August Kundt
German physicist known for Kundt's tube
A physicist and educator made significant contributions to experimental physics. Developed Kundt's tube, an apparatus used to measure the speed of sound in gases. Served as a professor and emphasized the importance of practical experiments in teaching physics.
Developed Kundt's tube for sound measurement
Published work on acoustics and thermodynamics
Other People Born on November 18th
Rudy Sarzo
Rock bass player with Ozzy Osbourne
Born
November 18th, 1950 75 years ago
A Cuban-American rock bass player gained prominence in the 1980s. Played with the heavy metal band Quiet Riot, contributing to the success of the album 'Metal Health,' which was the first metal album to reach number one on the Billboard 200. Joined Ozzy Osbourne's band, performing on the album 'Diary of a Madman' and the subsequent tour. Later collaborated with several other notable artists and bands, including Whitesnake and Dio, and continued to perform and record music, establishing a significant presence in the rock music scene.
Continue ReadingAkram Afif
Qatari footballer, 2019 AFC Asian Cup Champion
Born
November 18th, 1996 29 years ago
A prominent footballer, played as a forward for Al-Sadd SC and the Qatar national team. Contributed significantly to Qatar's victory in the 2019 AFC Asian Cup. Known for exceptional dribbling skills and precise passing, played a crucial role in Qatar's attacking strategies during international matches. Gained recognition in domestic leagues for consistent performance and goal-scoring ability. Also participated in the 2022 FIFA World Cup, showcasing talent on a global stage.
Continue ReadingNeeti Mohan
Playback singer with popular film songs
Born
November 18th, 1979 46 years ago
An Indian playback singer gained prominence in the Bollywood music industry. Debut in the film 'Anjaana Anjaani' with the song 'Ishq Wala Love'. Also contributed to soundtracks for films such as 'Raabta', 'Bajrangi Bhaijaan', and 'M S Dhoni: The Untold Story'. Won several awards for contributions to music and has participated in various television singing competitions as a mentor.
Continue ReadingJoost Zwagerman
Dutch author and poet with acclaimed works
Born
November 18th, 1963 62 years ago
Died
September 8th, 2015 10 years ago — 51 years old
A prominent figure in contemporary Dutch literature, this author gained attention for both poetry and prose. The writing explored themes of identity, society, and language, often reflecting a deep engagement with art and culture. Significant contributions include novels, essays, and poetry collections. Crafted an influential literary voice in the Netherlands during the 1990s and 2000s. Was part of various literary festivals and served as a literary critic. The author's works have been translated into multiple languages, enhancing their reach and appreciation beyond Dutch-speaking audiences.
Continue ReadingJustin Raimondo
Journalist and author of anti-war works
Born
November 18th, 1951 74 years ago
Died
2019 6 years ago — 68 years old
A prominent journalist and author focused on anti-war commentary and libertarian perspectives. Contributed a significant body of work to the field of political journalism through articles and books. Served as the editorial director of Antiwar.com, a website dedicated to advocating for non-interventionist foreign policies. Critiqued U.S. foreign policy and military interventions, particularly during the Iraq War and the War on Terror. Engaged in public speaking and debates on civil liberties and government overreach.
Continue ReadingGary Sheffield
Baseball player, 5-time All-Star
Born
November 18th, 1968 57 years ago
An accomplished baseball player, played primarily as a right fielder and designated hitter in Major League Baseball (MLB). Debuted in 1988 and had a career that spanned over two decades, with notable stints with the Milwaukee Brewers, Florida Marlins, and New York Yankees. Achieved significant success, including winning a World Series championship with the Florida Marlins in 1997. Recorded over 500 career home runs, earning induction into the Milwaukee Brewers Wall of Honor. Ended the career with reputation as one of the most powerful hitters in the game.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on May 21st
Rajiv Gandhi
Indian politician, 6th Prime Minister
Born
August 20th, 1944 81 years ago
Died
May 21st, 1991 34 years ago — 46 years old
A lawyer and politician, served as the 6th Prime Minister of India from 1984 to 1989. Ascended to office following the assassination of his mother, Indira Gandhi. Focused on modernizing India's telecommunication infrastructure and promoting technology and education. Advocated for various economic reforms during tenure and was instrumental in initiating several significant economic policies.
Continue ReadingKenneth Clark
English historian and author of art books
Born
July 13th, 1903 122 years ago
Died
May 21st, 1983 42 years ago — 79 years old
A prominent English art historian and author, contributed significantly to the field of art history through extensive writing and broadcasting. Engaged as a director of the Ashmolean Museum and later served as the director of the British Museum. Played a crucial role in the development of art education, especially through television, bringing complex concepts to a wider audience. His book 'Civilisation' and the accompanying television series provided a comprehensive overview of Western art history. Advocated for the importance of art in education and cultural understanding.
Continue ReadingHugo de Vries
Botanist and geneticist, mutation theory
Born
February 16th, 1848 177 years ago
Died
May 21st, 1935 90 years ago — 87 years old
Contributions to genetics included the formulation of the mutation theory, which proposed that new species arise from sudden changes in traits. Conducted hybridization experiments on plants, particularly evening primroses, leading to significant findings in heredity and variation. Published works advanced the understanding of Mendelian inheritance, which laid foundational principles for modern genetics. De Vries also played a role in the revival of interest in Mendel's laws in the early 20th century, influencing future research in the field.
Continue ReadingRaymond McCreesh
Irish Republican hunger striker
Born
February 25th, 1957 68 years ago
Died
May 21st, 1981 44 years ago — 24 years old
Born in 1957, a significant figure in the Irish Republican movement, engaged in political activism in Northern Ireland. Participated in the 1981 hunger strike at Long Kesh Prison, advocating for political status for Republican prisoners. Died after 61 days without food, becoming a symbol of the struggle for Irish nationalism and resistance against British rule.
Continue ReadingBob Thompson
Pianist and composer, Jazz works
Born
1924 101 years ago
Died
May 21st, 2013 12 years ago — 89 years old
An American pianist and composer contributed to the jazz genre through performances and compositions. Worked with notable artists and participated in various music festivals. Renowned for innovative approaches in jazz, influencing future musicians. Released several albums that showcased a unique style, combining traditional elements with contemporary influences.
Continue ReadingLash LaRue
Actor and producer in Western films
Born
June 15th, 1917 108 years ago
Died
May 21st, 1996 29 years ago — 78 years old
An American actor and producer, gained recognition for roles in Western films during the 1940s and 1950s. Starred in movies featuring a distinctive style and an iconic cowboy persona. Appeared in several films and television series that featured classic Western themes. Transitioned into producing, contributing to the development of Western genre cinema.
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