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
Mike Bell
Professional wrestler and promoter
Born
March 18th, 1971 55 years ago
Died
2008 18 years ago — 37 years old
Born in 1971, a professional wrestler who gained attention in World Championship Wrestling (WCW) during the late 1990s. In addition to wrestling, involvement in promoting wrestling events was significant, leading to the establishment of various independent wrestling promotions. Recognition came through participation in innovative wrestling matches and collaborations with notable wrestling personalities. Contributions to the wrestling community included training emerging talents and engaging in promotional activities that enhanced wrestling visibility.
Continue ReadingLaure Savasta
Basketball player and sportscaster
Born
March 18th, 1974 52 years ago
Born in France, a basketball player, coach, and sportscaster contributed significantly to the sport. Played as a guard during her career, representing various teams in the French leagues. Transitioned into coaching after retirement, focusing on developing young talent. Also served as a sportscaster, providing insights and analysis for basketball broadcasts, enhancing the viewer's experience. Her involvement in basketball spanned across different roles, showcasing a commitment to the sport both on and off the court.
Continue ReadingJohn Plankinton
American businessman and philanthropist
Born
March 18th, 1820 206 years ago
Died
1891 135 years ago — 71 years old
Worked primarily in the meatpacking industry during the 19th century. Established the Plankinton Packing Company in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, which became one of the largest meatpacking firms in the country. Contributed to the development of the meatpacking business by innovating processing techniques. Actively engaged in philanthropy, supporting various educational and community initiatives in Milwaukee and beyond. Played a significant role in the economic growth of the region.
Continue ReadingBrian Scalabrine
Basketball player and sportscaster
Born
March 18th, 1978 48 years ago
An American basketball player and coach, played primarily as a forward in the NBA. Scalabrine played for the New Jersey Nets and the Boston Celtics, contributing to the Celtics' championship win in 2008. After retiring as a player, he transitioned into coaching and sports broadcasting, providing analysis and commentary on basketball games.
Continue ReadingMichael Bergin
American actor in soap operas and film
Born
March 18th, 1969 57 years ago
An American actor gained prominence in the 1990s. Played a significant role as Jake MacLaine on the soap opera 'All My Children' from 1992 to 1995. Also appeared in the film 'The Last Chance.' Engaged in modeling work, featuring in advertisements and magazines during the peak of a modeling career. Contributed to various television projects throughout the 2000s.
Continue ReadingMadame de La Fayette
French author of 'La Princesse de Clèves'
Born
March 18th, 1634 392 years ago
Died
1693 333 years ago — 59 years old
An influential French novelist, she played a significant role in the development of the modern novel in France. Born in 1634, she became a prominent figure in literary circles of her time. The publication of 'La Princesse de Clèves' in 1678 is a notable landmark in French literature, often considered one of the first psychological novels. This work offered insights into the complexities of love and personal conflict within the constraints of society. Her writing style combined elegance with a deep understanding of characters' emotions, establishing her as a key figure in the literary movement.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on August 20th
Percy Williams Bridgman
Physicist and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
April 21st, 1882 144 years ago
Died
August 20th, 1961 64 years ago — 79 years old
A prominent American physicist and academic, he contributed significantly to experimental physics and high-pressure research. Bridgman developed methods to achieve extreme pressures and studied their effects on various materials. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1946 for his work on the properties of matter under high pressures, he became a professor at Harvard University where he mentored future scientists. His research advanced the understanding of physical phenomena in solid state physics.
Continue ReadingMeles Zenawi
Ethiopian Prime Minister and revolutionary leader
Born
May 9th, 1955 71 years ago
Died
August 20th, 2012 13 years ago — 57 years old
Served as the Prime Minister of Ethiopia from 1995 until 2012. Played a significant role in the Ethiopian People's Revolutionary Democratic Front, which controlled the government after the overthrow of Mengistu Haile Mariam. Implemented economic reforms that spurred growth and attracted foreign investment. Also participated in regional politics, including peace negotiations in the Horn of Africa. Advocated for the role of the African Union in addressing continental issues.
Continue ReadingJoe Dassin
Singer-songwriter of French chanson music
Born
November 5th, 1938 87 years ago
Died
August 20th, 1980 45 years ago — 41 years old
Born in 1938, this artist blended American and French musical influences. He gained popularity through hit songs in the 1960s and 1970s. Major works include the international hit 'Les Champs-Élysées' and 'Alors Rêve.' His music reflects a variety of themes, resonating with audiences across different cultures. Dassin's career was marked by significant commercial success, with numerous albums released during his lifetime. He passed away in 1980, leaving a lasting legacy in the French music scene.
Continue ReadingWilliam Bedloe
English spy during the 17th century
Born
April 20th, 1650 376 years ago
Died
August 20th, 1680 345 years ago — 30 years old
Born in 1650 in England, significant contributions were made to espionage efforts during the turbulent period of the 17th century. Engaged in various intelligence activities, often working undercover to gather and deliver vital information. Involved in numerous plots and conflicts of the time, including the Popish Plot, a supposed conspiracy to assassinate King Charles II. Worked alongside prominent figures in the government and influenced political decisions through intelligence operations. Bedloe's activities spanned several critical events in English history, showcasing the role of espionage in shaping national policy and security.
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.
Continue ReadingIstván Horthy
Hungarian fighter pilot and deputy regent
Born
September 12th, 1904 121 years ago
Died
August 20th, 1942 83 years ago — 37 years old
Served as a fighter pilot during World War II, participating in various missions in the Eastern Front. Held the position of deputy regent of Hungary under Miklós Horthy from 1944 until the end of the war. Involved in political and military affairs during a tumultuous period in Hungarian history. Post-war, faced challenges as Hungary transitioned away from a monarchy.
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