Kai Winding
Trombonist and composer of jazz
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.
Pioneered the jazz trombone duo with J.J. Johnson
Contributed to big bands like Stan Kenton's
Collaborated with Miles Davis
Other People Born on May 18th
Brad Friedel
Soccer player and sportscaster
Born
May 18th, 1971 55 years ago
Played as a goalkeeper in Major League Soccer and the English Premier League. Became the first American to play in 450 Premier League matches. Represented the United States in three FIFA World Cups, specifically in 1994, 1998, and 2002. Transitioned to coaching and sportscasting after retirement from professional soccer.
Continue ReadingDon Martin
Cartoonist of MAD magazine fame
Born
May 18th, 1931 95 years ago
Died
2000 26 years ago — 69 years old
Raised in New Jersey, a prominent cartoonist created a unique style characterized by exaggerated characters and humorous situations. Contributed to MAD magazine for over four decades, becoming a vital part of its identity. Developed a signature brand of slapstick humor and absurdity evident in recurring gags and inventive illustrations. Also produced his own series in comic format, further showcasing his distinctive artistic approach and storytelling. Influenced a generation of cartoonists and left a lasting mark on the genre of humor comics.
Continue ReadingEzio Pinza
Italian-American operatic bass singer
Born
May 18th, 1892 134 years ago
Died
May 9th, 1957 69 years ago — 64 years old
Initially worked in Italy before moving to the United States, where a successful career in opera and Broadway evolved. Gained notable acclaim for performances in productions such as 'South Pacific.' Also achieved recognition as a recording artist, contributing to the popularity of operatic music in American culture during the mid-20th century.
Continue ReadingStanislaus Papczyński
Polish priest and saint recognized for founding the Congregation of the Founding of the Holy Cross
Born
May 18th, 1631 395 years ago
Died
September 17th, 1701 324 years ago — 70 years old
Born in 1631, started a religious order focusing on the education of youth and spiritual renewal. Established the Congregation of the Founding of the Holy Cross in 1675. Contributed to the spread of Marian devotion and was deeply involved in preaching and pastoral care. Canonized by Pope John Paul II in 1992, affirming the religious significance of his work and the impact of his spiritual teachings.
Continue ReadingBertrand Russell
Philosopher and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
May 18th, 1872 154 years ago
Died
February 2nd, 1970 56 years ago — 97 years old
A prominent British mathematician and philosopher, contributed significantly to a variety of fields including logic, philosophy, and social criticism. Authored numerous influential works, including 'Principia Mathematica' co-written with Alfred North Whitehead, which laid the groundwork for much of modern mathematics. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1950 for varied and significant writings, advocating for humanitarian ideals and nuclear disarmament. Engaged actively in political discourse throughout his career, participating in various anti-war movements and promoting social reform.
Continue ReadingJay Wells
Ice Hockey Player and Coach
Born
May 18th, 1959 67 years ago
Played as a defenseman in the National Hockey League (NHL) for multiple teams including the New York Rangers, Los Angeles Kings, and Buffalo Sabres. Transitioned to coaching after retirement from professional play, contributing to various junior and minor league teams. Participated in a total of over 700 NHL games during a career spanning more than a decade.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on May 6th
Jim Wright
American politician and Speaker of the House
Born
December 22nd, 1922 103 years ago
Died
May 6th, 2015 11 years ago — 92 years old
Served as a soldier during World War II. Held the position of 56th Speaker of the United States House of Representatives from 1987 to 1989. Practiced law after returning from military service and became involved in politics, representing Texas's 12th congressional district. Advocated for various legislative efforts during tenure as Speaker and played a significant role in the Democratic Party throughout career.
Continue ReadingPatrick Ekeng
Cameroonian footballer and midfielder
Born
March 26th, 1990 36 years ago
Died
May 6th, 2016 10 years ago — 26 years old
A footballer played as a midfielder. Started career with Canon Yaoundé before moving to Europe. Played for clubs like El Merrikh and Dinamo Bucharest. Debuted for the national team in 2015 and was part of the squad that participated in the 2016 Africa Cup of Nations. His career was cut short due to an untimely death on the pitch during a league match in Romania.
Continue ReadingErnest MacMillan
Canadian conductor and composer
Born
August 18th, 1893 132 years ago
Died
May 6th, 1973 53 years ago — 79 years old
A prominent conductor and composer, this figure played a significant role in Canadian music. In the early 20th century, served as the principal conductor of the Toronto Symphony Orchestra and founded the Toronto Conservatory of Music. Compositions included orchestral works, choral pieces, and songs. Actively promoted Canadian music and composers through conducting and teaching. Served as the president of the Canadian Music Council, influencing the development of music in Canada.
Continue ReadingAlexander Rodzyanko
Russian general during World War I
Born
August 18th, 1879 146 years ago
Died
May 6th, 1970 56 years ago — 90 years old
Served as a general in the Russian Army during World War I. Held the position of Commander of the Petrograd Military District. Played a crucial role in the Russian Revolution of 1917, where leadership decisions significantly influenced the course of events. After the fall of the Tsarist regime, moved to the United States and continued to be active in expatriate affairs.
Continue ReadingNinmyō
Japanese emperor during Heian period
Born
September 27th, 808 1217 years ago
Died
May 6th, 850 1176 years ago — 41 years old
A Japanese emperor reigned from 834 to 850 during the Heian period. Ascended to the throne following the abdication of predecessor. Oversaw a time characterized by cultural growth and the establishment of a court-centered society. His reign coincided with the flourishing of literature, poetry, and art, solidifying the Heian period as a significant era in Japanese history. Contributed to the stability of the imperial court and the continuation of established traditions amid various challenges. Passed away at a relatively young age, marking the end of his short reign but leaving behind a lasting legacy in Japanese governance.
Continue ReadingTheodore von Kármán
Mathematician, physicist, engineer
Born
May 11th, 1881 145 years ago
Died
May 6th, 1963 63 years ago — 81 years old
Born in Hungary, a mathematician, physicist, and engineer made significant contributions to aeronautics and applied mechanics. Studied at the University of Budapest and later moved to the United States, where established the Caltech's aeronautics department. Developed pioneering theories in fluid dynamics and turbulence. Played a key role in the development of the turbojet engine and contributed to military aerodynamics during World War II. In 1954, received the National Medal of Science for achievements in science and engineering, reflecting the impact of his work on modern engineering disciplines.
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