Ferenc Münnich
Hungarian soldier and politician
Served as the 47th Prime Minister of Hungary from 1958 to 1961. Participated in World War I as a soldier and later in the Hungarian Soviet Republic. After the fall of the Soviet Republic, faced imprisonment but returned to political life following World War II. Held key positions in the Hungarian Socialist Workers' Party and played a significant role in the political restructuring of Hungary in the post-war period. Contributed to various reforms during the 1950s.
Prime Minister of Hungary from 1958 to 1961
Involvement in Hungarian politics after World War II
Participation as a soldier in World War I
Other People Born on November 18th
Margaret Jay
English politician and journalist, Leader of the House of Lords
Born
November 18th, 1939 86 years ago
Baroness Jay of Paddington served as a significant figure in British politics and journalism. As Leader of the House of Lords from 1997 to 1999, she played a key role in the government's legislative agenda in the upper house. Jay held various positions within the Labour Party, advocating for policy reforms and engaging in public discourse on important issues. In journalism, she contributed significantly as a writer and editor for several publications, providing insights into political matters. Jay has been recognized for her contributions to public service and media.
Continue ReadingVictor Hémery
French racing driver and innovator
Born
November 18th, 1876 149 years ago
Died
September 9th, 1950 75 years ago — 73 years old
A pioneering French racing driver, significant contributions to motorsport took place in the early 20th century. Competed in various prestigious races and was a prominent figure in the Paris-Madrid race of 1903. Achieved success with the Fiat and Mercedes teams. Set several speed records and earned a reputation for technical skill and daring on the racetrack. Also worked as a test driver, contributing to advancements in automotive technology.
Continue ReadingRudolf Bahro
Philosopher and German politician
Born
November 18th, 1935 90 years ago
Died
1997 29 years ago — 62 years old
A philosopher and politician, contributed to political thought and activism in East Germany. Critiqued the socialist state and advocated for reforms within the communist system. Authored significant works on democracy and ecology, including 'Logik der Rettung' and 'Die Alternative', which explored alternatives to existing societal structures. Spent years in imprisonment for political dissent and later became involved in the ecological movement. Emigrated to West Germany, where continued to write and influence political discourse.
Continue ReadingVassilis Vassilikos
Greek journalist and diplomat
Born
November 18th, 1933 92 years ago
Died
2023 3 years ago — 90 years old
Contributed to journalism and diplomacy in Greece, particularly through literary works and political engagement. Authored the novel 'Z' which critiques the political climate of Greece, reflecting on the events surrounding the assassination of leftist politician Gregoris Lambrakis. Worked as a diplomat, representing Greece in various international contexts and advocating for human rights and democratic values.
Continue ReadingMargaret Atwood
Canadian author, 'The Handmaid's Tale'
Born
November 18th, 1939 86 years ago
An author and poet, contributed extensively to literature with a focus on themes such as feminism, dystopia, and environmentalism. Published several acclaimed novels, including 'The Handmaid's Tale', which gained significant attention through its adaptation into a television series. Other notable works include 'Oryx and Crake' and 'The Blind Assassin', which won the Booker Prize. Atwood also engaged in literary criticism and political activism, addressing issues such as climate change and women's rights.
Continue ReadingHoward Thurman
Civil Rights Activist and Philosopher
Born
November 18th, 1899 126 years ago
Died
April 10th, 1981 44 years ago — 81 years old
An influential author and philosopher, contributed significantly to the philosophy of nonviolence and social justice. Played a key role in the civil rights movement, emphasizing the importance of spiritual values in addressing social issues. Served as the dean of the Chapel at Boston University, where teachings inspired many leaders. Founded the Church for the Fellowship of All Peoples in San Francisco, the first intentional multiracial church in the United States.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on November 29th
Laurentius Paulinus Gothus
Swedish astronomer and theologian
Born
November 10th, 1565 460 years ago
Died
November 29th, 1646 379 years ago — 81 years old
Born in Sweden in 1565, significant contributions to astronomy and theology occurred during the late 16th century. Held various ecclesiastical positions, contributing to the development of both fields. Emphasized the importance of empirical observation in astronomy, integrating scientific inquiry with theological understanding. Wrote influential texts that explored the relationship between divine creation and celestial phenomena.
Continue ReadingFrank Waller
American middle-distance runner, Olympian
Born
June 24th, 1884 141 years ago
Died
November 29th, 1941 84 years ago — 57 years old
Won a silver medal in the 800 meters at the 1908 Olympic Games held in London. Competed in the 1906 Intercalated Games, securing a gold medal in the 800 meters. Represented the United States in multiple international competitions, achieving significant recognition in middle-distance running during the early 20th century. Contributed to the development of the sport through participation in prestigious events.
Continue ReadingKinza Clodumar
Nauruan politician, 7th President
Born
1945 81 years ago
Died
November 29th, 2021 4 years ago — 76 years old
Served as the 7th President of Nauru from 1999 to 2000. Held the position of Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade during the presidency. Engaged in various diplomatic efforts to strengthen Nauru's international relations. Contributed to discussions regarding the country's economic and environmental challenges. Passed away on November 29, 2021.
Continue ReadingBoyd Wagner
Colonel and pilot of WWII era
Born
October 26th, 1916 109 years ago
Died
November 29th, 1942 83 years ago — 26 years old
Born in 1916, a colonel and pilot served in the United States Army Air Forces during World War II. Participated in several significant aerial campaigns in the Pacific Theater. After the war, continued a career in military aviation, contributing to various training programs and operational strategies. Retired from active duty, remained involved in aviation as a civilian, imparting knowledge and experience to future generations of pilots.
Continue ReadingRalph Beard
American basketball player and coach
Born
December 2nd, 1927 98 years ago
Died
November 29th, 2007 18 years ago — 79 years old
Began basketball career at the University of Kentucky, contributing significantly to the team's success. Played professional basketball in the 1940s and 1950s, primarily with the Indianapolis Olympians. Achieved recognition for outstanding skills on the court, becoming a key player during the early days of the NBA. Transitioned to coaching after retirement from playing, guiding various teams.
Continue ReadingNatalya Gorbanevskaya
Poet and activist advocating for rights
Born
May 26th, 1936 89 years ago
Died
November 29th, 2013 12 years ago — 77 years old
Born in 1936, a Russian-Polish poet and activist emerged as a significant figure in the dissent against the Soviet regime. Gorbanevskaya participated in the 1968 Red Square demonstration, protesting the Soviet invasion of Czechoslovakia. Following her arrest, she faced extensive legal repercussions, including imprisonment and exile. Throughout her life, she published various works highlighting the plight of political prisoners and the need for freedom of speech. Gorbanevskaya's literary contributions often focused on themes of human rights and social justice, reflecting her commitment to these causes during a repressive era in her home country. In her later years, she lived in Poland, continuing to write and advocate for human rights.
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