Jimmy Snuka

Professional Wrestler and WWE Legend

Jimmy Snuka - Professional Wrestler and WWE Legend
Born

May 18th, 1943
82 years ago

Died

January 15th, 2017
8 years ago — 73 years old

Category

Performers & Entertainers

Country

Fiji

Links & References

A professional wrestler competed in the World Wrestling Federation (WWF) during the 1980s and 1990s. The individual became recognized for high-flying wrestling style and charismatic persona. Achieved significant popularity with signature moves such as the Superfly Splash. Inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame in 1996. Career included numerous championship matches and memorable feuds, particularly with wrestlers like Bob Backlund and 'Rowdy' Roddy Piper.

Inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame in 1996

Popularized high-flying wrestling maneuvers

Competed in iconic matches against notable wrestlers

Other People Born on May 18th

Wilhelm Hofmeister

German botanist and plant developer
Born
May 18th, 1824 201 years ago
Died
1877 148 years ago — 53 years old

Contributions to botany included foundational work on plant development and classification. Established the concept of alternation of generations in plant life cycles, influencing modern botanical studies. Conducted extensive research on the reproductive processes of ferns and other plants, contributing to the understanding of their life cycles. Writings provided a framework for plant morphology and taxonomy, shaping future botanical research.

Continue Reading

Hugh Shearer

Jamaican politician and Prime Minister
Born
May 18th, 1923 102 years ago
Died
July 5th, 2004 20 years ago — 81 years old

Served as the third Prime Minister of Jamaica from 1967 to 1972. Held various government positions, including Minister of Labour and Minister of Trade and Industry. Contributed to the development of the Jamaican economy through policies aimed at industrialization and export promotion. Emerged as a significant figure in Jamaica's political landscape during the 1960s and 1970s.

Continue Reading

Jim Sundberg

Baseball player and sportscaster
Born
May 18th, 1951 74 years ago

A former professional baseball player, played as a catcher in Major League Baseball (MLB) from 1973 to 1989. Teams included the Texas Rangers, Kansas City Royals, and Chicago Cubs. Selected as an All-Star in 1983 and received multiple Gold Glove Awards for defensive excellence. Transitioned to a sportscasting career after retiring as a player. Provided analysis and commentary for various sports networks and teams.

Continue Reading

Warren Rudman

American politician, Senator from New Hampshire
Born
May 18th, 1930 95 years ago
Died
November 19th, 2012 12 years ago — 82 years old

Served as a U.S. Senator from New Hampshire from 1980 to 1993. Positioned as a Republican, emphasized fiscal responsibility and national security. Played a crucial role in various legislative efforts, including the establishment of the National Commission on the Future of the Army. Co-authored the landmark Gramm-Rudman-Hollings Act, aimed at reducing the federal budget deficit. After leaving the Senate, contributed to public policy discussions and served on several boards and committees.

Continue Reading

Kai Winding

Trombonist and composer of jazz
Born
May 18th, 1922 103 years ago
Died
May 6th, 1983 42 years ago — 60 years old

Born in Denmark and later becoming a U.S. citizen, a prominent figure in jazz music, contributed to the trombone repertoire through performance and composition. Played in various big bands during the 1940s, including those of Stan Kenton and Woody Herman. Formed the jazz trombone duo Kai Winding and J.J. Johnson, which was influential in shaping jazz trombone techniques and style. Regularly performed and recorded with the renowned Miles Davis and participated in significant jazz festivals across the globe.

Continue Reading

Gertrude Käsebier

American photographer and portraitist
Born
May 18th, 1852 173 years ago
Died
1934 91 years ago — 82 years old

An American photographer, Käsebier specialized in portraiture and was a significant figure in photographic art in the early 20th century. She was an advocate for the fine art of photography and contributed to the promotion of women's work in the field. Käsebier became well-known for her intimate and evocative portraits, often depicting mothers and children. In 1900, she was awarded a gold medal at the Paris Exposition, showcasing her work on an international stage. Käsebier was a founding member of the Photo-Secession group and served as its first secretary, helping to elevate photography as an art form. Her legacy includes a profound influence on modern portrait photography.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on January 15th

Ray Nagel

American football player and coach
Born
May 18th, 1927 98 years ago
Died
January 15th, 2015 10 years ago — 87 years old

Played football at the University of Iowa and served as a quarterback before entering the coaching profession. Coached teams including the University of Utah and the University of Hawaii. Held a position as head coach at the University of Hawaii from 1970 to 1972. Contributed to player development and team strategies throughout coaching career.

Continue Reading

William T. Piper

Aviation pioneer and aircraft manufacturer
Born
1881 144 years ago
Died
January 15th, 1970 55 years ago — 89 years old

An engineer and businessman founded Piper Aircraft, which became a leading manufacturer of general aviation aircraft. Established in 1937, Piper Aircraft designed and produced a variety of models, including the iconic Piper Cub, which played a significant role in popularizing civil aviation. The company contributed to both recreational flying and pilot training through its innovative designs and affordable pricing. Piper’s business acumen enabled the company to thrive in a competitive market, significantly impacting the aviation landscape.

Continue Reading

Eugène Brands

Dutch painter associated with Cobra movement
Born
January 15th, 1913 112 years ago
Died
January 15th, 2002 23 years ago — 89 years old

A Dutch painter active in the 20th century, contributed significantly to the avant-garde movement known as Cobra. His abstract works frequently explored themes of color and form, creating a unique visual language. Established a prominent position within the Cobra movement alongside other influential artists. Participated in several key exhibitions, showcasing a commitment to innovation in contemporary art. Later evolved a personal style that incorporated a variety of techniques and inspirations, transitioning throughout his career while remaining connected to the ideals of the movement.

Continue Reading

Jeanne Voltz

Food journalist and cookbook writer
Born
1920 105 years ago
Died
January 15th, 2002 23 years ago — 82 years old

A prominent food journalist and cookbook writer, contributed significantly to American culinary literature through innovative recipes and food essays. Voltz authored multiple cookbooks featuring both classic and contemporary dishes, reflecting a deep understanding of culinary traditions. Worked as a food editor for various publications, shaping food writing and influencing home cooking. Participated in numerous culinary events and workshops, educating aspiring cooks and promoting a passion for food.

Continue Reading

Giovanni Battista Sammartini

Italian composer and organist
Born
1700 325 years ago
Died
January 15th, 1775 250 years ago — 75 years old

This individual served as an influential figure in the early classical music period. Active primarily in the 18th century, significant contributions included symphonies that preceded the later works of prominent composers. Worked in Milan, providing music for various religious and civic events. Played a critical role in the development of early symphonic forms, and his influence is noted in the works of later composers. His compositions laid groundwork for the transition from the Baroque to the Classical style.

Continue Reading

Kim Fowley

American music producer and songwriter
Born
July 21st, 1939 85 years ago
Died
January 15th, 2015 10 years ago — 75 years old

Influential figure in the music industry, particularly in the glam rock and punk genres. Contributed to the formation and management of the all-girl band The Runaways. Initiated a prolific songwriting career, penning tracks for various artists while producing numerous albums. Collaborated with significant artists throughout the years, making notable contributions to popular music across several decades.

Continue Reading