Frank Capra
Film director of It’s a Wonderful Life
An Italian-American director, producer, and screenwriter contributed significantly to the Golden Age of Hollywood. Directed a number of critically acclaimed films during the 1930s and 1940s, including 'It's a Wonderful Life', 'Mr. Smith Goes to Washington', and 'It Happened One Night'. Capra's works often depicted the importance of the individual and American values. Won three Academy Awards for Best Director and received recognition for his storytelling and innovative filmmaking techniques.
Directed 'It's a Wonderful Life'
Directed 'It Happened One Night'
Directed 'Mr. Smith Goes to Washington'
Other People Born on May 18th
Nobuteru Taniguchi
Japanese race car driver, notable on circuits
Born
May 18th, 1971 54 years ago
Born in 1971, participated in numerous racing events, particularly in various Japanese racing series. Gained prominence in the Super GT series and made a name in drifting competitions. Achieved success with multiple podium finishes and was a team member for various notable automotive brands. Contributed significantly to the motorsport community through competitive performances.
Continue ReadingEmma Navarro
Tennis player and NCAA champion
Born
May 18th, 2001 24 years ago
A professional tennis player emerged in the junior circuit and achieved success in collegiate tennis. Won the NCAA singles championship while playing for the University of Virginia. Competed on the professional circuit, participating in various Grand Slam events. Contributions include a strong showing in international competitions and a growing presence in the sport.
Continue ReadingLee Hendrie
Footballer and former Aston Villa player
Born
May 18th, 1977 48 years ago
Played as a midfielder during a career spanning over a decade. Made significant contributions to clubs including Aston Villa and Sheffield United. Represented the England U21 national team, earning multiple caps. Known for skillful passing and playmaking abilities. Transitioned into coaching and media roles after retiring from professional football.
Continue ReadingMariusz Lewandowski
Polish footballer; UEFA Cup winner
Born
May 18th, 1979 46 years ago
Born in 1979, contributed to Polish football primarily as a central defender. Played professionally for clubs such as Polish side Polonia Warsaw, Spanish club Deportivo La Coruña, and later, Polish club Zaglebie Lubin. Achieved significant success with Deportivo, winning the Copa del Rey and the UEFA Cup. Represented the Polish national team, earning over 40 caps and participating in the UEFA Euro 2008.
Continue ReadingToyah Willcox
Singer-songwriter and actress
Born
May 18th, 1958 67 years ago
A prolific English singer-songwriter, producer, and actress emerged in the late 1970s. Gained widespread recognition through the single 'It's a Mystery' and the album 'Anthem'. Acted in the film 'Quadrophenia' and the television series 'The Crystal Maze'. Continues to have a presence in music and theater.
Continue ReadingAshley Harrison
Rugby league player, Queensland representative
Born
May 18th, 1981 44 years ago
Born in Australia, a rugby league player played as a lock and second-row forward. Made significant contributions at both club and representative levels. Played for NRL teams including the Brisbane Broncos and Gold Coast Titans. Represented Queensland in State of Origin and played for Australia in international competitions.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on September 3rd
Gian Galeazzo Visconti
Duke of Milan and powerful ruler
Born
October 16th, 1351 674 years ago
Died
September 3rd, 1402 623 years ago — 50 years old
First Duke of Milan, held power from 1385 until 1402. Consolidated control over Milan and its territories, expanding the Visconti domain significantly. Established the duchy as a central authority in Northern Italy, promoting cultural and architectural advancements during the late Middle Ages. Oversaw the construction of important structures, including the Duomo di Milano. Often engaged in various military campaigns to defend and expand his rule.
Continue ReadingE. E. Cummings
Poet and playwright of modernist verse
Born
October 14th, 1894 131 years ago
Died
September 3rd, 1962 63 years ago — 67 years old
An American poet, playwright, and artist, recognized for innovative use of language and syntax. Cummings wrote numerous poems, plays, and essays, often exploring themes of individuality and love. His style incorporated lowercase letters, unconventional punctuation, and spatial arrangements that challenged traditional forms of poetry. His unique approach distinguished him within 20th-century American literature. Major works include the poetry collections 'Tulips and Chimneys' and 'i: six nonlectures', along with several plays. His contributions also spanned visual art, aligning his poetic vision with a singular aesthetic.
Continue ReadingCharlie Rose
Journalist and talk show host, PBS
Born
January 5th, 1942 83 years ago
Died
September 3rd, 2012 13 years ago — 70 years old
A veteran journalist and talk show host, this individual hosted 'Charlie Rose' on PBS for several decades, featuring in-depth interviews with influential figures from various fields including politics, literature, and science. The show garnered critical acclaim for its conversational style and thoughtful discussions. Additionally, served as a co-anchor for 'CBS This Morning', contributing to the program's focus on news and current events. Throughout a long career, highlighted the importance of dialogue and exploration of complex topics.
Continue ReadingSyd Jackson
New Zealand trade union leader and activist
Born
1939 86 years ago
Died
September 3rd, 2007 18 years ago — 68 years old
A prominent trade union leader and activist, played a crucial role in advocating for workers' rights in New Zealand. Contributed to the establishment of various unions, focusing on the rights of workers and fair labor practices. Actively participated in campaigns aimed at improving workplace conditions and wages for employees across multiple sectors. Engaged in political discourse to influence legislation benefiting labor rights and social justice in the nation.
Continue ReadingEmily Kame Kngwarreye
Australian painter and Aboriginal artist
Born
1910 115 years ago
Died
September 3rd, 1996 29 years ago — 86 years old
A prominent Australian painter, significant contributions were made to the world of contemporary art through unique Indigenous perspectives. Originating from the Northern Territory, she began painting in her seventies, drawing inspiration from the landscape and cultural heritage of her people. Her artistic journey gained recognition, leading to solo exhibitions and inclusion in prestigious art collections worldwide. The vibrant works feature a distinctive use of color and pattern, embodying traditional storytelling methods. The artist's work reflects a deep connection to Country and the Dreamtime narratives.
Continue ReadingJane Tomlinson
English long-distance runner and fundraiser
Born
1964 61 years ago
Died
September 3rd, 2007 18 years ago — 43 years old
A long-distance runner specialized in marathons and ultra-marathons. Diagnosed with terminal cancer in 2000, undertook multiple endurance challenges to raise money for cancer charities. Completed the London Marathon in 2002 and 2003, as well as an Ironman triathlon. Established a legacy through fundraising efforts that exceeded £1.5 million for various cancer-related causes before passing away in 2007.
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