Don Whillans

Rock climber and mountaineer

Don Whillans - Rock climber and mountaineer
Born

May 18th, 1933
91 years ago

Died

August 4th, 1985
39 years ago — 52 years old

Category

Athletes & Sports Figures

Country

United Kingdom

Links & References

An English rock climber and mountaineer, gained recognition for significant ascents in the 1950s and 1960s. Participated in notable climbs in the Himalayas, including an attempt on Kangchenjunga in 1976. Contributed to the development of climbing techniques and equipment during a transformative period in the sport. Often associated with the spirit of adventure and pioneering climbing routes in the UK and abroad.

Completed many first ascents in the Lake District

Participated in the 1976 Kangchenjunga expedition

Other People Born on May 18th

Simon Pagenaud

Race car driver; IndyCar Series champion
Born
May 18th, 1984 40 years ago

Achieved significant success in auto racing, particularly in the IndyCar Series. Secured the IndyCar Series Championship in 2016 while driving for Team Penske. Competed in various prestigious events, including the Indianapolis 500, where a victory was achieved in 2019, marking a highlight in the driver's career. Early in racing career, participated in the CART and ALMS series, gaining experience and recognition through various performances.

Continue Reading

W. G. Sebald

Novelist known for 'The Emigrants'
Born
May 18th, 1944 80 years ago
Died
December 14th, 2001 23 years ago — 57 years old

An influential writer, focused on themes of memory, exile, and the impact of history. Worked primarily in German and was awarded several literary prizes. Utilized a unique narrative style, blending fiction with essays and photographs. Spent a significant part of his life in England, where he taught and published extensively. 'The Emigrants', a seminal work, explored the lives of displaced individuals and their ties to the past. Other notable works include 'Austerlitz' and 'Vertigo', which delve into similar themes.

Continue Reading

Antônio Carlos Zago

Footballer and manager, notable manager
Born
May 18th, 1969 55 years ago

A Brazilian footballer, played primarily as a central defender. Played professional football for several clubs, including São Paulo FC, where he won the Copa Libertadores and the Intercontinental Cup. Transitioned into management after retirement, leading clubs like Goiás and Internacional. Emphasized tactical discipline and player development in coaching roles.

Continue Reading

Patrick Cormack

Political journalist and English historian
Born
May 18th, 1939 85 years ago
Died
2024 1 years ago — 85 years old

Baron Cormack served as a Conservative Member of Parliament for over 25 years. Involved in various committees and local government, contributed significantly to debates and legislation, particularly on education and the arts. Cormack also pursued a career in journalism, writing extensively on historical subjects and politics, providing insights into contemporary issues through a historical lens. As an advocate for cultural heritage, participated in initiatives related to the preservation of historical sites in England.

Continue Reading

Bill Macy

American actor with notable TV roles
Born
May 18th, 1922 102 years ago
Died
2019 6 years ago — 97 years old

An accomplished actor, notable for contributions to television and film. Achieved recognition through the role of Walter on the television series "Maude". Also appeared in films such as "One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest" and "The Goodbye Girl." Career spanned several decades, showcasing a variety of performances across different mediums. Participated in numerous productions that contributed to the American entertainment landscape.

Continue Reading

Mathew Brady

Photographer known for Civil War imagery
Born
May 18th, 1822 202 years ago
Died
January 15th, 1896 129 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

Other People Who Died on August 4th

Sandy Woodward

English admiral during the Falklands War
Born
May 1st, 1932 92 years ago
Died
August 4th, 2013 11 years ago — 81 years old

An English admiral served in the Royal Navy. Woodward commanded the British Task Force during the Falklands War in 1982, which was pivotal in regaining control of the disputed islands. He followed a distinguished naval career with service in various capacities, including as Captain of HMS Exeter and as Flag Officer, Medway. After retirement, Woodward contributed to military strategy and analysis through writing and public speaking.

Continue Reading

Craig Jones

English motorcycle racer
Born
1985 40 years ago
Died
August 4th, 2008 16 years ago — 23 years old

A professional motorcycle racer achieved prominence in the sport with significant performances in the British Superbike Championship and the World Supersport Championship. Competed for teams such as Renegade Ducati and represented various brands throughout a racing career that developed notable skills and techniques on the track. Tragically lost life in a racing accident, leaving behind a legacy as a competitive rider within the motorcycle racing community.

Continue Reading

Pearl White

American actress and serial star
Born
March 4th, 1889 136 years ago
Died
August 4th, 1938 86 years ago — 49 years old

An influential figure in early cinema, played leading roles in silent film serials during the 1910s and 1920s. Gained popularity through thrilling performances in adventure films, becoming a staple of the genre. Starred in notable serials such as 'The Perils of Pauline' and 'The Exploits of Elaine', which showcased daring escapades and stunts. Transitioned into the talkies but faced challenges as the film industry evolved.

Continue Reading

Duane Thomas

American football player, Super Bowl champion
Born
1947 78 years ago
Died
August 4th, 2024 0 years ago — 77 years old

Played professional American football as a running back, primarily for the Dallas Cowboys. He was part of the Cowboys team that won Super Bowl VI in 1972. Thomas also had a notable college career at West Texas State University, where he was a standout player. Following his time with the Cowboys, he played for the San Diego Chargers and the Washington Redskins, contributing to each team's offensive line. His playing style and performance earned recognition in the league during his active years.

Continue Reading

Victor-Maurice comte de Broglie

French general and military leader
Born
1647 378 years ago
Died
August 4th, 1727 297 years ago — 80 years old

Held the title of comte de Broglie, served as a prominent general in the French Army during the War of the Spanish Succession. Led critical military campaigns and successfully contributed to significant battles in the early 18th century. Broglie played a key role in the French military strategies of the time and was appointed to various high-ranking positions due to military expertise and leadership skills.

Continue Reading

John Vianney

French priest and patron saint of priests
Born
May 8th, 1786 238 years ago
Died
August 4th, 1859 165 years ago — 73 years old

Born in France in 1786, served as a parish priest in Ars. Focused on the spiritual well-being of the community and emphasized confession and pastoral care. Became widely recognized for his dedication to his parishioners and the transformative impact of his guidance in spiritual matters. Canonized in 1925 by the Roman Catholic Church. Declared the patron saint of priests, he is esteemed for his commitment to religious and moral integrity.

Continue Reading