Alexander Rodzyanko
Russian general during World War I
Served as a general in the Russian Army during World War I. Held the position of Commander of the Petrograd Military District. Played a crucial role in the Russian Revolution of 1917, where leadership decisions significantly influenced the course of events. After the fall of the Tsarist regime, moved to the United States and continued to be active in expatriate affairs.
Commanded the Petrograd Military District
Influenced events during the Russian Revolution
Other People Born on August 18th
Marko Marulić
Croatian poet and founder of literature
Born
August 18th, 1450 575 years ago
Died
January 5th, 1524 502 years ago — 73 years old
Renowned as the father of Croatian literature, made significant contributions through poetry and prose. Achieved prominence with the epic poem 'Judita,' which showcased the themes of heroism and faith. His works laid the foundations for the Croatian literary tradition and influenced subsequent generations of writers. Engaged in civic life as well, promoting cultural and religious values through literary expression.
Continue ReadingWalther Funk
German economist and Minister of Economics
Born
August 18th, 1890 135 years ago
Died
May 31st, 1960 65 years ago — 69 years old
An economist, journalist, and politician, served as the German Minister of Economics during the Nazi regime. Played a significant role in the economic policies of Nazi Germany and was involved in the planning and implementation of various economic measures. Held the position from 1937 to 1945, overseeing Germany's economic strategies during World War II. After the war, tried at the Nuremberg Trials for war crimes and received a life sentence.
Continue ReadingWilliam Halford
Lieutenant, Medal of Honor recipient
Born
August 18th, 1841 184 years ago
Died
February 7th, 1919 107 years ago — 77 years old
Served as a lieutenant in the United States Army during the Philippine-American War. Demonstrated bravery in combat at the Battle of San Mateo, which led to the awarding of the Medal of Honor for exceptional valor. After military service, continued to participate in various veterans' organizations, fostering camaraderie and support among former service members.
Continue ReadingVirginia Dare
First English child born in America
Born
August 18th, 1587 438 years ago
Born on August 18, 1587, Virginia Dare became the first child born to English parents in the Americas, specifically in the Colony of Roanoke. Her birth marked a significant event in the early history of English colonization. The colony, established by Sir Walter Raleigh, faced many challenges, including supply shortages and tensions with Indigenous peoples. Virginia Dare's existence was noted in historical records, and she became a symbol of the early colonial attempts. The fate of Virginia Dare and the Roanoke colony remains one of the enduring mysteries of early American history, as the colony famously vanished without a trace.
Continue ReadingMahboob Ali Khan
Sixth Nizam of Hyderabad State
Born
August 18th, 1866 159 years ago
Died
August 21st, 1911 114 years ago — 45 years old
Ruled as the sixth Nizam of Hyderabad from 1869 until 1911. Oversaw a period marked by modernization and infrastructure development within the state. Established educational institutions and promoted the arts and culture of Hyderabad. Implemented railway and communication improvements.
Continue ReadingJean Bolland
Flemish priest and hagiographer
Born
August 18th, 1596 429 years ago
Died
September 12th, 1665 360 years ago — 69 years old
A priest in the Society of Jesus, contributed significantly to the study of saints' lives. Established a systematic chronological collection of hagiographies, known as the 'Acta Sanctorum', which served as a reference for future studies on saints. Focused on the critical examination of sources, promoting a scholarly approach to hagiography. Worked extensively in Belgium and had lasting influence in the field of religious literature.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on May 6th
Thomas Henry Burke
Irish civil servant during famine
Born
1829 197 years ago
Died
May 6th, 1882 143 years ago — 53 years old
Served as an Irish civil servant during a critical period in Irish history. Worked as the Under Secretary for Ireland and played a significant role in the administration of the country during the Great Famine, managing relief efforts and addressing public unrest. His tenure involved navigating the complexities of colonial governance and local grievances. Contributed to policy discussions and was involved in the administration of relief works aimed at alleviating the suffering caused by the famine. Burke's life ended in violence, being assassinated in 1882 as part of political unrest in Ireland.
Continue ReadingKai Winding
Trombonist and composer of jazz
Born
May 18th, 1922 103 years ago
Died
May 6th, 1983 42 years ago — 60 years old
Born in Denmark and later becoming a U.S. citizen, a prominent figure in jazz music, contributed to the trombone repertoire through performance and composition. Played in various big bands during the 1940s, including those of Stan Kenton and Woody Herman. Formed the jazz trombone duo Kai Winding and J.J. Johnson, which was influential in shaping jazz trombone techniques and style. Regularly performed and recorded with the renowned Miles Davis and participated in significant jazz festivals across the globe.
Continue ReadingMonty Woolley
American actor in 'The King's Row'.
Born
August 17th, 1888 137 years ago
Died
May 6th, 1963 62 years ago — 74 years old
An American actor and playwright, achieved recognition for roles in both theater and film. Gained prominence for the performance in the Broadway play 'The Man Who Came to Dinner' and starred in the film adaptation. Woolley's career included various productions and he contributed as a raconteur and commentator on social and political issues. His unique personality and wit left an imprint on his performances and public appearances.
Continue ReadingErnest MacMillan
Canadian conductor and composer
Born
August 18th, 1893 132 years ago
Died
May 6th, 1973 52 years ago — 79 years old
A prominent conductor and composer, this figure played a significant role in Canadian music. In the early 20th century, served as the principal conductor of the Toronto Symphony Orchestra and founded the Toronto Conservatory of Music. Compositions included orchestral works, choral pieces, and songs. Actively promoted Canadian music and composers through conducting and teaching. Served as the president of the Canadian Music Council, influencing the development of music in Canada.
Continue ReadingRobin Roberts
Sportscaster and journalist for ESPN
Born
November 23rd, 1960 65 years ago
Died
May 6th, 2010 15 years ago — 49 years old
A prominent sportscaster and journalist, this individual has been a leading figure in sports broadcasting. Starting a career in local television, coverage of various sports led to a significant role at ESPN. This individual anchored 'SportsCenter' and hosted 'NFL Countdown' for many years, providing insightful commentary and analysis. The commitment to discussing sports and personal health issues influenced national conversations around health awareness.
Continue ReadingWilliam H. Dana
American astronaut and engineer
Born
November 3rd, 1930 95 years ago
Died
May 6th, 2014 11 years ago — 83 years old
An engineer and astronaut with significant contributions to space exploration, played a vital role in human spaceflight missions. Participated in the Skylab program, overseeing science payload operations and engaging in experiments. Worked with NASA, enhancing spacecraft systems and safety measures. After retirement, contributed to aerospace engineering in various capacities.
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