Adolphe Menjou
American film and television actor
Born
Died
Category
Performers & Entertainers
Country
United States
Links & References
Born in 1890, this actor became prominent in American cinema, especially during the 1920s and 1930s. Appeared in a variety of films, establishing a reputation for his distinct mustache and sophisticated persona. Gained recognition for performances in classics such as "The Front Page" and "A Star is Born". Transitioned to television later in his career, continuing to capture audiences until retirement.
Starred in 'The Front Page'
Appeared in 'A Star is Born'
Featured in 'The Great Ziegfeld'
Other People Born on February 18th
Radek Černý
Czech footballer, goalkeeper
Born
February 18th, 1974 52 years ago
A Czech footballer played as a goalkeeper, spending the majority of his career in the Czech First League. Began professional career in 1991 with Sigma Olomouc. Played two seasons with Slovan Liberec, contributing to the team’s success in the league. Transferred to Sparta Prague, where achieved notable accolades, including Czech league titles. Experienced in multiple international matches, representing the national team.
Continue ReadingIrma Thomas
American singer-songwriter with hit songs
Born
February 18th, 1941 85 years ago
A prominent figure in the soul music genre, this artist emerged during the 1960s. Career began with the release of notable singles, including 'Time Is on My Side' and 'Wish Someone Would Care'. This musician's sound blends gospel roots with a contemporary soul style, earning a place in the New Orleans music scene. Received several accolades, including a Grammy Award for Best Contemporary Blues Album, recognizing contributions to the music industry and influence on other artists. Tours and live performances continue to appeal to audiences worldwide, emphasizing the timeless quality of her music.
Continue ReadingAudre Lorde
Writer and Civil Rights Activist
Born
February 18th, 1934 92 years ago
Died
November 17th, 1992 33 years ago — 58 years old
A prominent figure in the feminist and civil rights movements, this individual focused on issues of race, gender, and sexuality. Published several important works, including 'Sister Outsider' and 'The Black Unicorn'. Served as the Poet Laureate of New York from 1991 to 1993. Contributed significantly to the literature surrounding intersectionality, shaping discussions in both feminism and LGBTQ+ rights.
Continue ReadingMaurice Lucas
Basketball player; Trail Blazers star
Born
February 18th, 1952 74 years ago
Died
2010 16 years ago — 58 years old
A professional basketball player, contributed significantly to the National Basketball Association. Played for several teams, including the Portland Trail Blazers, where participation in the 1977 NBA Championship contributed to the team's victory. Known for an imposing physical presence and defensive skills, earned the nickname 'The Enforcer'. Selected for the NBA All-Star Game in 1978, highlighting recognition for athletic performance. Also played for the New Jersey Nets and the Seattle SuperSonics during a career that extended into the late 1980s.
Continue ReadingFrancesco Redi
Italian physician and biologist
Born
February 18th, 1626 400 years ago
Died
March 1st, 1697 329 years ago — 71 years old
A prominent figure in experimental biology, contributed significantly to the study of spontaneous generation. Conducted experiments demonstrating that maggots on decaying meat came from eggs laid by flies, not generated spontaneously. Published 'Esperienze Intorno alla Generazione degl'Insetti' in 1668, which laid the groundwork for the field of microbiology. Served as a physician to the Grand Duke of Tuscany and was involved in the study of parasitology, notably investigating the life cycles of various parasites.
Continue ReadingHedwig Courths-Mahler
German author of popular romance novels
Born
February 18th, 1867 159 years ago
Died
November 26th, 1950 75 years ago — 83 years old
Born in 1867, this writer produced numerous romance novels that captivated readers in the early 20th century. Focusing on themes of love and societal norms, works such as 'Die Arbeiterin' and 'Das Haus in der Via dei Serpenti' gained popularity and were widely read in Germany and beyond. Often serialized, her stories appeared in magazines, allowing her to reach a broader audience. Despite initially facing challenges in the literary world, she became one of the best-selling authors of her time, contributing significantly to the genre of romantic fiction.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on October 29th
Walter Raleigh
English explorer and poet, 'The Discovery of Guiana'
Born
January 22nd, 1552 474 years ago
Died
October 29th, 1618 407 years ago — 66 years old
Born in England, this individual gained prominence as a poet, soldier, and courtier. He served as a favorite of Queen Elizabeth I and played a significant role in the English colonization of the Americas. His expeditions to the New World are well-documented, particularly the exploration of the Orinoco River in present-day Venezuela. He sought to establish a colony at Roanoke Island, though it ultimately failed. The individual is also recognized for literary contributions, most notably the poem 'The Nymph's Reply to the Shepherd'. His ventures into exploration and colonialism have left a lasting legacy in English history.
Continue ReadingAshley Mallett
Australian cricketer and author
Born
July 13th, 1945 80 years ago
Died
October 29th, 2021 4 years ago — 76 years old
A cricketer excelled as a leg-spin bowler and played for Australia in Test matches from 1968 to 1975. Contributed to the national team during significant series, most notably the Ashes. Transitioned into writing, authoring several books related to cricket and his experiences in the sport. His career included representation at both domestic and international levels, solidifying a reputation as a skilled player and knowledgeable commentator on the game.
Continue ReadingFranco Corelli
Italian tenor and stage performer
Born
April 8th, 1921 105 years ago
Died
October 29th, 2003 22 years ago — 82 years old
A prominent Italian tenor and actor, born in 1921. Gained acclaim for powerful performances and a distinctive voice. Achieved success on both opera and concert stages, performing in major opera houses worldwide. Notable works include roles in operas such as 'La Bohème,' 'Tosca,' and 'Aida.' Also participated in numerous concert performances, showcasing a wide-ranging opera repertoire. Contributed to recordings that remain influential in the opera genre.
Continue ReadingÉtienne Desmarteau
Canadian shot putter and discus thrower
Born
February 4th, 1873 153 years ago
Died
October 29th, 1905 120 years ago — 32 years old
Competed in athletics, particularly in shot put and discus throw. Achieved a gold medal in the shot put at the 1904 Summer Olympics. Dominated Canadian athletics competitions and set several national records during the career in the early 1900s. Became one of the first Canadian athletes to earn an Olympic medal.
Continue ReadingShlomo Goren
Polish-Israeli rabbi and general
Born
February 3rd, 1917 109 years ago
Died
October 29th, 1994 31 years ago — 77 years old
Born in Poland, a rabbi and general served in the Israel Defense Forces. Contributed to the spiritual guidance of soldiers during critical periods of Israel's history. Involved in the 1967 Six-Day War and took part in the reunification of Jerusalem. Later served as the Chief Rabbi of the IDF and played a significant role in establishing military chaplaincy in Israel. Worked on integrating Jewish law into military practices and training, significantly influencing religious services within the armed forces.
Continue ReadingWilliam Harnett
Painter known for 19th-century realism
Born
August 10th, 1848 177 years ago
Died
October 29th, 1892 133 years ago — 44 years old
An Irish-American painter and educator, this individual gained recognition for still life paintings that showcased meticulous detail and illusionistic techniques. Active in the late 19th century, the artworks often featured ordinary objects, including musical instruments, food, and everyday items, celebrating the beauty of the mundane. Harnett's approach to realism set a standard for future generations of artists. In addition to painting, he contributed to the art community through teaching, influencing many aspiring artists during his career.
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