Philippe Benetton
Rugby player for France and Toulouse
A professional rugby player who represented France at the international level during the 1990s. Played predominantly as a wing and made significant contributions to his club, Toulouse, leading the team to multiple championships. Also earned 37 caps for the national team, participating in notable tournaments such as the Rugby World Cup.
Represented France 37 times
Won the French Championship with Toulouse
Other People Born on May 18th
Don Martin
Cartoonist of MAD magazine fame
Born
May 18th, 1931 95 years ago
Died
2000 26 years ago — 69 years old
Raised in New Jersey, a prominent cartoonist created a unique style characterized by exaggerated characters and humorous situations. Contributed to MAD magazine for over four decades, becoming a vital part of its identity. Developed a signature brand of slapstick humor and absurdity evident in recurring gags and inventive illustrations. Also produced his own series in comic format, further showcasing his distinctive artistic approach and storytelling. Influenced a generation of cartoonists and left a lasting mark on the genre of humor comics.
Continue ReadingMark Mothersbaugh
Singer-songwriter and composer, Devo
Born
May 18th, 1950 76 years ago
A prominent figure in American music and art, contributions span various fields including music, visual arts, and film scoring. Co-founded the band Devo, which gained notoriety in the late 1970s for its unique blend of new wave and punk rock, coupled with its intellectual themes. Mothersbaugh's work with Devo includes classic hits such as 'Whip It'. In addition to music, engaging in visual art practices, he has exhibited his artwork in numerous galleries. Composed scores for films including 'The Lego Movie' and 'Rushmore', establishing a reputation in film music.
Continue ReadingFrederick Augustus II of Saxony
King of Saxony and a notable ruler
Born
May 18th, 1797 229 years ago
Died
1854 172 years ago — 57 years old
Born on May 18, 1797, Frederick Augustus II became the King of Saxony in 1836. His reign witnessed significant developments in Saxony, especially in terms of cultural and economic advancements. Under the leadership of Frederick Augustus II, important infrastructure projects were initiated, enhancing the region’s connectivity and trade. Frederick Augustus II also played a role during the tumultuous periods of the 1848 revolutions in Europe, navigating the complexities of political reform and maintaining the stability of his realm during challenging times. His legacy includes the promotion of arts and sciences within Saxony, fostering an environment conducive to cultural growth, which has been recognized in the region's historical narrative.
Continue ReadingBig Joe Turner
Blues/R&B singer and songwriter
Born
May 18th, 1911 115 years ago
Died
1985 41 years ago — 74 years old
An influential figure in the development of rhythm and blues, contributed to the genre with a powerful voice and energetic performances. Gained popularity in the 1930s and 1940s, becoming a prominent force in the transition from blues to R&B. Recorded numerous songs that became classics, including 'Shake, Rattle and Roll', which gained significant attention in both the black and white music markets. Performed extensively in clubs and festivals, showcasing a vocal style that combined elements of jazz, gospel, and blues. Inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1987, recognized for significant contributions to American music.
Continue ReadingBertrand Russell
Philosopher and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
May 18th, 1872 154 years ago
Died
February 2nd, 1970 56 years ago — 97 years old
A prominent British mathematician and philosopher, contributed significantly to a variety of fields including logic, philosophy, and social criticism. Authored numerous influential works, including 'Principia Mathematica' co-written with Alfred North Whitehead, which laid the groundwork for much of modern mathematics. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1950 for varied and significant writings, advocating for humanitarian ideals and nuclear disarmament. Engaged actively in political discourse throughout his career, participating in various anti-war movements and promoting social reform.
Continue ReadingJay Wells
Ice Hockey Player and Coach
Born
May 18th, 1959 67 years ago
Played as a defenseman in the National Hockey League (NHL) for multiple teams including the New York Rangers, Los Angeles Kings, and Buffalo Sabres. Transitioned to coaching after retirement from professional play, contributing to various junior and minor league teams. Participated in a total of over 700 NHL games during a career spanning more than a decade.
Continue Reading