Jonah Lomu

Rugby Union player, Rugby World Cup star

Jonah Lomu - Rugby Union player, Rugby World Cup star
Born

May 12th, 1975
50 years ago

Died

November 18th, 2015
9 years ago — 40 years old

Category

Athletes & Sports Figures

Country

New Zealand

Links & References

A renowned rugby union player from New Zealand, Lomu rose to prominence in the 1990s. He played for the All Blacks, debuting in 1994 and quickly becoming a significant figure in the sport. His performance in the 1995 Rugby World Cup, noted for his incredible speed and power, particularly during the semi-final match against England, established his legacy and transformed how wingers approached the game. Lomu's combination of size and agility redefined the expectations for players in that position. After a career impacted by health challenges, he retired from international rugby in 2002 but remained influential in the sport until his passing in 2015.

Played for the All Blacks

Starred in the 1995 Rugby World Cup

Other People Born on May 12th

Lou Whitaker

Baseball player, 1984 World Series Champion
Born
May 12th, 1957 68 years ago

A professional baseball player involved mainly with the Detroit Tigers during a 19-year career, contributing as a second baseman. Played an essential role in the success of the Tigers during the 1980s, including the team's victory in the 1984 World Series. Recognized for exceptional defensive skills and a consistent batting average throughout the career. Inducted into the Michigan Sports Hall of Fame and remains a beloved figure in Tigers history.

Continue Reading

Justus von Liebig

Chemist, developed fertilizers
Born
May 12th, 1803 222 years ago
Died
April 18th, 1873 152 years ago — 69 years old

A German chemist and academic, contributed significantly to organic chemistry and agricultural science. Developed the concept of fertilizer and its importance for plant growth. Founded the first practical laboratory for teaching chemistry in 1824. His work laid the foundation for the agricultural revolution in Europe and helped in the scientific understanding of nutrition.

Continue Reading

J. E. H. MacDonald

English-Canadian painter of landscapes
Born
May 12th, 1873 152 years ago
Died
1932 93 years ago — 59 years old

A prominent painter in the Group of Seven, focused on capturing the Canadian wilderness through vibrant colors and bold brushstrokes. Moved to Canada in 1885 and developed a unique style that combined elements of Impressionism and Post-Impressionism. His works often depicted the natural beauty of Ontario, especially Algonquin Park. Played a crucial role in promoting the importance of Canadian art and contributing to the development of a national identity in the arts.

Continue Reading

Edward Lear

Poet and illustrator of limericks
Born
May 12th, 1812 213 years ago
Died
January 29th, 1888 137 years ago — 75 years old

An English poet and illustrator, focused on the creation of limericks and whimsical illustrations. Published works included 'A Book of Nonsense,' which featured light-hearted poems and playful drawings. Worked extensively as a landscape painter, capturing scenes of the Mediterranean and various locations in Europe. Thus, contributed significantly to the genre of children's literature and illustrated poetry. Lear was also known for his detailed works of natural history, especially in ornithology.

Continue Reading

Emilio Estevez

American actor and director of The Breakfast Club
Born
May 12th, 1962 63 years ago

Estevez started a career in acting in the 1980s, gaining recognition for roles in iconic films such as The Breakfast Club and St. Elmo's Fire. He also starred in The Mighty Ducks series, portraying coach Gordon Bombay. In addition to acting, Estevez took on directing roles, showcasing talents behind the camera with films like Bobby. Estevez is part of the famous Estevez family, with connections to other notable actors. His work spans both television and film, contributing to a significant presence in the entertainment industry.

Continue Reading

Tony Hawk

Skateboarder and skateboard designer
Born
May 12th, 1968 57 years ago

An American skateboarder and actor, recognized as a pioneer in modern skateboarding. Achievements in the sport include the first documented 900 degree aerial spin during the X Games in 1999. Developed a successful line of skateboards and accessories, establishing a major brand in the skateboarding industry. Extended influence into popular culture with appearances in films and video games, including the 'Tony Hawk's Pro Skater' series, which popularized skateboarding in gaming. Amassed numerous awards and honors throughout the career.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on November 18th

Robert Bacher

Physicist and academic with key research
Born
August 31st, 1905 120 years ago
Died
November 18th, 2004 20 years ago — 99 years old

Contributions to nuclear physics during tenure at the California Institute of Technology included work on the Manhattan Project. Served as a professor and department head at various institutions, influencing future generations of physicists. Collaborated with prominent scientists on research related to nuclear reactions and the development of atomic energy. Bacher directed numerous projects and served on advisory committees for government research initiatives.

Continue Reading

Henry A. Wallace

Vice President and agronomist
Born
October 7th, 1888 136 years ago
Died
November 18th, 1965 59 years ago — 77 years old

Served as the 33rd Vice President of the United States from 1941 to 1945 under President Franklin D. Roosevelt. Advocated for agricultural policies and advancements in farming techniques. Directed the U.S. Department of Agriculture from 1933 to 1940, focusing on crop production and farm assistance programs. Contributed to the development of hybrid corn and other agricultural innovations. Later, ran for President as a candidate for the Progressive Party in 1948.

Continue Reading

Freddy Beras-Goico

Dominican comedian and television host
Born
November 21st, 1940 84 years ago
Died
November 18th, 2010 14 years ago — 69 years old

Beras-Goico began a career in entertainment in the early 1960s, becoming one of the most prominent figures in Dominican comedy and television. Hosting the popular television show 'El Gordo de la Semana' contributed to a wide-reaching influence on the comedic landscape in the Dominican Republic. His humor often reflected social issues and cultural nuances, resonating with many viewers. Beyond television, he was involved in charitable activities and founded initiatives to support the less fortunate in society. His work has left a lasting legacy in Dominican media and comedy.

Continue Reading

Cuthbert Tunstall

English bishop and theologian
Born
1474 551 years ago
Died
November 18th, 1559 465 years ago — 85 years old

Served as a bishop during the reign of Henry VIII and the English Reformation. Tunstall became the Bishop of London in 1530 and later the Bishop of Durham. He opposed the Protestant Reformation and defended Catholic doctrine, emphasizing the importance of tradition and the authority of the Church. He was imprisoned during the reign of Edward VI for refusing to comply with religious changes. After Queen Mary I ascended to the throne, Tunstall returned to prominence, reinstated as Bishop of Durham in 1553 and served until death in 1559.

Continue Reading

Albert the Bear

Margrave of Brandenburg
Died
November 18th, 1170 854 years ago — None years old

Served as the margrave of Brandenburg from 1157 until death. Established the territory of Brandenburg as a significant part of the German Empire. Played a pivotal role in the territory's expansion and consolidation during the 12th century. Strengthened the position of the margraviate in the region through various military campaigns and alliances.

Continue Reading

Walther Nernst

Chemist and Physicist, Nobel Laureate
Born
June 25th, 1864 161 years ago
Died
November 18th, 1941 83 years ago — 77 years old

Born in 1864 in Germany, contributions to the fields of chemistry and physics included the development of the Nernst equation and the formulation of the third law of thermodynamics. Significant work in physical chemistry involved heat measurements and chemical equilibria. His research greatly advanced the understanding of chemical potentials and reaction rates. Nernst was awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1920 for his work in thermochemistry.

Continue Reading