Pee Wee King
Country musician and bandleader
A prominent figure in country music, significant contributions included the formation of the Golden West Cowboys. The use of the accordion in a country music context helped popularize the instrument in the genre. Best known for the hit song "Tennessee Waltz," which became a major crossover success, reaching No. 1 on the Billboard charts. The musical style blended traditional country with Western swing, leaving a lasting influence on the genre.
Popularized the song 'Tennessee Waltz'
Formed the Golden West Cowboys band
Other People Born on February 18th
Freddie Blassie
Professional wrestler and manager
Born
February 18th, 1918 108 years ago
Died
June 2nd, 2003 23 years ago — 85 years old
Born in 1918, this individual became an influential figure in professional wrestling, both as a wrestler and a manager. Rising to popularity in the 1950s and 1960s, he was well-known for his work with various wrestling promotions, including the American Wrestling Association (AWA) and World Wrestling Federation (WWF). As a manager, he guided several primary wrestlers, contributing to their success while also being a compelling on-screen character. Blassie's charisma and flamboyant personality made him a memorable figure in the world of wrestling, appearing in wrestling matches and television shows, including guest appearances on popular media.
Continue ReadingLewis Armistead
American Civil War General
Born
February 18th, 1817 209 years ago
Died
July 5th, 1863 162 years ago — 46 years old
A general in the Confederate States Army, served in the Mexican-American War before rising to prominence during the American Civil War. Commanded a brigade in the Army of Northern Virginia and played a significant role in key battles such as the Battle of Gettysburg. Suffered fatal injuries during combat in this pivotal conflict, which ultimately led to his death shortly afterward. A dedicated military officer, his leadership was notable during some of the most intense engagements of the war.
Continue ReadingUesugi Kenshin
Japanese daimyō and military leader
Born
February 18th, 1530 496 years ago
Died
April 19th, 1578 448 years ago — 48 years old
A significant daimyō during the Sengoku period in Japan, he controlled the Echigo province. Renowned for military prowess, engaged in numerous battles against rival daimyō. Established a reputation for strategic brilliance, particularly in the famous battles of Kawanakajima. Governed with a strong sense of justice and promoted cultural development in his domain. Actively involved in the political landscape of Japan during a time of unrest.
Continue ReadingMary I of England
Queen of England and Ireland
Born
February 18th, 1516 510 years ago
Died
November 17th, 1558 467 years ago — 42 years old
Reigned as Queen of England and Ireland from 1553 until 1558. Mary was the first woman to rule England in her own right. The daughter of Henry VIII and Catherine of Aragon, she attempted to restore Roman Catholicism in England after the Protestant Reformation initiated by her father. Her reign was marked by the persecution of Protestants, now referred to as the Marian Persecutions. Mary married Philip II of Spain, which was controversial and led to anti-Spanish sentiment during her rule. The queen's reign concluded with her death in 1558, which led to the accession of her half-sister, Elizabeth I.
Continue ReadingJohn Hughes
Film director and screenwriter of 'Ferris Bueller's Day Off'
Born
February 18th, 1950 76 years ago
Died
August 6th, 2009 16 years ago — 59 years old
American director, producer, and screenwriter contributed significantly to the teen comedy genre in the 1980s and 1990s. Authored and directed several influential films, focusing on teenage life and culture. Work included titles such as 'Sixteen Candles', 'The Breakfast Club', and 'Ferris Bueller's Day Off'. Established a distinctive style that combined humor with critical commentary on adolescence. Founded his production company, Hughes Entertainment, which produced multiple successful films.
Continue ReadingHans Asperger
Austrian pediatrician and researcher
Born
February 18th, 1906 120 years ago
Died
October 21st, 1980 45 years ago — 74 years old
Asperger contributed significantly to the understanding of autism, especially in children. His work in the 1940s led to the identification of a specific form of autism that would later bear his name. He conducted comprehensive observational studies on children with social and communication difficulties, distinguishing characteristics that would inform future autism research. Asperger established a clinic in Vienna dedicated to pediatric medicine and was instrumental in developing educational approaches for children with autism and related conditions. His research emphasized the importance of understanding and diagnosing autism spectrum disorders in an educational context.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on March 7th
Włodzimierz Smolarek
Polish footballer and manager
Born
1957 69 years ago
Died
March 7th, 2012 14 years ago — 55 years old
Played as a forward, contributing significantly to the Polish national football team during the 1980s. Achieved notable success with Widzew Łódź, winning the Polish league title and the Polish Cup. Participated in the 1982 FIFA World Cup, where Poland secured third place. Transitioned to coaching after retirement, taking roles at various clubs and contributing to the development of football in Poland.
Continue ReadingJacob K. Javits
American politician and attorney general
Born
May 18th, 1904 122 years ago
Died
March 7th, 1986 40 years ago — 81 years old
Served as a U.S. Congressman and U.S. Senator from New York. During tenure in the Senate, advocated for labor reforms and civil rights. Played a significant role in the establishment of the New York City Fiscal Control Board. Served as the 58th Attorney General of New York, implementing various legal reforms. Worked on advancing issues related to health care and environmental protection.
Continue ReadingClaude King
Country music singer-songwriter
Born
February 5th, 1923 103 years ago
Died
March 7th, 2013 13 years ago — 90 years old
An American country music singer-songwriter and guitarist, the individual gained recognition for contributions to the genre during the mid-20th century. The most notable single, "Wolverton Mountain," achieved significant commercial success, topping the charts in the 1960s. The artist recorded multiple albums and toured extensively, impacting the country music scene. Through a career spanning several decades, the individual established a reputation for storytelling through song, reflecting experiences and cultural themes relevant to listeners.
Continue ReadingF. Ray Keyser Jr.
American politician, Governor of Vermont
Born
August 17th, 1927 98 years ago
Died
March 7th, 2015 11 years ago — 87 years old
Served as Governor of Vermont from 1961 to 1963. Played a role in state politics during the mid-20th century. Participated in various legal practices and contributed to the Democratic Party's efforts in Vermont. Involved in numerous initiatives and programs aimed at improving the state.
Continue ReadingRobert Townsend
Actor and director of Hollywood Shuffle
Born
February 6th, 1957 69 years ago
Died
March 7th, 1838 188 years ago — -119 years old
An American actor and director, engaged in film and television since the 1980s. Gained recognition through the film 'Hollywood Shuffle', which was released in 1987 and provided commentary on race and representation in the entertainment industry. Directed the acclaimed television series 'The Parenthood', which aired from 1995 to 2000. Contributed to various projects highlighting African American culture and experiences in media.
Continue ReadingVictor Shem-Tov
Israeli lawyer and 8th Minister of Health
Born
1915 111 years ago
Died
March 7th, 2014 12 years ago — 99 years old
Served as an Israeli lawyer and politician. Held the position of 8th Minister of Health, contributing to healthcare policy and administration. Involved in various legal and political affairs in Israel during the late 20th century.
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