Mary Jo Kopechne

American educator and secretary

Mary Jo Kopechne - American educator and secretary
Born

1940
85 years ago

Died

July 18th, 1969
56 years ago — 29 years old

Category

Activists & Humanitarians

Country

United States

Links & References

Worked as a secretary for Senator Edward M. Kennedy. Involved in a tragic car accident in Chappaquiddick, Massachusetts, which resulted in a significant political scandal surrounding the senator. The incident occurred during a party attended by Democratic Party strategists at the time. The event raised questions about safety, accountability, and the circumstances of her death.

Served as a secretary for Senator Edward M. Kennedy

Involved in the Chappaquiddick incident

Other People Who Died on July 18th

Jane Austen

English novelist, Pride and Prejudice
Born
December 16th, 1775 249 years ago
Died
July 18th, 1817 208 years ago — 41 years old

An English novelist, this individual produced six major novels that critique the British landed gentry at the end of the 18th century. Works include 'Pride and Prejudice', 'Sense and Sensibility', and 'Emma', which explore themes of love, marriage, and social standing. While some works were published anonymously during the writer's lifetime, they gained significant recognition posthumously. The novels are celebrated for their keen observations of social manners and relationships.

Continue Reading

Benito Juárez

Mexican lawyer and political leader
Born
March 21st, 1806 219 years ago
Died
July 18th, 1872 153 years ago — 66 years old

A prominent lawyer and statesman, served as the 25th President of Mexico. Led the country during a turbulent period marked by conflict and reform. Championed liberal reforms aimed at modernizing Mexico, including land redistribution and separation of church and state. Helped shape a more democratic government and strengthen the rule of law. Advocated for education and civil liberties, pushing forward policies that aligned with secular government principles.

Continue Reading

Guy of Lusignan

King consort of Jerusalem
Died
July 18th, 1194 831 years ago — None years old

Born around 1150, served as king consort of Jerusalem during the late 12th century. Ascended to the throne in 1186 through marriage to the heiress Sibylla. His reign saw the Kingdom of Jerusalem facing significant military challenges, notably the Battle of Hattin in 1187, which resulted in a major defeat against Saladin and the loss of Jerusalem. After the fall of the city, he continued to lead efforts to reclaim territory and negotiate alliances. Governance ended following the capture of Acre, with political turmoil leading to his eventual exile.

Continue Reading

Johann Heinrich Heidegger

Swiss theologian and author
Born
July 1st, 1633 392 years ago
Died
July 18th, 1698 327 years ago — 65 years old

A Swiss theologian, active during the 17th century, contributed significantly to Reformed theology. Held the position of the rector at the University of Zurich. Wrote extensively on theological topics, with a focus on the relationship between faith and reason. His works engaged with contemporary religious debates and advocated for the Protestant cause. Influenced the theological landscape of his time through teachings and publications.

Continue Reading

Caravaggio

Italian Baroque painter famous for realism
Born
1571 454 years ago
Died
July 18th, 1610 415 years ago — 39 years old

A pivotal figure in the Baroque movement, this painter developed a unique style characterized by dramatic lighting and realism. His works often depicted religious themes, with a focus on human emotion and physicality. Key works include 'The Calling of Saint Matthew', 'Judith Beheading Holofernes', and 'David with the Head of Goliath'. This painter's innovative use of chiaroscuro and lifelike representation influenced numerous artists and movements that followed. Active primarily in Rome, his life was marked by both artistic brilliance and personal turmoil, including run-ins with the law and a violent lifestyle.

Continue Reading

Jean-Antoine Watteau

French painter of Rococo era
Born
October 10th, 1684 340 years ago
Died
July 18th, 1721 304 years ago — 36 years old

A French painter, associated with the Rococo style, contributed significantly to the development of genre painting. His works are characterized by their delicate color palette and playful themes, often depicting scenes of fête galante, which portray elegantly dressed figures in idyllic landscapes. Created masterpieces such as 'Pierrot' and 'L' Assemblée,' showcasing a unique blend of theatricality and spontaneity. Watteau's innovative approach to painting paved the way for future artists, influencing the stylistic direction of 18th-century art in France.

Continue Reading