John Diefenbaker
Canadian politician, 13th Prime Minister
Served as the 13th Prime Minister of Canada from 1957 to 1963. Instrumental in implementing the Canadian Bill of Rights in 1960, which was the first federal statutory bill of rights in Canada. Promoted the construction of the Trans-Canada highway and the development of northern Canada. Oversaw the establishment of the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation's television service during his tenure. Advocated for a strong national identity and played a significant role in international relations during the Cold War.
Implemented the Canadian Bill of Rights in 1960
Served as Prime Minister from 1957 to 1963
Promoted the Trans-Canada highway development
Other People Born on September 18th
Jackson Robert Scott
Child actor in 'It' and 'The Tanglewood Tales'
Born
September 18th, 2008 17 years ago
A prominent child actor gained recognition for roles in horror and fantasy genres. Achieved notable success in the film 'It' portraying Georgie Denbrough, which garnered significant attention and acclaim. Also featured in the television adaptation of 'The Tanglewood Tales'. With a talent for captivating performances, contributed to projects that resonated with audiences, showcasing abilities in both film and television formats.
Continue ReadingSerge Ibaka
Basketball player, NBA champion
Born
September 18th, 1989 36 years ago
Born in the Republic of Congo, a professional basketball player has played in the NBA for several teams, including the Oklahoma City Thunder, Toronto Raptors, and Los Angeles Clippers. Gained recognition for defensive skills and shot-blocking abilities. Achieved significant success with the Toronto Raptors, contributing to the team's first NBA championship title in 2019. Also represented the Spanish national team in various international competitions.
Continue ReadingAidan Gallagher
Actor and musician; starred in 'The Umbrella Academy'
Born
September 18th, 2003 22 years ago
An American actor and musician, gained popularity for a prominent role in the Netflix series 'The Umbrella Academy'. In addition to acting, pursued a music career, releasing singles and gaining a following for his musical talent. Engaged with fans through social media and philanthropic efforts, advocating for environmental causes. Became notable in both entertainment and music at a young age, showcasing versatility in creative pursuits.
Continue ReadingAlfredo Talavera
Mexican football goalkeeper
Born
September 18th, 1982 43 years ago
Talavera has been a professional goalkeeper in Mexican football, playing primarily for Club Universidad Nacional, also called Pumas UNAM. At the club level, won the Liga MX title with the team. Talavera has also represented the Mexican national team in multiple international tournaments, including the FIFA World Cup and CONCACAF Gold Cup. His career has been marked by consistent performances, earning recognition within the league for his skills and contributions.
Continue ReadingLéon Foucault
French physicist known for pendulum experiment
Born
September 18th, 1819 206 years ago
Died
February 11th, 1868 157 years ago — 48 years old
Contributed significantly to experimental physics and is recognized for the invention of the Foucault pendulum, demonstrating the Earth's rotation. Conducted experiments in optics, notably measuring the speed of light with an accuracy that improved upon previous efforts. Served as a professor at the Collège de France, influencing the academic landscape of physics in the 19th century.
Continue ReadingMirza Teletović
Bosnian basketball player, NBA participant
Born
September 18th, 1985 40 years ago
Born in 1985, this basketball player played for various teams in both Europe and the NBA. He began his professional career in Bosnia with a local club before moving to play in the Adriatic League. His performance caught the attention of NBA scouts, leading to a stint with the Brooklyn Nets. Later, he signed with the Phoenix Suns and made significant contributions on the court. Teletović also represented Bosnia and Herzegovina in international competitions, participating in EuroBasket tournaments and bringing visibility to Bosnian basketball.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on August 16th
Shuja Khanzada
Pakistani politician and military officer
Born
August 28th, 1943 82 years ago
Died
August 16th, 2015 10 years ago — 71 years old
A colonel in the Pakistan Army, dedicated service in various military capacities occurred throughout a notable career. Transitioning from military to politics, held a position as a member of the Provincial Assembly in Punjab. Served as the provincial minister for law and parliamentary affairs. His political career was marked by a strong focus on governance and law enforcement within his constituency.
Continue ReadingAbune Paulos
Ethiopian Patriarch of the Ethiopian Orthodox Church
Born
1935 90 years ago
Died
August 16th, 2012 13 years ago — 77 years old
Served as the Patriarch of the Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church from 1992 until death in 2012. Worked to strengthen the church and promote peace in Ethiopia, particularly during times of conflict. Advocated for educational initiatives and served as a prominent figure in interfaith dialogue. Participated in various religious and cultural events to promote the Ethiopian Orthodox faith both domestically and internationally.
Continue ReadingJohn McLaughlin
Guitarist and songwriter, Mahavishnu Orchestra
Born
January 4th, 1942 83 years ago
Died
August 16th, 2016 9 years ago — 74 years old
A prominent figure in the jazz fusion genre, this English guitarist and songwriter helped bridge the gap between rock and jazz music. In the late 1960s and early 1970s, formed the Mahavishnu Orchestra, a pioneering band known for its complex time signatures and virtuosic players. The band's debut album, 'The Inner Mounting Flame,' received critical acclaim and solidified its place in music history. Over the years, collaborated with various notable artists, contributing significantly to the development of fusion music. Continued to perform and record, maintaining a lasting influence on guitarists and musicians across genres.
Continue ReadingJosé Maria de Eça de Queirós
Journalist and author of "Os Maias"
Born
November 25th, 1845 180 years ago
Died
August 16th, 1900 125 years ago — 54 years old
An influential journalist and novelist, this individual contributed significantly to Portuguese literature during the 19th century. A graduate of law, began a career in journalism, serving as an editor for various publications. The literary work "Os Maias" depicts the decline of a bourgeois family and is widely regarded as a masterpiece of Portuguese realism. Also engaged in diplomatic missions, representing Portugal in various foreign postings. The author utilized satire and social critique to explore themes of Portuguese society and culture, leaving a lasting legacy in literature.
Continue ReadingAretha Franklin
Singer-songwriter, 'Respect'
Born
March 25th, 1942 83 years ago
Died
August 16th, 2018 7 years ago — 76 years old
A prominent American singer-songwriter and pianist, this artist became a leading figure in soul music. Born in Memphis and raised in Detroit, began singing in church at a young age. The career spanned several decades, with numerous hit records and albums. Achievements include a historic signing with Atlantic Records and the release of the groundbreaking album 'I Never Loved a Man the Way I Love You'. Instrumental in popularizing soul music, received multiple Grammy Awards and was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Additionally, contributed to the civil rights movement through music and public efforts.
Continue ReadingHoward S. Becker
American sociologist and social theorist
Born
1928 97 years ago
Died
August 16th, 2023 2 years ago — 95 years old
Contributions focused on the sociology of deviance, education, and art. Developed labeling theory, which examined the impact of societal labels on individuals. Authored several influential works, including 'Outsiders' (1963), which explored the concept of deviance and how society constructs norms. Engaged in both qualitative research and participant observation, emphasizing the importance of understanding social contexts.
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