Elias Ashmole
Astrologer and politician with antiquities journal
An English astrologer and politician, contributed significantly to the study of astrology and antiquities. Served as a key figure in the founding of the Ashmolean Museum in Oxford, becoming one of the earliest public museums in the world. Authored 'Theatrum Chemicum Brittanicum', a compilation of alchemical texts, which remains a crucial resource for historians of chemistry and astrology. His interest in antiquities led to notable contributions to the historical understanding of various artifacts.
Founded the Ashmolean Museum in 1683
Authored 'Theatrum Chemicum Brittanicum'
Other People Born on May 23rd
Katharina Althaus
German ski jumper and World Championship medalist
Born
May 23rd, 1996 29 years ago
A prominent ski jumper, achieved significant success in women's ski jumping competitions. Competed in multiple World Championships and World Cup events, showcasing remarkable consistency and skill. Achieved top placements in individual competitions, contributing to the advancement of women's ski jumping on the international stage. Participated in the 2018 Winter Olympics in Pyeongchang, representing Germany.
Continue ReadingEzequiel Schelotto
Footballer and Serie A player
Born
May 23rd, 1989 36 years ago
Born in 1989, a professional footballer started career in Argentina before moving to Italy. Achieved recognition in Serie A, playing for teams including Atalanta and Inter Milan. Played as a winger and known for speed and technical skills on the pitch. Had a stint in the English Premier League with Brighton & Hove Albion.
Continue ReadingFelipe Drugovich
Racing driver; 2021 Formula 2 Champion
Born
May 23rd, 2000 25 years ago
A Brazilian-Italian racing driver, achieved prominence in the world of motorsport. Competed in several racing series, including the Eurocup Formula Renault and Euroformula Open. Won the 2021 FIA Formula 2 Championship, securing the title with a series of strong performances throughout the season. Also participated in Formula Renault Eurocup and the Euroformula Open, showcasing talent at various levels of open-wheel racing. His accomplishments in Formula 2 highlighted skill and determination, leading to opportunities in higher levels of racing.
Continue ReadingMorgan Pressel
Golfer, 2007 Kraft Nabisco Championship winner
Born
May 23rd, 1988 37 years ago
Professional golfer achieved significant success on the LPGA Tour. Won the 2007 Kraft Nabisco Championship at the age of 18, becoming the youngest major champion in women's golf history at that time. Represented the United States in multiple international competitions, contributing to team events such as the Solheim Cup. Achieved several top finishes in various tournaments throughout the professional career.
Continue ReadingAaron Donald
American football player, Super Bowl champion
Born
May 23rd, 1991 34 years ago
Played as a defensive tackle in the National Football League for the Los Angeles Rams. Achieved significant success in collegiate football at the University of Pittsburgh, earning numerous awards. Made an immediate impact in the NFL after being selected in the first round of the 2014 NFL Draft. Helped lead the Rams to a Super Bowl LIII appearance in 2019 and a Super Bowl LVI victory in 2022. Renowned for exceptional performance on the field, earning multiple Pro Bowl selections and Defensive Player of the Year awards.
Continue ReadingLena Meyer-Landrut
Singer-songwriter; Eurovision winner
Born
May 23rd, 1991 34 years ago
Born in Germany, this singer-songwriter gained prominence after winning the Eurovision Song Contest in 2010 with the song 'Satellite.' The success at Eurovision propelled a music career that featured multiple chart-topping singles and albums. The debut album, 'My Cassette Player,' achieved significant commercial success, earning platinum status. This artist has also been recognized with several awards, including Echo awards and Bambi awards, acknowledging achievements in the German music scene.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on May 18th
Elizabeth Montgomery
Actress known for Bewitched
Born
April 15th, 1933 92 years ago
Died
May 18th, 1995 30 years ago — 62 years old
An American actress and producer, this individual gained acclaim for the role of Samantha Stephens in the television series 'Bewitched', which aired from 1964 to 1972. The series became a cultural phenomenon and showcased talent in both comedic and dramatic performances. Other notable works include appearances in television films and series such as 'The Better Angels' and 'The Twilight Zone'. Throughout her career, she received several award nominations, including Emmy nominations, for her performances in various productions. Advocacy for animal rights and issues related to cancer also marked her life, reflecting a commitment to social causes outside of acting.
Continue ReadingElvin Jones
Jazz drummer and bandleader
Born
September 9th, 1927 98 years ago
Died
May 18th, 2004 21 years ago — 76 years old
An influential jazz drummer, noted for innovative techniques and powerful rhythms. Played with the John Coltrane Quartet from 1960 to 1965, contributing to albums such as "A Love Supreme" and "Giant Steps." Led his own ensembles and collaborated with numerous prominent jazz artists throughout a celebrated career. His style combined complex polyrhythms with a deep sense of swing, shaping modern jazz drumming.
Continue ReadingIsaac Albéniz
Spanish pianist and composer, Iberia
Born
May 29th, 1860 165 years ago
Died
May 18th, 1909 116 years ago — 48 years old
A prominent pianist and composer emerged in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Early musical education took place in Barcelona and later in Brussels. Deployed innovative techniques and used Spanish folk themes in compositions. Iberia, a suite for piano, became one of the hallmark works showcasing intricate piano techniques and rich cultural references. Also, composed operas, piano works, and orchestral music, contributing to the classical music repertoire. Instrumental in establishing the 'Spanish' sound in classical music, influencing subsequent generations of composers.
Continue ReadingStephen M. Wolownik
Composer and musicologist of Russian-American descent
Born
1946 80 years ago
Died
May 18th, 2000 25 years ago — 54 years old
A prominent composer and musicologist, contributed significantly to the field of music through scholarly research and original compositions. Worked extensively on various musicological studies and presented insights into music theory and history. Composed works that displayed a deep understanding of harmony and structure. Engaged with both theoretical and practical aspects, fostering a greater appreciation for serious music among performers and audiences alike.
Continue ReadingJacques Marquette
French explorer of North America
Born
June 1st, 1637 388 years ago
Died
May 18th, 1675 350 years ago — 37 years old
A French Jesuit missionary and explorer, filled a pivotal role in the early exploration of North America. Arrived in Canada in 1666 and established missions among Indigenous peoples. In 1673, conducted a significant expedition down the Mississippi River with Louis Jolliet, mapping vast territories and engaging with various Native American tribes. The exploration revealed the potential of the Mississippi as a trade route and contributed to European interest in the region. Died in 1675 while on a mission to retrace the Mississippi River's course, leaving a legacy of exploration and religious outreach.
Continue ReadingDobrica Ćosić
Serbian politician, 1st President of Yugoslavia
Born
December 29th, 1921 104 years ago
Died
May 18th, 2014 11 years ago — 92 years old
A prominent politician participated in the political landscape of Yugoslavia and Serbia. Served as the first President of the Federal Republic of Yugoslavia from 1992 to 1993. Played a significant role in shaping the country's direction during the tumultuous period of the 1990s, including the Yugoslav Wars. Also recognized as a writer and intellectual, contributing to Serbian literature and discussions on national identity.
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