Jean Vuarnet
Ski Racer and Olympic Gold Medalist
A prominent ski racer from France, distinguished as the first competitor to win Olympic gold in downhill skiing during the 1960 Squaw Valley Games. Following a successful racing career, transitioned into coaching and ski resort management, contributing to the sport's development and promotion. Established a ski resort in France which bears his name, influencing skiing in the region.
Won a gold medal in men's downhill at the 1960 Winter Olympics
Developed a ski resort in Les Deux Alpes
Contributed to skiing as a coach and promoter
Other People Born on January 18th
Aitana Bonmatí
Spanish footballer and UEFA champion
Born
January 18th, 1998 28 years ago
Achieved recognition as a midfielder in football. Played for FC Barcelona, contributing to the team's success in various domestic and international tournaments. Participated in the UEFA Women's Champions League and helped secure the title. Competed with the Spanish national team, participating in the UEFA Women's Euro and FIFA Women's World Cup. Notable for technical skills and playmaking abilities.
Continue ReadingAlex Pietrangelo
Ice Hockey Player; Stanley Cup Champion
Born
January 18th, 1990 36 years ago
Born in 1990, this Canadian ice hockey player gained recognition as a skilled defenseman. Drafted by the St. Louis Blues in 2008, played for the team until 2020 and served as captain. Helped lead the Blues to their first Stanley Cup title in 2019. In 2020, signed with the Vegas Golden Knights, continuing to showcase talent at a high level.
Continue ReadingAlbert Kivikas
Estonian journalist and author
Born
January 18th, 1898 128 years ago
Died
May 19th, 1978 47 years ago — 80 years old
Born in 1898, a prominent Estonian journalist and author contributed significantly to Estonian literature and journalism. He worked on various newspapers and critically examined the political landscape of Estonia during his lifetime. His literary work often reflected the social and political issues facing Estonia and included themes of nationalism and the struggle for independence. Kivikas was heavily involved in the efforts to preserve the Estonian language and culture during tumultuous periods in Estonian history, including World War II and Soviet occupation.
Continue ReadingGang Dong-won
South Korean actor in 'The Train to Busan'
Born
January 18th, 1981 45 years ago
Born in 1981, this South Korean actor gained recognition for roles in movies and television series. Featured in films such as 'The Train to Busan', 'A Violent Prosecutor', and 'Peninsula', he has built a successful career in the entertainment industry. The performances often showcase a range of characters, from heroes to complex individuals. Apart from film, also starred in the drama series 'Goblin', which achieved significant popularity.
Continue ReadingJuan Fernando Quintero
Colombian footballer with World Cup goal
Born
January 18th, 1993 33 years ago
This footballer began his professional career at Atlético Nacional. Achievements include playing for the national team in the 2018 FIFA World Cup, where he scored a pivotal goal against Japan. The player also competed in various clubs across South America and Europe, making significant contributions in midfield. Quintero played an important role in River Plate's success, especially during the 2018 Copa Libertadores, where he helped secure the championship title.
Continue ReadingGilles Villeneuve
Race car driver in Formula One
Born
January 18th, 1950 76 years ago
Died
May 8th, 1982 43 years ago — 32 years old
An iconic race car driver, achieved significant success in Formula One during the late 1970s and early 1980s. Notable for driving for Scuderia Ferrari, captured six Grand Prix victories. Renowned for skillful racing and fearless driving style, earned a reputation as one of the most talented drivers of his time. Tragically lost life during a qualifying race in 1982, leaving a lasting legacy in the world of motorsport.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on January 2nd
Guida Maria
Portuguese actress in cinema and television
Born
January 23rd, 1950 76 years ago
Died
January 2nd, 2018 8 years ago — 67 years old
Guida Maria was a prominent Portuguese actress recognized for her contributions to film and television. She gained acclaim through performances in several significant works during her career. Maria starred in the popular telenovela 'Apenas Um Pai' and appeared in various films that showcased her acting range. Over the years, she became a fixture in Portuguese cinema and television, earning accolades for her work and solidifying a respected place in the entertainment industry.
Continue ReadingSilvana Gallardo
Actress and producer with notable roles
Born
January 13th, 1953 73 years ago
Died
January 2nd, 2012 14 years ago — 58 years old
An American actress and producer gained prominence for work in film and television. Appeared in significant roles in productions such as 'The Last Dragon' and 'Jagged Edge.' Also contributed to the theater as a producer, engaging in various projects that showcased her artistic capabilities. Career spanned several decades, leading to recognition within the entertainment industry, both in front of and behind the camera.
Continue ReadingGordon Hirabayashi
Sociologist and academic on Japanese American internment
Born
1918 108 years ago
Died
January 2nd, 2012 14 years ago — 94 years old
Contributed to the field of sociology with a focus on civil rights and the experiences of Japanese Americans during World War II. Conducted significant research on the internment of Japanese Americans and the impact it had on their identity and culture. Actively engaged in academic discussions and wrote extensively on issues related to social justice and discrimination. Hirabayashi's legal case regarding his refusal to comply with internment orders reached the U.S. Supreme Court, challenging the constitutionality of the internment policy.
Continue ReadingFrederick William IV of Prussia
King of Prussia, Crowned in 1840
Born
1795 231 years ago
Died
January 2nd, 1861 165 years ago — 66 years old
Ruled Prussia from 1840 until 1861. Attempted to implement a constitutional monarchy after the revolutions of 1848. Promoted art and architecture, commissioning the reconstruction of the Berlin City Palace. Faced criticism for reactionary policies and later refused the German imperial crown offered in 1849. A patron of the arts, contributed to the cultural development of Prussia.
Continue ReadingFrancesco Canova da Milano
Italian composer of Renaissance music
Born
August 18th, 1497 528 years ago
Died
January 2nd, 1543 483 years ago — 45 years old
A significant figure in the development of Renaissance music, contributed to the lute repertoire and composed numerous pieces for various instruments and voices. Created a style that blended both improvisation and written music, influencing future composers and musicians. His works are characterized by intricate melodies and harmonic exploration, contributing to the richness of the Renaissance musical landscape. Continued to have relevance in music history due to the complexity and artistry of the compositions.
Continue ReadingSalima Sultan Begum
Empress of the Mughal Empire
Born
February 23rd, 1539 486 years ago
Died
January 2nd, 1613 413 years ago — 73 years old
Served as an influential figure in the Mughal Empire during the late 16th and early 17th centuries. Played a key role in the political landscape of the empire, particularly through marriage alliances and court politics. Descended from a prominent lineage, her marriage to Mughal Emperor Akbar's son, Jahangir, positioned her as a significant player in the imperial court. Advocated for cultural and artistic developments during her time, contributing to the rich legacy of Mughal architecture and art.
Continue Reading