Benjamin Jealous
Civic leader and civil rights activist
A prominent civic leader and civil rights activist with a notable tenure as the president and CEO of the NAACP from 2008 to 2013. Advocated for social justice issues and focused on voting rights, education reform, and criminal justice reform during leadership. Played a significant role in various campaigns for civil rights, emphasizing the need for greater equity in society. Additionally, served as a candidate for governor of Maryland in 2018. Contributed to several organizations aimed at fostering community engagement and addressing systemic inequalities.
Served as president and CEO of the NAACP
Ran for governor of Maryland in 2018
Advocated for criminal justice reform
Other People Born on January 18th
Yoichiro Nambu
Physicist and Nobel Prize winner
Born
January 18th, 1921 105 years ago
Died
July 5th, 2015 10 years ago — 94 years old
Born in Japan, later became a prominent American physicist. Contributed significantly to the field of theoretical physics, particularly in the development of the concept of spontaneous symmetry breaking. Held a professorship at the University of Chicago for several decades. His work laid foundational principles for particle physics and influenced various theories and models in the field.
Continue ReadingDavid Ruffin
Soul singer and The Temptations member
Born
January 18th, 1941 85 years ago
Died
June 1st, 1991 34 years ago — 50 years old
A prominent soul singer, contributed significantly to the genre as a lead vocalist for the legendary Motown group, The Temptations. Recorded numerous hits during the 1960s, including 'My Girl,' which became a hallmark of the era. His powerful voice and distinct style helped shape the sound of the group, leading to a series of successful albums and performances. After departing from The Temptations, pursued a solo career with moderate success, releasing singles that showcased his vocal prowess and emotional depth. Struggled with personal issues, including substance abuse, which impacted his career in later years.
Continue ReadingAitana Bonmatí
Spanish footballer and UEFA champion
Born
January 18th, 1998 28 years ago
Achieved recognition as a midfielder in football. Played for FC Barcelona, contributing to the team's success in various domestic and international tournaments. Participated in the UEFA Women's Champions League and helped secure the title. Competed with the Spanish national team, participating in the UEFA Women's Euro and FIFA Women's World Cup. Notable for technical skills and playmaking abilities.
Continue ReadingHayle Ibrahimov
Ethiopian-Azerbaijani long-distance runner
Born
January 18th, 1990 36 years ago
Born in 1990, this long-distance runner represented Azerbaijan in international competitions. Competed in various Olympic and World Championship events, specializing in the 5000 meters and 10000 meters. Achieved significant successes on the European circuit and gained recognition for outstanding performances in marathon races. Demonstrated consistent results and endurance in numerous athletic events.
Continue ReadingJohn Hume
Northern Irish politician, Nobel laureate
Born
January 18th, 1937 89 years ago
Died
August 3rd, 2020 5 years ago — 83 years old
An educator and politician from Northern Ireland, played a crucial role in the peace process during the Troubles. Co-founded the Social Democratic and Labour Party, which aimed to represent Irish nationalism through constitutional means. Advocated for non-violent solutions to conflict and worked towards fostering dialogue between communities. Received the Nobel Peace Prize in 1998 alongside David Trimble for efforts in bringing an end to the violence in Northern Ireland. Hume's political career spanned several decades, impacting local and national politics significantly.
Continue ReadingPratap Singh Bhosle
Chhatrapati of the Maratha Empire
Born
January 18th, 1793 233 years ago
Died
1847 179 years ago — 54 years old
Born in 1793, ruled as Chhatrapati from 1818 to 1839. Oversaw the decline of the Maratha Empire while managing internal and external pressures. Worked towards administrative consolidation and military reforms. Established policies aimed at economic development and stability.
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