasgow, Scotland. In the final, she competed against Nozomi Okuhara of Japan, and their intense match is often remembered as one of the greatest matches in badminton history due to its competitiveness and energy.

2. 2018: The following year, in Nanjing, China, Sindhu once again reached the final of the World Championships. This time, she faced Carolina Marin of Spain and secured another silver medal.

These accomplishments highlighted Sindhu's consistent performance at the highest level of badminton and cemented her reputation as one of the world's top players. Sindhu's dedication, skill, and perseverance have made her a pride of Indian sports and an inspiration to aspiring athletes.

28 August - Henry Hudson discovers Delaware Bay in 1609

 

While Hudson is known for his explorations in North America, he is primarily associated with exploring the Hudson River and the Hudson Bay.

Delaware Bay had been explored by various European navigators and settlers before Hudson's time. It was likely encountered by Portuguese and Dutch explorers in the early 16th century, and later by English and Dutch navigators in the early 17th century.

Henry Hudson, an English explorer, is most famous for his exploration of the river that now bears his name—the Hudson River—in 1609 while in the service of the Dutch East India Company. His exploration laid the groundwork for Dutch colonization and trade in the region, particularly in what would later become New Amsterdam (present-day New York City).

It's important to note that exploration during this period was often conducted by multiple individuals from different countries, and many regions had already been visited by various explorers before Hudson's expeditions.

28 August - Francisco de Sá de Miranda

 

Francisco de Sá de Miranda (1481–1558) was a significant Portuguese poet and one of the pioneers of Renaissance literature in Portugal. Born on 28 August 1481, he played a crucial role in introducing new poetic forms and ideas from Italy to his homeland.

Sá de Miranda is often regarded as the initiator of Portuguese Renaissance poetry due to his departure from the traditional poetic styles of the Middle Ages. He was deeply influenced by Italian humanism and Petrarchan poetry, which he encountered during his travels in Italy. Upon returning to Portugal, he began to incorporate these new influences into his work.

One of Sá de Miranda's notable contributions was the introduction of the sonnet form to Portuguese literature. He also experimented with other poetic forms, bringing a fresh perspective and lyrical quality to his verses. His poetry addressed themes of love, nature, and the human experience, often marked by a more personal and introspective tone.

Francisco de Sá de Miranda passed away in 1558, leaving behind a legacy of innovation and reform in Portuguese poetry. His efforts paved the way for a new era of literary expression in Portugal, and his works continue to be appreciated for their role in shaping the course of Portuguese literature during the Renaissance.

 

28 August - Firaq Gorakhpuri birth anniversary

 

Firaq Gorakhpuri, whose real name was Raghupati Sahay, was a renowned Indian Urdu poet, essayist, and scholar. He was born on 28 August 1896 and passed away on 3 March 1982. Firaq Gorakhpuri's literary contributions encompassed a wide range of themes and styles in Urdu poetry.

Known for his intellectual depth and versatility, Firaq's poetry resonated with readers due to its exploration of human emotions, philosophical reflections, and social commentaries. He skillfully bridged the gap between classical and modern Urdu poetry, infusing his work with both traditional poetic sensibilities and contemporary insights.

Firaq's writings extended beyond poetry. He was a respected essayist and critic, delving into various subjects such as literature, politics, and philosophy. His legacy continues to inspire and influence generations of writers and poets, contributing to the rich tapestry of Urdu literature.

Throughout his life, Firaq Gorakhpuri's literary endeavors showcased his ability to craft meaningful verses and thought-provoking essays. His birth and death dates mark the journey of a prominent figure in Urdu literature who left an indelible mark on the literary landscape of India.

28 August - Sheridan Le Fanu birth anniversary

 

Joseph Thomas Sheridan Le Fanu (28 August 1814 – 7 February 1873) was an Irish writer best known for his contributions to Gothic and supernatural fiction. He is regarded as one of the pioneers of the Victorian ghost story and horror genre, and his works have had a lasting influence on the genre's development.

 

Key points about Sheridan Le Fanu:

1. Gothic and Supernatural Fiction: Le Fanu's writing style often combined elements of Gothic literature with supernatural and mysterious elements. His stories frequently revolved around haunted houses, mysterious deaths, and eerie occurrences.

2. Influential Works: One of his most famous works is the novella "Carmilla," published in 1872. This story, featuring a female vampire, predates Bram Stoker's "Dracula" and has had a significant impact on vampire literature.

3. Journalism and Criticism: Le Fanu had a background in journalism and worked as the editor of several newspapers. He also contributed literary criticism to various publications, showcasing his broader literary interests.

4. Ghost Stories: Many of his short stories and novellas, collected in works like "In a Glass Darkly," explore themes of the supernatural, the uncanny, and psychological horror. These stories often focus on the ambiguity between the natural and the supernatural.

5. Influence on Later Writers: Le Fanu's works, especially his ghost stories, have inspired numerous writers in the horror and supernatural genres. His impact can be seen in the works of M.R. James, Henry James, and other Victorian and modern authors.

6. Literary Legacy: Sheridan Le Fanu's stories are characterized by their atmospheric writing, intricate plots, and exploration of the unknown. His ability to create an unsettling atmosphere and build tension contributed to his lasting reputation.

Sheridan Le Fanu's legacy as a master of horror and supernatural fiction remains strong. His stories continue to captivate readers with their eerie and chilling narratives, making him an enduring figure in the realm of Gothic literature.

 

28 August - Johann Wolfgang von Goethe birth anniversary

 

Johann Wolfgang von Goethe (28 August 1749 – 22 March 1832) was a German writer, poet, philosopher, and polymath who is considered one of the most important figures in world literature. His works span various genres and include poetry, plays, novels, and philosophical essays. Goethe's contributions had a profound impact on both German and global literature and culture.

Johann Wolfgang von Goethe's legacy as a literary giant and a versatile thinker continues to inspire scholars, writers, and artists across the globe. His ability to delve into the depths of human experience and his contributions to various fields make him a figure of enduring significance.

27 August - Sir Rowland Hill death anniversary

 

Sir Rowland Hill," he was a notable British educator, postal reformer, and inventor. Here's a brief overview of his life and contributions:

Sir Rowland Hill (3 December 1795 – 27 August 1879) was a British reformer and innovator best known for his significant contributions to the postal system. His ideas revolutionized the way postage was calculated and paid, leading to the introduction of the postage stamp, commonly known as the "Penny Black."

Key points about Sir Rowland Hill:

1. Postal Reforms: Hill recognized the inefficiencies and complexities of the existing postal system, which relied on high rates and complicated fee structures. In 1837, he proposed a comprehensive plan for postal reform based on the concept of uniform postage regardless of distance.

2. Uniform Penny Post: Hill's most groundbreaking idea was the concept of the "Uniform Penny Post," where a standard postage rate of one penny would be charged for letters weighing up to half an ounce, regardless of the distance they traveled. This proposal aimed to make mail delivery more accessible and affordable for everyone.

3. Penny Black: To implement his plan, Hill suggested the use of adhesive postage stamps to indicate that postage had been prepaid. The "Penny Black," issued in 1840, was the world's first adhesive postage stamp. It depicted a portrait of Queen Victoria.

4. Postal Efficiency: Hill's reforms led to increased mail usage, improved postal efficiency, and reduced instances of mail tampering and fraud. His ideas were not only adopted in Britain but also influenced postal systems around the world.

5. Later Contributions: Hill's work extended beyond postal reforms. He was involved in educational and financial reforms as well. He played a role in the establishment of a new educational system in Britain and also contributed to discussions on other public policy issues.

Sir Rowland Hill's innovative ideas and persistence in postal reform left a lasting impact on the way mail is sent and delivered. His contributions are celebrated as a crucial step in the evolution of modern postal systems worldwide.

 

27 August - Louis Francis Albert Victor Nicholas Mountbatten death anniversary

 

Louis Francis Albert Victor Nicholas Mountbatten, 1st Earl Mountbatten of Burma (born Prince Louis of Battenberg; 25 June 1900 – 27 August 1979), was a British Royal Navy officer and statesman, an uncle of Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh, and second cousin once removed of Queen Elizabeth II. During the Second World War, he was Supreme Allied Commander, South East Asia Command (1943–1946). He was the last Viceroy of India (1947) and the first governor-general of independent India (1947–1948).

From 1954 to 1959, Mountbatten was First Sea Lord, a position that had been held by his father, Prince Louis of Battenberg, some forty years earlier. Thereafter he served as chief of the Defence Staff until 1965, making him the longest-serving professional head of the British Armed Forces to date. During this period Mountbatten also served as chairman of the NATO Military Committee for a year.

In August 1979, Mountbatten was assassinated by a bomb that was hidden aboard his fishing boat in Mullaghmore, County Sligo, Ireland, by members of the Provisional Irish Republican Army.