Elvin Jones
Jazz drummer and bandleader
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.
Played in the John Coltrane Quartet
Contributed to 'A Love Supreme'
Led own bands in the jazz genre
Other People Born on September 9th
Menachem Mendel Schneersohn
Polish Rabbi and Chabad Rebbe
Born
September 9th, 1789 236 years ago
Died
1866 160 years ago — 77 years old
Born in Poland in 1789, a prominent rabbi and leader of the Chabad movement emerged as a significant figure in Jewish life. He expanded the teachings of Chabad Hasidism, emphasizing spiritual leadership and engagement with the secular community. His works include numerous writings on Jewish law and philosophy, which continue to influence followers. His leadership spanned a turbulent period, including the upheaval of the Napoleonic Wars and subsequent socio-political changes in Europe. He relocated to present-day Belarus, where he established a robust educational and religious framework that attracted many followers. His teachings focused on the inner dimensions of Judaism, making complex ideas accessible to a wider audience.
Continue ReadingJoseph Leidy
Paleontologist and academic researcher
Born
September 9th, 1823 202 years ago
Died
April 30th, 1891 134 years ago — 67 years old
Contributions to paleontology included the first scientific descriptions of numerous dinosaur fossils, as well as work on various prehistoric vertebrates. Leidy played a significant role in the development of comparative anatomy and paleontology in the United States. He served as a professor at the University of Pennsylvania and was a key member of the Academy of Natural Sciences, influencing generations of scientists. His studies provided insights into the evolutionary history of life on Earth and advanced the understanding of extinct species.
Continue ReadingMichael Bowden
Baseball pitcher with Chicago Cubs
Born
September 9th, 1986 39 years ago
Drafted by the Boston Red Sox in 2005, played as a pitcher in Major League Baseball. Made MLB debut with the Red Sox in 2010. Played for several teams, including the Chicago Cubs, over a professional career spanning multiple seasons.
Continue ReadingPhilippe Emmanuel
Duke of Mercœur
Born
September 9th, 1558 467 years ago
Died
February 19th, 1602 423 years ago — 43 years old
Duke of Mercœur served as a prominent noble figure in France during the late 16th century. Being the son of a notable duke and inheriting titles and lands, he played a significant role in the French Wars of Religion. Leading military campaigns, he commanded forces in the royal cause against the Huguenots. His political maneuvers included seeking alliances and consolidating power within his territories. He was involved in various military conflicts, esteemed for tactical prowess in both offense and defense. His life concluded in 1602 after a period of noteworthy service in the tumultuous political landscape of the time.
Continue ReadingCrazy Mary Dobson
Professional wrestler known for WWE
Born
September 9th, 1993 32 years ago
Debuted in professional wrestling in 2011, gaining recognition for a unique style and persona. Competed in various independent circuits before joining WWE. Known for appearances in promotions like Shimmer Women Athletes and Ring of Honor. Gained a reputation for high-flying maneuvers and a fierce approach to wrestling. Made a significant impact in women's wrestling, participating in numerous matches and feuds, showcasing talent and athleticism.
Continue ReadingRichard Chenevix Trench
Archbishop and philologist
Born
September 9th, 1807 218 years ago
Died
1886 140 years ago — 79 years old
Contributed significantly to theological scholarship and philology. Served as the Archbishop of Dublin from 1864 to 1880. Authored several influential works including 'On the Study of Words', which examined the development of the English language. Played a role in the establishment of the National Board of Education in Ireland. Engaged in biblical scholarship and focused on the interaction between language and theology.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on May 18th
Lothar Schmid
German chess player and arbiter
Born
May 10th, 1928 97 years ago
Died
May 18th, 2013 12 years ago — 85 years old
Accomplished chess player and international arbiter. Played in numerous tournaments throughout the 20th century. Achieved the title of International Arbiter in 1984. Contributed to various chess publications and served as an organizer for major chess events. Actively participated in the chess community, promoting the game across different platforms.
Continue ReadingHalldór Ásgrímsson
Icelandic politician and Prime Minister
Born
September 8th, 1947 78 years ago
Died
May 18th, 2015 10 years ago — 67 years old
Served as the 22nd Prime Minister of Iceland from 2004 to 2006. Led the Progressive Party and was a significant figure in Icelandic politics. Held various ministerial positions including Minister of Fisheries and Minister of Transport and Communications. Focused on economic development and international relations during tenure. Contributed to shaping Iceland's policy on fisheries and the economy.
Continue ReadingRaymond Gosling
Physicist known for X-ray diffraction
Born
July 15th, 1926 99 years ago
Died
May 18th, 2015 10 years ago — 88 years old
A physicist and academic made significant contributions to the field of biophysics, particularly through work on X-ray diffraction techniques. Collaborated with Rosalind Franklin in the study of DNA structure, leading to important discoveries regarding its helical shape. Utilized X-ray diffraction images to analyze biological macromolecules, enhancing the understanding of molecular biology. Served in various academic roles, including positions at University College London, and published numerous papers in scientific journals.
Continue ReadingChris Cornell
Singer-songwriter and guitarist of Soundgarden
Born
July 20th, 1964 61 years ago
Died
May 18th, 2017 8 years ago — 52 years old
Cornell gained prominence as the lead vocalist and rhythm guitarist of the rock band Soundgarden, which played a key role in the 1990s Seattle grunge movement. The band achieved critical acclaim with albums like 'Superunknown' and 'Badmotorfinger'. In addition to his work with Soundgarden, he formed the band Audioslave, contributing to their success with hits like 'Like a Stone' and 'Cochise'. Cornell's solo career included the well-received album 'Euphoria Morning'. He was recognized for his powerful vocal range and emotional performances, earning multiple awards throughout his career including Grammys and an MTV Video Music Award. His contributions to music extended beyond his bands, with collaborations and contributions to soundtracks and tribute albums.
Continue ReadingTony O'Reilly
Rugby player and businessman
Born
May 7th, 1936 89 years ago
Died
May 18th, 2024 1 years ago — 88 years old
Played rugby union for Ireland and represented the British and Irish Lions on their 1959 tour to Australia and New Zealand. Transitioned to a successful business career, leading the H.J. Heinz Company as the managing director of its Irish operations. O'Reilly became a prominent media figure, acquiring a controlling interest in Independent News & Media, which published several major newspapers and media outlets in Ireland.
Continue ReadingElias Ashmole
Astrologer and politician with antiquities journal
Born
May 23rd, 1617 408 years ago
Died
May 18th, 1692 333 years ago — 74 years old
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.
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