John Robarts
Canadian lawyer and 17th Premier of Ontario
Served as the 17th Premier of Ontario from 1963 to 1971. Played a significant role in the expansion of the province's education system and healthcare initiatives. Held various positions within the Progressive Conservative Party. Contributed to the establishment of the Ontario Science Centre. Worked as a lawyer and was involved in community service throughout his career.
Served as Ontario's Premier from 1963 to 1971
Expanded the education system in Ontario
Established the Ontario Science Centre
Other People Born on January 11th
Madeline Manning
American middle-distance runner and coach
Born
January 11th, 1948 77 years ago
Born on January 11, 1948, a middle-distance runner achieved significant success in track and field. Competed in the 800 meters and earned a gold medal at the 1968 Olympics in Mexico City, becoming the first American woman to win an Olympic medal in this event. After an athletic career, transitioned to coaching, contributing to the development of future athletes and programs. Served as a coach at various colleges and schools, emphasizing training and mentorship.
Continue ReadingEmperor Go-En'yū of Japan
Emperor of Japan during the Ashikaga period
Born
January 11th, 1359 666 years ago
Died
1393 632 years ago — 34 years old
Born in 1359, ascended the throne in 1371 as the 98th emperor of Japan during the Ashikaga shogunate. His reign was marked by the continued influence of the shogunal government and the cultural developments of the period. The emperor remained a symbolic figure while real power was held by the shogunate. Go-En'yū played a role in the imperial court's dynamics and preservation of traditional Japanese culture during a time of political fragmentation. His reign lasted until 1382, after which he continued to be influential in the imperial succession.
Continue ReadingArthur Scargill
English miner and labor union leader
Born
January 11th, 1938 87 years ago
Born in 1938, a significant figure in the British labor movement, focused on advocating for miners' rights and labor policies. As president of the National Union of Mineworkers, he led strikes to protest against pit closures and wage cuts during the 1980s. Scargill's leadership during the 1984-1985 miners' strike was marked by confrontation with the government and support from various labor organizations. His activism played a pivotal role in the mining community during a period of economic reform in the UK. After the miners' strike, continued involvement in politics and labor rights issues.
Continue ReadingEmperor Kōmyō of Japan
Emperor of Japan and Buddhist supporter
Born
January 11th, 1322 703 years ago
Died
1380 645 years ago — 58 years old
Born in 1322, served as the 96th emperor of Japan from 1336 to 1351. His reign occurred during the tumultuous period of the Nanboku-chō wars, a civil conflict between rival factions for imperial authority. Kōmyō was noted for his strong support of Buddhism, especially the Pure Land sect, which gained prominence during his reign. The emperor sought to establish a stable government amid ongoing conflicts and led efforts to promote religious practices, enhancing the role of Buddhism in society. His rule reflected the complexities of the era, balancing imperial ambitions with the realities of war and governance.
Continue ReadingGeorge Curzon
English politician and Governor-General of India
Born
January 11th, 1859 166 years ago
Died
March 20th, 1925 100 years ago — 66 years old
Served as the 35th Governor-General of India from 1899 to 1905. Oversaw numerous administrative reforms during tenure, including changes to education and infrastructure. Played a key role in the Durbar of 1903, which celebrated the coronation of Edward VII. Advocated for British interests in India and addressed issues such as famine relief and railway expansion.
Continue ReadingMohammad Reza Rahimi
Iranian politician and lawyer
Born
January 11th, 1949 76 years ago
Served as the 2nd Vice President of Iran from 2009 to 2013. Held various governmental positions, including involvement in the country's legal system. Participated actively in the political landscape during a significant period in Iranian history.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on October 18th
Etienne Nicolas Méhul
Composer of operas and symphonies
Born
1763 262 years ago
Died
October 18th, 1817 208 years ago — 54 years old
Born in 1763, a prominent French composer during the Revolutionary and Napoleonic eras, contributed significantly to the development of French opera and symphonic music. Focused on creating dramatic and expressive compositions, shaped the style of French opera with works that included operas, symphonies, and sacred music. Established a reputation as a leading figure in the transition from Baroque to Romantic music. Contributed to the formation of the French opera's identity through innovative melodic and harmonic techniques. Strived to integrate French folk elements into classical music structures, influencing future composers.
Continue ReadingGwen Verdon
Actress and dancer in Broadway musicals
Born
January 13th, 1925 100 years ago
Died
October 18th, 2000 25 years ago — 75 years old
Renowned as a groundbreaking actress and dancer, contributions to Broadway reshaped the landscape of musical theater. Key performances included originating roles in 'Damn Yankees' and 'Chicago'. The combination of exceptional talent and innovative choreography left a lasting legacy in the industry.
Continue ReadingPreston Smith
Governor of Texas
Born
March 8th, 1912 113 years ago
Died
October 18th, 2003 22 years ago — 91 years old
Served as the 38th Governor of Texas from 1969 to 1973. Oversaw significant educational reforms, including the establishment of programs aimed at improving higher education access. Previously held the position of Lieutenant Governor of Texas from 1963 to 1969. His administration focused on infrastructure development and public service improvements.
Continue ReadingChristian August Crusius
German philosopher and theologian
Born
January 10th, 1715 310 years ago
Died
October 18th, 1775 250 years ago — 60 years old
Contributed significantly to 18th-century philosophy and theology. Developed a systematic philosophy advocating for the rational analysis of metaphysics and ethics. Engaged in debates concerning the nature of knowledge and reality, particularly in opposition to rationalism. His works influenced subsequent philosophical thought, especially in Germany.
Continue ReadingIsaac Jogues
French missionary and martyr
Born
January 10th, 1607 418 years ago
Died
October 18th, 1646 379 years ago — 39 years old
A French priest and missionary, played a pivotal role in missionary efforts among Native Americans in North America during the 17th century. Arrived in Canada in 1636 and worked with the Huron people. Captured by the Iroquois in 1642, endured brutal treatment and was later martyred in 1646. Canonized as a saint in 1930 by the Catholic Church.
Continue ReadingHenry Travers
Actor in It's a Wonderful Life
Born
March 5th, 1874 151 years ago
Died
October 18th, 1965 60 years ago — 91 years old
Born in England, an actor migrated to the United States and developed a successful career in film and theater. Gained recognition for the role of Clarence Oddbody in the classic film 'It's a Wonderful Life' released in 1946. Also appeared in various other productions during the 1930s and 1940s, contributing to the cinematic landscape of the era. Often cast in supporting roles, he brought warmth and humor to his performances, which continued to resonate with audiences in later years.
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