Eric Gairy
Grenadian politician, 1st Prime Minister
A Grenadian politician served as the first Prime Minister of Grenada from 1974 to 1979. Initially a teacher and trade union leader, played a crucial role in Grenada's independence from Britain. His leadership was marked by significant political and social changes in the country. Deposed in a coup in 1979, later lived in exile in the United States before returning to Grenada in the 1980s, continuing political involvement until his death.
Served as the first Prime Minister of Grenada
Led Grenada to independence from Britain in 1974
Other People Born on February 18th
Harry Brearley
English inventor of stainless steel
Born
February 18th, 1871 154 years ago
Died
1948 78 years ago — 77 years old
An English inventor played a crucial role in developing stainless steel. In 1913, while working in a Sheffield steelworks, discovered the corrosion-resistant properties of an alloy containing chromium. This discovery led to the industrial production of stainless steel, which has since been widely used in various industries, from cutlery to construction. Brearley's work significantly influenced metallurgy and engineering, and his invention remains essential in modern manufacturing.
Continue ReadingNikolai Podgorny
Ukrainian engineer and politician
Born
February 18th, 1903 122 years ago
Died
January 12th, 1983 43 years ago — 79 years old
An engineer and politician served in significant roles in Soviet Ukraine. Played an essential part in the Soviet leadership hierarchy during the 1960s and 1970s. Held the position of Chairman of the Presidium of the Supreme Soviet from 1965 to 1977, which was a key post within the Soviet governmental structure, influencing various policies and initiatives.
Continue ReadingRamakrishna Paramahamsa
Indian mystic and yogi, spiritual leader
Born
February 18th, 1836 189 years ago
Died
1886 140 years ago — 50 years old
A prominent mystic and yogi, emphasized the unity of all religions and the importance of direct experience of God. Established a monastic order that influenced many spiritual movements. Taught through profound spiritual experiences, transformative realizations, and inspired others to pursue spiritual truths. Continued to have a lasting influence on religious thought and practice, especially in Hindu philosophy.
Continue ReadingFrancesco Redi
Italian physician and biologist
Born
February 18th, 1626 399 years ago
Died
March 1st, 1697 328 years ago — 71 years old
A prominent figure in experimental biology, contributed significantly to the study of spontaneous generation. Conducted experiments demonstrating that maggots on decaying meat came from eggs laid by flies, not generated spontaneously. Published 'Esperienze Intorno alla Generazione degl'Insetti' in 1668, which laid the groundwork for the field of microbiology. Served as a physician to the Grand Duke of Tuscany and was involved in the study of parasitology, notably investigating the life cycles of various parasites.
Continue ReadingJean Jules Jusserand
French historian and diplomat
Born
February 18th, 1855 170 years ago
Died
July 18th, 1932 93 years ago — 77 years old
A prominent historian and author, served as the French Ambassador to the United States from 1902 to 1925. Contributed significantly to Franco-American relations and was involved in various diplomatic efforts during World War I. Authored several works on American history and culture, including 'With Americans of Past and Present Days', which examined the connections between France and the United States.
Continue ReadingAudre Lorde
Writer and Civil Rights Activist
Born
February 18th, 1934 91 years ago
Died
November 17th, 1992 33 years ago — 58 years old
A prominent figure in the feminist and civil rights movements, this individual focused on issues of race, gender, and sexuality. Published several important works, including 'Sister Outsider' and 'The Black Unicorn'. Served as the Poet Laureate of New York from 1991 to 1993. Contributed significantly to the literature surrounding intersectionality, shaping discussions in both feminism and LGBTQ+ rights.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on August 23rd
Helen Churchill Candee
American journalist and author of novels
Born
October 5th, 1858 167 years ago
Died
August 23rd, 1949 76 years ago — 90 years old
Born in 1858, a prominent American journalist and author contributed to the literary and cultural landscape through various publications. Many articles featured travel writing, reflecting experiences in Europe and insights into the lives of women. Notable works included novels and essays that highlighted societal issues of the time. Candee was also an advocate for women's rights, participating in suffrage movements and using her platform to promote women's education and independence. Her writings often explored themes of personal freedom and the roles of women in society.
Continue ReadingJan Sedivka
Czech-Australian violinist and educator
Born
September 8th, 1917 108 years ago
Died
August 23rd, 2003 22 years ago — 85 years old
Born in Czechoslovakia, contributed significantly to the fields of music and education. Moved to Australia, where established a prominent career as a violinist and educator. Played in various orchestras and taught at numerous institutions, influencing the next generation of musicians. Actively participated in musical events, showcasing classical violin compositions and dedicating himself to the development of music education in Australia.
Continue ReadingBobby Bonds
Baseball player and coach, 3-time All-Star
Born
March 15th, 1946 79 years ago
Died
August 23rd, 2003 22 years ago — 57 years old
A professional baseball player and coach, excelled as an outfielder and designated hitter. Competed in Major League Baseball from 1968 to 1981 for teams including the San Francisco Giants, New York Yankees, and California Angels. Achieved significant success with three All-Star selections and recorded over 300 home runs in his career. Transitioned to coaching after retirement, contributing to the development of players in various minor league teams.
Continue ReadingRichard J. Corman
Businessman and Railroad CEO
Born
July 22nd, 1955 70 years ago
Died
August 23rd, 2013 12 years ago — 58 years old
Founded R.J. Corman Railroad Group, a company specializing in railroad services, including construction and maintenance. Established the company in 1973, which grew to become a significant player in the railroad industry, providing innovative solutions and services across the United States. Under leadership, the company expanded its operations and acquired multiple other rail-related businesses, supporting infrastructure development in the railway sector.
Continue ReadingAlbert Roussel
French composer and orchestrator
Born
April 5th, 1869 156 years ago
Died
August 23rd, 1937 88 years ago — 68 years old
A significant figure in French music, contributed to the development of 20th-century classical music. Studied at the Schola Cantorum in Paris and later served in the French Navy, which influenced many compositions. Worked as a teacher and composed operas, ballets, symphonies, and chamber music, showcasing a blend of traditional and modern elements. Notable compositions include 'Bacchus et Ariane' and 'Le Festin de l’araignée'.
Continue ReadingR. D. Laing
Scottish psychiatrist and author
Born
October 7th, 1927 98 years ago
Died
August 23rd, 1989 36 years ago — 61 years old
A Scottish psychiatrist, contributions focused on mental illness and how it affects individuals and society. Authored several influential books, including 'The Divided Self' and 'Knots', which explored the depth of psychosis and schizophrenia. Advocated for the understanding of mental illness within cultural contexts, challenging traditional psychiatric practices. Laing established the Philadelphia Association, promoting community-oriented mental health care. Conducted various lectures and writings that questioned conventional approaches to psychiatry, emphasizing the need for empathy and understanding in treatment.
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