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
Jules Dassin
Director of classic film 'Rififi'
Born
December 18th, 1911 114 years ago
Died
March 31st, 2008 18 years ago — 96 years old
An American director, producer, screenwriter, and actor, made significant contributions to the film industry throughout a career that spanned several decades. Emigrating to Europe during the McCarthy era, worked in France and Greece, directing a range of films across various genres. Gained acclaim for innovative storytelling and strong visual style, especially in crime and drama films. The heist film 'Rififi' garnered notable recognition and is considered a classic in the genre. Other films such as 'Night and the City' and 'Topkapi' showcased adeptness in creating suspenseful narratives while earning critical praise.
Continue ReadingDaniel Cleary
Ice hockey player, Stanley Cup champion
Born
December 18th, 1978 47 years ago
Born in 1978, a Canadian professional ice hockey player played in the National Hockey League (NHL) for several teams, prominently on the Detroit Red Wings. Originating from Kingston, Ontario, played junior hockey with the Belleville Bulls. Drafted in 1997, played for the Chicago Blackhawks and the Edmonton Oilers before joining the Red Wings in 2005. Contributed significantly to the team's success, helping secure the Stanley Cup in 2008.
Continue ReadingJalen Johnson
Basketball player, Atlanta Hawks forward
Born
December 18th, 2001 24 years ago
Professional basketball player played for the Atlanta Hawks in the NBA. Developed skills during college basketball at Duke University, where contributed significantly to the team's performance. Entered the NBA Draft in 2021, showcasing abilities as a versatile forward. Participated in league games as part of the Hawks' roster, building reputation as an emerging talent.
Continue ReadingLonnie Brooks
Blues singer and guitarist, 'Bayou Blues'
Born
December 18th, 1933 92 years ago
Died
April 1st, 2017 9 years ago — 83 years old
A prominent figure in the blues genre, this artist gained acclaim for a unique blend of Chicago blues and swamp blues. Originating from Louisiana, significant influence stemmed from the region's rich musical traditions. The artist began his career in the 1950s, moving to Chicago to pursue opportunities in the vibrant blues scene. Released multiple albums, with notable works including 'Bayou Blues' and 'Live at the Legends'. The performer contributed to the revitalization of interest in blues music during the 1980s and 1990s, through intricate guitar work and distinct vocal style. Received various accolades, including a W.C. Handy Award for Best Blues Album.
Continue ReadingGerard Gumbau
Spanish footballer and midfielder
Born
December 18th, 1994 31 years ago
A Spanish footballer played as a midfielder, primarily for Girona FC in La Liga and had stints in lower divisions. Developed early career within the FC Barcelona youth system, progressing through the ranks to represent their B team. Transferred to Girona FC, contributing to the team's promotion to La Liga and competing at the highest level of Spanish football. Briefly played for other clubs, furthering experience in various leagues.
Continue ReadingKorapat Kirdpan
Thai actor and singer from '2gether'
Born
December 18th, 2000 25 years ago
Born in 2000, this individual began a career in entertainment through acting and singing. Gained widespread attention for a leading role in the popular series '2gether: The Series', which contributed to the rise of a new wave of Thai BL dramas. In addition to acting, ventured into music, releasing singles that showcased vocal talent and resonated with fans. The combination of acting and singing established a prominent presence in the Thai entertainment industry, attracting a large following on social media.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on March 17th
Giuliano de' Medici
Italian nobleman and Renaissance patron
Born
October 25th, 1453 573 years ago
Died
March 17th, 1516 510 years ago — 62 years old
An Italian nobleman and member of the prominent Medici family, played a significant role in the politics and culture of Renaissance Florence. As a patron of the arts, he supported renowned artists such as Michelangelo and Botticelli. His involvement in Florentine politics included serving as the Duke of Nemours. Giuliano's life was marked by the power struggles of the Medici family, and he was assassinated in a plot known as the Pazzi Conspiracy, which aimed to eliminate Medici influence in Florence.
Continue ReadingPhan Văn Khải
Vietnamese Prime Minister, 2001-2006
Born
1933 93 years ago
Died
March 17th, 2018 8 years ago — 85 years old
Served as the fifth Prime Minister of Vietnam from 2001 to 2006. Played a key role in the country's economic reforms and integration into the global economy. Oversaw significant events such as Vietnam's entry into the World Trade Organization and hosted the 2006 APEC Summit in Hanoi. His leadership focused on advancements in trade and investment.
Continue ReadingA.B.C. Whipple
Journalist and historian
Born
1918 108 years ago
Died
March 17th, 2013 13 years ago — 95 years old
A.B.C. Whipple worked extensively in the field of journalism and history. Focused on issues of social justice and civil rights, Whipple contributed to several prominent publications. Authored works that explored the dynamics of American society and history, providing insights into significant events and movements. Whipple also engaged in public speaking and lectures, sharing knowledge on historical topics.
Continue ReadingGertrude of Nivelles
Frankish abbess of Nivelles
Died
March 17th, 659 1367 years ago — None years old
An influential Frankish abbess, established the Abbey of Nivelles. Devoted life to monasticism, focusing on religious life and community welfare. Played a significant role in shaping the early Christian church in the region. Known for leadership qualities and fostering a deep spirituality among the nuns at the abbey.
Continue ReadingGeorge Parker
English astronomer and politician
Born
1695 331 years ago
Died
March 17th, 1764 262 years ago — 69 years old
Served as the 2nd Earl of Macclesfield and made significant contributions to astronomy. Established the Macclesfield Observatory, which became a leading center for astronomical research in the 18th century. Actively engaged in politics, representing the interests of his constituents.
Continue ReadingKazan
Emperor of Japan during the Heian period
Died
March 17th, 1008 1018 years ago — None years old
Ascended to the throne in 985 during the Heian period of Japan. His reign was marked by a focus on court culture and the arts. Sought to foster tranquility and stability within the imperial court. Governed until his death in 1008, and his reign contributed to the development of Japanese literature and poetry.
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