Len Bias
Basketball player, 1986 NBA Draft second pick
Played college basketball at the University of Maryland from 1982 to 1986. Helped lead the Terrapins to the NCAA Tournament and earned accolades as a two-time ACC Player of the Year. Selected by the Boston Celtics as the second overall pick in the 1986 NBA Draft. Tragically passed away two days later due to a cocaine overdose, which drew national attention to issues of drug use and its impact on athletes.
Two-time ACC Player of the Year
Second overall pick in the 1986 NBA Draft
Other People Born on November 18th
Johnny Mercer
Singer-songwriter and Capitol Records co-founder
Born
November 18th, 1909 116 years ago
Died
June 25th, 1976 49 years ago — 66 years old
A prominent American singer-songwriter and producer, played a significant role in the music industry during the mid-20th century. Co-founded Capitol Records in 1942, which became a major force in popular music. Wrote numerous hit songs that remain standards today, collaborating with various composers and artists throughout his career. Achieved acclaim for contributions to both music and lyrics, and his work spanned several genres including jazz and pop.
Continue ReadingHenry Daglish
Australian politician, Premier of WA
Born
November 18th, 1866 159 years ago
Died
August 16th, 1920 105 years ago — 53 years old
Served as the Premier of Western Australia from 1911 to 1912. Before this role, held the position of Minister for Railways. Elected to the Legislative Assembly in 1897, representing the Labor Party. Played a significant role in the establishment of the railway system in Western Australia and contributed to various social reforms during his political career. Focused on the advancement of worker rights and public infrastructure.
Continue ReadingPatrick Blackett
Physicist, Nobel Prize Laureate
Born
November 18th, 1897 128 years ago
Died
July 13th, 1974 51 years ago — 76 years old
An English physicist and academic contributed significantly to the fields of nuclear physics and particle physics. Developed the cloud chamber technique, leading to crucial discoveries in cosmic rays. Served as a professor at Imperial College London and held various positions within the academic community. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1948 for investigations of cosmic radiation and the discovery of the positron. His work laid important foundations in understanding subatomic particles and their interactions.
Continue ReadingGianna D'Angelo
American soprano and educator
Born
November 18th, 1929 96 years ago
Died
December 27th, 2013 11 years ago — 84 years old
An American soprano and educator with a distinguished career in opera and vocal performance. Studied under notable vocal coaches and performed at major opera houses. Contributed significantly to the education of future generations of singers through teaching and mentorship. Emphasized the importance of vocal technique and artistry in her teachings.
Continue ReadingPrince Louis Ferdinand of Prussia
Prussian military officer and musician
Born
November 18th, 1772 253 years ago
Died
October 10th, 1806 219 years ago — 33 years old
Born into the Prussian royal family, played a significant role in military leadership during the Napoleonic Wars. Louis Ferdinand was an accomplished composer and pianist, contributing to the musical landscape of his time. He participated in several key battles and rose to the rank of major-general. An advocate for reforms in the military, he aimed to modernize the armed forces and improve conditions for soldiers. His life was marked by artistic endeavors alongside military duties, showcasing talents in both music and leadership.
Continue ReadingAdolf Erik Nordenskiöld
Geologist and Arctic explorer
Born
November 18th, 1832 193 years ago
Died
August 12th, 1901 124 years ago — 68 years old
Contributions to geology and exploration include significant voyages to the Arctic and the establishment of new routes. Led the first successful navigation of the Northeast Passage from Europe to Asia aboard the steamship Vega in 1878-1879. Published extensive research on the geology of the Arctic regions and the morphology of glaciers. Served as a professor in the field of geology and held a prominent position in the Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences, influencing future generations of scientists.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on June 19th
Isobel Andrews
New Zealand writer and author
Born
November 2nd, 1905 120 years ago
Died
June 19th, 1990 35 years ago — 84 years old
Born in New Zealand, one of the prominent writers contributed significantly to literature with a focus on themes relating to the Pacific and New Zealand culture. Published several works that explored intricate narratives and character relationships. Involved in the literary community and participated in various writing organizations, fostering a supportive environment for emerging writers. Acknowledged for contributions to the literary field, receiving accolades that highlighted her storytelling abilities.
Continue ReadingZe'ev Schiff
Journalist and author on Israeli affairs
Born
July 1st, 1932 93 years ago
Died
June 19th, 2007 18 years ago — 74 years old
Born in France and later moving to Israel, a prominent journalist and author focused on military and political issues in the Middle East. Contributed extensively to Haaretz and wrote several books that offered insights into Israel’s military strategies and geopolitical dilemmas. Engaged in public discourse through articles and lectures, influencing views on defense and foreign policy. An analytical and critical voice in discussions concerning Israel's security landscape.
Continue ReadingJuliana Falconieri
Italian nun and saint
Born
1270 755 years ago
Died
June 19th, 1341 684 years ago — 71 years old
Established the Order of the Servants of Mary in the 13th century, focusing on fostering a life of prayer and service. Played a significant role in the spiritual development of her community and became a prominent figure in the early Servite movement. Recognized for her deep devotion and mysticism, she was canonized in 1737, achieving sainthood for her contributions to the Catholic Church.
Continue ReadingPeter Townsend
British captain and pilot known for aviation
Born
November 22nd, 1914 111 years ago
Died
June 19th, 1995 30 years ago — 80 years old
Born in 1914, this British captain and pilot served in the Royal Air Force during World War II. He gained prominence for his skills in aviation and played a key role in various operations, including the Battle of Britain. After the war, he became a test pilot and contributed to the development of several aircraft. Later, he was known for his role in flying missions for the Queen and served as a pilot in the royal household. His military career showcased dedication and expertise in piloting advanced aircraft.
Continue ReadingAnthony Quinton
Philosopher and physician
Born
March 25th, 1925 100 years ago
Died
June 19th, 2010 15 years ago — 85 years old
Born in 1925, an English physician and philosopher contributed extensively to philosophy, particularly in the fields of ethics and philosophy of medicine. Educated at Oxford University, emphasis was placed on the relationship between medicine and ethical considerations. Served as a professor at various institutions, influencing the next generation of philosophers and medical practitioners. Published numerous works, shaping the discourse around medical ethics and philosophy. Held the title of Baron Quinton, representing significant contributions to the academic community throughout a long career.
Continue ReadingGyula Horn
Hungarian politician, 37th Prime Minister
Born
July 5th, 1932 93 years ago
Died
June 19th, 2013 12 years ago — 80 years old
Served as the 37th Prime Minister of Hungary from 1994 to 1998. Played a significant role in the transition of Hungary from a socialist state to a parliamentary democracy. Participated in the Horn-Gorbachev summit that marked the end of Cold War tensions in the region. Took part in the negotiations leading to Hungary's accession to NATO in 1999 and the European Union in 2004.
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