Dag Hammarskjöld
Diplomat, UN Secretary-General, Nobel laureate
An economist and diplomat served as the second Secretary-General of the United Nations from 1953 until 1961. Under leadership, the UN expanded peacekeeping operations and addressed significant global conflicts. Instrumental in resolving disputes in the Middle East and Africa. Died in a plane crash while on a peace mission in 1961. Posthumously awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1961 for efforts in promoting international peace and cooperation.
Served as Secretary-General of the UN
Posthumously awarded the Nobel Peace Prize
Other People Born on July 29th
Simon Dach
German poet and hymnwriter
Born
July 29th, 1605 420 years ago
Died
April 15th, 1659 366 years ago — 53 years old
A prominent figure in 17th-century German literature, contributed significantly to the genre of lyric poetry. Composed many hymns that became part of the Lutheran tradition. Worked as a professor at the University of Königsberg and published collections of poetry that showcased the Baroque style. His poetry focused on themes of love, nature, and longing, capturing the spirit of his time.
Continue ReadingGerhard Armauer Hansen
Norwegian physician, discovered leprosy bacterium
Born
July 29th, 1841 184 years ago
Died
February 12th, 1912 114 years ago — 70 years old
A Norwegian physician conducted groundbreaking research on leprosy, leading to the identification of the Mycobacterium leprae bacterium in 1873. This discovery laid the foundation for understanding the disease and its transmission. Hansen's work was instrumental in challenging the misconceptions surrounding leprosy during the 19th century, contributing to improved medical responses and care for affected individuals. He published numerous scientific papers and was regarded for his meticulous methodology and dedication to his field.
Continue ReadingRupert Hamer
Australian politician and lawyer
Born
July 29th, 1916 109 years ago
Died
March 23rd, 2004 22 years ago — 87 years old
A soldier during World War II, contributed to Australia's legal and political landscape. Served as the 39th Premier of Victoria from 1972 to 1981, implementing significant reforms in education and health. Hamer also had a legal career, focusing on constitutional law and public policy after his tenure as Premier.
Continue ReadingSamm Sinclair Baker
American writer and columnist
Born
July 29th, 1909 116 years ago
Died
March 5th, 1997 29 years ago — 87 years old
Contributed significantly to American journalism and literature. Worked as a writer for various magazines, emphasizing topics such as technology and culture. Authored several books that explored the intersections of society and the evolving modern world. Served as a columnist, providing insights on current events and cultural phenomena, influencing readers and fellow writers alike.
Continue ReadingDaniel McFadden
Economist and Nobel Prize Laureate
Born
July 29th, 1937 88 years ago
An American economist, recognized for contributions to microeconomic theory, choice modeling, and econometrics. Awarded the Nobel Memorial Prize in Economic Sciences in 2000 for the development of methods for analyzing consumer choice. His work has influenced various fields including economics, transportation, and public policy. Served as a professor at the University of California, Berkeley, where significant research was conducted. Numerous publications in leading economic journals highlight advancements in understanding consumer behavior and decision-making processes.
Continue ReadingFoster Furcolo
60th Governor of Massachusetts
Born
July 29th, 1911 114 years ago
Died
1995 31 years ago — 84 years old
Served as the 60th Governor of Massachusetts from 1957 to 1961. Held the position of Attorney General of Massachusetts prior to governorship. Advocated for education and mental health resources, leading initiatives that improved public services. Worked to advance civil rights within the state government.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on September 18th
Jimi Hendrix
Rock guitarist and singer-songwriter
Born
November 27th, 1942 83 years ago
Died
September 18th, 1970 55 years ago — 27 years old
A prominent figure in rock music, this guitarist revolutionized the genre with innovative techniques and memorable performances. Rising to fame in the late 1960s, he founded the Jimi Hendrix Experience and produced iconic albums such as 'Are You Experienced?' and 'Axis: Bold as Love'. Renowned for a unique blend of blues, rock, and psychedelia, noteworthy live performances included his rendition of 'The Star-Spangled Banner' at Woodstock in 1969. His style and flair set a new standard for electric guitar playing and influenced countless musicians.
Continue ReadingEduardo Bonvallet
Chilean footballer and manager
Born
1955 71 years ago
Died
September 18th, 2015 10 years ago — 60 years old
Played as a midfielder for clubs such as Universidad de Chile and Santiago Wanderers. Transitioned to management after retirement, leading teams in the Chilean league. Contributed to football commentary and analysis in media, sharing insights on the sport and player performances. Had a significant influence on coaching methodologies in Chilean football, focusing on player development.
Continue ReadingLindsay Cooper
Composer and musician, notable for film scores
Born
March 3rd, 1951 75 years ago
Died
September 18th, 2013 12 years ago — 62 years old
Born in England, a composer and musician specialized in bassoon and oboe. Worked across multiple genres, including contemporary classical and music for film and theater. Collaborated with various artists and contributed to numerous projects in the progressive rock and avant-garde scenes. Contributed music to the film "The Last of England" and worked with the group Henry Cow, making significant contributions to their sound.
Continue ReadingDion Boucicault
Irish actor and playwright
Born
December 26th, 1820 205 years ago
Died
September 18th, 1890 135 years ago — 69 years old
An influential figure in 19th-century theater, contributed significantly to the development of modern melodrama. Wrote and produced several popular plays, including 'The Octoroon' and 'The Shaughraun'. Gained prominence for performances in both the United Kingdom and the United States. Also worked as a director and was involved in theatrical innovations of the time.
Continue ReadingAdélard Godbout
Canadian politician and agronomist
Born
September 24th, 1892 133 years ago
Died
September 18th, 1956 69 years ago — 63 years old
An agronomist and politician, served as the 15th Premier of Québec from 1936 to 1939 and again from 1944 to 1948. Focused on agrarian policies, agricultural production, and rural education reforms. Worked to improve agricultural practices and community development within Québec, enhancing the quality of life in rural areas. Contributed to the foundation of cooperative organizations and the modernization of agriculture in the province.
Continue ReadingJolidee Matongo
Politician, 97th Mayor of Johannesburg
Born
1975 51 years ago
Died
September 18th, 2021 4 years ago — 46 years old
Served as the 97th Mayor of Johannesburg from 2021 until death in September 2021. Before becoming mayor, held positions within the African National Congress and local government structures, contributing to various community initiatives and governance reforms. Participated actively in addressing issues such as housing, urban development, and social services during tenure. Worked on enhancing the delivery of basic services to residents in Johannesburg. His term was marked by a commitment to improve living conditions in the city.
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