Gordon O'Connor

Canadian General and Minister of Defence

Gordon O'Connor - Canadian General and Minister of Defence
Born

May 18th, 1939
85 years ago

Category

Leaders & Politicians

Country

Canada

Links & References

Born in 1939, a career in the Canadian military culminated in the rank of Major General. Transitioned to politics, serving as the 38th Minister of Defence from 2006 to 2008. Oversaw significant military operations and budgetary decisions during a period of increased Canadian military involvement in Afghanistan.

Served as Chief of Staff for the Canadian Army

Oversaw the Canadian Forces during the Afghanistan War

Directed defense policy while serving as Minister of Defence

Other People Born on May 18th

Pádraig Ó Snodaigh

Irish activist and writer
Born
May 18th, 1935 89 years ago
Died
2025 0 years ago — 90 years old

Contributed to various cultural and political movements in Ireland. Engaged in the promotion of Irish language and heritage. Authored several works that reflect political and cultural themes. Involved with the Irish cultural organization Conradh na Gaeilge, advocating for the Irish language.

Continue Reading

Malcolm Longair

Astronomer and physicist, studied black holes
Born
May 18th, 1941 83 years ago

An astronomer and physicist focused on high-energy astrophysics. Contributed to the understanding of black holes and cosmic radio sources. Served as a professor at the University of Cambridge and as a director of the Institute of Astronomy. Authored several significant publications and texts on astrophysics, particularly emphasizing the role of black holes in the universe.

Continue Reading

Taeyang

South Korean singer and member of Big Bang
Born
May 18th, 1988 36 years ago

Born in 1988, this South Korean singer gained significant recognition as a member of the boy band Big Bang. Debut album, 'Solar', released in 2010, showcased a blend of R&B and pop, earning critical acclaim and commercial success. Solo career highlights include hit singles like 'Eyes, Nose, Lips' which topped charts and established a strong personal brand. Noteworthy for exceptional performances and aesthetic music videos, contributions to the Korean Wave have left a notable mark on the global music scene.

Continue Reading

Nicholas II of Russia

Last Emperor of Russia before 1917
Born
May 18th, 1868 156 years ago
Died
1918 107 years ago — 50 years old

Born in 1868, the last Emperor of Russia ruled from 1894 until his abdication in 1917 during the Russian Revolution. Nicholas II faced numerous challenges, including military defeats in World War I and widespread social unrest. His reign saw the fall of the Russian Empire, and he and his family were executed by Bolsheviks in 1918. Historically significant, his reign marked the end of over three centuries of Romanov rule.

Continue Reading

Faruk Nafiz Çamlıbel

Turkish poet and playwright
Born
May 18th, 1898 126 years ago
Died
November 8th, 1973 51 years ago — 75 years old

Born in 1898, a significant figure in Turkish literature, focused on poetry, drama, and prose. Gained recognition in the early 20th century for contributions to Turkish nationalism and modern literature. Worked on enhancing the Turkish language and explored themes of love, nature, and cultural identity in works. Recognized for a distinct poetic style that blended traditional and contemporary forms. His involvement in the Turkish literary scene spurred interest in poetry as a serious art form. In addition to poetry, produced notable plays that were performed in theaters, capturing societal issues and historical narratives.

Continue Reading

Pope John Paul II

Religious leader and author of encyclicals
Born
May 18th, 1920 104 years ago
Died
April 2nd, 2005 19 years ago — 84 years old

Served as the Pope of the Roman Catholic Church from 1978 until 2005. Played a key role in the fall of communism in Eastern Europe, notably influencing events in Poland. Advocated for human rights and interfaith dialogue, making significant contributions to the Church's teachings through numerous encyclicals. Undertook extensive travels, visiting 129 countries during papacy and meeting with leaders from various faiths. His efforts included promoting peace and addressing issues such as poverty and social injustice.

Continue Reading