Benjamin O. Davis Jr.

American general and pilot

Benjamin O. Davis Jr. - American general and pilot
Born

December 18th, 1912
112 years ago

Died

July 4th, 2002
23 years ago — 89 years old

Category

Military & Warriors

Country

United States

Links & References

Aviation pioneer and military leader, directed the Tuskegee Airmen during World War II. Became the first African American general in the United States Air Force. Influenced the integration of the military forces in the post-war era. Held various leadership positions throughout his career, including commanding the 477th Bombardment Group.

Led the Tuskegee Airmen in WWII

First African American general in the U.S. Air Force

Other People Born on December 18th

Barbora Krejčíková

Czech tennis player, French Open champion
Born
December 18th, 1995 29 years ago

This athlete debuted professionally in 2013 and achieved significant success in singles and doubles tennis. The player won the women's singles title at the 2021 French Open, becoming the first Czech woman to win the tournament since 1981. Alongside her singles success, this athlete also excelled in doubles, winning multiple Grand Slam titles and ranking first in the WTA doubles rankings. Representing the Czech Republic, this player contributed to the country's success in the Fed Cup.

Continue Reading

Toine van Peperstraten

Dutch journalist and television presenter
Born
December 18th, 1967 57 years ago

A journalist and television presenter, prominent in Dutch media. Worked extensively for various news programs, including 'Hart van Nederland' and 'Shownieuws'. Engaged in sports journalism, especially focused on football coverage. Served as a commentator and host for numerous notable events, contributing to the field of journalistic reporting in entertainment and sports.

Continue Reading

Brian Boyle

Ice hockey player and Stanley Cup champion
Born
December 18th, 1984 40 years ago

An American ice hockey player participated in the National Hockey League (NHL) for several teams, including the Los Angeles Kings, Tampa Bay Lightning, and New Jersey Devils. Recognized for contributions as a center, significant moments included scoring crucial goals during playoff runs. Boyle's athletic career included overcoming health challenges, which garnered attention and respect within the sport.

Continue Reading

Ilario Castagner

Italian football manager with championships
Born
December 18th, 1940 84 years ago
Died
2023 2 years ago — 83 years old

A football manager with a long career in various Italian clubs. Managed teams such as A.C. Perugia and S.S. Lazio. Achieved notable success in the Italian leagues, including promotion to Serie A and winning lower division titles. Developed a reputation for tactical acumen and strong leadership in team environments.

Continue Reading

Charles Griffin

American general during Civil War
Born
December 18th, 1825 199 years ago
Died
1876 149 years ago — 51 years old

Served as a Union general in the American Civil War. Commanded troops during significant battles such as the Battle of Gettysburg and the Battle of the Wilderness. Held the rank of Brigadier General and contributed to several military campaigns in the war.

Continue Reading

Casper Van Dien

Actor and producer, Starship Troopers
Born
December 18th, 1968 56 years ago

Born in 1968, an American actor and producer gained prominence through a lead role in the science fiction film Starship Troopers. The performance contributed to the film's cult status within the genre. Other notable works include starring in the television series Beverly Hills, 90210 and the soap opera One Life to Live. As a producer, involvement in various independent films expanded the portfolio beyond acting. The career spans multiple genres, showcasing versatility in film and television.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on July 4th

Henri Dirickx

Belgian footballer and coach
Born
1927 98 years ago
Died
July 4th, 2018 7 years ago — 91 years old

Played as a forward in football, Dirickx had a notable career primarily with RSC Anderlecht. Transitioned to a coaching role after retirement, contributing to the development of the sport in Belgium. His expertise and experience in football were utilized at various clubs, enhancing team strategies and player performance. Engaged with youth development, focusing on nurturing future talents in football. Dirickx left a legacy as both a player and coach in the Belgian football community.

Continue Reading

Johannes Schmidt

Linguist known for dialectology work
Born
July 29th, 1843 182 years ago
Died
July 4th, 1901 124 years ago — 57 years old

A prominent figure in linguistics, this individual significantly contributed to the field of dialectology. Engaged in extensive research on the German language, he formulated the concept of the 'Linguistic Atlas', which mapped dialectal variations across Germany. The development of this Atlas allowed a deeper understanding of regional dialects and their historical context. This scholar’s work laid the groundwork for future studies in sociolinguistics and dialect geography.

Continue Reading

Lothar von Richthofen

German fighter pilot and ace
Born
September 27th, 1894 130 years ago
Died
July 4th, 1922 103 years ago — 27 years old

Served as a lieutenant and pilot in the German Air Force during World War I. Achieved great success as a fighter ace with a confirmed five aerial victories. Engaged in numerous dogfights, showcasing exceptional aerial combat skills. Commanded a squadron and contributed to various tactical operations. Demonstrated notable bravery and tactical aptitude in combat missions until his death in 1922.

Continue Reading

Allen Klein

Businessman and music publisher with contracts
Born
December 18th, 1931 93 years ago
Died
July 4th, 2009 16 years ago — 77 years old

A businessman and music publisher played a significant role in the music industry during the 1960s and 1970s. Founded the company ABKCO Records, which managed artists and produced successful projects. Instrumental in securing contracts for The Rolling Stones and produced notable projects for various other artists. Involved in legal disputes to protect artist rights and royalties, influencing industry standards.

Continue Reading

Harmoko

Indonesian politician and parliament speaker
Born
1939 86 years ago
Died
July 4th, 2021 4 years ago — 82 years old

Served as a prominent politician in Indonesia, holding significant positions in government. Played a crucial role as the Speaker of the People's Consultative Assembly from 1997 to 1999. Also held the position of Minister of Information during a pivotal time in Indonesian history, overseeing media and communication policies. Contributed to the political landscape during the transition from the New Order era to reformasi, focusing on issues of democracy and governance.

Continue Reading

Antoine Daniel

French-Canadian missionary and saint
Born
May 27th, 1601 424 years ago
Died
July 4th, 1648 377 years ago — 47 years old

Ordained as a Jesuit priest, dedicated life to missionary work in New France. Established missions among the Huron people in the region now known as Ontario. Faced significant challenges, including hostility from opposing tribes and disease. Martyred in 1648 during an attack by the Iroquois. Canonized by the Catholic Church in 1930.

Continue Reading