Joe Bonsall
Country/gospel singer, Oak Ridge Boys member
Born in 1948, a prominent country and gospel singer. Became a member of the musical group Oak Ridge Boys in 1973, contributing to the band’s signature harmonies and style. The group achieved widespread recognition and success, including several Grammy Awards, including Best Country Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocal in 1981 for the hit song "Elvira." The Oak Ridge Boys also earned numerous Country Music Association Awards and were inducted into the Gospel Music Hall of Fame. Besides music, engaged in writing and authored books reflecting personal experiences.
Member of the Oak Ridge Boys
Grammy Award for 'Elvira'
Other People Born on May 18th
Ezio Pinza
Italian-American operatic bass singer
Born
May 18th, 1892 133 years ago
Died
May 9th, 1957 69 years ago — 64 years old
Initially worked in Italy before moving to the United States, where a successful career in opera and Broadway evolved. Gained notable acclaim for performances in productions such as 'South Pacific.' Also achieved recognition as a recording artist, contributing to the popularity of operatic music in American culture during the mid-20th century.
Continue ReadingWalter Gropius
Architect, designed John F. Kennedy Building
Born
May 18th, 1883 142 years ago
Died
July 5th, 1969 56 years ago — 86 years old
A leading architect of the 20th century, contributed significantly to modern architecture as the founder of the Bauhaus school in Germany. Emphasized functional design and the integration of art with technology. Designed multiple iconic buildings including the John F. Kennedy Federal Building in Boston and the Werkbund Exhibition in 1914. Advocated for the unity of art and industrial design, influencing generations of architects and designers.
Continue ReadingPiero Soderini
Italian politician and diplomat
Born
May 18th, 1450 575 years ago
Died
1513 513 years ago — 63 years old
Served as the Gonfaloniere of Florence from 1502 to 1512, overseeing the city's administration and military matters. Implemented reforms aimed at strengthening the republican system during a tumultuous period in Florentine politics. Fostered cultural developments that aligned with the Renaissance ethos, providing support to artists and intellectuals. Engaged in diplomatic efforts, striving to maintain Florence's independence amidst competition with neighboring states and the influence of the Papacy.
Continue ReadingJacob K. Javits
American politician and attorney general
Born
May 18th, 1904 121 years ago
Died
March 7th, 1986 40 years ago — 81 years old
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 ReadingBig Joe Turner
Blues/R&B singer and songwriter
Born
May 18th, 1911 114 years ago
Died
1985 41 years ago — 74 years old
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 ReadingBertrand Russell
Philosopher and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
May 18th, 1872 153 years ago
Died
February 2nd, 1970 56 years ago — 97 years old
A prominent British mathematician and philosopher, contributed significantly to a variety of fields including logic, philosophy, and social criticism. Authored numerous influential works, including 'Principia Mathematica' co-written with Alfred North Whitehead, which laid the groundwork for much of modern mathematics. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1950 for varied and significant writings, advocating for humanitarian ideals and nuclear disarmament. Engaged actively in political discourse throughout his career, participating in various anti-war movements and promoting social reform.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on July 9th
Alex Shibicky
Canadian ice hockey player and NHL star
Born
May 19th, 1914 111 years ago
Died
July 9th, 2005 20 years ago — 91 years old
Played professional ice hockey primarily for the New York Rangers and the Detroit Red Wings in the NHL. Recognized for contributions to the teams during the late 1930s and early 1940s. Served in the Royal Canadian Air Force during World War II, which interrupted his hockey career. Returned to the NHL post-war and continued to play, leaving a mark in professional hockey.
Continue ReadingPaul Broca
Anatomist known for Broca's area
Born
June 28th, 1824 201 years ago
Died
July 9th, 1880 145 years ago — 56 years old
A French physician and anatomist, contributed significantly to the field of anthropology and neurology. Established the concept of localized brain functions through research on patients with language disorders. Discovered Broca's area, a region in the frontal lobe associated with speech production. Conducted studies that laid the groundwork for understanding the brain's role in language, which influenced modern neuroscience.
Continue ReadingKarl Ast
Estonian author and politician
Born
1886 140 years ago
Died
July 9th, 1971 54 years ago — 85 years old
An author and politician from Estonia, contributed significantly to political thought and literature in the early 20th century. Participated in the Estonian War of Independence and was involved in establishing the Republic of Estonia. Wrote extensively on topics related to politics and society, influencing future generations. Held various political positions during a formative period for Estonian national identity and governance.
Continue ReadingThomas McKean Thompson McKennan
American lawyer and Secretary of the Interior
Born
March 31st, 1794 232 years ago
Died
July 9th, 1852 173 years ago — 58 years old
Served as the 2nd United States Secretary of the Interior from 1849 to 1850. Participated in the establishment of policies regarding land management and Native American affairs in the early years of the department. Before this role, engaged in various legal practices and held significant positions within the government of Pennsylvania, contributing to state legislation and the justice system.
Continue ReadingMelvin Belli
Trial lawyer and media personality
Born
July 29th, 1907 118 years ago
Died
July 9th, 1996 29 years ago — 88 years old
Practiced law in the United States, focusing on personal injury and civil rights cases. Gained notoriety through high-profile trials and innovative legal strategies. Wrote several books on legal practice and became a prominent figure in the media through televised trials and interviews. Served as a consultant on legal matters in films and television, influencing public perception of the legal profession.
Continue ReadingGeorges Bataille
French philosopher and novelist
Born
September 10th, 1897 128 years ago
Died
July 9th, 1962 63 years ago — 64 years old
Born in France, a prominent figure in philosophy and literature emerged, engaging deeply with themes of eroticism, mysticism, and the limits of experience. Published numerous works including 'The Story of the Eye' and 'The Accursed Share', which explored the intersections of eroticism, sacrifice, and economic thought. Contributed to the Surrealist movement and later distanced from it, establishing a unique philosophical voice. Edited the influential journal 'Documents', which aimed to challenge conventional narratives and embrace a radical worldview.
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