Ray Meyer
Basketball coach at DePaul University
Coached the DePaul Blue Demons men's basketball team from 1942 to 1984. Directed the team to a record of 724 wins and 354 losses. Achieved significant success in the NCAA Tournament, leading the team to the Final Four in 1979. Instrumental in developing many players who went on to have successful professional careers.
Coached DePaul to the NCAA Final Four in 1979
Achieved 724 career wins as head coach
Other People Born on December 18th
Bridgit Mendler
Actress and singer-songwriter, 'Good Luck Charlie'
Born
December 18th, 1992 33 years ago
Gained early recognition through a starring role in the Disney Channel series 'Good Luck Charlie'. Released the debut album 'Hello My Name Is...' in 2012, featuring the hit single 'Ready or Not'. Also provided voice work for the character Aloha in the animated film 'Underdogs'. Worked on various television projects post-Disney, including a role in the series 'Undateable'. In addition to acting and music, engaged in philanthropic efforts and advocacy for education.
Continue ReadingRonald Acuña Jr.
Professional Baseball Player, MLB All-Star
Born
December 18th, 1997 28 years ago
A Venezuelan baseball player, specialized in the outfield position. Debuted in Major League Baseball in 2018 with the Atlanta Braves. Achieved the National League Rookie of the Year Award in 2018. Played a key role in leading the Braves to victory in the 2021 World Series, marking the franchise's first championship title since 1995. Acuña is known for his dynamic playing style, combining power and speed on the field.
Continue ReadingNatália Kelly
Singer and Eurovision Song Contest participant
Born
December 18th, 1994 31 years ago
Born in 1994, a singer represented Austria in the Eurovision Song Contest 2013 with the song 'Shine'. Early exposure to music led to participation in various competitions and performances. Gained recognition for her vocal talent and unique style, contributing to her career in the music industry. Released single tracks and collaborated with different artists, expanding her presence beyond Eurovision. Established a following through public performances and social media engagement, showcasing a blend of pop and contemporary influences.
Continue ReadingVictor Hedman
Ice hockey player; Norris Trophy winner
Born
December 18th, 1990 35 years ago
A Swedish ice hockey player, primarily played as a defenseman for the Tampa Bay Lightning in the National Hockey League (NHL). Joined the NHL after being selected second overall in the 2009 NHL Entry Draft. Contributed to the Lightning winning the Stanley Cup in 2020 and 2021. Received the James Norris Memorial Trophy in 2018 as the league's top defenseman, showcasing exceptional skills both defensively and offensively. Represented Sweden in international competitions, including the IIHF World Championships and the Olympics.
Continue ReadingAshley Benson
American actress known for Pretty Little Liars
Born
December 18th, 1989 36 years ago
An actress and singer, gained recognition for portraying Hanna Marin in the television series Pretty Little Liars, which aired from 2010 to 2017. Additionally, appeared in the films Spring Breakers and Pixels. Involved in music, releasing several singles. Gained a significant fanbase through social media platforms.
Continue ReadingRyan Crouser
Shot putter, Olympic gold medalist
Born
December 18th, 1992 33 years ago
A prominent shot putter, achieved significant success in athletics. Won the gold medal at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics with a throw of 23.30 meters, setting an Olympic record. Also claimed victory at the 2016 Rio Olympics, winning a gold medal. Dominated national competitions, earning multiple NCAA championships during college career at the University of Texas. Established himself as one of the top competitors globally, breaking the indoor shot put world record with a throw of 22.82 meters in 2021.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on March 17th
Nada Dimić
People's Hero of Yugoslavia
Born
1923 103 years ago
Died
March 17th, 1942 84 years ago — 19 years old
Recognized as a People's Hero of Yugoslavia, contributed to resistance movements during World War II. Dimić became a symbol of bravery and resistance against the Axis powers. Captured and killed by occupational forces, Dimić's legacy continued as a martyr for the Serbs during the conflict. Her actions during tumultuous times exemplified commitment to her ideals.
Continue ReadingLouis Kahn
Architect, designed the Salk Institute
Born
February 20th, 1901 125 years ago
Died
March 17th, 1974 52 years ago — 73 years old
One of the most influential architects of the 20th century, contributed significantly to modern architecture. Educational background included studies at the University of Pennsylvania and travel throughout Europe. Emphasized the use of space, light, and material in design, merging functionality with monumental aesthetics. Best known for a limited number of high-profile commissions, including the Salk Institute, Kimbell Art Museum, and the National Assembly Building in Dhaka, Bangladesh. Received various accolades throughout his career, and his buildings continue to be studied and admired for their innovative designs.
Continue ReadingAleksandra Ekster
Painter and set designer of Ballets Russes
Born
1882 144 years ago
Died
March 17th, 1949 77 years ago — 67 years old
Born in 1882, a Russian-French painter and set designer contributed significantly to the art and theatrical world. After studying at various art institutions, gained recognition in the 1910s for innovative designs and vivid color palettes. Worked extensively with the Ballets Russes, creating sets and costumes that fused modernism with theatrical elements. Emigrated to France and became part of the Parisian art scene, collaborating with leading artists and designers. Continued to produce work throughout her life until passing in 1949.
Continue ReadingMenno van Coehoorn
Dutch soldier and military engineer
Born
1641 385 years ago
Died
March 17th, 1704 322 years ago — 63 years old
A significant figure in military engineering, contributed to the development of fortified bastions and siege tactics. Served as an engineer for the Dutch Army during the late 17th century. Played a role in various sieges and battles during the Nine Years' War, focusing on improving defensive architecture. His writings on military strategy and fortification influenced future generations of military engineers.
Continue ReadingMai Zetterling
Actress and director of 'The Girls' (1968)
Born
May 24th, 1925 101 years ago
Died
March 17th, 1994 32 years ago — 68 years old
This actress and director was prominent in Swedish and English cinema. She gained recognition for her performances in a range of films and television series from the 1940s through the 1980s. Significant works include the film 'The Girls' released in 1968, which she directed, showcasing her dual talent as both an actress and a filmmaker. Throughout her career, she collaborated with notable directors and contributed to the artistic landscape of cinema in both Sweden and the UK. Zetterling appeared in several films, establishing a legacy within the film industry before her passing in 1994.
Continue ReadingHaldan Keffer Hartline
Physiologist, Nobel Prize in Physiology
Born
December 22nd, 1903 122 years ago
Died
March 17th, 1983 43 years ago — 79 years old
A notable physiologist and academic, contributions focused on the physiology of the visual system. Conducted pioneering research on the function of the retina and the mechanisms of vision. Received the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1967 for work on the interactions of photoreceptor cells, specifically studying how light influences electrical signals in the retina. Served on the faculty at several prestigious institutions and inspired many students through dedicated teaching efforts.
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