George Gallup
Statistician and polling pioneer
A pioneering American statistician, Gallup founded the Gallup Organization, which developed sophisticated methods of public opinion polling. Gallup's work transformed the field of survey research and established standards for accurate measurement of public sentiment. He introduced innovations in sampling techniques and questionnaire design, contributing significantly to the social sciences. His methodologies became widely adopted across various fields, from politics to marketing. Gallup's insights into voter behavior and public perception influenced election strategies and campaigns.
Founded the Gallup Organization
Developed modern public opinion polling
Other People Born on November 18th
Herman Rarebell
Rock drummer and songwriter for Scorpions
Born
November 18th, 1949 76 years ago
German rock drummer and songwriter gained recognition for contributions to the band Scorpions. Joined the band in 1977 and was a key member during their rise to fame. Played on landmark albums such as 'Lovedrive,' 'Blackout,' and the iconic 'Savage Amusement.' Rarebell's drumming style and songwriting significantly shaped the band's sound during the 1980s and 1990s. Left Scorpions in 1996, continuing to engage in various musical projects and collaborations. Remains a notable figure in the rock music scene.
Continue ReadingWyndham Lewis
English painter and art critic
Born
November 18th, 1882 143 years ago
Died
March 7th, 1957 69 years ago — 74 years old
A prominent figure in the vorticism movement, significant contributions included painting, writing, and criticism. Lewis founded the literary magazine Blast and authored several books on art and culture. Focused on modernism, the artist created works that challenged traditional aesthetics. His paintings often depicted urban life and abstract forms. One of the most notable works was the painting 'The Enemy'.
Continue ReadingGary Bettenhausen
American race car driver, Indianapolis 500
Born
November 18th, 1941 84 years ago
Died
March 16th, 2014 12 years ago — 72 years old
Competed in numerous racing events, primarily in the Indianapolis 500, participating in 17 races between 1972 and 1993. Achieved notable finishes, including a top placement of fourth in the 1980 Indianapolis 500. Before focusing on IndyCar, raced in various series including USAC and NASCAR. Gained recognition for driving in the National Championship car series and participated in several shorts for local tracks. Had a career spanning over four decades in the racing industry.
Continue ReadingAlan Dean Foster
American author of speculative fiction
Born
November 18th, 1946 79 years ago
An American author recognized for contributions to science fiction and fantasy literature. Created original novels based on popular film franchises. Wrote the novelization of Star Wars: A New Hope and explored the universes of Alien and The Thing. Foster's writing often features complex world-building and intricate plots, appealing to a broad readership. Over the years, wrote numerous novels and short stories across various series, earning a dedicated following.
Continue ReadingGraham Parker
Singer-songwriter with acclaimed albums
Born
November 18th, 1950 75 years ago
This English singer-songwriter and guitarist began a music career in the early 1970s, gaining attention for a unique blend of rock and punk influences. The debut album, 'Howlin' Wind' released in 1976, showcased a raw sound and poignant lyrics, establishing a significant presence in the UK music scene. Subsequent albums like 'Squeezing Out Sparks' featured critical acclaim and are considered landmarks in the genre. Throughout the career, collaborations with notable musicians and tours with influential bands have expanded the musical repertoire. Parker's writing often grapples with themes of love, social issues, and personal struggles, resonating with a dedicated fan base.
Continue ReadingAna Mendieta
Cuban-American sculptor and performance artist
Born
November 18th, 1948 77 years ago
Died
1985 41 years ago — 37 years old
Born in Cuba, the artist relocated to the United States as a child. Through a unique blend of sculpture, painting, and performance, created a body of work that explored themes of feminism, identity, and the relationship with nature. Many works involved earth art and body-based performance, often using the landscape to convey personal and cultural narratives. Her 'Silueta' series, which included the creation of silhouettes using natural materials, is particularly recognized. The artist's life was tragically cut short in 1985, leaving behind a significant legacy in contemporary art.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on July 26th
George W. Romney
Governor of Michigan, businessman
Born
July 8th, 1907 118 years ago
Died
July 26th, 1995 30 years ago — 88 years old
Served as the 43rd Governor of Michigan from 1963 to 1969. Led efforts in improving the state's economy and education system during tenure. Before political career, held leadership roles in the automotive industry, including president of American Motors Corporation. Advocated for civil rights and urban renewal.
Continue ReadingJaime Lucas Ortega y Alamino
Cuban cardinal and ecclesiastical leader
Born
October 18th, 1936 89 years ago
Died
July 26th, 2019 6 years ago — 82 years old
Ordained as a priest in 1961, achieved positions of significant influence within the Catholic Church in Cuba. Served as the Archbishop of Havana from 1981 until retirement in 2016. Actively participated in dialogue with the Cuban government, advocating for religious freedoms and social issues in an increasingly complex political landscape. Instrumental in establishing a presence for the Catholic Church in contemporary Cuba, influencing both church policy and community outreach.
Continue ReadingW. Averell Harriman
American politician and diplomat
Born
November 15th, 1891 134 years ago
Died
July 26th, 1986 39 years ago — 94 years old
A prominent American businessman and politician, served as the 11th United States Secretary of Commerce under President Harry S. Truman from 1945 to 1946. Involved in international relations, played a key role in post-World War II diplomacy, particularly in the establishment of the Marshall Plan to aid in the reconstruction of Europe. Held multiple significant leadership roles including Governor of New York from 1955 to 1958. Contributed to various philanthropic causes and was influential in the fields of transportation and infrastructure development throughout his career.
Continue ReadingPhaedon Gizikis
Greek general and President of Greece
Born
June 16th, 1917 109 years ago
Died
July 26th, 1999 26 years ago — 82 years old
A military officer and politician, served as President of Greece in 1973 during a period of military rule. Held the role briefly until the transition back to democracy. Involved in military operations during the Greek Civil War and contributed to the army's leadership. Engaged in political affairs within the government throughout his career, reflecting the tumultuous political landscape of Greece in the mid-20th century.
Continue ReadingOlivia de Havilland
Actress and Academy Award winner
Born
July 1st, 1916 109 years ago
Died
July 26th, 2020 5 years ago — 104 years old
Born in 1916, this British-American actress gained prominence in Hollywood during the Golden Age of cinema. Renowned for roles in classics, she starred in 'Gone with the Wind' as Melanie Hamilton and in 'The Heiress', for which she received an Academy Award for Best Actress. The actress broke barriers in the film industry, becoming a notable advocate for performers' rights, challenging studio contracts that restricted actors. Her career spanned several decades, with performances that showcased a range of characters and emotional depth. Later in life, she received further recognition for her contributions to cinema, earning multiple honors and a lasting legacy in film history.
Continue ReadingHoward Vernon
Swiss-French actor in horror films
Born
July 15th, 1914 111 years ago
Died
July 26th, 1921 104 years ago — 7 years old
Born in 1914, an actor had a prolific career primarily in horror cinema. Worked with renowned directors and featured in several cult films. Notable performances include roles in 'The Last Man on Earth', 'The Horrible Dr. Hichcock', and 'The Devil's Nightmare'. His contributions to the genre left a lasting legacy in European horror films.
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