F. W. de Klerk
South African politician and Nobel laureate
A lawyer and politician, served as the last State President of South Africa from 1989 to 1994. Played a key role in the country's transition from apartheid to a multiracial democracy. Initiated negotiations to dismantle apartheid and released Nelson Mandela from prison, paving the way for democratic elections. Awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1993 alongside Mandela for their efforts in ending the apartheid regime.
Served as State President from 1989 to 1994
Played a crucial role in ending apartheid
Awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1993
Other People Born on March 18th
Linda Partridge
English geneticist and academic leader
Born
March 18th, 1950 75 years ago
A prominent geneticist focused on the study of aging and genetics, significant contributions were made in the field of evolutionary biology. Established a research team at University College London, investigating the genetic mechanisms underlying lifespan and health. Authored numerous influential papers and served on editorial boards of scientific journals. Leadership roles included directorship at the UCL Institute of Healthy Ageing, fostering research on aging-related topics.
Continue ReadingSuzanne Perlman
Hungarian-Dutch visual artist
Born
March 18th, 1922 103 years ago
Died
August 2nd, 2020 5 years ago — 98 years old
Born in Hungary, a visual artist worked in multiple mediums including painting and installation. Relocated to the Netherlands, engaged with various artistic movements and exhibited works internationally. Contributed to contemporary art dialogue and emphasized themes of identity and memory in her creations. Her works have been featured in esteemed galleries and museums across Europe.
Continue ReadingNikolai Rimsky-Korsakov
Russian composer of orchestral works
Born
March 18th, 1844 181 years ago
Died
June 21st, 1908 117 years ago — 64 years old
Born in 1844, this Russian composer contributed extensively to the world of music. Significant contributions include the establishment of the Russian Nationalist School of music, advocating for the incorporation of Russian folk themes into classical compositions. Works include the symphonic suite 'Scheherazade', celebrated for its rich orchestration and narrative quality. Additionally, served as a professor at the Saint Petersburg Conservatory, influencing many future composers.
Continue ReadingSusan Tyrrell
American actress acclaimed for 'Fat City'
Born
March 18th, 1945 80 years ago
Died
June 16th, 2012 13 years ago — 67 years old
An actress born in 1945, a prominent figure in independent cinema during the 1970s. Tyrrell gained recognition for a powerful performance in 'Fat City' directed by John Huston. Other notable roles included performances in 'The Killers' and 'Cry of the City.' Tyrrell's career included television appearances, often showcasing her unique talent. Throughout her life, Tyrrell contended with health issues yet continued to engage with her craft until later stages of her life. Her contributions to film and television left an indelible mark on the industry.
Continue ReadingCornelis Ketel
Dutch painter of portrait works
Born
March 18th, 1548 477 years ago
Died
August 8th, 1616 409 years ago — 68 years old
Born in 1548, a Dutch painter focused on portraiture. He worked predominantly in Amsterdam and was influenced by the Mannerist style. Ketel created numerous portraits of notable figures in the late 16th century, establishing himself within the artistic community of the time. His work was characterized by its attention to detail and vibrant colors, appealing to both nobility and the emerging bourgeois class. Eventually, Ketel moved to England, where he also contributed to the local art scene. His legacy includes a distinct contribution to portrait painting in the Netherlands.
Continue ReadingGian Francesco Malipiero
Italian composer and music educator
Born
March 18th, 1882 143 years ago
Died
August 1st, 1973 52 years ago — 91 years old
Born in 1882, this Italian composer contributed significantly to 20th-century music through operas, orchestral works, and chamber music. Emphasizing the integration of traditional Italian musical elements with contemporary forms, the composer sought to establish a distinctive national style. Teaching at various institutions, he influenced generations of musicians in Italy. Notable works include a series of operas and symphonies, including 'L'aldilà' and 'Sinfonia Italiana'. Malipiero's role as a musicologist and curator of historical Italian music also shaped the discourse around Italy's musical heritage.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on November 11th
Luis Arturo González López
Guatemalan supreme court judge
Born
December 21st, 1900 125 years ago
Died
November 11th, 1965 60 years ago — 64 years old
Served as a Supreme Court judge in Guatemala and briefly held the position of acting president during a period of political turmoil. His tenure reflected a significant time in Guatemalan governance, primarily in the mid-20th century. Demonstrated commitment to legal principles and played a role in the administration of justice during challenging times for the nation, which faced various political and social issues.
Continue ReadingPavel Chistyakov
Russian painter and educator
Born
July 5th, 1832 193 years ago
Died
November 11th, 1919 106 years ago — 87 years old
A prominent Russian painter and educator, contributed significantly to the development of Russian art in the 19th century. Served as a professor at the St. Petersburg Academy of Arts. Specialized in historical and religious themes, with a notable focus on realism in his works. His teaching influenced a generation of artists, and he is credited with promoting a national identity in art through the depiction of Russian culture and history.
Continue ReadingArthur Rothstein
American photographer known for FSA work
Born
July 17th, 1915 110 years ago
Died
November 11th, 1985 40 years ago — 70 years old
This individual was an American photographer and educator. He played a key role in the Farm Security Administration, capturing images that depicted the struggles of rural America during the Great Depression. Rothstein's work aimed to document the impact of the Dust Bowl and his photographs contributed significantly to the visual documentation of American history. In addition to his photography, he held teaching positions at several institutions, influencing future generations of photographers. His expertise in visual storytelling was recognized throughout his career.
Continue ReadingWilliam Ifor Jones
Welsh organist and choral conductor
Born
January 23rd, 1900 126 years ago
Died
November 11th, 1988 37 years ago — 88 years old
Contributed significantly to the fields of music and choral performance. Served as the conductor of various choirs and ensembles, enhancing the choral tradition in Wales. Held the position of organist at notable churches, demonstrating expertise in organ performance. Played an essential role in the promotion of choral music through compositions and arrangements, as well as through performances at major festivals.
Continue ReadingDelbert Mann
American director of 'Marty'
Born
January 30th, 1920 106 years ago
Died
November 11th, 2007 18 years ago — 87 years old
A prominent director and producer, contributed significantly to film and television. Directed the critically acclaimed film 'Marty', which won the Academy Award for Best Picture in 1955. Worked in television, directing episodes of various series including 'The Twilight Zone' and 'Hallmark Hall of Fame'. Mann’s career spanned several decades, showcasing a distinctive directorial style. He was recognized for his work in both independent and studio films.
Continue ReadingJames Madison Porter
American lawyer and Secretary of War
Born
January 6th, 1793 233 years ago
Died
November 11th, 1862 163 years ago — 69 years old
Served as the 18th Secretary of War from 1841 to 1843. Held various political positions including serving as a member of the Pennsylvania House of Representatives. Contributed to military and defense policies during a time of national expansion and challenges. Played a significant role in the American political landscape during the early 19th century.
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