Gino Bartali
Cyclist and Tour de France winner
A prominent Italian cyclist, he achieved significant success in the 1930s and 1940s. Victories included the Giro d'Italia and the Tour de France, where he won in 1938 and 1948 respectively. Apart from racing, he played a crucial role in underground resistance during World War II, helping to save Jewish lives by providing them with false documents and transporting them to safety. His contributions extended beyond cycling, showcasing bravery in challenging circumstances.
Won the Giro d'Italia three times
Won the Tour de France twice
Assisted in the rescue of Jews during WWII
Other People Born on July 18th
Frank Forde
Australian educator and Prime Minister
Born
July 18th, 1890 135 years ago
Died
January 28th, 1983 42 years ago — 92 years old
An educator and politician served as the 15th Prime Minister of Australia for a brief period in 1945. Forde became Prime Minister following the death of John Curtin and completed the term until the election of Ben Chifley. Prior to his premiership, Forde held various ministerial positions, including Minister for the Army during World War II. His contributions in education and public service spanned several decades, emphasizing the importance of education reform and community engagement. Forde's leadership style focused on collaboration within the Labor Party, significantly influencing party dynamics in post-war Australia.
Continue ReadingRichard Leacock
Film director and producer, documentary cinema
Born
July 18th, 1921 104 years ago
Died
2011 14 years ago — 90 years old
A pioneer of documentary cinema, contributed significantly to the development of direct cinema. Worked on influential films that emphasized observational filmmaking. Collaborated with significant figures in the industry, including the production of 'Primary' in 1960, which captured the Wisconsin primary election between John F. Kennedy and Hubert Humphrey. Involved in educational film projects and taught at various institutions, influencing future generations of filmmakers.
Continue ReadingSaverio Bettinelli
Italian poet and playwright
Born
July 18th, 1718 307 years ago
Died
September 13th, 1808 217 years ago — 90 years old
Born in 1718, this individual contributed significantly to Italian literature through poetry, plays, and critical writings. Active during the 18th century, the work encompassed various literary forms while also engaging with contemporary literary debates. The contribution to the dramatic arts included theatrical plays that were staged in Italy. Additionally, the critique of both poetry and drama provided a framework for evaluating literary merit during the Enlightenment period. The individual's literary voice reflected the cultural and philosophical movements of the time, influencing the literary community in Italy.
Continue ReadingIsabella of Austria
Danish queen
Born
July 18th, 1501 524 years ago
Died
January 19th, 1526 499 years ago — 24 years old
Born in 1501, she served as the queen consort of Denmark and Norway through her marriage to Christian II. Her marriage was politically strategic, solidifying alliances of the Danish crown. Following the death of her husband in 1523, she played a role in the political struggles of her time, particularly during the tumultuous periods in Denmark. She died in 1526 under circumstances that remain part of historical discourse.
Continue ReadingMargaret Laurence
Canadian author, 'The Stone Angel'
Born
July 18th, 1926 99 years ago
Died
January 5th, 1987 38 years ago — 60 years old
An influential Canadian author and academic, contributions were pivotal in Canadian literature. Wrote acclaimed novels exploring themes of identity, gender, and the human experience. Most recognized for 'The Stone Angel,' a novel that delves into the life of an aging woman reflecting on her past. Also contributed essays, short stories, and children’s books, establishing a significant presence in literary circles. Engaged in academic pursuits, teaching at various universities and encouraging new generations of writers.
Continue ReadingGiacinto Facchetti
Footballer and Inter Milan captain
Born
July 18th, 1942 83 years ago
Died
September 4th, 2006 19 years ago — 64 years old
A professional footballer from Italy played as a left-back. Facchetti spent his entire club career at Inter Milan, making a significant contribution to the team's success during the 1960s and 1970s. He transitioned the role of defender into an attacking position, becoming a pioneer in offensive-defensive play. Facchetti earned 94 caps for the Italian national team, participating in the 1966 World Cup and winning the 1968 UEFA European Championship. After retiring from professional play, he served as a director at Inter Milan and was involved in various football-related activities until his passing in 2006.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on May 5th
Jeannie Epper
Stuntwoman in Hollywood action films
Born
1941 84 years ago
Died
May 5th, 2024 1 years ago — 83 years old
An accomplished stuntwoman and actress, contributions spanned several decades in the film industry. Gained recognition for work in various action films including ‘The Terminator’ and ‘Die Hard’. Participated in high-profile productions, showcasing expertise in stunts and fight choreography. Worked alongside notable actors and filmmakers, establishing a reputation in Hollywood. Achievements included performing stunts for prominent lead actors, making a significant mark in the stunt community. In addition to stunts, also acted in various television shows, further diversifying contributions to the entertainment industry.
Continue ReadingBinyamin Elon
Israeli Orthodox rabbi and politician
Born
1954 71 years ago
Died
May 5th, 2017 8 years ago — 63 years old
Served as a member of the Knesset and held the position of Minister of Tourism in Israel. Participated in the formation of the National Religious Party and was influential in various political initiatives concerning religious and national issues. Advocated for religious education and Jewish settlement in the West Bank. Contributed to discussions on Israeli identity and cultural heritage.
Continue ReadingNaushad Ali
Indian composer and music director
Born
December 25th, 1919 105 years ago
Died
May 5th, 2006 19 years ago — 86 years old
A prominent music director and composer, contributed significantly to Hindi cinema. Active from the 1940s to the 1990s, composed music for over 100 films, blending classical and folk styles. Gained acclaim for the soundtracks of films such as 'Baiju Bawra', 'Mughal-e-Azam', and 'Kismet'. His compositions featured orchestration that set new standards in Indian film music.
Continue ReadingBernard Hill
English actor known for 'Titanic'
Born
December 17th, 1944 81 years ago
Died
May 5th, 2024 1 years ago — 79 years old
An English actor gained prominence through numerous performances in film and television. Striking roles include the portrayal of King Theoden in 'The Lord of the Rings' trilogy and Captain Edward Smith in 'Titanic'. Hill's career spans several decades, with work in both dramatic and comedic roles. Early career involvement in both theater and television laid a strong foundation for a notable film career. Recognition for performances in various productions led to a significant reputation within the acting community.
Continue ReadingJobst Brandt
Cyclist and author of cycling literature
Born
1935 90 years ago
Died
May 5th, 2015 10 years ago — 80 years old
An American cyclist and engineer, contributions included extensive writings on cycling techniques and strategies. Author of influential works, primarily 'The Competitive Cyclist' and 'Jobst Brandt's Cycling' led to significant discussions on the sport's technical aspects. Involved in the development of cycling equipment and advocacy for cycling safety and efficiency, promoting the sport through engineering innovations. Brandt's experience as a competitive cyclist shaped his perspective, leading to the promotion of various cycling disciplines and a strong focus on performance improvements.
Continue ReadingLeopold Löwenheim
Mathematician and logician
Born
June 26th, 1878 147 years ago
Died
May 5th, 1957 68 years ago — 78 years old
Contributed significantly to mathematical logic and model theory. Developed the Löwenheim-Skolem theorem, which establishes a relationship between formal languages and their models. Engaged in the foundations of mathematics and worked on a range of topics within mathematical logic throughout his career. His work helped to shape the understanding of the consistency and completeness of logical systems.
Continue Reading