Lizzie Deignan
Professional road racing cyclist
A professional road racing cyclist, achieved significant success in women's cycling. Won the UCI Women’s Road World Championships in 2015. Competed for Team Trek-Segafredo and has participated in multiple Grand Tours. Achieved podium finishes in several prestigious one-day races, including the Tour of Flanders and Paris-Roubaix.
Won UCI Women’s Road World Championships in 2015
Victorious at the Tour of Flanders
Claimed the title at Paris-Roubaix
Other People Born on December 18th
Jules Dassin
Director of classic film 'Rififi'
Born
December 18th, 1911 114 years ago
Died
March 31st, 2008 18 years ago — 96 years old
An American director, producer, screenwriter, and actor, made significant contributions to the film industry throughout a career that spanned several decades. Emigrating to Europe during the McCarthy era, worked in France and Greece, directing a range of films across various genres. Gained acclaim for innovative storytelling and strong visual style, especially in crime and drama films. The heist film 'Rififi' garnered notable recognition and is considered a classic in the genre. Other films such as 'Night and the City' and 'Topkapi' showcased adeptness in creating suspenseful narratives while earning critical praise.
Continue ReadingMalcolm Kirk
Rugby player and wrestler
Born
December 18th, 1936 89 years ago
Died
August 24th, 1987 38 years ago — 50 years old
Born in England in 1936, an athlete achieved recognition in both rugby and wrestling. Played for the English national rugby team, contributing significantly to the sport during the 1960s. Transitioned to professional wrestling after retiring from rugby, competing in various promotions. Captured the attention of wrestling fans with a unique style that integrated techniques from rugby.
Continue ReadingGladys Cooper
English actress and singer
Born
December 18th, 1888 137 years ago
Died
November 17th, 1971 54 years ago — 82 years old
An English actress and singer achieved acclaim in both film and theater. Career began in the early 1900s on stage, transitioning to film in the 1910s. Notable stage works included performances in 'The Royal Family' and 'What Every Woman Knows'. In cinema, key roles were in 'The Letter', 'Mary of Scotland', and 'My Fair Lady'. Recognized for her remarkable versatility and strong presence, also performed extensively on radio and television later in her career.
Continue ReadingCharles Griffin
American general during Civil War
Born
December 18th, 1825 200 years ago
Died
1876 150 years ago — 51 years old
Served as a Union general in the American Civil War. Commanded troops during significant battles such as the Battle of Gettysburg and the Battle of the Wilderness. Held the rank of Brigadier General and contributed to several military campaigns in the war.
Continue ReadingFrancis Burton Harrison
American politician and general
Born
December 18th, 1873 152 years ago
Died
November 21st, 1957 68 years ago — 83 years old
Born in 1873, served as the sixth Governor-General of the Philippines from 1913 to 1921. Positioned during a period of American colonial rule, focused on promoting self-governance and civil rights for Filipinos. Earned a reputation for advocating for Filipino representation in government and enhancing educational opportunities. Played a significant role in the establishment of the Philippine legislature.
Continue ReadingGerard Gumbau
Spanish footballer and midfielder
Born
December 18th, 1994 31 years ago
A Spanish footballer played as a midfielder, primarily for Girona FC in La Liga and had stints in lower divisions. Developed early career within the FC Barcelona youth system, progressing through the ranks to represent their B team. Transferred to Girona FC, contributing to the team's promotion to La Liga and competing at the highest level of Spanish football. Briefly played for other clubs, furthering experience in various leagues.
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