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
Benjamin Jealous
Civic leader and civil rights activist
Born
January 18th, 1973 53 years ago
A prominent civic leader and civil rights activist with a notable tenure as the president and CEO of the NAACP from 2008 to 2013. Advocated for social justice issues and focused on voting rights, education reform, and criminal justice reform during leadership. Played a significant role in various campaigns for civil rights, emphasizing the need for greater equity in society. Additionally, served as a candidate for governor of Maryland in 2018. Contributed to several organizations aimed at fostering community engagement and addressing systemic inequalities.
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 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 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 ReadingIkusaburo Yamazaki
Japanese actor and singer, starred in 'Liar Game'
Born
January 18th, 1986 40 years ago
Born on January 18, 1986, an actor and singer from Japan achieved prominence through various roles in television and film. Gained popularity for the role in the series 'Liar Game', which showcased unique psychological themes. Additionally performed in musical theater, further diversifying artistic contributions. Through a blend of acting and singing performances, engaged audiences and garnered a loyal fanbase.
Continue ReadingThor Hushovd
Cyclist and World Road Race Champion
Born
January 18th, 1978 48 years ago
A professional cyclist from Norway, excelled in road racing. Achieved significant success in prestigious races, including multiple grand tours and one-day classics. Claimed the World Road Race Championship in 2010, becoming the first Norwegian to achieve this title. Secured multiple stages in the Tour de France and won the green jersey as the race's best sprinter in 2010. His career spanned over a decade, highlighting proficiency in sprinting and versatility in varied terrains.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on January 2nd
Nimr al-Nimr
Saudi Arabian religious leader
Born
1959 67 years ago
Died
January 2nd, 2016 10 years ago — 57 years old
A prominent Shiite cleric and spokesperson for political reforms in Saudi Arabia. Advocated for the rights of the Shiite minority in the Eastern Province. Gained significant attention for sermons that criticized the Saudi government and its treatment of Shiites. Was arrested in 2012 during protests and eventually sentenced to death. Executed in 2016, which sparked widespread protests and condemnation among human rights organizations.
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 ReadingSalima Sultan Begum
Empress of the Mughal Empire
Born
February 23rd, 1539 487 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 ReadingAlan Hale Jr.
Actor in Gilligan's Island
Born
March 8th, 1921 105 years ago
Died
January 2nd, 1990 36 years ago — 68 years old
An American film and television actor became recognized primarily for playing the role of Skipper in the television series Gilligan's Island, which aired from 1964 to 1967. The show gained a significant following and remains a cultural touchstone. Hale also appeared in various films during the 1940s and 1950s, often portraying supporting characters. He was the son of actor Alan Hale Sr. and pursued a career in entertainment from a young age. Hale had a strong presence in the industry and made guest appearances on numerous television shows throughout his career.
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 ReadingElizabeth Jane Howard
English author and screenwriter
Born
1923 103 years ago
Died
January 2nd, 2014 12 years ago — 91 years old
An English author and screenwriter gained recognition for contributions to literature and television. Authored the acclaimed Cazalet Chronicles series, exploring family dynamics and social changes in post-war Britain. Received multiple awards for literary achievements, including the Whitbread Prize. Worked on various screenplays, enriching British television. The narrative style and character development found in novels influenced contemporary writers.
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