Joakim Soria
Baseball pitcher for Kansas City Royals
A professional baseball player, achieved recognition as a relief pitcher. Played for the Kansas City Royals, establishing himself as a key player in the bullpen. Debuted in Major League Baseball in 2007 and quickly became one of the prominent closers in the league. Acquired by the Royals and contributed significantly to the team's pitching strength. Later played for several other teams, including the Detroit Tigers and Chicago White Sox, throughout a successful career. Selected as an All-Star and awarded the American League Rolaids Relief Man of the Year for exceptional performance on the mound.
Selected as an All-Star in 2010
Received American League Rolaids Relief Man of the Year award
Played crucial role in the Kansas City Royals' bullpen
Other People Born on May 18th
Joan Eardley
British painter specializing in landscapes
Born
May 18th, 1921 104 years ago
Died
August 16th, 1963 62 years ago — 42 years old
A British painter emerged as a significant figure in 20th-century art. Eardley studied at the Glasgow School of Art and gained recognition for her expressive use of color and texture. The artist often depicted the Scottish landscape and working-class children in Glasgow, capturing the essence of post-war life. Eardley frequently painted in the coastal village of Catterline, where her vibrant landscapes reflected the natural beauty of the Scottish coast. Eardley's work has been celebrated in multiple exhibitions, contributing to her lasting legacy in British art.
Continue ReadingCharles N. Sims
American Methodist preacher and educator
Born
May 18th, 1835 190 years ago
Died
1908 118 years ago — 73 years old
A Methodist preacher and educator, served as the third chancellor of Syracuse University, steering the institution through key developments in its early transition. Contributed significantly to the expansion of the university's educational programs and its Methodist affiliation during the mid-19th century. Instrumental in integrating principles of faith into educational practices, fostering a strong community among students and faculty.
Continue ReadingOmar Khayyám
Persian mathematician, astronomer, poet
Born
May 18th, 1048 977 years ago
Died
December 4th, 1131 894 years ago — 83 years old
Contributions to mathematics include advancements in algebra and the development of the geometric method for solving cubic equations. As an astronomer, contributed to the creation of a more accurate calendar, known as the Jalali calendar, which was more precise than the Gregorian calendar. Poetry expressed themes of love, nature, and existential thought, with the Rubaiyat serving as one of the most recognized works, later translated into many languages. This work earned a significant place in world literature and inspired numerous adaptations.
Continue ReadingLillian Hoban
American author and illustrator of children's books
Born
May 18th, 1925 100 years ago
Died
July 17th, 1998 27 years ago — 73 years old
An author and illustrator specialized in children's literature. Published a number of popular books, with a significant emphasis on themes of friendship, family, and discovery. Collaborated with her husband on several projects, contributing illustrations that complemented engaging narratives. Worked extensively with various publishing houses to bring stories to life through vivid illustrations. ''Arthur's Family'' and ''The Two of Them'' represent milestones in her career, showcasing the combination of visual artistry and compelling storytelling. Her contributions have been recognized in the realm of children's literature over several decades.
Continue ReadingTom Udall
American politician and senator
Born
May 18th, 1948 77 years ago
A lawyer and politician, served as the 28th Attorney General of New Mexico from 1991 to 1993. Elected to the U.S. House of Representatives in 2008, representing New Mexico's 3rd congressional district. Elected to the United States Senate in 2009, serving until 2021. Focused on various issues including environmental protection, health care, and government transparency during time in office.
Continue ReadingMeredith Willson
Playwright and composer of The Music Man
Born
May 18th, 1902 123 years ago
Died
June 15th, 1984 41 years ago — 82 years old
A composer and playwright created the Broadway musical The Music Man, which premiered in 1957. The show followed a con man named Harold Hill who posed as a band leader in a small Iowa town. Willson also wrote the successful musical-notes for several other works, including The Unsinkable Molly Brown. His background in music, as a conductor and musician, greatly influenced his creative output and compositional style. Willson's contributions to the arts have been recognized through numerous awards including Tony Awards for his work. His legacy continues through the enduring popularity of The Music Man, which remains a staple in theater productions worldwide.
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