April 28 marks a significant day in history, commemorating events that have shaped Argentina and the world. From epidemics to notable births and historical executions, this date is rich with stories.
In 1804, Buenos Aires faced a devastating smallpox epidemic attributed to the slave trade and poor sanitary conditions. This outbreak was part of a series of severe epidemics that plagued the city from the 18th to the late 19th centuries, including typhus and yellow fever. The impact of these diseases on the population was catastrophic, highlighting the dire public health issues of the era.
Fast forward to 1938, when Jorge D'Elía was born in La Plata. D'Elía became a notable figure in Argentine culture as an actor, playwright, and writer, earning the first National Theater Prize for his work "Mattinata." Over his six-decade career, he wrote eleven plays and also ventured into film and television, making a lasting impact on the arts in Argentina.
April 28, 1945, is also marked by the execution of Italian dictator Benito Mussolini, who was 61 at the time. Mussolini, known as "Il Duce," was a key figure in the foundation of fascism and allied with Nazi Germany during World War II. His death came at the hands of the Italian resistance in Giulino di Mezzegra, where he was executed alongside other fascists. Their bodies were infamously displayed upside down, symbolizing the fall of fascism in Italy.
In 1967, the world of sports witnessed a pivotal moment when Cassius Clay, who later changed his name to Muhammad Ali, lost his boxing title and license for refusing to fight in the Vietnam War. This act of defiance not only changed his career but also cemented his legacy as a champion of social justice and civil rights, making him one of the most celebrated athletes in history.
April 28 also marks the birth of actress Penélope Cruz Sánchez in 1974 in Alcobendas, Madrid. Cruz made history as the first Spanish actress to win an Oscar, achieving this honor in 2008 for her supporting role in Woody Allen's "Vicky Cristina Barcelona." Her talent and contributions to cinema have made her a prominent figure in the film industry.
Another notable figure born on this day is Diego Pablo Simeone, born in Buenos Aires in 1970. Simeone, a former soccer player and current coach of Atlético de Madrid, has had a remarkable career. As a player, he won several prestigious titles, including a Copa del Rey, a Liga de Primera División, and a Europa League. He also represented Argentina in two Copa América tournaments, winning in 1991 and 1993.
On April 28, 1995, the Argentine U-20 soccer team made headlines by winning the World Cup in Qatar, defeating Brazil 2-0. Coached by José Pekerman, the team showcased remarkable talent, with goals from Leonardo Biagini and Francisco "Panchito" Guerrero, securing their place in sports history.
In a more controversial event, on April 28, 2002, Juan Román Riquelme was expelled for the first time in his career during a match between Boca Juniors and Banfield. Riquelme was sent off for punching Fabián Santa Cruz after an altercation on the field. The match ended in a 1-0 victory for Banfield, but Riquelme's expulsion marked a significant moment in his career.
In 2025, April 28 is also recognized as World Day for Safety and Health at Work, established by the International Labor Organization in 2003. This day promotes the importance of workplace safety and accident prevention, highlighting the ongoing efforts to improve working conditions globally.
As the month progresses, attention turns to the upcoming holidays in early May, specifically April 30, May 1, and May 5. The Secretariat of Public Education (SEP) has clarified the status of these dates concerning classes and work. April 30 is celebrated as Children's Day, a day of reflection, but it will not result in a suspension of classes or work. While primary schools may hold festivities, secondary schools and universities typically do not observe the day.
May 1 is recognized as International Workers' Day, a mandatory rest day across the country. There will be no classes in any educational institution, public or private. For those required to work on this day, the Federal Labor Law stipulates that employees must receive their daily wage plus double as compensation for working on a holiday.
May 5 commemorates the Battle of Puebla, which will lead to a suspension of school activities according to the SEP calendar. Students in basic education will enjoy a three-day break, returning to classes on May 6. Additionally, May 15 is marked for Teacher's Day, providing another day off for students.
As these significant dates approach, the interplay of historical events and contemporary observances continues to shape the cultural landscape of Argentina. From the rich history of the past to the celebrations of today, April 28 serves as a reminder of the moments that define a nation.
