Bobby Robson
Football manager and England national coach
A prominent figure in football, this individual began his career as a player with Fulham and later played for West Bromwich Albion. Transitioning to management, he took charge of several clubs, including Ipswich Town, where he achieved notable success by winning the FA Cup in 1978 and the UEFA Cup in 1981. Additionally, this individual managed the England national team from 1982 to 1990, leading the team to the semifinals of the 1990 FIFA World Cup. Later managed clubs like Barcelona and Newcastle United, further solidifying a legacy as a respected figure in football.
Won the FA Cup with Ipswich Town in 1978
Led England to semifinals in the 1990 FIFA World Cup
Managed Barcelona and Newcastle United
Won the UEFA Cup with Ipswich Town in 1981
Other People Born on February 18th
Harry Brearley
English inventor of stainless steel
Born
February 18th, 1871 154 years ago
Died
1948 78 years ago — 77 years old
An English inventor played a crucial role in developing stainless steel. In 1913, while working in a Sheffield steelworks, discovered the corrosion-resistant properties of an alloy containing chromium. This discovery led to the industrial production of stainless steel, which has since been widely used in various industries, from cutlery to construction. Brearley's work significantly influenced metallurgy and engineering, and his invention remains essential in modern manufacturing.
Continue ReadingMaurice Lucas
Basketball player; Trail Blazers star
Born
February 18th, 1952 73 years ago
Died
2010 16 years ago — 58 years old
A professional basketball player, contributed significantly to the National Basketball Association. Played for several teams, including the Portland Trail Blazers, where participation in the 1977 NBA Championship contributed to the team's victory. Known for an imposing physical presence and defensive skills, earned the nickname 'The Enforcer'. Selected for the NBA All-Star Game in 1978, highlighting recognition for athletic performance. Also played for the New Jersey Nets and the Seattle SuperSonics during a career that extended into the late 1980s.
Continue ReadingMary I of England
Queen of England and Ireland
Born
February 18th, 1516 509 years ago
Died
November 17th, 1558 467 years ago — 42 years old
Reigned as Queen of England and Ireland from 1553 until 1558. Mary was the first woman to rule England in her own right. The daughter of Henry VIII and Catherine of Aragon, she attempted to restore Roman Catholicism in England after the Protestant Reformation initiated by her father. Her reign was marked by the persecution of Protestants, now referred to as the Marian Persecutions. Mary married Philip II of Spain, which was controversial and led to anti-Spanish sentiment during her rule. The queen's reign concluded with her death in 1558, which led to the accession of her half-sister, Elizabeth I.
Continue ReadingAudre Lorde
Writer and Civil Rights Activist
Born
February 18th, 1934 91 years ago
Died
November 17th, 1992 33 years ago — 58 years old
A prominent figure in the feminist and civil rights movements, this individual focused on issues of race, gender, and sexuality. Published several important works, including 'Sister Outsider' and 'The Black Unicorn'. Served as the Poet Laureate of New York from 1991 to 1993. Contributed significantly to the literature surrounding intersectionality, shaping discussions in both feminism and LGBTQ+ rights.
Continue ReadingNikolai Podgorny
Ukrainian engineer and politician
Born
February 18th, 1903 122 years ago
Died
January 12th, 1983 43 years ago — 79 years old
An engineer and politician served in significant roles in Soviet Ukraine. Played an essential part in the Soviet leadership hierarchy during the 1960s and 1970s. Held the position of Chairman of the Presidium of the Supreme Soviet from 1965 to 1977, which was a key post within the Soviet governmental structure, influencing various policies and initiatives.
Continue ReadingIrma Thomas
American singer-songwriter with hit songs
Born
February 18th, 1941 84 years ago
A prominent figure in the soul music genre, this artist emerged during the 1960s. Career began with the release of notable singles, including 'Time Is on My Side' and 'Wish Someone Would Care'. This musician's sound blends gospel roots with a contemporary soul style, earning a place in the New Orleans music scene. Received several accolades, including a Grammy Award for Best Contemporary Blues Album, recognizing contributions to the music industry and influence on other artists. Tours and live performances continue to appeal to audiences worldwide, emphasizing the timeless quality of her music.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on July 31st
John Bligh
British parliamentarian and Earl
Born
October 1st, 1719 306 years ago
Died
July 31st, 1781 244 years ago — 61 years old
Served as the 3rd Earl of Darnley and contributed to British politics in the 18th century. Held significant positions within the British Parliament, influencing legislative decisions. Engaged in various political and social matters of his time, representing a prominent noble lineage.
Continue ReadingBill Russell
Basketball player and coach; NBA Champion
Born
February 12th, 1934 91 years ago
Died
July 31st, 2022 3 years ago — 88 years old
Basketball player and coach achieved significant success in the National Basketball Association (NBA). Played college basketball at the University of San Francisco, leading the team to back-to-back NCAA championships in 1955 and 1956. Drafted by the Boston Celtics in 1956, played a pivotal role in the team's dynasty during the late 1950s and 1960s. Won a total of 11 NBA championships, the most by any player in league history. Served as player-coach for the Celtics, becoming the first African American to hold such a position in the NBA. Upon retirement, became a prominent advocate for civil rights and social justice.
Continue ReadingRichard Schweiker
U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services
Born
June 1st, 1926 99 years ago
Died
July 31st, 2015 10 years ago — 89 years old
Served as the 14th United States Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare from 1973 to 1976. Engaged in a political career that included serving as a member of the U.S. House of Representatives and the U.S. Senate from Pennsylvania. Played a significant role in various health and welfare reforms during tenure. Engaged with numerous initiatives aimed at improving public health services.
Continue ReadingOmar Torrijos
Panamanian military leader and politician
Born
February 13th, 1929 96 years ago
Died
July 31st, 1981 44 years ago — 52 years old
A prominent military leader and politician in Panama, commanded the National Guard and served as the de facto leader from 1968 until his death in 1981. Established policies focused on social reforms and advocated for the sovereignty of Panama over the Panama Canal, leading to negotiations that culminated in the Torrijos-Carter Treaties, signed in 1977. These treaties facilitated the eventual handover of control of the Panama Canal from the United States to Panama, enhancing national pride and control over its resources.
Continue ReadingLouis Christophe François Hachette
French publisher and education advocate
Born
May 5th, 1800 225 years ago
Died
July 31st, 1864 161 years ago — 64 years old
Established a publishing house in Paris that specialized in educational books. Introduced innovative methods to improve educational resources for students, contributing significantly to the development of modern educational materials. Involved in the promotion and distribution of literary and scientific works, enhancing accessibility for the public. The publishing house became a prominent institution in France, noted for its influence in educational publishing.
Continue ReadingJeanne Moreau
French actress in 'Jules and Jim'
Born
January 23rd, 1928 98 years ago
Died
July 31st, 2017 8 years ago — 89 years old
An acclaimed French actress, contributions to cinema included seminal roles in films such as 'Jules and Jim' and 'The Lovers'. Born in 1928, gained recognition for a unique ability to convey complex emotional states. Worked with notable directors, including François Truffaut and Luis Buñuel. Moreau's career spanned several decades, involving theater, film, and television, showcasing versatility across genres. Played pivotal roles in the French New Wave movement, establishing a legacy that influenced future generations of filmmakers and actors.
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