Paul Bowles
Composer and author, wrote 'The Sheltering Sky'
An American composer and author, worked in various artistic fields. Best recognized for the novel 'The Sheltering Sky', which explores themes of existentialism and cultural displacement. Created a unique musical style that blended traditional Western classical music with various world influences. Lived in Morocco for much of his life, which heavily influenced his writing and compositions.
Wrote 'The Sheltering Sky'
Composed 'Sonatine for Flute and Piano'
Other People Born on December 30th
Charles Yorke
English lawyer and Lord Chancellor
Born
December 30th, 1722 303 years ago
Died
January 20th, 1770 256 years ago — 47 years old
A prominent English lawyer and politician, served as the Lord Chancellor of Great Britain. Played a significant role in the legal and parliamentary systems during the 18th century. Participated actively in the political discourse of the time, advocating for various legal reforms. His tenure as Lord Chancellor was marked by efforts to address legal complexities and improve judicial procedures.
Continue ReadingNick Symmonds
American middle-distance runner, Olympian
Born
December 30th, 1983 42 years ago
A middle-distance runner specialized in the 800 meters, achieved significant recognition in athletics. Competed in the 2012 London Olympics, securing a silver medal in the 800 meters. Set a personal best of 1:42.95, ranking among the top American 800m runners. Maintained a strong presence in the sport, winning multiple national championships and competing in various international competitions throughout the career.
Continue ReadingLaila Ali
Professional boxer and television personality
Born
December 30th, 1977 48 years ago
Achieved a successful career in boxing with an undefeated record of 24 wins, including 21 by knockout. Held the WBC, WIBA, and IWBF super middleweight titles. Transitioned to acting, making appearances on television shows and documentaries, often featuring her boxing career and personal life. Engaged in various philanthropic efforts, promoting health and fitness, particularly among women and youth. Also authored a book on health and wellness.
Continue ReadingDawan Landry
American football safety and player
Born
December 30th, 1982 43 years ago
Played as a safety in the National Football League (NFL) for several teams, including the Baltimore Ravens, Jacksonville Jaguars, and New York Jets. Entered the NFL after being selected in the fifth round of the 2006 NFL Draft by the Ravens. Contributed significantly to the Ravens' defense, highlighted by a Super Bowl victory in Super Bowl XLVII. Known for his strong tackling ability and understanding of defensive schemes, Landry had a productive career in the league, participating in 103 games across multiple seasons.
Continue ReadingSaša Ilić
Serbian footballer, former midfielder
Born
December 30th, 1977 48 years ago
A professional footballer played primarily as a midfielder. Spent a significant portion of the career with Partizan, contributing to the team's success in domestic and European competitions. Also played for the Serbian national team, earning several caps. Transitioned into coaching after retirement, continuing involvement in football development in Serbia.
Continue ReadingLars Boom
Dutch Cyclist with World Championships title
Born
December 30th, 1985 40 years ago
Born in 1985, a professional cyclist gained recognition in road cycling and cyclo-cross. Achievements include winning the UCI Cyclo-cross World Championships in 2008 and several national championships in both disciplines. Competed in numerous international events representing the Netherlands.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on November 18th
Chester A. Arthur
21st President of the United States
Born
October 5th, 1829 196 years ago
Died
November 18th, 1886 139 years ago — 57 years old
Served as the 21st President of the United States from 1881 to 1885. Became president following the assassination of James A. Garfield. Prior to the presidency, held the position of Collector of the Port of New York. Advocated for civil service reform and the Pendleton Act, which established a merit-based system for federal employment. Implemented modernization of the U.S. Navy and supported legislation to improve infrastructure in the country.
Continue ReadingJonah Lomu
Rugby Union player, Rugby World Cup star
Born
May 12th, 1975 51 years ago
Died
November 18th, 2015 10 years ago — 40 years old
A renowned rugby union player from New Zealand, Lomu rose to prominence in the 1990s. He played for the All Blacks, debuting in 1994 and quickly becoming a significant figure in the sport. His performance in the 1995 Rugby World Cup, noted for his incredible speed and power, particularly during the semi-final match against England, established his legacy and transformed how wingers approached the game. Lomu's combination of size and agility redefined the expectations for players in that position. After a career impacted by health challenges, he retired from international rugby in 2002 but remained influential in the sport until his passing in 2015.
Continue ReadingMichael Kamen
Composer and conductor for films
Born
April 15th, 1948 78 years ago
Died
November 18th, 2003 22 years ago — 55 years old
A composer and conductor contributed significantly to film music, integrating orchestral and contemporary music elements. Worked extensively in the film industry, collaborating with various artists and directors. Noteworthy compositions include scores for films such as "Die Hard," "Lethal Weapon," and "Mr. Holland's Opus." Also known for orchestral arrangements and works with rock bands, notably his collaboration with Metallica on the "S&M" album. Received multiple awards for contributions to music and film, including Emmy Awards and a Grammy Award.
Continue ReadingCharles Dumont
French singer and composer of chansons
Born
March 26th, 1929 97 years ago
Died
November 18th, 2024 1 years ago — 95 years old
A prominent figure in French music, this singer and composer emerged in the 1950s and gained recognition for contributions to the chanson genre. Created numerous songs that became classics in French culture, with notable works including 'La Vie en rose' and 'Parce que je t'aime.' Collaborated with various artists and provided songs for films, enriching the soundtracks of his time. His style often blended romantic themes with poetic lyrics, appealing to a wide audience in France and beyond.
Continue ReadingKurt Schuschnigg
Austrian politician and chancellor
Born
December 14th, 1897 128 years ago
Died
November 18th, 1977 48 years ago — 79 years old
A lawyer and politician served as the 15th Federal Chancellor of Austria from 1934 to 1938. Focused on maintaining Austria's independence during rising tensions in Europe. Implemented policies aimed at consolidating power and opposing the influence of National Socialism. Resigned in March 1938 under pressure from Nazi Germany, leading to the annexation of Austria. Later detained by the Nazis and spent years in concentration camps.
Continue ReadingTabassum
Indian actress and talk show host
Born
July 9th, 1944 81 years ago
Died
November 18th, 2022 3 years ago — 78 years old
An actress and talk show host from India, this individual began her career as a child artist in the film 'Baiju Bawra' in 1952. Extended career included acting in various films and television shows throughout the decades. The hosting of the popular talk show 'Phool Khile Hain Gulshan Gulshan' in the 1990s gained significant popularity. Contribution to the film industry encompasses work across multiple genres.
Continue Reading