Harvey Haddix
Baseball player and coach, 1959 All-Star
Played as a left-handed pitcher in Major League Baseball for teams including the Pittsburgh Pirates and the St. Louis Cardinals. Achieved notable success during the 1959 season, earning an All-Star selection. Coached several teams after retirement, contributing to the development of players and pitching strategies. Finished a distinguished career with over 130 wins and recognized for a nearly perfect game against the Milwaukee Braves in 1959.
Selected as an All-Star in 1959
Pitched a near-perfect game in 1959
Played for the Pittsburgh Pirates
Other People Born on September 18th
Billy Robinson
Professional wrestler and trainer
Born
September 18th, 1938 87 years ago
Died
2014 12 years ago — 76 years old
A prominent figure in the world of professional wrestling and training, this individual had a significant impact on the sport in both England and the United States. His career began in the late 1950s, gaining recognition for technical wrestling skills and captivating performances. He became well-known for his time in promotions such as World Championship Wrestling and All Star Wrestling. After retiring from in-ring competition, he transitioned to training, shaping the careers of numerous wrestlers. A strong advocate for catch wrestling, this individual preserved and promoted its techniques through various training camps and seminars.
Continue ReadingRay Steadman-Allen
English composer of church music
Born
September 18th, 1922 103 years ago
Died
2014 12 years ago — 92 years old
Born in 1922, this English composer focused primarily on church music. His work included compositions for various denominations, emphasizing choral music and hymns. Over a long career, a significant portion of the repertoire associated with contemporary worship was shaped by this composer's original works. Many of his pieces became staples in church services and were included in hymnals across the United Kingdom and beyond.
Continue ReadingRalph Backstrom
Ice hockey player and coach, Stanley Cup Champion
Born
September 18th, 1937 88 years ago
Died
2021 5 years ago — 84 years old
Played professional ice hockey primarily with the Montreal Canadiens. Contributed to multiple Stanley Cup victories during the 1960s. Transitioned to a coaching career after retiring as a player. Coached various teams in the Western Hockey League and American Hockey League. Served as a coach at the collegiate level, promoting the sport in the educational system. Recognized for contributions both as a player and coach.
Continue ReadingZhang Xianzhong
Chinese rebel leader during the Ming dynasty
Born
September 18th, 1606 419 years ago
Died
1647 379 years ago — 41 years old
A prominent rebel leader during the late Ming dynasty, native to China. Led significant uprisings against the ruling dynasty in the 17th century. Established a short-lived kingdom in Sichuan, proclaiming himself as the emperor. His rebellion was part of a larger series of conflicts that characterized the tumultuous period leading to the fall of the Ming dynasty and the rise of the Qing dynasty.
Continue ReadingMuriel Turner
English politician and Baroness
Born
September 18th, 1927 98 years ago
Died
2018 8 years ago — 91 years old
Born in 1927, a prominent figure in British politics, held key roles in the House of Lords. Advocated for social justice, equality, and worked extensively within various committees. Served as a member of the Labour Party and contributed to discussions on several important social issues, particularly concerning women's rights and healthcare. Her contributions to public service were notable during her time in the House.
Continue ReadingEddie Rochester Anderson
American actor and comedian
Born
September 18th, 1905 120 years ago
Died
1977 49 years ago — 72 years old
An actor and comedian achieved acclaim through performance in the Jack Benny Program, portraying a comedic character named Rochester. Worked in early Hollywood films, including the 1943 feature 'The Gang's All Here'. Anderson appeared on stage and in films during the mid-20th century, gaining popularity for his humor and timing. His career spanned several decades, contributing to the entertainment industry with memorable performances.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on January 8th
Michael Lang
Concert promoter and producer of Woodstock
Born
December 11th, 1944 81 years ago
Died
January 8th, 2022 4 years ago — 77 years old
A concert promoter and producer played a pivotal role in organizing the original Woodstock Music and Arts Festival in 1969. This event became a landmark festival that symbolized a generation’s counterculture and passion for music. Lang later contributed to the revival of Woodstock in 1994 and 1999, showcasing a variety of artists and bands from different genres. Through these festivals, a new era of music festivals emerged, influencing the concert promotion industry significantly.
Continue ReadingT. J. Hamblin
Haematologist and academic in England
Born
1943 83 years ago
Died
January 8th, 2012 14 years ago — 69 years old
Contributed extensively to the field of haematology with a focus on blood disorders. Published numerous research articles and participated in clinical studies related to blood-related conditions. Worked at several prestigious institutions and held academic positions while training future medical professionals. Engaged in projects aimed at advancing understanding and treatment of various haematologic diseases.
Continue ReadingRon Goodwin
Composer and conductor of film scores
Born
February 17th, 1925 100 years ago
Died
January 8th, 2003 23 years ago — 77 years old
This individual was an English composer and conductor, recognized for contributions to film music. Early work included composing for various television programs and films during the 1950s. The most prominent achievements included scores for films such as 'Where Eagles Dare' and 'Battle of Britain'. Goodwin collaborated with renowned orchestras, and his compositions often combined traditional orchestration with innovative arrangements. In addition to film work, contributions to concert music were made, with works performed internationally. The ability to blend orchestral strength with popular styles defined much of this composer’s work.
Continue ReadingAlexandre Stavisky
Ukrainian-French financier
Born
November 20th, 1886 139 years ago
Died
January 8th, 1934 92 years ago — 47 years old
A financier active in France during the early 20th century, engaged in various business ventures and schemes. Involved in schemes around the bond market, contributed to significant financial fraud that drew considerable attention. The financial scandals led to political upheaval and public outrage in France. The events surrounding these activities and his subsequent death played a role in igniting political tensions in the country.
Continue ReadingAkbar Hashemi Rafsanjani
Iranian politician and key leader
Born
1934 92 years ago
Died
January 8th, 2017 9 years ago — 83 years old
A prominent Iranian politician and cleric, served as the President of Iran from 1989 to 1997. Actively participated in the 1979 Iranian Revolution and held essential roles in the establishment of the Islamic Republic. Focused on economic reforms and diplomatic relations during presidential tenure. Also served as the Chairman of the Expediency Discernment Council for many years, influencing policy decisions in the country. Engaged in various political activities post-presidency and remained an influential figure in Iranian politics until death.
Continue ReadingGeorge Bellows
American painter of boxing scenes
Born
1882 144 years ago
Died
January 8th, 1925 101 years ago — 43 years old
A prominent American painter, noted for contributions to the Ashcan School, which focused on depicting daily life in early 20th century America. Worked primarily with oil on canvas, capturing scenes of urban life and sports. Gained acclaim for boxing paintings that illustrated the intensity and drama of the sport. Participated in exhibitions at the National Academy of Design and was a member of the influential Society of American Artists. His style is characterized by vigorous brushwork and bold colors, revealing a raw energy that resonated with contemporary audiences. Held a significant influence on American art and left a lasting legacy through his explorations of realism and expressionism in various social settings.
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