Mary Jo Kopechne
American educator and secretary
Born
1940
86 years ago
Died
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
Robert Gould Shaw
American colonel and civil war leader
Born
October 10th, 1837 188 years ago
Died
July 18th, 1863 162 years ago — 25 years old
Served as a colonel in the 54th Massachusetts Infantry Regiment during the American Civil War. Led the first African American regiment from the North into battle. Played a significant role in the attack on Fort Wagner in 1863, where he died in combat, becoming a symbol of bravery and sacrifice.
Continue ReadingRebecca Schaeffer
American actress from 'My Sister Sam'
Born
1967 59 years ago
Died
July 18th, 1989 36 years ago — 22 years old
Started a career in modeling before transitioning to acting. Gained prominence in the television series 'My Sister Sam', where a lead role showcased talent and charisma. Appeared in several films and television shows, demonstrating versatility. Tragically, her life was cut short in 1989, which drew attention to issues surrounding celebrity privacy and safety.
Continue ReadingLydia Becker
English-French women's rights activist
Born
February 24th, 1827 198 years ago
Died
July 18th, 1890 135 years ago — 63 years old
Born in England in 1827, the individual became a prominent figure in the women's suffrage movement. An advocate for women's rights, the individual founded the Manchester National Society for Women's Suffrage in 1867. Engaged in writing, efforts included contributions to various periodicals to promote women's enfranchisement. In 1872, undertook a notable petition that amassed thousands of signatures to support women's voting rights. The advocacy work extended beyond local efforts to national discussions about women's suffrage.
Continue ReadingMarie of Romania
Queen and philanthropist of Romania
Born
October 29th, 1875 150 years ago
Died
July 18th, 1938 87 years ago — 62 years old
Marie served as the Queen consort of Romania from 1914 to 1927. Born into the British royal family, she was the granddaughter of Queen Victoria. Marie played a significant role during World War I, advocating for the Romanian military and providing medical care to soldiers. She was a key figure in the establishment of the Romanian Red Cross and contributed to various charitable endeavors. After the war, she participated in the peace negotiations in Paris and supported the Greater Romania initiative. Marie also had a passion for art and literature, writing several books. Her leadership greatly influenced Romanian cultural life during her reign.
Continue ReadingFrancisco Javier Arana
Guatemalan Army Colonel and head of state
Born
December 5th, 1905 120 years ago
Died
July 18th, 1949 76 years ago — 43 years old
Served as an Army colonel during a critical period in Guatemalan history. Briefly held the position of head of state in 1944 following a military coup. Focused on consolidating power and maintaining control during a tumultuous political era. His regime faced various challenges including internal dissent and opposition from reformist movements.
Continue ReadingJean François-Poncet
French politician and diplomat
Born
1928 98 years ago
Died
July 18th, 2012 13 years ago — 84 years old
Served as a prominent diplomat and politician in France. Held the position of Minister of Foreign Affairs from 1973 to 1974, contributing to France's international relations during a significant period. Involved in various diplomatic missions and negotiations, representing French interests globally. His political career also included roles in the Senate and as mayor of Dijon, influencing regional and national policy.
Continue Reading