Jim Jeffords
American politician and senator
Served as a U.S. Senator from Vermont from 2001 to 2007 and as a member of the House of Representatives from 1975 to 1989. Initially elected as a Republican, switched to independent status in 2001, which resulted in a shift in Senate control. Before his political career, practiced law and served in the Vermont State Senate. Advocated for education, environmental protection, and healthcare reform.
Served as U.S. Senator from Vermont
Switched to independent status in 2001
Other People Born on May 11th
Konsta Helenius
Finnish ice hockey player
Born
May 11th, 2006 19 years ago
A professional ice hockey player from Finland, played as a forward. Won a gold medal with the Finnish national team at the 2023 IIHF World U18 Championships. Known for contributions to HIFK in the Finnish Liiga. Developed skills in various youth teams before advancing to the professional level.
Continue ReadingChang and Eng Bunker
Siamese-American showmen, conjoined twins
Born
May 11th, 1811 214 years ago
Died
1874 151 years ago — 63 years old
Born conjoined at the sternum, these individuals rose to prominence in 19th century America as entertainers. They toured North America and Europe, captivating audiences with their unique physical condition. Their act featured a variety of performances, including music and comedy, showcasing their ability to engage with the public. The twins established a profitable career, drawing attention and curiosity wherever they went. Their life story has since inspired various artistic and cultural representations, further solidifying their legacy as iconic figures in entertainment history.
Continue ReadingSadashiv Amrapurkar
Indian actor in Hindi cinema
Born
May 11th, 1950 75 years ago
Died
November 3rd, 2014 11 years ago — 64 years old
Prominent figure in Hindi cinema, gained recognition for versatility in portraying complex characters. Debuted in the 1980s and became a sought-after actor for both comedic and villainous roles. Achieved fame through performances in films like 'Ardh Satya' and 'Shakti', showcasing ability to imbue characters with depth and nuance. Engaged in television roles that further established reputation within the industry. Received several awards, including the Filmfare Award for Best Supporting Actor, highlighting contribution to Indian cinema.
Continue ReadingNiwa Nagashige
Japanese daimyō and military leader
Born
May 11th, 1571 454 years ago
Died
April 30th, 1637 388 years ago — 65 years old
Born in 1571, this historical figure served as a daimyō during the Sengoku period in Japan. He held significant power in the region of Owari and played a crucial role in the political and military landscape of the time. Loyal to Tokugawa Ieyasu, he participated in pivotal battles and contributed to the establishment of the Tokugawa shogunate. His governance and military strategies shaped the dynamics of feudal Japan.
Continue ReadingMatt Leinart
American football quarterback, Heisman Trophy winner
Born
May 11th, 1983 42 years ago
Played college football at the University of Southern California, leading the team to two national championships in 2003 and 2004. Received the Heisman Trophy in 2004, recognizing him as the outstanding player in college football. Selected 10th overall in the 2006 NFL Draft by the Arizona Cardinals, where he played for several seasons. Also played for the Houston Texans and a stint with the Buffalo Bills. After retiring from professional football, transitioned into media and sports commentary.
Continue ReadingPaul Nash
British painter of war landscapes
Born
May 11th, 1889 136 years ago
Died
1946 79 years ago — 57 years old
A significant British painter, associated with the British Surrealism movement. Engaged as an official war artist during World War I, captured the devastation of battlefields through evocative landscapes. Participated in various exhibitions throughout the 20th century, influencing the artistic representation of war. Published several writings on art and painting, contributing to the discourse within the art community.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on August 18th
Elmer Bernstein
Composer of film scores and conductor
Born
April 4th, 1922 103 years ago
Died
August 18th, 2004 21 years ago — 82 years old
Gained recognition for film scoring starting in the 1950s. Composed music for a variety of genres, producing scores for over 200 films. Collaborated with directors like Alfred Hitchcock and John Frankenheimer. Achieved critical acclaim for work in films such as "The Magnificent Seven," "To Kill a Mockingbird," and "Ghostbusters." Received Academy Awards, Grammy Awards, and a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame throughout his career. Continued to influence film music until retirement.
Continue ReadingRuth Johnson Colvin
Literacy advocate and author
Born
December 16th, 1916 109 years ago
Died
August 18th, 2024 1 years ago — 107 years old
An American author and educator, dedicated efforts focused on adult literacy and education. Founded ProLiteracy Worldwide, an organization aimed at improving literacy rates across the globe. Developed innovative programs and resources to support adult learners. Actively collaborated with various organizations to enhance educational outreach and access for underprivileged populations.
Continue ReadingTony Jackson
Singer and bass player for The Searchers
Born
July 16th, 1938 87 years ago
Died
August 18th, 2003 22 years ago — 65 years old
A prominent English singer and bass player, contributed significantly to the music scene in the 1960s. Jackson was a founding member of the band The Searchers, which achieved considerable success. The band incorporated elements of Merseybeat and pop music, gaining popularity with chart-topping hits.
Continue ReadingWanli Emperor of China
Chinese Emperor during the Ming Dynasty
Born
1563 462 years ago
Died
August 18th, 1620 405 years ago — 57 years old
Ascended to the throne at a young age, leading China during a significant period of the Ming Dynasty. The reign lasted from 1572 to 1620, becoming one of the longest in Chinese history. The Wanli era is noted for initial economic prosperity and cultural achievements, including advancements in the arts and literature. However, the later years of the reign saw challenges such as political strife and bureaucratic inefficiencies, leading to a decline in the government’s effectiveness. Efforts to maintain control over the empire faced resistance from officials. Despite these issues, contributions to temple construction and maritime trade occurred during the period.
Continue ReadingAnita Loos
Author and screenwriter of Gentlemen Prefer Blondes
Born
April 26th, 1889 136 years ago
Died
August 18th, 1981 44 years ago — 92 years old
An influential author, playwright, and screenwriter emerged in the early 20th century. Loos gained prominence with the publication of the humorous novel 'Gentlemen Prefer Blondes' in 1925, which satirized the flapper culture of the era. The book achieved notable success, leading to adaptations in both stage and film formats, further cementing its cultural significance. Besides her literary contributions, work as a screenwriter for major Hollywood studios included collaborations on several successful films, enhancing her reputation in the entertainment industry. Loos was a prominent figure in the world of American literature and film, known for her wit and sharp commentary on society.
Continue ReadingNikolaus Pevsner
Art historian and scholar of architecture
Born
January 30th, 1902 123 years ago
Died
August 18th, 1983 42 years ago — 81 years old
A prominent art historian and architectural scholar, contributions to the understanding of English architecture were significant. Authored 'The Buildings of England', a major series documenting architectural history across England. Played a critical role in the establishment of the Arts Council of Great Britain. Teaching positions included roles at the University of Birmingham and Birkbeck College, influencing generations of students in the field of architectural history.
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