Josephus Daniels
American publisher and Secretary of Navy
Served as the 41st Secretary of the Navy from 1913 to 1921. Oversaw the U.S. Navy during World War I and played a significant role in modernizing the naval fleet. Worked as an influential publisher and editor, contributing to various newspapers and advocating for issues like education and labor rights. Held various diplomatic positions after his tenure in the Navy, including U.S. Ambassador to Mexico.
Served as Secretary of the Navy during WWI
Modernized the U.S. Navy fleet
Worked as a publisher and newspaper editor
Served as U.S. Ambassador to Mexico
Other People Born on May 18th
Giovanni Falcone
Italian judge against organized crime
Born
May 18th, 1939 86 years ago
Died
May 23rd, 1992 33 years ago — 53 years old
A prominent Italian judge and prosecutor, dedicated efforts focused on fighting organized crime, particularly the Mafia. Worked in the Anti-Mafia Commission and conducted high-profile investigations that led to significant convictions. Implemented the use of wiretaps as a legal tool in Italy. Collaborated with international law enforcement to combat Mafia operations. Assassinated in 1992 due to relentless work against Mafia activities.
Continue ReadingLillian Hoban
American author and illustrator of children's books
Born
May 18th, 1925 100 years ago
Died
July 17th, 1998 27 years ago — 73 years old
An author and illustrator specialized in children's literature. Published a number of popular books, with a significant emphasis on themes of friendship, family, and discovery. Collaborated with her husband on several projects, contributing illustrations that complemented engaging narratives. Worked extensively with various publishing houses to bring stories to life through vivid illustrations. ''Arthur's Family'' and ''The Two of Them'' represent milestones in her career, showcasing the combination of visual artistry and compelling storytelling. Her contributions have been recognized in the realm of children's literature over several decades.
Continue ReadingEurico Gaspar Dutra
Brazilian politician and military leader
Born
May 18th, 1883 142 years ago
Died
June 11th, 1974 51 years ago — 91 years old
Served as the 16th President of Brazil from 1946 to 1951. Prior to the presidency, a significant military career included participation in World War II. Implemented extensive economic reforms aimed at modernization and industrialization in Brazil. Led a government that promoted democratic values following the Vargas Era. His administration focused on infrastructure development and improving education.
Continue ReadingBernard Zweers
Dutch composer and educator
Born
May 18th, 1854 171 years ago
Died
December 9th, 1924 101 years ago — 70 years old
Born in 1854, one of the prominent figures in the 19th-century Dutch music scene. He composed numerous orchestral works, chamber music, and operas, contributing significantly to the classical repertoire. His education work influenced many musicians and composers in the Netherlands. Served as a professor at the Royal Conservatory in The Hague, where he shaped the education of emerging musicians. His works often reflect the Romantic style and were performed in various venues across Europe.
Continue ReadingW. G. Sebald
Novelist known for 'The Emigrants'
Born
May 18th, 1944 81 years ago
Died
December 14th, 2001 24 years ago — 57 years old
An influential writer, focused on themes of memory, exile, and the impact of history. Worked primarily in German and was awarded several literary prizes. Utilized a unique narrative style, blending fiction with essays and photographs. Spent a significant part of his life in England, where he taught and published extensively. 'The Emigrants', a seminal work, explored the lives of displaced individuals and their ties to the past. Other notable works include 'Austerlitz' and 'Vertigo', which delve into similar themes.
Continue ReadingTom Udall
American politician and senator
Born
May 18th, 1948 77 years ago
A lawyer and politician, served as the 28th Attorney General of New Mexico from 1991 to 1993. Elected to the U.S. House of Representatives in 2008, representing New Mexico's 3rd congressional district. Elected to the United States Senate in 2009, serving until 2021. Focused on various issues including environmental protection, health care, and government transparency during time in office.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on January 15th
Fanny Kemble
English actress and writer
Born
November 27th, 1809 216 years ago
Died
January 15th, 1893 132 years ago — 83 years old
An accomplished English actress and writer, her career spanned several decades, primarily in the 19th century. Renowned for performances in various Shakespearean plays, she gained recognition for her portrayal of characters in productions such as 'Much Ado About Nothing' and 'The Tempest'. Beyond acting, she was an influential advocate against slavery, creating a notable legacy through her writings and memoirs. Her marriage to American theater manager Pierce Butler connected her to the debate over slavery in the United States, evidencing her strong views on social issues. Kemble's literary works included journals and plays that reflected her experiences and beliefs.
Continue ReadingMoshoeshoe II of Lesotho
King of Lesotho and national leader
Born
May 2nd, 1938 87 years ago
Died
January 15th, 1996 29 years ago — 57 years old
Ascended to the throne of Lesotho in 1966. Played a significant role in Lesotho's politics, especially during the 1990s. Worked towards modernizing the kingdom and maintaining its sovereignty. Encountered challenges during a military coup in 1994, which affected the monarchy's stability. Passed away in 1996 under uncertain circumstances, leading to a complex legacy in Lesotho's history.
Continue ReadingLes Baxter
Pianist and composer of film music
Born
March 14th, 1922 103 years ago
Died
January 15th, 1996 29 years ago — 73 years old
An American pianist and composer, contributed significantly to the genre of film music. Gained recognition for the 1950s soundtrack of the film 'The World of Suzie Wong'. Also worked extensively in the 1960s and 1970s on projects that fused orchestral arrangements with popular music styles. Provided musical arrangements for various television shows and stage productions, showcasing a versatile approach to composition. Remembered for his innovative blending of pop and classical music elements.
Continue ReadingRay Nagel
American football player and coach
Born
May 18th, 1927 98 years ago
Died
January 15th, 2015 10 years ago — 87 years old
Played football at the University of Iowa and served as a quarterback before entering the coaching profession. Coached teams including the University of Utah and the University of Hawaii. Held a position as head coach at the University of Hawaii from 1970 to 1972. Contributed to player development and team strategies throughout coaching career.
Continue ReadingÍte of Killeedy
Irish saint and founder of Killeedy
Died
January 15th, 570 1455 years ago — None years old
Founded a monastic community in Killeedy, which became an important center for learning and spirituality in early medieval Ireland. Devoted life to religious service and teaching, attracting numerous followers. Traditionally recognized as a saint and remains significant in the history of Irish Christianity.
Continue ReadingHenri Braconnot
French chemist and pharmacist
Born
May 29th, 1780 245 years ago
Died
January 15th, 1855 170 years ago — 74 years old
Contributions include investigations in the field of carbohydrates and organic chemistry. Discovered and described the process of hydrolysis of starch and cellulose. Developed methods for extracting and utilizing cellulose from various plants. Published significant works detailing botanical products and their chemical properties.
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