Bertrand Russell

Philosopher and Nobel Prize laureate

Bertrand Russell - Thinkers & Philosophers born May 18th, 1872
Born
Died
Category

Thinkers & Philosophers

Country

United Kingdom

Links & References

A prominent British mathematician and philosopher, contributed significantly to a variety of fields including logic, philosophy, and social criticism. Authored numerous influential works, including 'Principia Mathematica' co-written with Alfred North Whitehead, which laid the groundwork for much of modern mathematics. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1950 for varied and significant writings, advocating for humanitarian ideals and nuclear disarmament. Engaged actively in political discourse throughout his career, participating in various anti-war movements and promoting social reform.

Co-authored 'Principia Mathematica'

Won the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1950

Other People Born on May 18th

Mathew Brady

Photographer known for Civil War imagery
Born
May 18th, 1822 203 years ago
Died
January 15th, 1896 130 years ago — 73 years old

A prominent American photographer and journalist, contributed significantly to the field of photography during the Civil War. Established a studio in New York City and captured some of the earliest and most impactful images of wartime. Influenced the public's perception of the war through compelling portraits of soldiers and battlefield scenes. Innovations in photographic techniques expanded the medium's capabilities, making the photographs significant historical documents. Played a pivotal role in bringing photography into public awareness.

Continue Reading

Pope John Paul II

Religious leader and author of encyclicals
Born
May 18th, 1920 105 years ago
Died
April 2nd, 2005 20 years ago — 84 years old

Served as the Pope of the Roman Catholic Church from 1978 until 2005. Played a key role in the fall of communism in Eastern Europe, notably influencing events in Poland. Advocated for human rights and interfaith dialogue, making significant contributions to the Church's teachings through numerous encyclicals. Undertook extensive travels, visiting 129 countries during papacy and meeting with leaders from various faiths. His efforts included promoting peace and addressing issues such as poverty and social injustice.

Continue Reading

Jacques Santer

Luxembourgish politician and jurist
Born
May 18th, 1937 88 years ago

Born in 1937 in Luxembourg, served as the 22nd Prime Minister of Luxembourg from 1995 to 1999. His administration focused on economic reforms and European integration. Santer was also a member of the European Commission and held the position of President from 1995 until 1999. As Prime Minister, he worked to strengthen Luxembourg's role in the European Union. He contributed to various initiatives aimed at enhancing cooperation among member states.

Continue Reading

Mark Mothersbaugh

Singer-songwriter and composer, Devo
Born
May 18th, 1950 75 years ago

A prominent figure in American music and art, contributions span various fields including music, visual arts, and film scoring. Co-founded the band Devo, which gained notoriety in the late 1970s for its unique blend of new wave and punk rock, coupled with its intellectual themes. Mothersbaugh's work with Devo includes classic hits such as 'Whip It'. In addition to music, engaging in visual art practices, he has exhibited his artwork in numerous galleries. Composed scores for films including 'The Lego Movie' and 'Rushmore', establishing a reputation in film music.

Continue Reading

Big Joe Turner

Blues/R&B singer and songwriter
Born
May 18th, 1911 114 years ago
Died
1985 41 years ago — 74 years old

An influential figure in the development of rhythm and blues, contributed to the genre with a powerful voice and energetic performances. Gained popularity in the 1930s and 1940s, becoming a prominent force in the transition from blues to R&B. Recorded numerous songs that became classics, including 'Shake, Rattle and Roll', which gained significant attention in both the black and white music markets. Performed extensively in clubs and festivals, showcasing a vocal style that combined elements of jazz, gospel, and blues. Inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1987, recognized for significant contributions to American music.

Continue Reading

Ezio Pinza

Italian-American operatic bass singer
Born
May 18th, 1892 133 years ago
Died
May 9th, 1957 68 years ago — 64 years old

Initially worked in Italy before moving to the United States, where a successful career in opera and Broadway evolved. Gained notable acclaim for performances in productions such as 'South Pacific.' Also achieved recognition as a recording artist, contributing to the popularity of operatic music in American culture during the mid-20th century.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on February 2nd

Butch Miles

American jazz drummer and band leader
Born
1944 82 years ago
Died
February 2nd, 2023 3 years ago — 79 years old

A well-respected jazz drummer with a career spanning several decades, notable for collaboration with many prominent musicians. Played with the Count Basie Orchestra and the Smithsonian Jazz Masterworks Orchestra. Contributed to several renowned albums and performances, showcasing exceptional skill and rhythm. Participated in jazz festivals and educational initiatives, sharing knowledge and passion for the genre until death on February 2, 2023.

Continue Reading

Eric Von Schmidt

American singer-songwriter and guitarist
Born
1931 95 years ago
Died
February 2nd, 2007 19 years ago — 76 years old

A prominent figure in the American folk music scene, played a significant role in the Greenwich Village music revival during the 1960s. Released several influential albums, with notable works including "Eric Von Schmidt" and "The Best of Eric Von Schmidt." Collaborated with other musicians and contributed to the spread of folk music traditions. Also recognized as a visual artist, creating album covers and illustrations.

Continue Reading

Bernard Ebbers

Businessman, co-founder of WorldCom
Born
1941 85 years ago
Died
February 2nd, 2020 6 years ago — 79 years old

Co-founded WorldCom, a telecommunications company, and served as CEO from its inception in 1983 until 2002. Under leadership, WorldCom grew to become one of the largest telecommunications companies in the world. Oversaw the company’s acquisition of MCI in 1997, which significantly expanded its market share. In 2002, WorldCom declared bankruptcy amid a massive accounting scandal, marking one of the largest bankruptcies in U.S. history. Subsequently faced legal repercussions, resulting in a sentence of 25 years in prison for securities fraud.

Continue Reading

Joe Hunter

American pianist and Motown musician
Born
1927 99 years ago
Died
February 2nd, 2007 19 years ago — 80 years old

An American pianist contributed significantly to the Motown sound during the 1960s. Hunter played piano on numerous classic recordings for legendary artists. His work helped define the genre and shaped the music landscape of the time.

Continue Reading

Margaret John

Welsh actress, Most famous for 'Gavin & Stacey'
Born
1926 100 years ago
Died
February 2nd, 2011 15 years ago — 85 years old

An actress from Wales, contributed significantly to British television and film. Best recognized for roles in the series 'Gavin & Stacey' and 'The Basil Brush Show'. Her career spanned several decades, showcasing a range of characters that resonated with audiences. Participated in various theatrical productions, earning accolades for her performances. Appeared in notable television programs, solidifying a prominent position in the acting world. 'Gavin & Stacey' particularly highlighted her talent, further establishing her as a beloved figure in the entertainment industry.

Continue Reading

K. Viswanath

Indian actor and director, Sagara Sangamam
Born
February 19th, 1930 95 years ago
Died
February 2nd, 2023 3 years ago — 92 years old

An influential figure in Indian cinema, recognized for contributions as an actor, director, and screenwriter. Developed a distinctive style that emphasized artistic expression and cultural themes. Started a career in films in the 1950s and directed several critically acclaimed movies, particularly in Telugu cinema. The film Sagara Sangamam showcased exceptional storytelling and earned accolades for its artistic merit. Held numerous awards, reflecting a strong recognition within the Indian film industry.

Continue Reading