Leroy Anderson
Composer and conductor of light music
Contributed significantly to the genre of light orchestral music. Anderson studied at Harvard and later became the principal arranger for the Harvard Band. Best recognized for catchy compositions, including 'Sleigh Ride' and 'The Typewriter'. His works, characterized by wit and charm, have remained popular in both orchestral and popular music contexts. Anderson also served in the United States Army during World War II, where he arranged and composed music for military ensembles.
Composed 'Sleigh Ride'
Created 'The Typewriter'
Wrote 'The Syncopated Clock'
Other People Born on June 29th
César Rodríguez Álvarez
Spanish footballer and manager
Born
June 29th, 1920 106 years ago
Died
March 1st, 1995 31 years ago — 74 years old
Played as a forward for FC Barcelona and became one of the club's top scorers. Transitioned to a managerial role after retirement, leading teams in various leagues. Contributed to the development of football in Spain both as a player and a coach.
Continue ReadingRuth Warrick
American actress from Citizen Kane
Born
June 29th, 1916 110 years ago
Died
January 15th, 2005 21 years ago — 88 years old
A prominent actress with a career that spanned several decades. Gained initial recognition through a role in the film 'Citizen Kane' as Emily Norton, the first wife of the titular character. Starred in the soap opera 'All My Children' as Phoebe Tyler from its inception in 1970 until 1999, becoming one of the show's iconic figures. Alongside acting, contributed to radio and television productions, showcasing talent across different media.
Continue ReadingJulius W. Becton Jr.
U.S. Lieutenant General, Army leader
Born
June 29th, 1926 100 years ago
Died
2023 3 years ago — 97 years old
Born in 1926, a career in the U.S. Army spanned over three decades. Achievements included serving in key military roles, notably as the commander of the U.S. Army Intelligence and Security Command. Contributed to the establishment of military strategies during various operations. After retirement from active duty, served as the president of the Texas Southern University, influencing the academic landscape.
Continue ReadingHeinz Harmel
German general during World War II
Born
June 29th, 1906 120 years ago
Died
2000 26 years ago — 94 years old
Served as a general in the German army during World War II, leading various units on the Eastern Front. Harmel demonstrated significant tactical skills in multiple battles. He commanded the 10th Panzer Division and the 116th Panzer Division, actively participating in key operations including the Battle of Kursk and the battles across the Soviet Union. Post-war, he faced trial but was not convicted. Ultimately, his military career left behind a notable legacy in tactical warfare strategies.
Continue ReadingSharon Lawrence
Actress from 'NYPD Blue' and 'Ladies Man'
Born
June 29th, 1961 65 years ago
An American actress, singer, and dancer gained recognition through television and theater. Starred as Sylvia Costas in the series 'NYPD Blue' from 1993 to 1999, receiving an Emmy nomination for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Drama Series. Featured in sitcom 'Ladies Man' and appeared in popular shows such as 'One Tree Hill' and 'Grey's Anatomy'. Additionally, performed in a variety of stage productions, showcasing talent in musical performances. Active in charitable efforts and arts advocacy throughout the career.
Continue ReadingGeorge Ellery Hale
Astronomer and solar observatory founder
Born
June 29th, 1868 158 years ago
Died
February 21st, 1938 88 years ago — 69 years old
Contributions to astronomy included founding several observatories. Developed the solar telescope and made significant discoveries about the sun, including the existence of sunspots. Established the Mount Wilson Observatory in California, which advanced astrophysical research. Pioneered the use of spectroscopy in astrophysics and contributed to the understanding of stellar evolution.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on May 18th
Halldór Ásgrímsson
Icelandic politician and Prime Minister
Born
September 8th, 1947 79 years ago
Died
May 18th, 2015 11 years ago — 67 years old
Served as the 22nd Prime Minister of Iceland from 2004 to 2006. Led the Progressive Party and was a significant figure in Icelandic politics. Held various ministerial positions including Minister of Fisheries and Minister of Transport and Communications. Focused on economic development and international relations during tenure. Contributed to shaping Iceland's policy on fisheries and the economy.
Continue ReadingDolla
American rapper known for 'Who the F**k Is That?'
Born
1987 39 years ago
Died
May 18th, 2009 17 years ago — 22 years old
Born in the United States, this rapper gained recognition for his single 'Who the F**k Is That?' in the late 2000s. The song showcased a unique style that contributed to the rising popularity of hip-hop during that era. Collaborations with artists like T-Pain and Akon also marked a significant part of his career. Despite a promising start, the life of this rapper ended tragically in 2009 when he was killed in a shooting in Los Angeles.
Continue ReadingJo Benkow
Norwegian politician and soldier
Born
1924 102 years ago
Died
May 18th, 2013 13 years ago — 89 years old
Served as a member of the Norwegian Parliament for several terms. Held the position of President of the Parliament from 1993 to 1997. Participated in the military during World War II, contributing to Norway's resistance efforts against Nazi occupation. Engaged in various political activities after the war, including leadership roles in the Conservative Party.
Continue ReadingWayne Allwine
Voice actor, voice of Mickey Mouse
Born
1947 79 years ago
Died
May 18th, 2009 17 years ago — 62 years old
A voice actor and sound effects editor, well recognized for voicing the character Mickey Mouse from 1977 until 2009. Played a significant role in various Disney projects, contributing to animated films and theme parks. Worked extensively in sound design and Foley artistry, applying expertise in creating realistic audio for film. Allwine's work became synonymous with the beloved character, with performances spanning decades.
Continue ReadingElias Ashmole
Astrologer and politician with antiquities journal
Born
May 23rd, 1617 409 years ago
Died
May 18th, 1692 334 years ago — 74 years old
An English astrologer and politician, contributed significantly to the study of astrology and antiquities. Served as a key figure in the founding of the Ashmolean Museum in Oxford, becoming one of the earliest public museums in the world. Authored 'Theatrum Chemicum Brittanicum', a compilation of alchemical texts, which remains a crucial resource for historians of chemistry and astrology. His interest in antiquities led to notable contributions to the historical understanding of various artifacts.
Continue ReadingJeannette Rankin
Social worker and first female congresswoman
Born
June 11th, 1880 146 years ago
Died
May 18th, 1973 53 years ago — 92 years old
A prominent figure in American politics and social work, this individual became the first woman elected to the United States Congress in 1916. Serving as a Republican representative from Montana, this individual advocated for pacifism, women's suffrage, and labor reforms. Initially elected before the passage of the Nineteenth Amendment, this individual was outspoken against World War I and maintained a strong anti-war stance throughout the career. Re-elected to Congress in 1940, this individual continued to champion peace and social justice, reflecting personal beliefs on disarmament and social equity.
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