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
Big Joe Turner
An influential figure in the development of rhythm and blues, contributed to the genre with a powerful voice and energetic performances. Gained popularity in the 1930s and 1940s, becoming a prominent force in the transition from blues to R&B. Recorded numerous songs that became classics, including 'Shake, Rattle and Roll', which gained significant attention in both the black and white music markets. Performed extensively in clubs and festivals, showcasing a vocal style that combined elements of jazz, gospel, and blues. Inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1987, recognized for significant contributions to American music.
Continue ReadingJacques Santer
Born in 1937 in Luxembourg, served as the 22nd Prime Minister of Luxembourg from 1995 to 1999. His administration focused on economic reforms and European integration. Santer was also a member of the European Commission and held the position of President from 1995 until 1999. As Prime Minister, he worked to strengthen Luxembourg's role in the European Union. He contributed to various initiatives aimed at enhancing cooperation among member states.
Continue ReadingHeinz-Harald Frentzen
A professional race car driver competed in Formula One from 1994 to 2003. Achieved considerable success with multiple teams including Williams, Sauber, and Jordan. Secured three Grand Prix victories during career, showcasing skill in various racing conditions. Contributed significantly to team strategies and development of race cars. Transitioned to competing in sports car racing and other motorsport events after retirement from Formula One.
Continue ReadingPope John Paul II
Served as the Pope of the Roman Catholic Church from 1978 until 2005. Played a key role in the fall of communism in Eastern Europe, notably influencing events in Poland. Advocated for human rights and interfaith dialogue, making significant contributions to the Church's teachings through numerous encyclicals. Undertook extensive travels, visiting 129 countries during papacy and meeting with leaders from various faiths. His efforts included promoting peace and addressing issues such as poverty and social injustice.
Continue ReadingJacob K. Javits
Served as a U.S. Congressman and U.S. Senator from New York. During tenure in the Senate, advocated for labor reforms and civil rights. Played a significant role in the establishment of the New York City Fiscal Control Board. Served as the 58th Attorney General of New York, implementing various legal reforms. Worked on advancing issues related to health care and environmental protection.
Continue ReadingHugh Shearer
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 ReadingOther People Who Died on January 15th
Georges-Henri Lévesque
A Canadian-Dominican priest and sociologist contributed significantly to the field of sociology in Canada and the Caribbean. Over a career spanning several decades, focused on linking sociological theory with practical applications in social justice and community development. Worked extensively in education and published works examining social issues. Became the first trained sociologist in Canada, advocating for sociological education and its relevance to social change. Established research programs and encouraged the integration of sociology into Canadian universities.
Continue ReadingSammy Cahn
A prominent American songwriter and lyricist, Cahn created numerous songs that became standards in popular music. Collaborating with various composers, he authored lyrics for classic songs including 'Let It Snow! Let It Snow! Let It Snow!', 'Come Fly with Me', and 'High Noon'. His work spanned several decades, earning acclaim in both the film and music industries. Cahn received multiple Academy Awards for Best Original Song, showcasing his significant contribution to American music and cinema. His collaborations extended to film scores, where he frequently worked alongside notable filmmakers.
Continue ReadingGulzarilal Nanda
An Indian economist and politician served as acting Prime Minister of India during two tenures in 1964. Led initiatives focusing on India’s economic development, emphasizing social justice and labor rights. Played a significant role in formulating the country’s first Five-Year Plan. Contributed to national planning and policy-making during key periods of India’s post-independence history.
Continue ReadingErvin Drake
A prominent songwriter and composer, contributed to the American music scene through several well-loved songs. Created classics that have been performed and recorded by numerous artists over the decades. Collaborated with various musicians and worked on Broadway shows, leaving a lasting legacy within the music industry.
Continue ReadingJames Hillier
A Canadian-American computer scientist and academic who contributed significantly to the field of electron microscopy. Co-invented the first practical electron microscope in the 1930s, which transformed the ability to observe the ultra-structure of materials and biological samples. The development of this microscope represented a major advancement in imaging technology.
Continue ReadingManuel Fraga Iribarne
Played a significant role in Spanish politics, particularly in Galicia. Served as the third President of the Xunta of Galicia from 1990 to 2005. Contributed to the modernization of Galicia's political framework and promoted regional autonomy. Held various ministerial positions during the Franco regime, influencing the course of Spanish governance. Took part in the establishment of the Spanish Constitution of 1978, which transitioned the country to democracy.
Continue Reading