Joseph Butler
English bishop and philosopher
Served as a bishop of Durham and contributed significantly to the field of moral philosophy. Authored major works including 'Fifteen Sermons' and 'Analogy of Religion,' which explored the relationship between faith and reason. Engaged in discussions regarding ethics and the nature of human existence, influencing later philosophical thought.
Authored 'Fifteen Sermons'
Wrote 'Analogy of Religion'
Served as Bishop of Durham
Other People Born on May 18th
Fred Perry
Tennis player and Wimbledon champion
Born
May 18th, 1909 116 years ago
Died
February 2nd, 1995 30 years ago — 85 years old
An English tennis player, contributed significantly to the sport during the 1930s. Achieved great success by winning the Wimbledon men's singles title three times, in 1934, 1935, and 1936. Also excelled in doubles, securing the mixed doubles title at Wimbledon in 1934. After retiring from active play, ventured into business and became a successful entrepreneur in the fashion industry, establishing a popular clothing brand.
Continue ReadingMargot Fonteyn
Ballerina and prima ballerina assoluta
Born
May 18th, 1919 106 years ago
Died
1991 34 years ago — 72 years old
A celebrated ballerina, known for her exceptional skill and artistry. Originated roles in notable ballets including 'Romeo and Juliet' and 'Coppélia'. Partnered with Rudolf Nureyev, creating iconic performances that defined her legacy. Served as a principal dancer with The Royal Ballet for several decades, influencing the art form through her grace and technical prowess.
Continue ReadingBill Macy
American actor with notable TV roles
Born
May 18th, 1922 103 years ago
Died
2019 6 years ago — 97 years old
An accomplished actor, notable for contributions to television and film. Achieved recognition through the role of Walter on the television series "Maude". Also appeared in films such as "One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest" and "The Goodbye Girl." Career spanned several decades, showcasing a variety of performances across different mediums. Participated in numerous productions that contributed to the American entertainment landscape.
Continue ReadingKai Winding
Trombonist and composer of jazz
Born
May 18th, 1922 103 years ago
Died
May 6th, 1983 42 years ago — 60 years old
Born in Denmark and later becoming a U.S. citizen, a prominent figure in jazz music, contributed to the trombone repertoire through performance and composition. Played in various big bands during the 1940s, including those of Stan Kenton and Woody Herman. Formed the jazz trombone duo Kai Winding and J.J. Johnson, which was influential in shaping jazz trombone techniques and style. Regularly performed and recorded with the renowned Miles Davis and participated in significant jazz festivals across the globe.
Continue ReadingH. D. Deve Gowda
Indian politician, 11th Prime Minister
Born
May 18th, 1933 92 years ago
Served as the 11th Prime Minister of India from June 1996 to April 1997. Held various positions in Karnataka politics, including Chief Minister. Member of the Janata Dal party and played a significant role in regional politics. Elected to the Rajya Sabha, representing Karnataka. Worked on agricultural policies and rural development initiatives throughout political career.
Continue ReadingWalter Sisulu
South African politician and activist
Born
May 18th, 1912 113 years ago
Died
May 5th, 2003 22 years ago — 90 years old
Born in 1912, a prominent figure in South Africa's anti-apartheid movement, played a crucial role in the African National Congress. Joined the ANC in 1940 and became a key strategist, organizing protests and advocating for the rights of black South Africans. Arrested in 1960, faced treason charges and later sentenced to life imprisonment during the Rivonia Trial in 1964. His imprisonment lasted until 1989, coinciding with the international push against apartheid. After release, contributed to negotiations for a democratic South Africa and served as a member of parliament post-1994.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on June 16th
Kristen Pfaff
American bass player and songwriter
Born
1967 58 years ago
Died
June 16th, 1994 31 years ago — 27 years old
A prominent bass player and songwriter, contributed to the alternative rock scene in the early 1990s. Collaborated with the band Hole, participating in the recording of the critically acclaimed album 'Live Through This'. Before joining Hole, played with the band White Baby, showcasing talent in the punk and grunge genres. Struggled with personal challenges but left a notable mark in the music world during her short career. Died at a young age, leaving behind a legacy in alternative rock music.
Continue ReadingWernher von Braun
Rocket engineer and moon mission architect
Born
March 23rd, 1912 113 years ago
Died
June 16th, 1977 48 years ago — 65 years old
A prominent rocket engineer and space architect, developed the V-2 rocket during World War II. Emigrated to the United States after the war and became instrumental in the space program. Contributed to the design and execution of the Saturn V launch vehicle, which successfully sent astronauts to the Moon during the Apollo missions. Advocated for space exploration and played a key role in NASA's early achievements in space technology.
Continue ReadingMiguel Piñero
Actor and playwright of 'Short Eyes'
Born
1946 79 years ago
Died
June 16th, 1988 37 years ago — 42 years old
An influential Puerto Rican-American playwright and actor, contributed to the American theater landscape through the depiction of urban life. Authored the acclaimed play 'Short Eyes', which premiered in 1974 and garnered attention for its raw portrayal of life in prison. Served as a voice for marginalized communities, bridging cultural gaps through storytelling. Active in the New York theater scene, received several accolades for works that examined complex social issues.
Continue ReadingNicholas Ray
American film director of 'Rebel Without a Cause'
Born
August 7th, 1911 114 years ago
Died
June 16th, 1979 46 years ago — 67 years old
A prominent film director and screenwriter, recognized for contributions to American cinema. Directed several influential films during the 1950s, often focusing on themes of rebellion and youth. 'Rebel Without a Cause' achieved critical acclaim and cultural significance, solidifying a legacy within the film industry. Also directed 'They Live by Night' and 'Johnny Guitar', both of which reflect unique storytelling techniques and visual styles.
Continue ReadingJo Cox
British politician and MP
Born
June 22nd, 1974 51 years ago
Died
June 16th, 2016 9 years ago — 41 years old
A member of the Labour Party, served as the Member of Parliament for Batley and Spen from 2015 until death in 2016. Advocated for social justice, humanitarian issues, and engaged in various campaigns focusing on poverty, women's rights, and refugees. Played a significant role in the campaign for the United Kingdom to remain in the European Union during the 2016 referendum. Tragically killed in 2016 while meeting constituents, leading to an outpouring of tributes and discussions on political discourse and safety.
Continue ReadingLindsay Hassett
Cricketer and sportscaster
Born
August 28th, 1913 112 years ago
Died
June 16th, 1993 32 years ago — 79 years old
Debuted in first-class cricket in 1930, played predominantly for Victoria and the Australian national team. Participated in the 1938 Ashes series, contributing to Australia's victory. After retiring from playing, transitioned to sportscasting, providing commentary and analysis on cricket. Inducted into the Australian Cricket Hall of Fame, recognizing contributions to the sport.
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