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
Sergei Brylin
Ice hockey player and coach
Born
January 13th, 1974 52 years ago
Born in 1974, this ice hockey player achieved significant success in the National Hockey League (NHL) and international play. Played as a forward for several teams, including the New Jersey Devils. Contributed to the Devils' victory in the Stanley Cup championship. After retirement, transitioned into coaching, applying extensive experience gained from playing at elite levels.
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 ReadingOksana Selekhmeteva
Tennis Player, Junior Grand Slam Champion
Born
January 13th, 2003 23 years ago
This Russian tennis player achieved significant success in junior competitions. In 2021, captured the girls' doubles title at the French Open alongside her partner. Competed in various international tournaments, showcasing strong performances on both hard and clay courts. Entered the professional circuit and began participating in WTA events, marking the transition from junior to professional status. Gained recognition for her competitive spirit and skill in doubles play.
Continue ReadingDinah Pfizenmaier
German tennis player with WTA titles
Born
January 13th, 1992 34 years ago
Competed professionally in tennis, achieving success in various tournaments. Achieved significant rankings in singles and doubles within the Women's Tennis Association. Notably participated in Grand Slam events, demonstrating skill on both hard and clay courts.
Continue ReadingTom Gola
Basketball player and politician
Born
January 13th, 1933 93 years ago
Died
January 26th, 2014 12 years ago — 81 years old
A basketball player and coach, and later a politician. Played college basketball at La Salle University, where earned All-American honors. Had a successful professional career in the NBA, primarily with the Philadelphia Warriors, and was selected to multiple All-Star teams. Transitioned into coaching and served in various coaching roles after retiring from playing. Entered politics, serving in the Pennsylvania House of Representatives.
Continue ReadingMary Glindon
English lawyer and politician
Born
January 13th, 1957 69 years ago
Served as a Member of Parliament representing North Tyneside since 2010. Worked in the legal profession before entering politics. Advocated for various issues including education and healthcare during parliamentary sessions. Held roles within the Labour Party at the local level prior to election.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on October 18th
Henri Michaux
Poet and painter of surrealist works
Born
May 24th, 1899 127 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 ReadingAntonio Meucci
Italian-American engineer; telephone inventor
Born
April 13th, 1808 218 years ago
Died
October 18th, 1889 136 years ago — 81 years old
An engineer, inventor, and entrepreneur contributed significantly to the development of voice communication technology. Born in Italy, migrated to the United States in the mid-1800s, established a workshop in Staten Island. Designed a prototype of a device for transmitting voice messages, demonstrating its functionality with the 'telettrofono'. Faced financial difficulties, including legal battles over patent rights, which hindered recognition of the invention. Recieved a U.S. patent caveat in 1871 for the telegraph device. Recognized posthumously for achievements in telecommunications and regarded as a pioneer in the field.
Continue ReadingEmperor Ming of Jin
Ruler of the Jin dynasty
Died
October 18th, 325 1700 years ago — None years old
Ruled as the second emperor of the Jin dynasty from 323 until death in 325. Ascended the throne after the death of the founding emperor, recognized for consolidating central authority and seeking to stabilize the empire. Undertook measures to strengthen political control and manage military concerns during a time of internal strife. Expanded the administrative framework to address challenges faced by the dynasty.
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.
Continue ReadingMichiaki Kamada
Japanese admiral in World War II
Born
January 15th, 1890 136 years ago
Died
October 18th, 1947 78 years ago — 57 years old
Served as an admiral in the Imperial Japanese Navy during World War II. Played a significant role in naval operations in the Pacific Theater. Participated in the Battle of Midway, contributing to planning and strategy. After the war, held various leadership positions within the Japanese maritime forces.
Continue ReadingInfante João of Portugal
Portuguese Infante and military leader
Born
1400 626 years ago
Died
October 18th, 1442 583 years ago — 42 years old
Born into the royal family of Portugal, an Infante of the Kingdom played a significant role in the military campaigns of his time. Participated in conflicts during the 15th century, helping to consolidate Portuguese power. Also assumed administrative duties that contributed to the governance of the kingdom. His life was marked by involvement in the Reconquista, aiding in the efforts to reclaim territory from Moorish influence.
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