Peggy Wood
American actress known for 'Meet Me in St. Louis'
An accomplished actress in theater and film, recognized primarily for her roles in both mediums. Achieved considerable success on Broadway, notably in the musical 'Oklahoma!'. Gained acclaim in film with a prominent performance as Margaret O'Brien's character's grandmother in 'Meet Me in St. Louis'. Also portrayed the role of Mother Abbess in the classic film adaptation of 'The Sound of Music'. Her work spanned several decades, contributing to the entertainment industry through various performances.
Portrayed Mother Abbess in 'The Sound of Music'
Starred in 'Meet Me in St. Louis'
Featured in the musical 'Oklahoma!'
Other People Born on February 9th
Frank Frazetta
Fantasy artist and illustration master
Born
February 9th, 1928 98 years ago
Died
May 10th, 2010 15 years ago — 82 years old
A prominent painter and illustrator, this individual gained recognition for impactful fantasy artwork that defined the genre. Early artistic endeavors included comic book illustrations, contributing to characters in the 1940s and 1950s. The portfolio expanded to include iconic fantasy book covers, notably for the 'Conan the Barbarian' series. Art style integrated dramatic compositions and vivid colors, influencing many contemporary artists. Frazetta's work extended to movie poster art and gallery exhibitions, further cementing a legacy within the fantasy art community.
Continue ReadingJim Laker
Cricketer and broadcaster, knew for Test exploits
Born
February 9th, 1922 104 years ago
Died
April 23rd, 1986 40 years ago — 64 years old
Played first-class cricket primarily for Surrey. Achieved significant success in Test matches, particularly noted for exceptional performances in the 1956 Ashes series. Claimed 19 wickets in a single match against Australia at Old Trafford, setting a record that still stands. Transitioned to a career in broadcasting after retiring from playing, providing cricket commentary and analysis.
Continue ReadingHarold Scott MacDonald Coxeter
Mathematician and geometry scholar
Born
February 9th, 1907 119 years ago
Died
March 31st, 2003 23 years ago — 96 years old
Contributions included work in geometry, particularly in the study of polytopes and tessellations. Published numerous influential papers and books on mathematical topics, establishing significant theories in geometry. Served as a professor at the University of Toronto and the University of Oxford, mentoring many students and researchers in the field. Recognized for advancing mathematical education and research, and received several accolades throughout his career.
Continue ReadingJoseph Stiglitz
Economist and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
February 9th, 1943 83 years ago
An American economist and academic, significant contributions were made to the analysis of markets with asymmetric information. Stiglitz served as a professor at Columbia University and co-founded the Initiative for Policy Dialogue. As chief economist at the World Bank, roles included advising on economic policies for developing countries. Stiglitz received the Nobel Memorial Prize in Economic Sciences in 2001 for work on economic theory in the presence of information asymmetries.
Continue ReadingClete Boyer
Baseball player and manager, All-Star
Born
February 9th, 1937 89 years ago
Died
June 4th, 2007 18 years ago — 70 years old
Boyer played Major League Baseball as a third baseman and was a key player for teams including the New York Yankees and the Atlanta Braves. His MLB career spanned from 1955 to 1969. He earned selection to the All-Star Game in 1964. Following his playing career, he transitioned into coaching and managed various minor league teams, contributing to the development of young players. Boyer was also a noted defensive player, recognized for his skills on the field.
Continue ReadingFred Allen
Rugby player and coach in New Zealand
Born
February 9th, 1920 106 years ago
Died
March 17th, 1956 70 years ago — 36 years old
A significant figure in rugby, celebrated for contributions as both a player and coach. Played for the New Zealand national rugby union team, featuring in the 1949 tour of the British Isles. Transitioned to coaching, most notably leading the national team from 1966 to 1970. Under coaching tenure, achieved a notable series win against the British Lions in 1971.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on March 18th
Henri Cornet
French cyclist, Tour de France 1904 winner
Born
August 4th, 1884 141 years ago
Died
March 18th, 1941 85 years ago — 56 years old
A French cyclist competed professionally in the early 20th century. Achievements in cycling included winning the 1904 Tour de France, becoming the first competitor to claim the title in the event's history. This victory came amidst controversy regarding the race's rules and conduct.
Continue ReadingR. A. Lafferty
American author of speculative fiction
Born
November 7th, 1914 111 years ago
Died
March 18th, 2002 24 years ago — 87 years old
An author contributed significantly to speculative fiction, particularly known for intricate narratives and complex characters. Works featured elements of fantasy, science fiction, and sometimes absurdism, showcasing a distinct style. Various short stories and novels earned recognition for originality. Often blended mythological and historical references into narratives, creating unique worlds. Made a lasting contribution to the genre through published works.
Continue ReadingWilliam C. Durant
Businessman, founder of General Motors
Born
December 8th, 1861 164 years ago
Died
March 18th, 1947 79 years ago — 85 years old
Founded General Motors in 1908 and played a pivotal role in revolutionizing the automotive industry. Launched Chevrolet in 1911, which became one of the most prominent automobile brands. Advocated for the development of innovative manufacturing techniques and established a network of dealerships that expanded automotive accessibility. Experienced ups and downs in the business world, including a period of bankruptcy in the 1930s before making a comeback. Durant's vision and leadership helped shape the modern automobile market.
Continue ReadingJean-Baptiste Bréval
Cellist and composer of chamber music
Born
1753 273 years ago
Died
March 18th, 1823 203 years ago — 70 years old
Contributed to the repertoire for cello and piano, along with writing works for string quartets. Established a style that blended classical forms with expressive melodies, significantly influencing cello performance. Active during the late 18th and early 19th centuries, engaged with prominent musicians of the time and developed a pedagogical approach to teaching cello.
Continue ReadingGeorge I of Greece
King of Greece, expanded territory
Born
December 24th, 1845 180 years ago
Died
March 18th, 1913 113 years ago — 67 years old
Reigned as king from 1863 until assassination in 1913. Oversaw the expansion of Greece's territory, including the acquisition of the Ionian Islands and parts of Thessaly. Strengthened the economy and modernized the armed forces during the late 19th century. Engaged in diplomatic efforts that contributed to Greece's involvement in the Balkan Wars. Assassination occurred in Thessaloniki, which led to political changes in the country.
Continue ReadingAnne Robert Jacques Turgot
Economist and French Controller-General
Born
1727 299 years ago
Died
March 18th, 1781 245 years ago — 54 years old
An influential economist and politician served as the Controller-General of Finances in France. Implemented economic reforms aimed at modernizing the French economy including promoting free trade and reducing regulatory restrictions. Advocated for the establishment of a single land tax to replace the various taxes that burdened the populace. His fiscal policies faced significant opposition and ultimately led to his dismissal from office during the financial tumult leading up to the French Revolution.
Continue Reading