Egon Bahr
German politician and journalist
Served as a prominent German politician and journalist. Held the position of Federal Minister for Special Affairs from 1966 to 1969. Played a pivotal role in shaping the policy of Ostpolitik, which aimed at improving relations with East Germany and the Eastern Bloc during the Cold War. Contributed significantly to the diplomatic efforts between East and West Germany, facilitating dialogue and negotiations in a tense geopolitical environment.
Served as Federal Minister for Special Affairs
Advocated for Ostpolitik alongside Willy Brandt
Influenced Germany's foreign policy during the Cold War
Other People Born on March 18th
Larry Perkins
Race car driver and Bathurst 1000 champion
Born
March 18th, 1950 76 years ago
A prominent figure in Australian motor racing, achieved significant success in the touring car category. Competed in various international racing events and made a name in the Australian Touring Car Championship. Won the prestigious Bathurst 1000 race multiple times, solidifying a legacy in endurance racing. In addition to driving, contributed to the sport as a car owner and as an innovator in vehicle engineering.
Continue ReadingGrover Cleveland
American Lawyer and Politician
Born
March 18th, 1837 189 years ago
Died
June 24th, 1908 117 years ago — 71 years old
Served as the 22nd and 24th President of the United States. His non-consecutive terms marked him as the only president to serve two non-consecutive terms. Focused on issues such as political reform and opposition to high tariffs. Prior to his presidency, held the position of Governor of New York. Advocated for the principles of fiscal conservatism and honest government, which contributed to his presidential campaigns.
Continue ReadingHiroh Kikai
Japanese photographer with notable portraits
Born
March 18th, 1945 81 years ago
Died
2020 6 years ago — 75 years old
Born in 1945, a prominent figure in photography, focused on capturing the essence of human emotions through portraiture. Kikai pursued a career that emphasized the beauty and complexity of the human face, utilizing a large-format camera to produce striking black and white images. Numerous exhibitions showcased the work, including 'Portraits' and 'The Face,' which received critical acclaim. The photography style combined traditional techniques with a contemplative approach, resulting in a significant contribution to contemporary visual art.
Continue ReadingDick Smith
Make-up artist for The Exorcist
Born
March 18th, 1944 82 years ago
Died
July 30th, 2014 11 years ago — 70 years old
A prominent make-up artist renowned for transforming the film industry with innovative techniques. Developed the realistic aging make-up for the film The Godfather and crafted the now-iconic make-up effects for The Exorcist. Created groundbreaking special effects and pioneered the use of prosthetics in cinema. Established his own make-up school, sharing knowledge with aspiring artists. Contributed significantly to the field, earning accolades for craftsmanship and creativity in film.
Continue ReadingWilliam Johnson
American painter with Harlem Renaissance roots
Born
March 18th, 1901 125 years ago
Died
1970 56 years ago — 69 years old
A prominent painter associated with the Harlem Renaissance, contributed significantly to the representation of African American culture through visual art. Focused on themes of community life, family, and cultural identity. Developed a distinctive style combining modernist and folk influences. Featured in multiple exhibitions throughout his career, gaining recognition for unique approaches to color and form.
Continue ReadingWilliam Cosmo Monkhouse
English poet and literary critic
Born
March 18th, 1840 186 years ago
Died
July 20th, 1901 124 years ago — 61 years old
Born in 1840, a noted English poet and critic. Contributed significantly to the literary landscape of the 19th century through poetry that explored themes of nature and society. Worked as a reviewer for several periodicals, offering critiques of contemporary literature and contributing to the understanding of poetic forms. His critical essays provided insight into the works of other poets, and he was engaged in the promotion of poetry among the public. Monkhouse also produced a collection of poetry that reflected the aesthetics and sentiments of his time, achieving recognition within literary circles.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on August 20th
Laurence Hastings
1st Earl of Pembroke
Born
March 20th, 1319 707 years ago
Died
August 20th, 1348 677 years ago — 29 years old
Born in 1319, a prominent noble in medieval England, held the title of 1st Earl of Pembroke. Served as a key military leader during the conflicts surrounding the Scottish wars and the Hundred Years' War. Actively participated in various parliamentary proceedings and was influential in the governance of the realm. His military endeavors included significant engagements that contributed to his recognition as a formidable lord. Passed away in 1348.
Continue ReadingBo Jonsson
Royal Marshal of Sweden
Died
August 20th, 1386 639 years ago — None years old
Bo Jonsson served as the royal marshal of Sweden during the late 14th century. He belonged to a prominent noble family and played a significant role in the politics and military affairs of the kingdom. Jonsson held various positions of power, including the governorship of several provinces. His influence extended to local and regional governance, where he was involved in the administration and defense of Swedish territories. His death in 1386 marked the end of a significant career in service to the Swedish crown.
Continue ReadingWilliam Booth
Co-founder of The Salvation Army
Born
April 10th, 1829 196 years ago
Died
August 20th, 1912 113 years ago — 83 years old
A prominent English preacher co-founded The Salvation Army in 1865 to address social issues and provide aid to the impoverished. Focused on evangelism and social reform, established various initiatives to combat poverty and promote welfare. Authored several works detailing the mission and vision of the organization. Led the movement until death in 1912.
Continue ReadingJames Whyte
Scottish-Australian politician, 6th Premier
Born
March 30th, 1820 205 years ago
Died
August 20th, 1882 143 years ago — 62 years old
A Scottish-Australian politician served as the 6th Premier of Tasmania from 1887 to 1889. During the premiership, significant focus was placed on governance reforms and public works in the region. Whyte's tenure was marked by engagement with various social and economic issues in Tasmania, aiming to promote development and address the needs of the constituents. Prior to becoming Premier, Whyte held various positions within the government, contributing to the legislative processes of the time. His work helped shape early Tasmanian policy and administration.
Continue ReadingPope Pius X
Pope and church reformer
Born
June 2nd, 1835 190 years ago
Died
August 20th, 1914 111 years ago — 79 years old
Served as the Pope of the Roman Catholic Church from 1903 until death in 1914. Focused on updating church practices and emphasized frequent communion. Initiated reforms in liturgy and catechism, seeking to counter modernist interpretations of the faith. Canonized saints and promoted devotion to the Eucharist. Advocated for the establishment of a new code of canon law and addressed issues of social justice and poverty.
Continue ReadingJean-Baptiste Pigalle
French sculptor famous for 'Voltaire'
Born
January 26th, 1714 312 years ago
Died
August 20th, 1785 240 years ago — 71 years old
A prominent French sculptor and educator, notable contributions to the art world occurred during the 18th century. Renowned for a significant neoclassical style, approach included both monumental sculptures and smaller works in marble and plaster. Most recognized work, the statue of Voltaire, showcased the elegance of the period. Served as a member of the French Academy of Sculpture, contributing to artistic education and the progression of sculpture in France. Produced several other notable pieces, including 'The Statue of the King' and works for the royal courts. Teaching shaped the careers of many future artists, establishing a legacy in the education of sculpture in France.
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