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
Pope John Paul II
Religious leader and author of encyclicals
Born
May 18th, 1920 105 years ago
Died
April 2nd, 2005 20 years ago — 84 years old
Served as the Pope of the Roman Catholic Church from 1978 until 2005. Played a key role in the fall of communism in Eastern Europe, notably influencing events in Poland. Advocated for human rights and interfaith dialogue, making significant contributions to the Church's teachings through numerous encyclicals. Undertook extensive travels, visiting 129 countries during papacy and meeting with leaders from various faiths. His efforts included promoting peace and addressing issues such as poverty and social injustice.
Continue ReadingLillian Hoban
American author and illustrator of children's books
Born
May 18th, 1925 100 years ago
Died
July 17th, 1998 27 years ago — 73 years old
An author and illustrator specialized in children's literature. Published a number of popular books, with a significant emphasis on themes of friendship, family, and discovery. Collaborated with her husband on several projects, contributing illustrations that complemented engaging narratives. Worked extensively with various publishing houses to bring stories to life through vivid illustrations. ''Arthur's Family'' and ''The Two of Them'' represent milestones in her career, showcasing the combination of visual artistry and compelling storytelling. Her contributions have been recognized in the realm of children's literature over several decades.
Continue ReadingCharles N. Sims
American Methodist preacher and educator
Born
May 18th, 1835 190 years ago
Died
1908 118 years ago — 73 years old
A Methodist preacher and educator, served as the third chancellor of Syracuse University, steering the institution through key developments in its early transition. Contributed significantly to the expansion of the university's educational programs and its Methodist affiliation during the mid-19th century. Instrumental in integrating principles of faith into educational practices, fostering a strong community among students and faculty.
Continue ReadingJohn Bruton
Irish politician and Taoiseach
Born
May 18th, 1947 78 years ago
Died
2024 2 years ago — 77 years old
Served as the 10th Taoiseach of Ireland from 1994 to 1997. Held the position of leader of the Fine Gael party during this time. Played a significant role in the negotiations leading to the Good Friday Agreement, which aimed to address issues of governance in Northern Ireland. Held various positions in the Irish government, including Minister for Finance and Minister for Industry and Commerce.
Continue ReadingJoan Eardley
British painter specializing in landscapes
Born
May 18th, 1921 104 years ago
Died
August 16th, 1963 62 years ago — 42 years old
A British painter emerged as a significant figure in 20th-century art. Eardley studied at the Glasgow School of Art and gained recognition for her expressive use of color and texture. The artist often depicted the Scottish landscape and working-class children in Glasgow, capturing the essence of post-war life. Eardley frequently painted in the coastal village of Catterline, where her vibrant landscapes reflected the natural beauty of the Scottish coast. Eardley's work has been celebrated in multiple exhibitions, contributing to her lasting legacy in British art.
Continue ReadingJens Bergensten
Video Game Designer, Co-designer of Minecraft
Born
May 18th, 1979 46 years ago
A video game designer from Sweden, co-designed the critically acclaimed sandbox game Minecraft after its original creator, Markus Persson, stepped back from development. Contributions to Minecraft included adding features, improving gameplay, and overseeing updates that expanded the game's world and its mechanics. This role solidified a significant legacy in the gaming industry, as Minecraft became one of the best-selling video games of all time. The game allows players to explore, build, and create in a blocky, pixelated environment and has fostered a massive community of players and developers.
Continue Reading