Pierre Trudeau
Canadian politician, Prime Minister of Canada
A Canadian lawyer and academic held the position of the 15th Prime Minister of Canada, serving two terms from 1968 to 1979 and then from 1980 to 1984. Trudeau was a key figure in Canadian politics, emphasizing national unity, multiculturalism, and civil rights. His government implemented the Official Languages Act, promoting English and French as the country's official languages. He also introduced the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms in 1982, significantly shaping Canada's constitutional framework.
Served as Prime Minister from 1968 to 1979
Implemented the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms
Introduced the Official Languages Act
Other People Born on October 18th
Allen Ripley
Baseball player, San Francisco Giants
Born
October 18th, 1952 73 years ago
Died
November 7th, 2014 11 years ago — 62 years old
Played Major League Baseball as a pitcher from 1977 to 1984. Primarily played for the San Francisco Giants, contributing significantly to the team's pitching rotation. Also had tenures with the Chicago White Sox and New York Mets. Achieved a win-loss record of 36-36 and an earned run average of 4.13 over his career. Played alongside notable teammates during his tenure and participated in several key matchups.
Continue ReadingCatherine Ringer
French singer and actress, Les Rita Mitsouko
Born
October 18th, 1957 68 years ago
Born in 1957, a French singer-songwriter, dancer, and actress. Achieved fame as a member of the musical duo Les Rita Mitsouko, which formed in the early 1980s. The duo is celebrated for its eclectic blend of genres, absorbing rock, pop, and new wave influences. Their hit song, 'Marcia Baïla,' became emblematic of their style and gained significant recognition in France and abroad. In addition to music, involvement in acting included roles in films and theatrical productions, showcasing versatility in the performing arts. Remains an influential figure in French music and culture, blending visual artistry and innovative performances.
Continue ReadingVanessa Briscoe Hay
Singer-songwriter of Pylon
Born
October 18th, 1955 70 years ago
A singer-songwriter and keyboard player, significant contributions were made to the music scene as a part of the band Pylon, which emerged and became influential in the 1980s alternative music movement in Athens, Georgia. The band played a key role in the Cape Cod music scene and was noted for its unique sound and energetic live performances. After Pylon disbanded, continued to create music, forming other projects and collaborating with various artists, maintaining a presence in the independent music community.
Continue ReadingJerry Royster
Baseball player and manager for Braves
Born
October 18th, 1952 73 years ago
A professional baseball player and manager, achieved success in Major League Baseball (MLB) during the late 1970s and 1980s. Played primarily as an infielder for the Atlanta Braves, Los Angeles Dodgers, and other teams. Transitioned into coaching and management roles after retirement, contributing to the development of players and strategies in the sport.
Continue ReadingNick Houghton
English general and former Chief of Defence
Born
October 18th, 1954 71 years ago
Served as Chief of the General Staff from 2014 to 2016. Held the position of Chief of Defence Staff from 2013 to 2016. Has had a long military career, including service in various capacities in the British Army, focusing on operational command and strategic planning. Participated in multiple international operations, including deployments in Iraq and Afghanistan. Contributed to military reforms and policy development during tenure in leadership roles.
Continue ReadingRita Verdonk
Dutch politician and Minister of Justice
Born
October 18th, 1955 70 years ago
A political figure served as a member of the Dutch parliament and held the position of Minister of Justice from 2003 to 2006. Spearheaded initiatives focusing on immigration policy and public safety. Played a significant role in advocating for stricter laws on terrorism and organized crime. Continued involvement in public debates and political discourse after leaving office.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on September 28th
Louis Pasteur
French chemist and microbiologist
Born
December 27th, 1822 202 years ago
Died
September 28th, 1895 130 years ago — 72 years old
Contributions to microbiology revolutionized the understanding of disease and fermentation. Developed the germ theory of disease, which established that microorganisms are the cause of many illnesses. Created vaccines for rabies and anthrax, contributing to immunization practices. Invented the process of pasteurization to eliminate harmful bacteria in food and beverages.
Continue ReadingRichard Warren Sears
American businessman, co-founded Sears
Born
December 7th, 1863 162 years ago
Died
September 28th, 1914 111 years ago — 50 years old
Co-founded a major retail company that became one of the largest and most recognizable department stores in the United States. Established a catalog business that revolutionized retail and personal shopping, making products accessible to rural consumers. Instrumental in developing the company into a diverse retail operation, expanding beyond catalogs into physical retail locations.
Continue ReadingWilliam Kennedy Dickson
Film pioneer and director of 'The Kiss'
Born
August 3rd, 1860 165 years ago
Died
September 28th, 1935 90 years ago — 75 years old
Contributions to early cinema included directing and producing influential short films. Collaborated with Thomas Edison in the development of motion pictures. Created 'The Kiss' in 1896, one of the earliest films to showcase a romantic scene. Worked on the technical advancements of film projection and cinematography.
Continue ReadingCharles Duryea
American engineer and automotive pioneer
Born
1861 164 years ago
Died
September 28th, 1938 87 years ago — 77 years old
An engineer and businessman, founded the Duryea Motor Wagon Company, which produced the first gasoline-powered automobile in the United States in 1893. This venture marked a significant development in the automotive industry, contributing to the evolution of motor vehicles in the country. The company went on to manufacture various models, establishing a foundation for future automotive innovation. Duryea's work primarily focused on improving vehicle design and performance, leading to advancements in automotive engineering during the early 20th century.
Continue ReadingHartland Molson
Canadian politician and captain
Born
May 29th, 1907 118 years ago
Died
September 28th, 2002 23 years ago — 95 years old
Born in 1907, a politician representing the Conservative Party in Canada, served as a Member of Parliament for the Notre-Dame-de-Grâce riding. Also known for significant contributions in the Molson family business, which was instrumental in the Canadian brewing industry. Held various leadership roles in the Molson Brewery, contributing to its development and growth. Actively participated in community and public service initiatives throughout the career.
Continue ReadingJonathan Fellows-Smith
South African cricketer and rugby player
Born
1932 93 years ago
Died
September 28th, 2013 12 years ago — 81 years old
Played as a cricketer for Eastern Province and represented South Africa in rugby union. Competed in domestic cricket during the 1990s and transitioned to rugby, where participation in provincial tournaments occurred. Both sports demonstrated versatility and talent across disciplines.
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