Bertha Wilson
Scottish-Canadian jurist and lawyer
A Scottish-Canadian lawyer and jurist, this individual served as a groundbreaking figure in the Canadian legal system. As the first woman appointed to the Supreme Court of Canada in 1982, significantly contributed to the development of Canadian law, particularly in the areas of gender equality and women's rights. Prior to this appointment, held a prominent role in the Ontario legal community, including practicing law and teaching at a law school. Was instrumental in advancing legal precedents that enhanced the legal status of women in Canada.
First female Supreme Court Justice in Canada
Contributed to legal precedents for women's rights
Other People Born on September 18th
Jack Cardiff
Cinematographer for The Red Shoes
Born
September 18th, 1914 111 years ago
Died
April 22nd, 2009 16 years ago — 94 years old
A British cinematographer, director, and photographer, Cardiff contributed significantly to the film industry, particularly during the mid-20th century. Cardiff's career included notable collaborations with the film company Technicolor, which enhanced the visual aesthetic of various films. His work spans multiple genres, with a focus on creating vibrant imagery. Cardiff directed several films and served as a cinematographer for numerous iconic movies.
Continue ReadingHenry Wittenberg
American wrestler and Olympic champion
Born
September 18th, 1918 107 years ago
Died
March 9th, 2010 15 years ago — 91 years old
A prominent figure in American wrestling, this individual won a gold medal in freestyle wrestling at the 1948 London Olympics. Throughout his career, he competed at a high level and earned recognition for his outstanding skills on the mat. After retiring from competitive wrestling, he transitioned into coaching, helping to train future generations of wrestlers. His influence extended into educational institutions where he taught and mentored young athletes.
Continue ReadingTrajan
Roman Emperor, expanded the empire
Born
September 18th, 53 1972 years ago
Died
August 8th, 117 1908 years ago — 63 years old
Reigned as Roman Emperor from 98 to 117 AD. Oversaw the greatest expansion of the Roman Empire, extending its borders to their maximum territorial extent. Implemented extensive public works, including the construction of roads, bridges, and aqueducts. Established the concept of alimenta, a welfare program to support orphans and poor children. His military campaigns against Dacia resulted in substantial victories and the annexation of new territories, enhancing the empire’s wealth and resources.
Continue ReadingJoseph Story
American jurist and Supreme Court justice
Born
September 18th, 1779 246 years ago
Died
1845 180 years ago — 66 years old
A prominent lawyer and jurist, contributed significantly to American law through various legal opinions and teachings. Served as an Associate Justice of the Supreme Court from 1811 to 1845, participating in key decisions that shaped constitutional law. Authored several important legal texts, which became fundamental references in American legal education. Also held a position as a professor at Harvard Law School, influencing the development of legal scholarship and practices.
Continue ReadingJames Scullin
Australian Prime Minister, economic leader
Born
September 18th, 1876 149 years ago
Died
January 28th, 1953 72 years ago — 76 years old
Served as the 9th Prime Minister of Australia from 1929 to 1931. Led the Labor Party during a challenging period marked by the Great Depression. Implemented several key social and economic reforms aimed at addressing unemployment and housing issues. Worked on establishing a national economy that supported the working class and families. Additionally, served as a member of the House of Representatives for a significant period and was involved in various party leadership roles.
Continue ReadingAdrien-Marie Legendre
French mathematician and theorist
Born
September 18th, 1752 273 years ago
Died
January 9th, 1833 192 years ago — 80 years old
Contributed significantly to mathematics, particularly in number theory and statistics. Developed Legendre polynomials and introduced the method of least squares. His work in number theory included the formulation of Legendre's conjecture concerning prime numbers. Authored influential texts on analysis and number theory, which became standard references in mathematics.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on April 28th
Heinrich Bär
German pilot and Luftwaffe colonel
Born
May 25th, 1913 112 years ago
Died
April 28th, 1957 68 years ago — 43 years old
Served as a colonel in the Luftwaffe during World War II. Achieved recognition as a fighter ace, credited with over 200 enemy aircraft kills. Participated prominently in the defense of Germany, engaging in numerous aerial battles. Bär flew the Messerschmitt Bf 109 and was part of several renowned units such as Jagdgeschwader 77. After the war, he faced denazification proceedings but later returned to aviation, working in various capacities within the airline industry.
Continue ReadingEdgar Laprade
Ice hockey player with the New York Rangers
Born
October 10th, 1919 106 years ago
Died
April 28th, 2014 11 years ago — 94 years old
A Canadian ice hockey player played predominantly for the New York Rangers in the National Hockey League (NHL). Laprade had a successful career that spanned from the late 1940s to the early 1950s. He was recognized for his playmaking abilities and scoring talent. After retiring as a player, he contributed to the sport as a coach in various capacities. Laprade's hockey journey included participation in several important matches, ultimately leading to his induction into the Canadian Sports Hall of Fame.
Continue ReadingFred Marriott
Race car driver and land speed record holder
Born
December 31st, 1872 152 years ago
Died
April 28th, 1956 69 years ago — 83 years old
Began racing in the early 1900s, competing in various automobile events. Achieved prominence by setting a world land speed record on a motorcycle in 1907, reaching a speed of 202.7 miles per hour at Ormond Beach, Florida. Later transitioned to automobile racing, participating in numerous events including the Vanderbilt Cup. Contributed to the popularity of racing during the early years of motorsport. Continued to compete until the 1920s, becoming an influential figure in the racing community.
Continue ReadingPaulo Vanzolini
Brazilian singer-songwriter and zoologist
Born
April 25th, 1924 101 years ago
Died
April 28th, 2013 12 years ago — 89 years old
A Brazilian singer-songwriter and zoologist contributed significantly to both music and science. Focused on samba and MPB (Música Popular Brasileira), composed many songs that resonated with Brazilian culture. Vanzolini's notable works include 'Ronda' and 'Volta por Cima'. Additionally, a respected zoologist, specialized in herpetology, particularly the study of reptiles and amphibians. Conducted extensive research and published several scientific papers in the field.
Continue ReadingDabbs Greer
American actor in 'Little House on the Prairie'
Born
1917 108 years ago
Died
April 28th, 2007 18 years ago — 90 years old
An American actor with a career spanning several decades, contributed to film and television. Appeared in over 200 television episodes throughout a long career. Gained significant recognition for the role of Reverend Alden in the television series 'Little House on the Prairie'. Also featured in films such as 'The Green Mile'.
Continue ReadingMichael Collins
American astronaut and Apollo 11 pilot
Born
October 31st, 1930 95 years ago
Died
April 28th, 2021 4 years ago — 90 years old
An American astronaut played a key role in the Apollo 11 mission, which successfully landed the first humans on the Moon in 1969. Serving as the command module pilot, operated the command module Columbia while Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin explored the lunar surface. His contributions to space exploration extended beyond Apollo 11, with earlier missions including Gemini 10. Later, engaged in public advocacy for space exploration and education, emphasizing the importance of scientific progress.
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