Gwen Verdon
Actress and dancer in Broadway musicals
Renowned as a groundbreaking actress and dancer, contributions to Broadway reshaped the landscape of musical theater. Key performances included originating roles in 'Damn Yankees' and 'Chicago'. The combination of exceptional talent and innovative choreography left a lasting legacy in the industry.
Starred in 'Damn Yankees' as Lola
Portrayed Roxie Hart in 'Chicago'
Won four Tony Awards for Best Actress in a Musical
Other People Born on January 13th
Nathan Milstein
Violinist and composer of concertos
Born
January 13th, 1904 122 years ago
Died
December 21st, 1992 33 years ago — 88 years old
Born in Ukraine, Milstein became a prominent violinist and composer, establishing a successful career in classical music. Milstein studied under renowned instructors and began performing at a young age. Throughout the 20th century, he toured extensively, showcasing his virtuosity and artistry. He also contributed to the violin repertoire by composing and arranging works for the instrument. Milstein recorded a significant number of albums, becoming celebrated for his interpretations of concertos by composers such as Brahms and Tchaikovsky. His technique and expressive style made lasting contributions to the world of classical music.
Continue ReadingCarles Rexach
Spanish footballer and coach of FC Barcelona
Born
January 13th, 1947 79 years ago
Born in 1947, this individual played as a winger for FC Barcelona and later transitioned into management. As a player, he joined the FC Barcelona youth system and progressed to the first team, contributing to the team's successes in the late 1960s and early 1970s. After retiring as a player, he took on coaching roles, most notably as head coach of Barcelona, guiding the team during the 1990s and leading them to significant victories.
Continue ReadingWilhelm Wien
German physicist and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
January 13th, 1864 162 years ago
Died
August 30th, 1928 97 years ago — 64 years old
An acclaimed German physicist recognized for contributions to theoretical and experimental physics. Developed Wien's displacement law, which describes the relationship between the temperature of a black body and the wavelength at which it emits the most radiation. The pioneering work in thermodynamics and his research on the kinetic theory of gases contributed significantly to the field. Received the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1911 for his work on the laws governing the emission of radiation from heated bodies.
Continue ReadingRichard Anthony
Singer-songwriter, 'Et si tu n'existais pas'
Born
January 13th, 1938 88 years ago
Died
2015 11 years ago — 77 years old
Born in Egypt and raised in France, one of the prominent French singers of the 1960s, recognized for a blend of chanson and pop music. Gained popularity with the song 'Et si tu n'existais pas', which became an iconic piece in French music. Released multiple albums throughout his career and contributed significantly to the French music scene with his melodic voice and engaging lyrics. Maintained a loyal fan base and performed across various venues, celebrating his artistic legacy until his passing.
Continue ReadingPasqual Maragall
Spanish politician and academic leader
Born
January 13th, 1941 85 years ago
Served as the 127th President of the Generalitat de Catalunya from 2003 to 2006. Focused on modernizing Catalonia's economic and social policies. Previously held the position of Mayor of Barcelona from 1982 to 1986, launching initiatives for urban development. Involved in various academic and public policy projects post-political career, contributing to discussions on Catalan identity and governance.
Continue ReadingNathaniel Cartmell
American runner and Olympic coach
Born
January 13th, 1883 143 years ago
Died
August 23rd, 1967 58 years ago — 84 years old
Born in 1883, a prominent American runner and coach made significant contributions to the sport of athletics. A member of the 1908 United States Olympic team, he competed in the 800 meters and won a silver medal. After retiring from competitive running, shifted focus to coaching, where he led various collegiate and national teams, developing training methodologies that influenced future generations of athletes.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on October 18th
Pope Gregory XII
Pope during the Western Schism
Born
1326 700 years ago
Died
October 18th, 1417 608 years ago — 91 years old
Served as Pope from 1406 to 1415 during a period marked by the Western Schism, where multiple claimants contested the papacy. Resigned in 1415 to help resolve this schism, leading to the election of Pope Martin V at the Council of Constance. His papacy was characterized by efforts to restore unity in the church and to address challenges from rival popes and factions within Christendom.
Continue ReadingWalther von Brauchitsch
German field marshal during WWII
Born
October 4th, 1881 144 years ago
Died
October 18th, 1948 77 years ago — 67 years old
Served as a field marshal in the German Army during World War II. Played a significant role in the early campaigns of the war, particularly in the invasion of Poland and the Battle of France. Became the commander of the Army Group Center during the invasion of the Soviet Union. Experienced setbacks in the Eastern Front and was ultimately relieved of command in 1942. Continued to remain a prominent military figure until the end of the war.
Continue ReadingMary of Hungary
Dutch ruler and regent of the Netherlands
Born
September 15th, 1505 520 years ago
Died
October 18th, 1558 467 years ago — 53 years old
Born in 1505, she served as the regent of the Habsburg Netherlands. From 1531 to 1555, she governed on behalf of her brother, Emperor Charles V. Her reign saw efforts to consolidate Habsburg influence in the region. She took charge of administrative functions and managed the complexities of the Netherlands during a period of significant political change. Mary's leadership contributed to the stability of the territory during her tenure. The role provided a platform for her to engage in the politics of the Habsburg dynasty, navigating alliances and conflicts.
Continue ReadingPaul West
Author, poet, and academic
Born
February 23rd, 1930 96 years ago
Died
October 18th, 2015 10 years ago — 85 years old
Born in 1930, this English-American authored several novels and poetry collections. The works often reflect on philosophical and social themes, showcasing intricate narratives and a deep understanding of human experiences. Taught at various academic institutions, contributed to the literary community through teaching and mentorship. Recognized for a melding of prose and poetic elements, bridging genres effectively. Engaged in literary criticism and wrote essays analyzing various literary figures and movements, leaving a notable imprint on contemporary literature.
Continue ReadingHenri Michaux
Poet and painter of surrealist works
Born
May 24th, 1899 126 years ago
Died
October 18th, 1984 41 years ago — 85 years old
Born in 1899, a Belgian-French poet and painter explored themes of surrealism and abstraction. His literary work included notable volumes such as "Points" and "Miserable Miracle," which reflected his unique perception of reality and the subconscious. As a painter, he experimented with ink and wash techniques, producing works that were often characterized by expressive forms and dynamic compositions. Michaux's experiences with hallucinogenic substances influenced both his poetry and art, leading to a distinctive style that blended words and visual elements.
Continue ReadingIsaac Jogues
French missionary and martyr
Born
January 10th, 1607 419 years ago
Died
October 18th, 1646 379 years ago — 39 years old
A French priest and missionary, played a pivotal role in missionary efforts among Native Americans in North America during the 17th century. Arrived in Canada in 1636 and worked with the Huron people. Captured by the Iroquois in 1642, endured brutal treatment and was later martyred in 1646. Canonized as a saint in 1930 by the Catholic Church.
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