J. J. Thomson
English physicist, Nobel laureate in Physics
An English physicist and academic conducted groundbreaking research on the nature of cathode rays. Established the existence of the electron and proposed the plum pudding model of the atom. Received the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1906 for contributions to the field of atomic physics. Contributed significantly to the development of modern physics through the study of electricity and magnetism.
Discovered the electron in 1897
Won the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1906
Other People Born on December 18th
Ryan Crouser
Shot putter, Olympic gold medalist
Born
December 18th, 1992 33 years ago
A prominent shot putter, achieved significant success in athletics. Won the gold medal at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics with a throw of 23.30 meters, setting an Olympic record. Also claimed victory at the 2016 Rio Olympics, winning a gold medal. Dominated national competitions, earning multiple NCAA championships during college career at the University of Texas. Established himself as one of the top competitors globally, breaking the indoor shot put world record with a throw of 22.82 meters in 2021.
Continue ReadingRamsey Clark
American lawyer and political activist
Born
December 18th, 1927 98 years ago
Died
April 9th, 2021 5 years ago — 93 years old
A prominent American lawyer and political activist, served as the Attorney General from 1967 to 1969 under President Lyndon B. Johnson. Advocated for civil rights and social justice throughout a lengthy career in law. Participated in various legal defense efforts, including representing anti-war activists and challenging the U.S. government's policies on multiple fronts. Worked on international human rights issues and was involved in high-profile cases, including those related to former Yugoslavia. Founded the International Action Center in 1992 to mobilize against U.S. foreign policy and promote human rights.
Continue ReadingThomas Lam
Finnish footballer with notable club career
Born
December 18th, 1993 32 years ago
A professional footballer from Finland, played primarily as a defender. Launched his career in the youth ranks of Kuusysi Lahti before moving to FC Lahti in 2010. Transferred to the Netherlands to join FC Groningen, making his debut in 2012. Later played for several clubs in Finland, including HJK Helsinki and FC Lahden, showcasing strong defensive skills. Represented the Finnish national team at various youth levels and made multiple appearances for the senior team.
Continue ReadingPeter Boulware
American football player and politician
Born
December 18th, 1974 51 years ago
Played as a linebacker in the National Football League (NFL) for the Baltimore Ravens from 1997 to 2005. Was a key contributor to the Ravens' victory in Super Bowl XXXV. After retiring from professional football, engaged in politics, becoming involved in various community and political initiatives.
Continue ReadingBarbora Krejčíková
Czech tennis player, French Open champion
Born
December 18th, 1995 30 years ago
This athlete debuted professionally in 2013 and achieved significant success in singles and doubles tennis. The player won the women's singles title at the 2021 French Open, becoming the first Czech woman to win the tournament since 1981. Alongside her singles success, this athlete also excelled in doubles, winning multiple Grand Slam titles and ranking first in the WTA doubles rankings. Representing the Czech Republic, this player contributed to the country's success in the Fed Cup.
Continue ReadingVictor Hedman
Ice hockey player; Norris Trophy winner
Born
December 18th, 1990 35 years ago
A Swedish ice hockey player, primarily played as a defenseman for the Tampa Bay Lightning in the National Hockey League (NHL). Joined the NHL after being selected second overall in the 2009 NHL Entry Draft. Contributed to the Lightning winning the Stanley Cup in 2020 and 2021. Received the James Norris Memorial Trophy in 2018 as the league's top defenseman, showcasing exceptional skills both defensively and offensively. Represented Sweden in international competitions, including the IIHF World Championships and the Olympics.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on August 30th
J. C. Bailey
Professional wrestler and writer
Born
1983 43 years ago
Died
August 30th, 2010 15 years ago — 27 years old
Participated in numerous wrestling promotions throughout career and became recognized in the independent circuit. Known for a unique wrestling style and for developing various characters in the ring. Made appearances in promotions such as IWA Mid-South and Deep South Wrestling. Authored articles and contributed to wrestling discourse through various platforms. Passed away in 2010.
Continue ReadingEdward Fadeley
American lawyer and politician
Born
1929 97 years ago
Died
August 30th, 2015 10 years ago — 86 years old
Served as a member of the Indiana House of Representatives. Held the position of Chair of the Indiana Democratic Party. Participated in various legal practices and contributed to local legal matters. Engaged in community service and local governance. Advocated for Democratic values during his political career.
Continue ReadingWes Craven
Horror film director and screenwriter
Born
August 2nd, 1939 86 years ago
Died
August 30th, 2015 10 years ago — 76 years old
A prominent figure in the horror genre, this director significantly shaped modern horror cinema. This individual directed iconic films that include 'A Nightmare on Elm Street' and the 'Scream' series. These works introduced innovative storytelling techniques and distinct character tropes, influencing subsequent filmmakers. Alongside directing, contributions to screenwriting and production further established a lasting legacy in the horror film landscape.
Continue ReadingLouise Hay
Motivational author, You Can Heal Your Life
Born
1926 100 years ago
Died
August 30th, 2017 8 years ago — 91 years old
An American motivational author and the founder of Hay House, a successful publishing company. Authored several books focusing on self-help and personal growth, with the most notable being 'You Can Heal Your Life'. This work outlined the connection between the mind and body, encouraging readers to adopt positive thinking and affirmations to foster healing and personal development. Hay held workshops and seminars to promote her philosophies and practices, influencing countless individuals seeking personal transformation.
Continue ReadingHervey le Breton
bishop, authored ecclesiastical texts
Died
August 30th, 1131 894 years ago — None years old
Served as the bishop of Bangor and Ely, contributing to the church and religious life during the 11th century. His writings and ecclesiastical governance shaped the religious landscape of the time. Engaged in significant church reform efforts and played a role in regional ecclesiastical matters.
Continue ReadingTūheitia Paki
Māori King and community leader
Born
1955 71 years ago
Died
August 30th, 2024 1 years ago — 69 years old
As the Māori King since 2006, led the Kīngitanga movement, which aims to unite Māori people and uphold their sovereignty. Paki worked to strengthen Māori culture and promote social justice issues. Engaged in various initiatives focusing on education, health, and economic development within Māori communities. Actively participated in national discussions regarding treaty rights, cultural preservation, and self-determination for Māori. His leadership emphasized the importance of cultural identity and community empowerment, guiding the Māori through contemporary challenges while honoring traditional values.
Continue Reading