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
Marie Champmeslé
French actress in classic theatre
Born
February 18th, 1642 383 years ago
Died
May 15th, 1698 327 years ago — 56 years old
Originated in the 17th century French theatre, a prominent actress at the Hôtel de Bourgogne in Paris. Champmeslé gained acclaim for performances in tragedies and became a leading figure in the works of playwrights such as Racine. Notably partnered with the influential actor, she contributed to the development of French dramaturgy and the popularity of classic theatre forms. Her interpretation of roles in plays like 'Andromaque' helped define theatrical expression during the period.
Continue ReadingBryan Oviedo
Costa Rican footballer with Everton tenure
Born
February 18th, 1990 35 years ago
A professional footballer specialized in defense and midfield positions. Played for several clubs including Everton in the English Premier League and represented the Costa Rican national team in multiple international tournaments. Contributed to Costa Rica's successful campaign during the 2014 FIFA World Cup, where the team reached the quarter-finals. Also played in key club tournaments across various leagues, showcasing skills in both domestic and international matches.
Continue ReadingLewis Armistead
American Civil War General
Born
February 18th, 1817 208 years ago
Died
July 5th, 1863 162 years ago — 46 years old
A general in the Confederate States Army, served in the Mexican-American War before rising to prominence during the American Civil War. Commanded a brigade in the Army of Northern Virginia and played a significant role in key battles such as the Battle of Gettysburg. Suffered fatal injuries during combat in this pivotal conflict, which ultimately led to his death shortly afterward. A dedicated military officer, his leadership was notable during some of the most intense engagements of the war.
Continue ReadingMary I of England
Queen of England and Ireland
Born
February 18th, 1516 509 years ago
Died
November 17th, 1558 467 years ago — 42 years old
Reigned as Queen of England and Ireland from 1553 until 1558. Mary was the first woman to rule England in her own right. The daughter of Henry VIII and Catherine of Aragon, she attempted to restore Roman Catholicism in England after the Protestant Reformation initiated by her father. Her reign was marked by the persecution of Protestants, now referred to as the Marian Persecutions. Mary married Philip II of Spain, which was controversial and led to anti-Spanish sentiment during her rule. The queen's reign concluded with her death in 1558, which led to the accession of her half-sister, Elizabeth I.
Continue ReadingJohn Hughes
Film director and screenwriter of 'Ferris Bueller's Day Off'
Born
February 18th, 1950 75 years ago
Died
August 6th, 2009 16 years ago — 59 years old
American director, producer, and screenwriter contributed significantly to the teen comedy genre in the 1980s and 1990s. Authored and directed several influential films, focusing on teenage life and culture. Work included titles such as 'Sixteen Candles', 'The Breakfast Club', and 'Ferris Bueller's Day Off'. Established a distinctive style that combined humor with critical commentary on adolescence. Founded his production company, Hughes Entertainment, which produced multiple successful films.
Continue ReadingHans Asperger
Austrian pediatrician and researcher
Born
February 18th, 1906 119 years ago
Died
October 21st, 1980 45 years ago — 74 years old
Asperger contributed significantly to the understanding of autism, especially in children. His work in the 1940s led to the identification of a specific form of autism that would later bear his name. He conducted comprehensive observational studies on children with social and communication difficulties, distinguishing characteristics that would inform future autism research. Asperger established a clinic in Vienna dedicated to pediatric medicine and was instrumental in developing educational approaches for children with autism and related conditions. His research emphasized the importance of understanding and diagnosing autism spectrum disorders in an educational context.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on August 23rd
Adolf Loos
Austrian architect and theorist of modernism
Born
December 10th, 1870 155 years ago
Died
August 23rd, 1933 92 years ago — 62 years old
An influential architect and theorist, contributed significantly to modern architecture in the early 20th century. Developed concepts that emphasized functionalism and rejected ornamental design. Authored the essay "Ornament and Crime," which argued against decorative elements in architecture. Designed notable structures including the Looshaus in Vienna and the American Bar, showcasing minimalist design principles.
Continue ReadingStanford Moore
Biochemist, Nobel Prize laureate
Born
September 4th, 1913 112 years ago
Died
August 23rd, 1982 43 years ago — 68 years old
A prominent biochemist and academic contributed significantly to the field of enzyme chemistry. Developed methods for sequencing proteins, leading to a greater understanding of their structure and function. Shared the 1972 Nobel Prize in Chemistry with others for work on ribonuclease.
Continue ReadingRoberto Assagioli
Italian psychiatrist, founder of psychosynthesis
Born
February 27th, 1888 137 years ago
Died
August 23rd, 1974 51 years ago — 86 years old
Contributed significantly to psychology through the development of psychosynthesis, a therapeutic approach that integrates both psychological and spiritual aspects of the human experience. Assagioli established the Psychosynthesis Institute in 1926 in Florence, Italy, where he promoted his methods. Utilized techniques such as guided imagery and meditation in therapy. Assagioli's work influenced the fields of transpersonal psychology and personal development.
Continue ReadingAlbert Ebossé Bodjongo
Cameroonian footballer and striker
Born
October 6th, 1989 36 years ago
Died
August 23rd, 2014 11 years ago — 24 years old
Played as a professional footballer in various leagues, primarily as a striker. Most notably played for the Algerian club JS Kabylie, where significant contributions to the team's scoring helped secure titles. Scored numerous goals during his career, showcasing skills that gained attention in the African football scene. Tragically passed away on the pitch due to an incident during a match in 2014, which sparked discussions about player safety.
Continue ReadingRudolph Valentino
Italian silent film actor
Born
May 6th, 1895 130 years ago
Died
August 23rd, 1926 99 years ago — 31 years old
Born in Italy, achieved stardom as a leading actor during the silent film era in Hollywood. Gained significant popularity for roles in films such as 'The Sheik' and 'The Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse.' His performances captivated audiences and contributed to the phenomenon of the 'Latin lover' archetype in cinema. Valentino's sudden death at the age of 31 led to widespread mourning among fans and colleagues, solidifying a lasting legacy in film history.
Continue ReadingJohn Kendrew
Biochemist and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
March 24th, 1917 108 years ago
Died
August 23rd, 1997 28 years ago — 80 years old
Contributed significantly to the field of biochemistry and crystallography. Conducted pioneering research on the structure of proteins, leading to advancements in understanding their functions. Played a critical role in the development of X-ray crystallography techniques. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1962 for work on the structure of proteins, especially myoglobin.
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