Mikhail Kuzmin
Russian author and poet
A significant figure in Russian literature, this author and poet contributed to the Silver Age of Russian poetry. His works often reflected themes of love, nature, and the quest for personal identity. Best known for the poem collection 'The Wings', which showcased a blend of romantic and modernist styles, he also wrote novels and essays that highlighted the complexities of personal and social issues. His literary career was marked by innovative use of language and form, which influenced subsequent generations of writers.
Published the poetry collection 'The Wings'
Authored the novel 'The Tsar of the Forest'
Contributed to the literary journal 'Giperborei'
Other People Born on October 18th
Manuel da Nóbrega
Portuguese-Brazilian priest and missionary
Born
October 18th, 1517 508 years ago
Died
October 18th, 1570 455 years ago — 53 years old
A Portuguese-Brazilian priest and missionary played a crucial role in establishing the Jesuit mission in Brazil. Arriving in 1549, facilitated the evangelization of Indigenous peoples and promoted education and agriculture in the colony. Served as the first superior of the Jesuit missions in Brazil, overseeing various missions and parishes. Contributed to the development of the region through efforts to educate the local population and implement agricultural practices.
Continue ReadingRamiz Alia
Albanian politician, 1st President of Albania
Born
October 18th, 1925 100 years ago
Died
October 7th, 2011 14 years ago — 85 years old
Served as an influential political leader in Albania during significant national changes. Held the position of 1st President from 1991 to 1992 following the end of communist rule. Prior to the presidency, served as General Secretary of the Albanian Party of Labour, shaping the country's political landscape during a time of transition. His administration faced challenges such as economic reform and the establishment of a multi-party system. Contributed to Albania’s first democratic elections, facilitating the shift from a one-party system to a democratic governance model.
Continue ReadingJohn Johnson
American basketball player, NBA champion
Born
October 18th, 1947 78 years ago
Died
January 7th, 2016 10 years ago — 68 years old
A basketball player played for teams such as the Los Angeles Lakers and the Seattle SuperSonics. Achieved significant success in the NBA, including winning the championship. Additionally, contributed to the sport in various roles after retirement, including coaching and mentorship within basketball programs.
Continue ReadingPascual Jordan
Physicist and quantum mechanics theorist
Born
October 18th, 1902 123 years ago
Died
July 31st, 1980 45 years ago — 77 years old
Contributed significantly to the foundation of quantum mechanics. Developed the Jordan form in linear algebra and contributed to the formulation of quantum field theory. Served as a professor at the University of Göttingen. Engaged in the scientific community during the mid-20th century, influencing various aspects of theoretical physics.
Continue ReadingPope Pius II
Pope and author of 'Commentaries'
Born
October 18th, 1405 620 years ago
Died
August 14th, 1464 561 years ago — 58 years old
Elected as pope in 1458, served until 1464. Authored 'Commentaries', providing insight into his thoughts and experiences during the Renaissance. Became involved in various diplomatic missions and sought to unite Christendom against the Ottoman Turks. Founded the town of Pienza, known for its Renaissance architecture and urban planning, reflecting humanist ideals.
Continue ReadingChuck Berry
Rock and roll guitarist and songwriter
Born
October 18th, 1926 99 years ago
Died
March 18th, 2017 8 years ago — 90 years old
A guitarist, singer, and songwriter who played a pivotal role in the creation of rock and roll music. Berry's career began in the 1950s, and his first major hit, 'Maybellene,' established the foundations of the genre. He developed a distinctive style characterized by clever lyrics and a unique guitar sound. Berry's performances were often marked by his showmanship, including the signature 'duck walk.' Some iconic songs include 'Johnny B. Goode' and 'Roll Over Beethoven.' His music has influenced countless artists across multiple generations, solidifying a legacy as a pioneer of rock music.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on March 1st
Claude Victor-Perrin
French general and Minister of Defence
Born
December 7th, 1764 261 years ago
Died
March 1st, 1841 184 years ago — 76 years old
Served as a prominent general during the Napoleonic Wars and rose to the rank of Duc de Belluno. Actively participated in significant campaigns, contributing to military strategies that shaped outcomes in various battles. Held the position of French Minister of Defence, overseeing military operations and policy during a pivotal period in French history. His career illustrates a commitment to military service and national defense during the revolutionary and Napoleonic eras.
Continue ReadingGabriele D'Annunzio
Italian journalist and politician
Born
March 12th, 1863 162 years ago
Died
March 1st, 1938 87 years ago — 74 years old
An influential figure in early 20th-century Italy, played a major role in literature, politics, and cultural movements. Began as a poet and novelist, achieving notoriety with works such as 'Il Piacere' and 'La Figlia di Iorio.' Involved in World War I, led the Fiume occupation in 1919, promoting radical nationalist ideals. Developed a distinct political philosophy blending nationalism and aesthetics, which influenced the later fascist movement. His life was characterized by flamboyance and a strong commitment to his causes.
Continue ReadingEdwin H. Land
Scientist and Polaroid co-founder
Born
May 7th, 1909 116 years ago
Died
March 1st, 1991 34 years ago — 81 years old
Contributed to the development of polarizing filters and instant photography. Co-founded Polaroid Corporation, which introduced the first instant camera, the Polaroid Model 95, in 1948. Innovations revolutionized photography, allowing images to be developed in minutes. Held over 500 patents, influencing various fields including optics and photography technologies. Education included a brief tenure at Harvard University, leading to significant advancements in photographic techniques.
Continue ReadingGirolamo Frescobaldi
Keyboardist and composer of music
Born
1583 443 years ago
Died
March 1st, 1643 382 years ago — 60 years old
An Italian keyboardist and composer, contributed significantly to the development of keyboard music in the early Baroque period. Frescobaldi served as the organist at St. Peter's Basilica in Rome. His compositions, which included toccatas, canzonas, and other forms for organ and keyboard, showcased innovative harmonic and contrapuntal techniques. He published several influential collections, including 'Fiori musicali' in 1635, which solidified his reputation as a leading figure in music. Frescobaldi's work influenced numerous composers after him and laid groundwork for the evolution of keyboard music.
Continue ReadingGilbert Elliot-Murray-Kynynmound
English soldier and Governor General of Canada
Born
1845 181 years ago
Died
March 1st, 1914 111 years ago — 69 years old
Held the title of 4th Earl of Minto. Served as the 8th Governor General of Canada from 1898 to 1904. Had a notable career in both military and political fields. Served with various military regiments, participating in operations in India and other regions. Continued a legacy of leadership and administration within the British colonial framework.
Continue ReadingJoe Besser
Comedian and actor in The Three Stooges
Born
August 12th, 1907 118 years ago
Died
March 1st, 1988 37 years ago — 80 years old
Initially gained popularity in vaudeville and later became a member of The Three Stooges during the late 1950s. Appeared in several comedy films and television shows, showcasing a unique comic style that contributed to the Stooges' legacy. Participated in various comedy routines and gained recognition for his slapstick humor. Worked on television programs such as 'The Ed Sullivan Show' and 'The Joe Besser Show', establishing a following in the realm of American entertainment. Continued to perform until death in 1988.
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