Rafer Johnson
Decathlete and Olympic gold medalist
Born
Died
2020
5 years ago — 86 years old
Category
Athletes & Sports Figures
Country
United States
Links & References
An accomplished decathlete and actor, this individual competed at the highest levels in track and field. Won the gold medal in the decathlon at the 1960 Rome Olympics, marking a significant achievement in athletic history. Played a prominent role in the decathlon, earning recognition for performance in multiple events. Transitioned to acting, appearing in television and film, including a role in the movie "The Longest Yard."
Won gold medal in decathlon at 1960 Olympics
Competed for the United States in Olympic events
Appeared in "The Longest Yard"
Other People Born on August 18th
Walther Funk
German economist and Minister of Economics
Born
August 18th, 1890 135 years ago
Died
May 31st, 1960 65 years ago — 69 years old
An economist, journalist, and politician, served as the German Minister of Economics during the Nazi regime. Played a significant role in the economic policies of Nazi Germany and was involved in the planning and implementation of various economic measures. Held the position from 1937 to 1945, overseeing Germany's economic strategies during World War II. After the war, tried at the Nuremberg Trials for war crimes and received a life sentence.
Continue ReadingMarcel Carné
French film director, 'Les Enfants du Paradis'
Born
August 18th, 1906 119 years ago
Died
October 31st, 1996 29 years ago — 90 years old
A pivotal figure in French cinema, contributed significantly to the poetic realism movement. Directed the critically acclaimed film 'Les Enfants du Paradis', which premiered in 1945 and is celebrated for its rich storytelling and character development. Collaborated with screenwriters such as Jacques Prévert and worked with notable cinematographers. Involved in several other successful films, including 'Jour se lève' and 'Drôle de drame'. His body of work left a lasting legacy in the French film industry.
Continue ReadingMarko Marulić
Croatian poet and founder of literature
Born
August 18th, 1450 575 years ago
Died
January 5th, 1524 501 years ago — 73 years old
Renowned as the father of Croatian literature, made significant contributions through poetry and prose. Achieved prominence with the epic poem 'Judita,' which showcased the themes of heroism and faith. His works laid the foundations for the Croatian literary tradition and influenced subsequent generations of writers. Engaged in civic life as well, promoting cultural and religious values through literary expression.
Continue ReadingLouis Henri
Duke of Bourbon
Born
August 18th, 1692 333 years ago
Died
January 27th, 1740 285 years ago — 47 years old
Duke of Bourbon served as a French noble and military leader during the 17th century. Held significant influence as the head of the Bourbon family, playing a pivotal role in French politics and military affairs. Participated in various campaigns and contributed to the establishment of Bourbon dominance in France. His notable lineage established the connection between the Bourbon dynasty and the French monarchy.
Continue ReadingOtto Ernst Remer
German general during World War II
Born
August 18th, 1912 113 years ago
Died
October 4th, 1997 28 years ago — 85 years old
Served as a general in the German army during World War II. Became widely recognized for his role in quelling the July 20, 1944, assassination attempt against Adolf Hitler. Commanded the 56th Panzer Corps and participated in various military campaigns on the Eastern Front. After the war, engaged in far-right political activities and founded the National Democratic Party of Germany in the 1960s.
Continue ReadingMahboob Ali Khan
Sixth Nizam of Hyderabad State
Born
August 18th, 1866 159 years ago
Died
August 21st, 1911 114 years ago — 45 years old
Ruled as the sixth Nizam of Hyderabad from 1869 until 1911. Oversaw a period marked by modernization and infrastructure development within the state. Established educational institutions and promoted the arts and culture of Hyderabad. Implemented railway and communication improvements.
Continue Reading