Joy Davidman
American poet and author of 'Letters to C.S. Lewis'
Born in Poland, later moved to the United States, and gained recognition as a poet and author. Davidman became associated with noted writer C.S. Lewis. Her literary contributions included poetry, essays, and novels, with a notable correspondence and eventual marriage to Lewis, which was both personal and professional. Works often reflected themes of faith, love, and morality, showcasing a distinctive voice in theological discussions. In addition to her poetry, she wrote the novel 'Weeping Bay' and various essays, which contributed to her literary legacy, ended shortly before her death in 1960.
Authored 'Letters to C.S. Lewis'
Published the novel 'Weeping Bay'
Other People Born on April 18th
Audrey Tang
Taiwanese Digital Affairs Minister
Born
April 18th, 1981 44 years ago
Served as the Minister of Digital Affairs in Taiwan, overseeing the development of digital policies and innovation. Played a significant role in promoting open government and digital inclusion initiatives. Developed various software projects and contributed to Taiwan's digital transformation, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. Engaged in numerous public dialogues to enhance citizen participation in digital governance.
Continue ReadingMoses Blah
General and 23rd President of Liberia
Born
April 18th, 1947 78 years ago
Died
April 1st, 2013 12 years ago — 65 years old
Served as the 23rd President of Liberia from 2003 to 2006 following a period of civil unrest. Initially held the position of Vice President under Charles Taylor. Assumed the presidency in the wake of Taylor's resignation and subsequent exile. Led the country during a transitional government aimed at restoring peace and stability. Oversaw the preparation for elections, which led to the election of Ellen Johnson Sirleaf in 2005.
Continue ReadingAmerica Ferrera
Actress and producer of 'Ugly Betty'
Born
April 18th, 1984 41 years ago
Ferrera gained prominence through the role of Betty Suarez in the television series Ugly Betty, which aired from 2006 to 2010. The role earned multiple awards, including a Primetime Emmy Award, a Golden Globe Award, and a Screen Actors Guild Award. In addition to her acting career, Ferrera has served as a producer and directed several projects. She was an outspoken advocate for representation and women's rights within the entertainment industry, using her platform to promote diversity and inclusion. Ferrera also participated in various public speaking engagements and initiatives that aimed to empower young women and marginalized communities.
Continue ReadingŁukasz Fabiański
Polish footballer, FA Cup winner
Born
April 18th, 1985 40 years ago
A goalkeeper, gained recognition in the English Premier League and Poland's national team. Began career at Legia Warsaw before moving to Arsenal in 2007. Made loan spells at various clubs including the West Ham United. Spent significant time at Swansea City, where performance in domestic and European competitions garnered praise. Transferred to West Ham United in 2018, contributing to the team's defensive stability and aiding in their successful FA Cup campaign.
Continue ReadingTina Bru
Norwegian politician and minister
Born
April 18th, 1986 39 years ago
Became a prominent figure in Norwegian politics, serving as the Minister of Petroleum and Energy from January 2020 to October 2021. Held membership in the Conservative Party and was a representative in the Norwegian Parliament. Actively engaged in energy policy, with a focus on sustainable energy practices and the petroleum sector during tenure. Contributed to various legislative initiatives aimed at enhancing Norway's energy landscape.
Continue ReadingDerrick Brooks
American football linebacker, Super Bowl champion
Born
April 18th, 1973 52 years ago
Played college football at Florida State University and was selected by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers as the 28th overall pick in the 1995 NFL Draft. Played linebacker for the Buccaneers from 1995 to 2008. Achieved notable success, winning Super Bowl XXXVII. Earned 11 Pro Bowl selections and was named a first-team All-Pro seven times. Inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2014.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on July 13th
Seretse Khama
Botswana's 1st President and lawyer
Born
July 1st, 1921 104 years ago
Died
July 13th, 1980 45 years ago — 59 years old
Served as the first President of Botswana from 1966 until 1980. Played a crucial role in the country's transition to independence from British rule. Educated in law at the University of Oxford, contributed to the legal and political foundation of Botswana. His presidency focused on national unity, economic development, and democratic governance.
Continue ReadingNadine Gordimer
South African novelist and Nobel laureate
Born
November 20th, 1923 102 years ago
Died
July 13th, 2014 11 years ago — 90 years old
A prominent South African novelist and short story writer, played a significant role in highlighting the struggles against apartheid through literature. Authored several acclaimed works, including 'Burger's Daughter' and 'July's People', which delved into the complexities of life under an oppressive regime. Active in political engagement, worked alongside anti-apartheid movements and supported various human rights causes. Received the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1991 for writings that explore the moral complexities of life in South Africa.
Continue ReadingGabriel Lippmann
Physicist and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
August 16th, 1845 180 years ago
Died
July 13th, 1921 104 years ago — 75 years old
A physicist and academic, contributed significantly to the field of physics. Developed the method of color photography known as integral photography, which utilized the principles of light interference. In recognition of these advancements, received the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1908. His work laid the foundation for later developments in photographic technology and optics.
Continue ReadingLeslie Groves
General in the US Army, Manhattan Project
Born
August 17th, 1896 129 years ago
Died
July 13th, 1970 55 years ago — 73 years old
An American general and engineer played a crucial role during World War II as the director of the Manhattan Project. Oversaw the development of the atomic bomb, coordinating efforts among various scientific and military personnel. The project culminated in the successful test of the first atomic bomb in July 1945, known as the Trinity Test. After the war, continued service in the Army, making contributions to the military infrastructure and leadership training.
Continue ReadingAugust Kekulé
Chemist known for structural chemistry
Born
September 7th, 1829 196 years ago
Died
July 13th, 1896 129 years ago — 66 years old
A German chemist and academic established contributions to structural chemistry. Introduced the idea of chemical structure and proposed that carbon atoms could bond in a chain, which explained the molecular structure of various organic compounds. Formulated the concept of isomerism, which describes compounds with the same molecular formula but different structural arrangements. Developed the structural formula of benzene and suggested its cyclic structure, which has fundamental importance in organic chemistry and the development of aromatic compounds. His work laid groundwork for future developments in organic synthesis and chemical bonding theories.
Continue ReadingRuth Hesse
German opera singer recognized for performances
Born
1936 90 years ago
Died
July 13th, 2024 1 years ago — 88 years old
A celebrated opera singer, gained prominence in the German opera circuit. Performed at prestigious venues across Europe, showcasing exceptional vocal talent. Renowned for captivating interpretations of classical operatic roles and a vibrant stage presence. Contributed to various acclaimed productions and collaborations with leading orchestras. Made a significant mark in the world of opera before passing away in 2024.
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