Edward J. King
American politician, Governor of Massachusetts
Served as the 66th Governor of Massachusetts from 1979 to 1981. King was the first Democratic governor of Massachusetts in 20 years. His administration focused on issues such as education reform, fiscal policy, and urban development. King faced challenges dealing with a struggling economy and rising unemployment during his tenure. After leaving office, he continued to be active in politics and public service.
Served as Governor of Massachusetts
First Democratic governor in two decades
Other People Born on May 11th
Johann Friedrich Blumenbach
Physician and anthropologist
Born
May 11th, 1752 273 years ago
Died
January 22nd, 1840 186 years ago — 87 years old
A prominent German physician, physiologist, and anthropologist. Blumenbach significantly contributed to the fields of anthropology and physiology in the late 18th and early 19th centuries. He established a classification system that categorized human races based on skull shape, which played a foundational role in biological anthropology. A key figure in the development of comparative anatomy, he studied various physical characteristics of human populations. His work on the variation of human skulls led to the understanding of racial diversity and human classification. Blumenbach also authored several influential texts that addressed topics in medicine and biology, alongside his contributions to the understanding of human variation and species.
Continue ReadingJacques Brugnon
Tennis player and Davis Cup champion
Born
May 11th, 1895 130 years ago
Died
March 20th, 1978 47 years ago — 82 years old
A prominent French tennis player, achieved significant recognition during the 1920s and 1930s. Competed in singles and doubles, demonstrating exceptional skill on the court. Secured multiple Grand Slam titles and contributed to France's success in international competitions. Played a crucial role in the French team that won the Davis Cup in 1927, showcasing talent alongside other notable players. Retired from professional tennis after a successful career that spanned over a decade.
Continue ReadingAbou Diaby
French footballer and Arsenal midfielder
Born
May 11th, 1986 39 years ago
Born in 1986, a professional football career began at Auxerre before transferring to Arsenal in 2006. Injuries limited playing time, yet contributions during the tenure included vital appearances and a commanding midfield presence. Represented the French national team, earning 16 caps between 2007 and 2015. After Arsenal, played for Marseille, where the stay was again affected by injuries.
Continue ReadingBobi
Portuguese dog with longest lifespan
Born
May 11th, 1992 33 years ago
Died
October 21st, 2023 2 years ago — 31 years old
Bobi was a domestic dog recognized for achieving the longest verified lifespan of any dog. Born in 1992 in Portugal, Bobi lived for over 31 years, surpassing the previous record for oldest dog. Bobi's life spanned multiple decades, witnessing significant changes in the world and becoming a beloved figure in his community and beyond.
Continue ReadingEdsger W. Dijkstra
Computer Scientist; developed Dijkstra's algorithm
Born
May 11th, 1930 95 years ago
Died
August 6th, 2002 23 years ago — 72 years old
A prominent figure in computer science, contributed significantly to algorithms and programming methodologies. Developed Dijkstra's algorithm for shortest paths in graphs, which is essential in networking and routing. Advocated for structured programming through various writings. Worked at several academic institutions, including the University of Texas at Austin and Eindhoven University of Technology. Received the Turing Award in 1972 for contributions to programming languages and algorithms.
Continue ReadingMatt Leinart
American football quarterback, Heisman Trophy winner
Born
May 11th, 1983 42 years ago
Played college football at the University of Southern California, leading the team to two national championships in 2003 and 2004. Received the Heisman Trophy in 2004, recognizing him as the outstanding player in college football. Selected 10th overall in the 2006 NFL Draft by the Arizona Cardinals, where he played for several seasons. Also played for the Houston Texans and a stint with the Buffalo Bills. After retiring from professional football, transitioned into media and sports commentary.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on September 18th
Jimmy Witherspoon
Jump blues singer with hit 'Ain't Nobody's Business'
Born
August 8th, 1920 105 years ago
Died
September 18th, 1997 28 years ago — 77 years old
Born in 1920, this American jump blues singer gained recognition in the 1940s and 1950s. With a powerful voice and emotive delivery, this artist blended genres and influenced later musicians. Career highlights included performances at major venues and recordings that showcased a unique vocal style. A notable collaboration with prominent jazz musicians helped solidify a place in the music world. The singer's music addressed themes of love, heartache, and everyday life.
Continue ReadingKen Norton
Boxer and actor with notable championship
Born
August 9th, 1943 82 years ago
Died
September 18th, 2013 12 years ago — 70 years old
An accomplished boxer and actor, this individual achieved significant recognition in the heavyweight boxing division. Won the WBC Heavyweight Championship in 1973, famously defeating Muhammad Ali in a closely contested bout. In addition to a successful boxing career, ventured into acting, appearing in films such as 'The Green Berets' and the 'Doctor Death' television series. Known for physical strength and charisma, this figure became a recognizable personality in both the sports and entertainment realms.
Continue ReadingMarcel Reich-Ranicki
Literary critic and author of 'My Last Read'
Born
June 2nd, 1920 105 years ago
Died
September 18th, 2013 12 years ago — 93 years old
A prominent literary critic and author, contributed significantly to the analysis of German literature. Worked as a critic for major publications, influencing literary discourse in Germany. Authored several books, with 'My Last Read' reflecting on personal readings and literary figures. Renowned for television appearances that made literature accessible to the general public. Received various accolades for contributions to literature and criticism.
Continue ReadingMargita Stefanović
Serbian keyboard player and composer
Born
1959 67 years ago
Died
September 18th, 2002 23 years ago — 43 years old
A prominent keyboard player and composer, contributed significantly to the music scene in Serbia. Participated in the popular group 'Riblja Čorba' and collaborated with various artists throughout a prolific career. Instrumental in the development of keyboard music in the region, blending traditional and contemporary styles. Also composed pieces that showcased musical versatility and creativity.
Continue ReadingSeán O'Casey
Irish playwright and memoirist
Born
March 30th, 1880 145 years ago
Died
September 18th, 1964 61 years ago — 84 years old
An influential Irish playwright and memoirist, work spanned the early 20th century. His plays often centered on themes of social issues and the Irish experience, showcasing the struggles and aspirations of ordinary people. Notable works include 'The Shadow of a Gunman', 'Juno and the Paycock', and 'The Plough and the Stars', which defined the Irish Theatre and highlighted the turbulent times of Ireland's fight for independence. O'Casey was also known for his autobiographical writing, where he chronicled his early life in Dublin and the impact of historical events on personal narrative.
Continue ReadingWilliam Hazlitt
English essayist and literary critic
Born
April 10th, 1778 247 years ago
Died
September 18th, 1830 195 years ago — 52 years old
Born in 1778, this prominent English essayist and critic contributed significantly to literature during the early 19th century. Writing extensively on topics ranging from art to politics, produced influential works that examined human nature and society. His essays are marked by a personal touch and insightful observations. Engaged in the Romantic Movement, aligned with figures such as Coleridge and Wordsworth. His critical analyses shaped literary criticism in his era, and he often challenged existing norms through sharp commentary.
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