Antonio Salieri
Italian composer and conductor of opera
A prominent composer and conductor of the late 18th century, contributions to the development of opera were significant. Salieri served as court composer in Vienna and developed a reputation for his operatic works. He composed several successful operas, including 'Wolkenschtz, Venus and Adonis, and Tarare'. His influence extended to his role as a teacher, mentoring many notable composers such as Franz Schubert and Ludwig van Beethoven. Additionally, he was known for his rivalry with Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, which has been depicted in various cultural interpretations, notably in Peter Shaffer's play 'Amadeus'. Salieri's legacy includes a substantial body of orchestral and operatic music, demonstrating his artistry and the musical style of his time.
Composed operas like 'Tarare' and 'Axur'
Served as court composer in Vienna
Mentored composers such as Beethoven
Other People Born on August 18th
Francesco Canova da Milano
Italian composer of Renaissance music
Born
August 18th, 1497 528 years ago
Died
January 2nd, 1543 482 years ago — 45 years old
A significant figure in the development of Renaissance music, contributed to the lute repertoire and composed numerous pieces for various instruments and voices. Created a style that blended both improvisation and written music, influencing future composers and musicians. His works are characterized by intricate melodies and harmonic exploration, contributing to the richness of the Renaissance musical landscape. Continued to have relevance in music history due to the complexity and artistry of the compositions.
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 ReadingWilliam Halford
Lieutenant, Medal of Honor recipient
Born
August 18th, 1841 184 years ago
Died
February 7th, 1919 106 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 ReadingRyan O'Hara
Rugby league player for Wests Tigers
Born
August 18th, 1980 45 years ago
Professional rugby league player represented Wests Tigers in the NRL. Had a successful career playing as a prop. Contributed to the team's performance during the 2005 NRL season and participated in representative games for New South Wales. Retired from professional play after several years in the league.
Continue ReadingRobert Redford
American actor and director, The Sting
Born
August 18th, 1936 89 years ago
An American actor, director, and producer, this individual gained prominence through a film career that began in the 1960s. Breakthrough roles included performances in 'Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid' and 'The Way We Were.' He directed acclaimed films such as 'Ordinary People,' which won the Academy Award for Best Picture. In 1980, founded the Sundance Institute, supporting independent filmmakers. This person also starred in 'The Sting,' which won seven Academy Awards, including Best Picture.
Continue ReadingDidier Auriol
Race car driver and WRC champion
Born
August 18th, 1958 67 years ago
Auriol achieved significant success in rally racing. Competed primarily in the World Rally Championship (WRC) throughout the 1980s and 1990s. Secured the WRC Drivers' Championship title in 1994 while driving for Toyota. Established a reputation for skillful driving and strategic navigation across challenging terrains. Auriol's career includes numerous stage wins and contributions to the development of rally car technology.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on May 7th
Neville McNamara
Air Marshal and WWII veteran
Born
April 17th, 1923 102 years ago
Died
May 7th, 2014 11 years ago — 91 years old
Served in the Royal Australian Air Force, playing a significant role during World War II. Contributed to air operations and command leadership in various capacities. After the war, advanced to the rank of Air Marshal, overseeing significant developments in the Australian Air Force. Held key positions that influenced aviation policy and air defense in Australia. Retrieved expertise in military strategy and aviation management throughout a lengthy career.
Continue ReadingCaspar David Friedrich
German Romantic landscape painter
Born
September 5th, 1774 251 years ago
Died
May 7th, 1840 185 years ago — 65 years old
A prominent German painter, primarily associated with the Romantic movement, became renowned for his evocative and melancholic landscapes. His works often depicted the interplay between nature and human emotion, emphasizing themes of solitude and transcendence. Major paintings include 'The Wanderer above the Sea of Fog,' 'The Abbey in the Oakwood,' and 'Moonrise over the Sea.' Friedrich also worked as an etcher, creating detailed prints that complemented his painting practice, further advancing his artistic career.
Continue ReadingAlbert Ball
English fighter pilot in World War I
Born
August 14th, 1896 129 years ago
Died
May 7th, 1917 108 years ago — 20 years old
A British fighter pilot, notable contributions occurred during World War I. Activities included combat missions in the Royal Flying Corps. Achieved high acclaim for aerial victories and strategic aerial reconnaissance. Recognized as a skilled pilot, ranked as a captain, and awarded the Victoria Cross for bravery. His engagements with enemy aircraft established a reputation for exceptional flying skills.
Continue ReadingSteve Albini
Record producer and musician, recorded 'In Utero'
Born
July 22nd, 1962 63 years ago
Died
May 7th, 2024 1 years ago — 61 years old
A prominent record producer and musician, gained recognition in the alternative and indie rock scenes. Founded the recording studio Electrical Audio in Chicago, serving as a key location for producing albums across various genres. As a musician, played guitar in the bands Big Black and Shellac, contributing to the development of noise rock and post-hardcore music. Worked with numerous notable artists, particularly during the 1990s, and emphasized a no-frills approach to recording, allowing artists' sounds to be captured authentically. Maintained a strong advocacy for artistic integrity and independent music production throughout a lengthy career.
Continue ReadingHenry Brougham
Scottish lawyer and Lord Chancellor
Born
September 19th, 1778 247 years ago
Died
May 7th, 1868 157 years ago — 89 years old
Born in 1778, a prominent Scottish lawyer and politician played a key role in the founding of the Edinburgh Review in 1802. Served as Lord Chancellor of Great Britain from 1830 to 1834. Contributed to legal reforms, particularly in areas affecting education and civil rights. Advocated for the abolition of slavery and the reform of education, focusing on the need for accessible legal aid and education for the working class.
Continue ReadingColin Pillinger
Astronomer and Beagle 2 mission leader
Born
May 9th, 1943 82 years ago
Died
May 7th, 2014 11 years ago — 70 years old
This individual was an English astronomer and chemist who led the Beagle 2 mission, aimed at searching for life on Mars. As a researcher, significant contributions were made to planetary science and astrobiology. Pursued education in chemistry and later led various space-related projects. Played a key role in promoting public interest in space exploration through media engagement and outreach efforts.
Continue Reading