Mike Webster
American football player, center for Steelers
An American football player played as a center for the Pittsburgh Steelers in the National Football League (NFL). Contributed to the team's four Super Bowl victories in the 1970s, participating in Super Bowls IX, X, XIII, and XIV. Played a total of 245 games over a career spanning 17 seasons, earning the nickname 'Iron Man' for durability and tenacity. After retirement, dealt with health issues linked to brain injury due to the sport. Inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1997.
Won four Super Bowl championships with the Steelers
Played 17 seasons in the NFL
Inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame
Other People Born on March 18th
Harriet Smithson
Irish actress and muse of Berlioz
Born
March 18th, 1800 225 years ago
Died
1854 171 years ago — 54 years old
An Irish actress gained recognition for her role as Ophelia in Shakespeare's 'Hamlet'. She inspired composer Hector Berlioz, resulting in works such as 'Symphonie Fantastique', which is partly based on her. Smithson's theatrical career included performances in London and Dublin. Her influence on Berlioz and the Romantic movement in music solidified her legacy in the arts.
Continue ReadingFred Shuttlesworth
Civil Rights Activist, Co-founder SCLC
Born
March 18th, 1922 103 years ago
Died
2011 14 years ago — 89 years old
Played a crucial role in the American civil rights movement. Co-founded the Southern Christian Leadership Conference alongside Martin Luther King Jr. Focused efforts on desegregation and voter registration, advocating for equality and justice in the South. Led numerous protests and demonstrations to combat racial discrimination, particularly in Birmingham, Alabama. Known for his courageous activism despite facing violence and intimidation.
Continue ReadingUnita Blackwell
Civil rights activist and politician
Born
March 18th, 1933 92 years ago
Died
May 13th, 2019 6 years ago — 86 years old
Born in 1933, this individual was a prominent civil rights activist and the first African American woman elected mayor in Mississippi. Active during the civil rights movement, significant contributions included efforts to improve the social and economic conditions of African Americans in the Delta region. Served as the mayor of Mayersville from 2000 to 2004 and was a member of the Mississippi House of Representatives. Participated in numerous protests and marches advocating for voting rights and educational access, working alongside other civil rights leaders.
Continue ReadingRudi Altig
German cyclist and sportscaster
Born
March 18th, 1937 88 years ago
Died
June 11th, 2016 9 years ago — 79 years old
Achieved significant success in professional cycling during the 1960s. Won the prestigious World Road Race Championship in 1966. Competed in multiple editions of the Tour de France, securing stage victories. After retiring from competitive cycling, transitioned to sports broadcasting, providing commentary and analysis for cycling events. Contributed to the promotion of cycling through media engagement and public appearances.
Continue ReadingPhilippe de La Hire
French mathematician and astronomer
Born
March 18th, 1640 385 years ago
Died
April 21st, 1719 306 years ago — 79 years old
Contributed significantly to mathematics and astronomy during the 17th century. Developed a method for calculating the position of celestial bodies and made important advancements in the field of geometry. Worked on the theory of conics and analytical geometry. Engaged in various scientific discussions of the time and corresponded with notable contemporaries.
Continue ReadingRudolf Diesel
Engineer and inventor of the Diesel engine
Born
March 18th, 1858 167 years ago
Died
September 29th, 1913 112 years ago — 55 years old
Born in 1858 in Germany, a pioneering engineer developed the Diesel engine, which revolutionized the efficiency of internal combustion engines. The invention was aimed at improving energy consumption compared to existing steam engines. Diesel conducted extensive research and experimentation, leading to the patenting of the Diesel engine in 1892. This new engine technology became integral in various industries, including transportation and manufacturing. The Diesel engine's design enhanced fuel efficiency and reduced environmental impact, laying the groundwork for modern diesel engines used in automobiles, ships, and industrial applications.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on September 24th
Ida Noddack
German Chemist and Physicist
Born
February 25th, 1896 129 years ago
Died
September 24th, 1978 47 years ago — 82 years old
Contributed to the field of chemistry and physics, with a focus on nuclear research. First proposed the concept of nuclear fission in an article co-authored with her husband in 1934. Conducted significant research on the behavior of elements and their radioactive properties, influencing later developments in the study of nuclear physics and chemistry.
Continue ReadingNeil Hamilton
Welsh politician and legal advocate
Born
March 9th, 1949 76 years ago
Died
September 24th, 1984 41 years ago — 35 years old
A politician and lawyer, practiced law in Wales and served as a Member of Parliament. Represented the Tatton constituency from 1992 to 1997. Held the position of Shadow Minister for Agriculture and Food. Involved in various legal cases and controversies throughout political career. Continued to engage in public life after parliamentary term.
Continue ReadingJosué de Castro
Brazilian physician and activist
Born
September 5th, 1908 117 years ago
Died
September 24th, 1973 52 years ago — 65 years old
A physician and geographer focused on public health and nutrition. Specialized in the study of hunger and food security, advocating for social reform policies to combat poverty. Contributed significantly to the field of geography with research emphasizing the relationship between health and environmental factors. Served as a senator in Brazil, promoting human rights and health advancements. Published influential works, including 'Geografia da Fome' (Geography of Hunger), which analyzed the causes and effects of hunger in Brazil.
Continue ReadingEarle Cabell
American politician, Mayor of Dallas
Born
October 27th, 1906 119 years ago
Died
September 24th, 1975 50 years ago — 68 years old
Earle Cabell served as a prominent American banker and politician throughout his career. Elected as the Mayor of Dallas, he played a pivotal role in urban development and governance during the mid-20th century. His tenure was marked by efforts to modernize the city and enhance public infrastructure. In addition to his mayoral responsibilities, he was involved in various civic and community initiatives, contributing to the growth of Dallas as an urban center.
Continue ReadingWilliam Debenham
Founder of Debenhams department store
Born
April 18th, 1794 231 years ago
Died
September 24th, 1863 162 years ago — 69 years old
Established a retail business in 1778 that eventually evolved into the department store chain Debenhams. Expanded operations and opened multiple locations throughout England. The business became well-recognized for its wide range of goods and innovative approach to retailing.
Continue ReadingHasso von Manteuffel
German general and politician
Born
January 14th, 1897 128 years ago
Died
September 24th, 1978 47 years ago — 81 years old
A general in the German army during World War II, significant roles included commanding armored divisions on the Eastern Front. Post-war, transitioned into politics with active involvement in the Free Democratic Party. Served as a member of the Bundestag, focusing on defense and foreign policy issues. Maintained a public presence in discussions about military strategies and Cold War politics.
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