Nelson Mandela
South African lawyer, 1st President
A lawyer and politician, served as the first President of South Africa from 1994 to 1999. Played a key role in ending apartheid through negotiation and reconciliation. Imprisoned for 27 years, became a symbol of resistance against racial oppression. His presidency focused on dismantling the legacy of apartheid and fostering racial harmony. Awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1993 alongside F.W. de Klerk for efforts in peacefully ending apartheid.
Served as the first President of South Africa
Received the Nobel Peace Prize in 1993
Other People Born on July 18th
Eugenio Suárez
Professional baseball player with the Reds
Born
July 18th, 1991 34 years ago
A professional baseball player, primarily played third base. Made his Major League Baseball debut in 2014 with the Seattle Mariners. Later joined the Cincinnati Reds, becoming a key player in the team's lineup. Played a significant role in the Reds' offense during multiple seasons, demonstrating power-hitting abilities.
Continue ReadingGiacinto Facchetti
Footballer and Inter Milan captain
Born
July 18th, 1942 83 years ago
Died
September 4th, 2006 19 years ago — 64 years old
A professional footballer from Italy played as a left-back. Facchetti spent his entire club career at Inter Milan, making a significant contribution to the team's success during the 1960s and 1970s. He transitioned the role of defender into an attacking position, becoming a pioneer in offensive-defensive play. Facchetti earned 94 caps for the Italian national team, participating in the 1966 World Cup and winning the 1968 UEFA European Championship. After retiring from professional play, he served as a director at Inter Milan and was involved in various football-related activities until his passing in 2006.
Continue ReadingRudolf II
Holy Roman Emperor and patron of art
Born
July 18th, 1552 473 years ago
Died
January 20th, 1612 413 years ago — 59 years old
Ruled as Holy Roman Emperor from 1576 until 1612. Oversaw a period marked by significant cultural and scientific advancements. Emphasized the arts and learning, fostering an environment for artists and scholars. Relocated the imperial court to Prague, turning the city into a cultural hub. Experienced challenges during his reign, including conflicts with the nobility and rising tensions in the Empire, particularly with Protestant factions.
Continue ReadingNoah Lyles
American sprinter and world champion
Born
July 18th, 1997 28 years ago
Considered one of the top sprinters in athletics, the individual excelled in the 200 meters. Secured the gold medal at the 2019 World Athletics Championships in Doha, becoming the world champion in the event. Achieved personal bests and numerous victories on the Diamond League circuit, showcasing remarkable speed. Continues to compete at high levels in international events, establishing a reputation for excellence in sprinting.
Continue ReadingTontowi Ahmad
Indonesian badminton player, Olympic champion
Born
July 18th, 1987 38 years ago
An accomplished badminton player, this athlete specialized in men's doubles and mixed doubles events. Partnered with Liliyana Natsir, won the gold medal in mixed doubles at the 2016 Rio Olympics. The player contributed to Indonesia's successes in various tournaments, including the BWF World Championships and the SEA Games.
Continue ReadingFrank Forde
Australian educator and Prime Minister
Born
July 18th, 1890 135 years ago
Died
January 28th, 1983 42 years ago — 92 years old
An educator and politician served as the 15th Prime Minister of Australia for a brief period in 1945. Forde became Prime Minister following the death of John Curtin and completed the term until the election of Ben Chifley. Prior to his premiership, Forde held various ministerial positions, including Minister for the Army during World War II. His contributions in education and public service spanned several decades, emphasizing the importance of education reform and community engagement. Forde's leadership style focused on collaboration within the Labor Party, significantly influencing party dynamics in post-war Australia.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on December 5th
Jesse Pearson
American actor and screenwriter
Born
1930 95 years ago
Died
December 5th, 1979 46 years ago — 49 years old
An American actor, singer, and screenwriter engaged in film and television. Achieved recognition for roles in productions such as the 1963 film 'Bye Bye Birdie' as Conrad Birdie, which garnered significant attention. Involved in various theatrical performances, showcasing talent in both acting and music throughout different stages of career. Contributed writing to projects, expanding creative involvement beyond acting. Had a career spanning several decades and maintained presence in entertainment until the late 1970s. Passed away in December 1979.
Continue ReadingWilliam Sterling Parsons
American admiral and atomic bomb expert
Born
November 26th, 1901 124 years ago
Died
December 5th, 1953 72 years ago — 52 years old
An American admiral, born in 1901, played a significant role in the development of atomic bomb technology during World War II. Oversaw the bomb's military application as the commander of the USS Indianapolis, which transported the bomb to Tinian Island. Contributed to the Manhattan Project, specifically in the design and delivery methods of nuclear weapons. After the war, served in various naval capacities, including roles in the development of naval aviation and missile technology.
Continue ReadingJacques Roubaud
French poet and mathematician
Born
1932 93 years ago
Died
December 5th, 2024 1 years ago — 92 years old
A French poet, writer, and mathematician, contributed significantly to both literature and mathematical theory. Associated with the Oulipo group, explored the connections between mathematics and literature. Authored numerous poetry collections, essays, and novels, emphasizing the interplay between form and freedom. Engaged with themes of memory and language, showcasing a unique blend of logical rigor and creative expression.
Continue ReadingAlexandre Dumas
French novelist, wrote The Three Musketeers
Born
July 24th, 1802 223 years ago
Died
December 5th, 1870 155 years ago — 68 years old
A prolific French writer, contributed significantly to literature during the 19th century. Best remembered for works such as 'The Count of Monte Cristo' and 'The Three Musketeers', which explored themes of justice, adventure, and friendship. Dumas's novels have become classics, widely translated and adapted into various films, television series, and stage plays. His writing style captivated readers and helped popularize the historical novel genre. Dumas faced challenges related to race due to his mixed heritage but continued to produce influential literature that has endured through generations.
Continue ReadingChuck Williams
Businessman, founder of Williams Sonoma
Born
October 2nd, 1915 110 years ago
Died
December 5th, 2015 10 years ago — 100 years old
An American author and businessman established a prominent retail kitchenware and home furnishings company in 1956. Williams Sonoma specialized in gourmet kitchen tools and cookware, transforming culinary retail. The company grew into a nationwide chain, providing a platform for culinary enthusiasts and professional chefs alike. Alongside retail success, authored several books focused on culinary techniques and recipes, enriching the experience of cooking for many.
Continue ReadingTyruss Himes
American rapper and songwriter
Born
1968 57 years ago
Died
December 5th, 2016 9 years ago — 48 years old
An influential figure in the hip-hop scene, a member of the group Thug Life alongside Tupac Shakur. Worked on numerous collaborations and solo projects, contributing to the West Coast rap movement. Released notable albums, including 'Big Syke's Life' and 'The Outlawz - Ride Wit Us or Collide Wit Us.' Established a strong reputation in the music industry for distinctive style and lyrical content.
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