Fidel V. Ramos
Filipino general and 12th President
Served as the 12th President of the Philippines from 1992 to 1998. Held various key military and political roles prior to the presidency, including Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces. His administration focused on economic reforms and national stability. Played a significant role in the 1986 People Power Revolution that ousted Ferdinand Marcos. Ramos pursued infrastructure projects and fostered a more open economy.
Served as President from 1992 to 1998
Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces
Key figure in the 1986 People Power Revolution
Other People Born on March 18th
Miki Berenyi
English singer-songwriter and guitarist
Born
March 18th, 1967 58 years ago
A singer-songwriter and guitarist, this individual gained prominence as a member of the alternative rock band Lush. The band emerged in the late 1980s and contributed significantly to the shoegaze movement. Their debut album, "Spooky," received critical acclaim, showcasing a blend of dreamy melodies and guitar-driven sound. The group achieved success in the 1990s with albums like "Split" and "Lovelife," which further cemented their status in the music scene. Activities included extensive touring in support of both studio albums and singles, contributing to a solid international fan base.
Continue ReadingFred Shuttlesworth
Civil Rights Activist, Co-founder SCLC
Born
March 18th, 1922 103 years ago
Died
2011 15 years ago — 89 years old
Played a crucial role in the American civil rights movement. Co-founded the Southern Christian Leadership Conference alongside Martin Luther King Jr. Focused efforts on desegregation and voter registration, advocating for equality and justice in the South. Led numerous protests and demonstrations to combat racial discrimination, particularly in Birmingham, Alabama. Known for his courageous activism despite facing violence and intimidation.
Continue ReadingUnita Blackwell
Civil rights activist and politician
Born
March 18th, 1933 92 years ago
Died
May 13th, 2019 6 years ago — 86 years old
Born in 1933, this individual was a prominent civil rights activist and the first African American woman elected mayor in Mississippi. Active during the civil rights movement, significant contributions included efforts to improve the social and economic conditions of African Americans in the Delta region. Served as the mayor of Mayersville from 2000 to 2004 and was a member of the Mississippi House of Representatives. Participated in numerous protests and marches advocating for voting rights and educational access, working alongside other civil rights leaders.
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 ReadingMike Quackenbush
American wrestler and Chikara founder
Born
March 18th, 1976 49 years ago
Born in 1976, a prominent figure in professional wrestling, established the Chikara wrestling promotion in 2002, fostering an environment that emphasized a unique blend of athletics and storytelling. As a wrestler, developed a distinctive style that incorporated elements of lucha libre and technical wrestling. In addition to in-ring performances, contributed to the wrestling community as a trainer and author, sharing knowledge of the craft through various mediums. Chikara became known for its family-friendly approach and innovative match types, influencing independent wrestling.
Continue ReadingRudolf Diesel
Engineer and inventor of the Diesel engine
Born
March 18th, 1858 167 years ago
Died
September 29th, 1913 112 years ago — 55 years old
Born in 1858 in Germany, a pioneering engineer developed the Diesel engine, which revolutionized the efficiency of internal combustion engines. The invention was aimed at improving energy consumption compared to existing steam engines. Diesel conducted extensive research and experimentation, leading to the patenting of the Diesel engine in 1892. This new engine technology became integral in various industries, including transportation and manufacturing. The Diesel engine's design enhanced fuel efficiency and reduced environmental impact, laying the groundwork for modern diesel engines used in automobiles, ships, and industrial applications.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on July 31st
Roddy Piper
Professional wrestler and actor
Born
April 17th, 1954 71 years ago
Died
July 31st, 2015 10 years ago — 61 years old
A Canadian professional wrestler and actor, contributed significantly to the wrestling industry during the 1980s and 1990s. Gained popularity in the World Wrestling Federation (WWF), where developed the character 'Rowdy' Roddy Piper. Featured in the cult classic film 'They Live' which showcased both acting and wrestling skills. Wrestled in major promotions across North America, returning to WWE as a commentator and manager.
Continue ReadingPaul Bucha
United States Army Medal of Honor recipient
Born
1943 83 years ago
Died
July 31st, 2024 1 years ago — 81 years old
Served in the Vietnam War as a U.S. Army officer. Participated in combat operations as part of the 101st Airborne Division. Received the Medal of Honor for extraordinary heroism during a firefight in 1971. Later became active in veterans' affairs and community service. Authored a memoir detailing experiences in combat.
Continue ReadingFriedrich Franz
Hereditary Grand Duke of Mecklenburg-Schwerin
Born
1910 116 years ago
Died
July 31st, 2001 24 years ago — 91 years old
Held the title of Hereditary Grand Duke of Mecklenburg-Schwerin, serving as a ceremonial figure in a traditional region of Germany. Involved with the Mecklenburg-Schwerin duchy during a time of political transition in Germany. Participated in various cultural and historical activities related to the duchy, contributing to regional heritage. Managed the family estate and engaged in charitable activities for local communities.
Continue ReadingHoward W. Jones
Surgeon and academic associated with IVF
Born
1910 116 years ago
Died
July 31st, 2015 10 years ago — 105 years old
Practiced as a prominent surgeon and made significant contributions to the field of reproductive medicine. Co-founded the Jones Institute for Reproductive Medicine in Virginia. Pioneered in vitro fertilization techniques in the United States, aiding in the birth of the first IVF baby in the U.S. His research and expertise in assisted reproductive technology established new protocols that transformed fertility treatments.
Continue ReadingJohn Graves
American author known for 'Goodbye to a River'
Born
August 6th, 1920 105 years ago
Died
July 31st, 2013 12 years ago — 92 years old
An American author, this individual gained prominence through literary works that often reflect the Texas landscape and its history. The writing style is characterized by a blend of personal narrative, travel writing, and historical reflection. The notable work 'Goodbye to a River', published in 1960, details a journey along the Brazos River and explores themes of nature and nostalgia. This author also contributed essays and other narratives that delve into the relationships among people and their environments.
Continue ReadingAlbert Leduc
Canadian ice hockey player
Born
1902 124 years ago
Died
July 31st, 1990 35 years ago — 88 years old
Played professional ice hockey in the 1960s and 1970s. Competed in the NHL primarily as a forward. Represented teams including the New York Rangers and the Toronto Maple Leafs. Contributed to various teams in the Eastern Hockey League and the American Hockey League. Known for strong performance during his playing career.
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