James O. Richardson
American Admiral and military leader
Served as a senior officer in the United States Navy. Played a significant role in World War II, particularly in the Pacific theater. Commanded the United States Fleet during critical engagements and provided strategic insights that shaped naval operations. Retired from active duty but continued to influence military thought and policy.
Commanded the United States Fleet during WWII
Contributed to naval strategy in the Pacific theater
Other People Born on September 18th
Seewoosagur Ramgoolam
Politician and 1st Prime Minister of Mauritius
Born
September 18th, 1900 125 years ago
Died
December 15th, 1985 40 years ago — 85 years old
Born in 1900, a prominent figure in Mauritius, served as the first Prime Minister after the country's independence in 1968. Played a crucial role in shaping Mauritian politics and promoting education and social welfare. His tenure marked significant reforms in governance, including the establishment of a parliamentary democracy. As a physician trained in England, contributed to public health initiatives while advocating for the rights of all citizens in a multicultural society. Passed away in 1985, leaving a legacy in Mauritian political history.
Continue ReadingPeter Smithson
Architect, co-designer of Robin Hood Gardens
Born
September 18th, 1923 102 years ago
Died
2003 22 years ago — 80 years old
An English architect contributed to the post-war modernist movement in architecture. As part of the Smithson partnership, played a key role in developing the Brutalist style. Co-designed Robin Hood Gardens housing estate in London, which was considered a significant example of social housing. Worked on various projects that exemplified the architectural philosophy of the time, focusing on urban housing and environmental aspects.
Continue ReadingFrancesca Caccini
Italian singer-songwriter and lute player
Born
September 18th, 1587 438 years ago
Died
1640 385 years ago — 53 years old
Born in 1587, a prominent figure in early Baroque music, contributed significantly to the development of opera. Composed "La liberazione di Ruggiero" in 1625, recognized as one of the first operas by a woman. Served in the court of the Medici in Florence, showcasing remarkable skills in music composition and performance. Helped in popularizing the use of the lute in theatrical performances, influencing the musical landscape of her time.
Continue ReadingPablo Sorozábal
Composer and conductor of Zarzuela works
Born
September 18th, 1897 128 years ago
Died
December 26th, 1988 36 years ago — 91 years old
Born in 1897 in Spain, a prominent figure in the Spanish music scene, contributed significantly to the genre of zarzuela, a traditional Spanish operetta. Completed over twenty zarzuelas, showcasing lyrical melodies and popular themes that reflected Spanish culture. Also conducted orchestras and worked as a music educator. His work gained recognition for blending classical music styles with modern elements, influencing contemporary Spanish composers.
Continue ReadingAdrien-Marie Legendre
French mathematician and theorist
Born
September 18th, 1752 273 years ago
Died
January 9th, 1833 192 years ago — 80 years old
Contributed significantly to mathematics, particularly in number theory and statistics. Developed Legendre polynomials and introduced the method of least squares. His work in number theory included the formulation of Legendre's conjecture concerning prime numbers. Authored influential texts on analysis and number theory, which became standard references in mathematics.
Continue ReadingPope Gregory XVI
Pope with papal bull on slavery
Born
September 18th, 1765 260 years ago
Died
June 1st, 1846 179 years ago — 80 years old
Served as Pope from 1831 until death in 1846. Issued the encyclical 'In supremo apostolatus' which condemned the slave trade and slavery itself. Advocated for the preservation of the Papal States and opposed liberal reforms. Strengthened the Congregation of the Index to curtail modernist thought and censorship of publications. Worked on restoring the Catholic Church's authority in regions where church influence had diminished.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on May 2nd
Ernest Starling
English physiologist and academic
Born
April 17th, 1866 159 years ago
Died
May 2nd, 1927 98 years ago — 61 years old
Contributed significantly to the field of physiology, particularly through the establishment of the Starling Law of the Heart, which describes the relationship between the heart's filling and its contraction strength. His research included the role of hormones in bodily functions and the development of techniques for measuring blood pressure and heart functions. Starling conducted extensive studies on the actions of the thyroid gland and the role of the pancreas in digestion, helping to lay the groundwork for future research in these areas.
Continue ReadingMarilyn French
American author and feminist advocate
Born
November 21st, 1929 96 years ago
Died
May 2nd, 2009 16 years ago — 79 years old
An author and academic influenced by feminist ideology. French wrote extensively on women's issues and the patriarchy. The novel 'The Women's Room' explored the struggles of women's liberation and garnered significant attention. She taught at institutions including the University of Maryland and gained recognition for her writings highlighting the challenges faced by women in society. French's work often reflected her belief in the importance of feminist discourse and the need for societal change.
Continue ReadingDorothea Binz
German SS officer during WWII
Born
1920 105 years ago
Died
May 2nd, 1947 78 years ago — 27 years old
Served as an SS officer in Nazi Germany. Held the rank of camp leader at Ravensbrück concentration camp. Oversaw the mistreatment and execution of prisoners during the Holocaust. Captured after the war and tried for war crimes.
Continue ReadingGuy Carawan
American singer and musicologist
Born
July 27th, 1927 98 years ago
Died
May 2nd, 2015 10 years ago — 87 years old
Carawan contributed significantly to the folk music revival, especially in the 1960s. A key figure in the Civil Rights Movement, he popularized the song 'We Shall Overcome' through his performances and arrangements. His work focused on preserving and promoting traditional folk music and songs, encouraging cultural appreciation and awareness. As a musicologist, Carawan conducted research on Southern Appalachian music and other regional folk traditions. He also taught music at various institutions, sharing knowledge and enthusiasm for folk music with new generations.
Continue ReadingClarrie Grimmett
Cricketer and leg-spin bowler
Born
December 25th, 1891 133 years ago
Died
May 2nd, 1980 45 years ago — 88 years old
One of the leading leg-spin bowlers of his time, played international cricket for Australia after initially debuting for New Zealand. Established a reputation for exceptional skill and accuracy. Made a significant mark in Test cricket during the 1920s and 1930s, becoming a key player for Australia. Achieved remarkable figures in matches, particularly notable for his ability to take wickets consistently. Inducted into the Australian Cricket Hall of Fame for outstanding contributions to the sport.
Continue ReadingEberhard Anheuser
American businessman, co-founder of Anheuser-Busch
Born
1805 220 years ago
Died
May 2nd, 1880 145 years ago — 75 years old
Co-founded Anheuser-Busch, a major brewery in the United States. Established a successful beer company that grew to become one of the largest in the world. Contributed significantly to the expansion of the American brewing industry during the 19th century.
Continue Reading