Hans van Mierlo
Dutch politician and Deputy Prime Minister
A prominent Dutch politician who co-founded the Democrats 66 party. Served as Deputy Prime Minister from 1994 to 1998 in the cabinet of Wim Kok. Van Mierlo played a significant role in Dutch politics during the 1990s, advocating for liberal reforms. His career included various ministerial roles, particularly in the field of education and integration policies. He remained active in politics until his retirement.
Co-founded the Democrats 66 party
Served as Deputy Prime Minister from 1994 to 1998
Held multiple ministerial roles in Dutch government
Other People Born on August 18th
Grand Duchess Maria Nikolaevna of Russia
Russian Grand Duchess and patron of arts
Born
August 18th, 1819 206 years ago
Died
1876 149 years ago — 57 years old
Born into the Russian imperial family, served as Grand Duchess. Engaged in numerous charitable activities and patronage of the arts. Played a significant role in cultural life of Russia during the 19th century. Contributed to the development of educational institutions and social welfare programs.
Continue ReadingPatrick Swayze
Actor and dancer in film and television
Born
August 18th, 1952 73 years ago
Died
September 14th, 2009 16 years ago — 57 years old
An actor and dancer, this individual gained widespread recognition for performances in several popular films. Starred in the iconic movie 'Dirty Dancing' alongside Jennifer Grey, where the dance scenes and soundtrack became legendary. Also featured in 'Ghost', showcasing a blend of romance and supernatural elements, earning accolades and a dedicated following. Early in his career, earned acclaim on stage in various dance productions before transitioning to film. Had a notable television presence in the series 'The Beast'.
Continue ReadingRobert Horton
American television actor and star of 'Wagon Train'
Born
August 18th, 1939 86 years ago
Died
March 9th, 2016 9 years ago — 76 years old
An American actor gained prominence through the role of Flint McCullough on the television series 'Wagon Train,' which aired from 1957 to 1965. Horton also made appearances in various other television shows and films throughout his career. He was noted for work in productions such as 'The Green Hornet' and 'The Twilight Zone.' In addition to acting, he pursued a career in music and authored a book detailing his life experiences.
Continue ReadingRafael Pineda Ponce
Honduran academic and politician
Born
August 18th, 1930 95 years ago
Died
January 24th, 2014 11 years ago — 83 years old
Served as a prominent academic and politician in Honduras. Contributed significantly to national politics and educational reforms. Held the position of Minister of Education, where major initiatives were implemented to improve the education system. Actively participated in various political movements aimed at advancing social and economic development in the country.
Continue ReadingAgneta Horn
Swedish writer of 17th-century works
Born
August 18th, 1629 396 years ago
Died
1672 353 years ago — 43 years old
Born in Sweden, a prominent writer in the 17th century, contributed significantly to Swedish literature. Horn's writings include poetry and prose that reflected the cultural and social complexities of the time. Her work often explored themes of personal experience and moral reflection, establishing a voice that resonated within her contemporary society. Active in a time when women writers faced substantial challenges, her contributions provided a foundation for future literary pursuits among women.
Continue ReadingBob Kennedy
Baseball player and manager
Born
August 18th, 1920 105 years ago
Died
April 7th, 2005 20 years ago — 84 years old
Played as an outfielder in Major League Baseball from 1943 to 1955. Teams included the Washington Senators, Chicago White Sox, and Detroit Tigers. Transitioned into coaching and management, taking on roles with teams such as the New York Mets and the Seattle Mariners. Managed the Mariners during the 1980 season. Later served as a scout for several teams, contributing to player recruitment and development.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on March 11th
Camille Laurin
Canadian psychiatrist and politician
Born
1922 103 years ago
Died
March 11th, 1999 26 years ago — 77 years old
A psychiatrist and politician significantly contributed to the Quebec sovereignty movement. Played a pivotal role in the establishment of the Office de la langue française in Quebec. Advocated for the promotion of the French language in Quebec and was a key figure in the modern Quebec nationalism movement. Served as a member of the National Assembly of Quebec for the Parti Québécois and was appointed as Minister of Cultural Affairs. His efforts were instrumental in the passing of Bill 101, which established French as the official language of the province.
Continue ReadingClaude François
Singer-songwriter and dancer
Born
February 1st, 1939 86 years ago
Died
March 11th, 1978 47 years ago — 39 years old
Born in Egypt and later based in France, this individual gained prominence in the music scene during the 1960s. His style blended pop and rock with elements of traditional French chanson. He reached significant success with popular songs, including 'Comme d'habitude', which was later adapted into 'My Way' by Frank Sinatra. This artist also made contributions as a dancer and producer, shaping the live music experience in his performances. His career was marked by both chart-topping hits and energetic stage presence, leading to a lasting influence on the French music industry.
Continue ReadingRupiah Banda
President of Zambia
Born
1937 88 years ago
Died
March 11th, 2022 3 years ago — 85 years old
Served as the fourth President of Zambia from 2008 to 2011 following the death of Levy Mwanawasa. Prior to the presidency, held the position of Vice President from 2006 to 2008. Focused on economic growth, infrastructure development, and regional stability during the presidency. Contributed to the promotion of tourism and agriculture in Zambia, and played a role in the Southern African Development Community during his tenure.
Continue ReadingSambhaji
Indian emperor of the Maratha Empire
Born
May 14th, 1657 368 years ago
Died
March 11th, 1689 336 years ago — 31 years old
Born on May 14, 1657, an Indian emperor ruled the Maratha Empire after the death of his father, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. Ascended to the throne in 1681, faced numerous challenges from both Mughal forces and internal dissent. His tenure saw continuous warfare as he defended the empire against the Mughal Empire's expansion under Aurangzeb. Sambhaji also engaged in diplomatic efforts to secure alliances with other regional powers. Captured in 1689, he faced brutal treatment and execution, becoming a martyr in Maratha history.
Continue ReadingGeorge McDuffie
American lawyer and South Carolina Governor
Born
1790 235 years ago
Died
March 11th, 1851 174 years ago — 61 years old
Born in South Carolina, served as a lawyer and politician during the 19th century. Elected as the 55th Governor of South Carolina, holding office from 1840 to 1842. Known for his involvement in state issues and his role in the wider political landscape of the time. Worked on issues related to economic development and state governance, contributing to the legal and political framework of South Carolina. Also had a notable career within the U.S. House of Representatives, serving South Carolina's interests at the federal level.
Continue ReadingGeraldine Farrar
American soprano and actress in opera
Born
1882 143 years ago
Died
March 11th, 1967 58 years ago — 85 years old
An accomplished soprano and actress, she gained recognition in the early 20th century for performances in operas. She performed leading roles in noted productions such as 'Carmen' and 'Madama Butterfly'. In addition to her significant contributions to opera, she ventured into silent films, appearing in cinematic adaptations of operas, thus bridging the gap between stage and screen. Her talent garnered both critical acclaim and a devoted fanbase.
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