Ivet Lalova
Bulgarian sprinter and Olympian
A prominent Bulgarian sprinter, she specialized in the 100 meters and 200 meters. Achieved notable success in European Championships and World Championships. Competed in multiple Olympic Games, representing Bulgaria on an international stage. Marked a significant presence in women's sprinting throughout her career and earned multiple national titles.
Won silver in the 100m at the 2004 European Championships
Competed in the 100m at the 2008 Beijing Olympics
Achieved a personal best of 10.77 seconds in the 100m
Other People Born on May 18th
Bill Everett
American author and illustrator
Born
May 18th, 1917 108 years ago
Died
February 27th, 1973 53 years ago — 55 years old
An author and illustrator specialized in comic books and graphic novels. Created the character Namor the Sub-Mariner for Marvel Comics. Worked for several publishing companies and became influential in the early comic book industry. Contributed to various titles and character designs, leaving a lasting legacy in comic artistry.
Continue ReadingVincent du Vigneaud
Nobel Prize-winning biochemist
Born
May 18th, 1901 124 years ago
Died
December 11th, 1978 47 years ago — 77 years old
An American biochemist and academic conducted extensive research on proteins and peptides, contributing significantly to the understanding of chemical structures and biological functions. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1955 for work on biochemically important sulfur compounds, particularly for the synthesis of the hormone oxytocin. His research laid a foundation for further developments in peptide and protein chemistry, influencing multiple areas of bioscience and medicine.
Continue ReadingFrank Capra
Film director of It’s a Wonderful Life
Born
May 18th, 1897 128 years ago
Died
September 3rd, 1991 34 years ago — 94 years old
An Italian-American director, producer, and screenwriter contributed significantly to the Golden Age of Hollywood. Directed a number of critically acclaimed films during the 1930s and 1940s, including 'It's a Wonderful Life', 'Mr. Smith Goes to Washington', and 'It Happened One Night'. Capra's works often depicted the importance of the individual and American values. Won three Academy Awards for Best Director and received recognition for his storytelling and innovative filmmaking techniques.
Continue ReadingMargot Fonteyn
Ballerina and prima ballerina assoluta
Born
May 18th, 1919 106 years ago
Died
1991 35 years ago — 72 years old
A celebrated ballerina, known for her exceptional skill and artistry. Originated roles in notable ballets including 'Romeo and Juliet' and 'Coppélia'. Partnered with Rudolf Nureyev, creating iconic performances that defined her legacy. Served as a principal dancer with The Royal Ballet for several decades, influencing the art form through her grace and technical prowess.
Continue ReadingEric Backman
Swedish runner and Olympic participant
Born
May 18th, 1896 129 years ago
Died
1965 61 years ago — 69 years old
Competed in athletics, specifically middle-distance running. Represented Sweden in the 1920 Summer Olympics in Antwerp, participating in the men's 1500 meters event. Achieved recognition for performances in various national competitions during the early 20th century. Contributed to the sport through dedication to middle-distance events and left a legacy within Swedish athletics.
Continue ReadingRichard Brooks
American director and screenwriter
Born
May 18th, 1912 113 years ago
Died
March 11th, 1992 34 years ago — 79 years old
A prominent director, producer, and screenwriter, contributed significantly to American cinema from the 1950s to the 1980s. Directed notable films such as 'Elmer Gantry', which garnered critical acclaim and earned Academy Awards. Worked on various genres, including drama and crime, and created influential television series. Demonstrated skill in adapting literary works to film, evident in successful adaptations like 'In Cold Blood'.
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