John Bruton
Irish politician and Taoiseach
Born
Died
2024
2 years ago — 77 years old
Category
Leaders & Politicians
Country
Ireland
Links & References
Served as the 10th Taoiseach of Ireland from 1994 to 1997. Held the position of leader of the Fine Gael party during this time. Played a significant role in the negotiations leading to the Good Friday Agreement, which aimed to address issues of governance in Northern Ireland. Held various positions in the Irish government, including Minister for Finance and Minister for Industry and Commerce.
Served as Taoiseach from 1994 to 1997
Led Fine Gael during his premiership
Negotiated the Good Friday Agreement
Other People Born on May 18th
Norman St John-Stevas
English politician and academic leader
Born
May 18th, 1929 97 years ago
Died
March 2nd, 2012 14 years ago — 82 years old
An English academic and politician served as Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster from 1970 to 1974. St John-Stevas was a member of the Conservative Party and represented the Chelmsford constituency in the House of Commons from 1950 to 1974. In addition to his political career, held various academic roles, including being a professor. St John-Stevas was instrumental in promoting arts and education during his tenure in government and was involved in legislative reforms that affected the arts sector.
Continue ReadingBig Joe Turner
Blues/R&B singer and songwriter
Born
May 18th, 1911 115 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 ReadingDon Martin
Cartoonist of MAD magazine fame
Born
May 18th, 1931 95 years ago
Died
2000 26 years ago — 69 years old
Raised in New Jersey, a prominent cartoonist created a unique style characterized by exaggerated characters and humorous situations. Contributed to MAD magazine for over four decades, becoming a vital part of its identity. Developed a signature brand of slapstick humor and absurdity evident in recurring gags and inventive illustrations. Also produced his own series in comic format, further showcasing his distinctive artistic approach and storytelling. Influenced a generation of cartoonists and left a lasting mark on the genre of humor comics.
Continue ReadingBertrand Russell
Philosopher and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
May 18th, 1872 154 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 ReadingJay Wells
Ice Hockey Player and Coach
Born
May 18th, 1959 67 years ago
Played as a defenseman in the National Hockey League (NHL) for multiple teams including the New York Rangers, Los Angeles Kings, and Buffalo Sabres. Transitioned to coaching after retirement from professional play, contributing to various junior and minor league teams. Participated in a total of over 700 NHL games during a career spanning more than a decade.
Continue ReadingAugusto César Sandino
Nicaraguan rebel leader and activist
Born
May 18th, 1895 131 years ago
Died
February 21st, 1934 92 years ago — 38 years old
A Nicaraguan rebel leader opposed U.S. military intervention in Nicaragua during the 1920s and 1930s. Founded the Sandinista National Liberation Front, which became a key political force in Nicaragua. Sandino's guerrilla warfare strategies inspired many leftist movements across Latin America. He emphasized national sovereignty and social justice. Assassinated in 1934, his legacy continued to influence Nicaraguan politics and revolutionary movements.
Continue Reading