Ray Nagel
American football player and coach
Played football at the University of Iowa and served as a quarterback before entering the coaching profession. Coached teams including the University of Utah and the University of Hawaii. Held a position as head coach at the University of Hawaii from 1970 to 1972. Contributed to player development and team strategies throughout coaching career.
Played quarterback for the University of Iowa
Served as head coach at the University of Hawaii
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 ReadingKonstantin of Rostov
Prince and Bishop of Rostov
Born
May 18th, 1186 840 years ago
Died
February 2nd, 1218 808 years ago — 31 years old
Served as a prince of Rostov during the 12th century and became a bishop later in life. His leadership included the establishment of ecclesiastical and administrative control in the region. The bishopric contributed to the growth of the Orthodox Church in northeastern Rus, fostering religious and cultural development.
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 ReadingEzio Pinza
Italian-American operatic bass singer
Born
May 18th, 1892 134 years ago
Died
May 9th, 1957 69 years ago — 64 years old
Initially worked in Italy before moving to the United States, where a successful career in opera and Broadway evolved. Gained notable acclaim for performances in productions such as 'South Pacific.' Also achieved recognition as a recording artist, contributing to the popularity of operatic music in American culture during the mid-20th century.
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 ReadingAugusto César Sandino
Nicaraguan rebel leader and activist
Born
May 18th, 1895 131 years ago
Died
February 21st, 1934 92 years ago — 38 years old
A Nicaraguan rebel leader opposed U.S. military intervention in Nicaragua during the 1920s and 1930s. Founded the Sandinista National Liberation Front, which became a key political force in Nicaragua. Sandino's guerrilla warfare strategies inspired many leftist movements across Latin America. He emphasized national sovereignty and social justice. Assassinated in 1934, his legacy continued to influence Nicaraguan politics and revolutionary movements.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on January 15th
Rosa Luxemburg
German economist and revolutionary theorist
Born
March 5th, 1871 155 years ago
Died
January 15th, 1919 107 years ago — 47 years old
An economist, philosopher, and revolutionary socialist associated with the German Social Democratic Party, contributed to Marxist theory and critiqued capitalist systems. Advocated for the self-emancipation of the working class and opposed military imperialism during World War I. Played a significant role in founding the Spartacus League, which later became the Communist Party of Germany. Following her assassination in 1919, her writings continued to influence leftist movements.
Continue ReadingRobert V. Bruce
Historian and author of influential works
Born
December 19th, 1923 102 years ago
Died
January 15th, 2008 18 years ago — 84 years old
Contributed extensively to the field of history through authored works and academic research. Specialized in early American history and the development of American society and culture. Served as a professor, focusing on historical writing and methodology. His scholarship helped to shape understanding of various historical narratives, emphasizing the importance of primary sources in research. Led initiatives in academic discourse and published several significant texts that have been utilized in historical study.
Continue ReadingDoris Fisher
American singer-songwriter, 'You Go To My Head'
Born
May 2nd, 1915 111 years ago
Died
January 15th, 2003 23 years ago — 87 years old
Doris Fisher was an American singer-songwriter recognized for contributions to popular music during the mid-20th century. Collaborating with her husband, she created many songs that became standards. One of her most famous works is 'You Go To My Head', recorded by numerous artists. Fisher's songwriting career included collaborations with prominent figures in the music industry, contributing to an enduring legacy in American music. She continued to influence future generations of artists through her extensive catalog.
Continue ReadingJunior Wells
American blues singer and harmonica player
Born
December 9th, 1934 91 years ago
Died
January 15th, 1998 28 years ago — 63 years old
A prominent figure in the Chicago blues scene, this artist gained recognition for vibrant performances and a unique vocal style. Wells started recording in the late 1950s and collaborated with various musicians throughout his career. Notable works include the influential album 'Hoodoo Man Blues,' which is regarded as a classic in the blues genre. His ability to blend vocal and harmonica performances set him apart and influenced many blues artists.
Continue ReadingHenry Forster
English cricketer and Governor-General
Born
1866 160 years ago
Died
January 15th, 1936 90 years ago — 70 years old
Served as the seventh Governor-General of Australia from 1920 to 1925. Before entering politics, played cricket for England, earning his place in the national team. Contributed to the development of cricket in the early 20th century. Held various political positions, including membership in the House of Commons. Engaged in agricultural and political reforms during his governorship.
Continue ReadingGeorges Cziffra
Pianist and composer, prolific performer
Born
November 5th, 1921 104 years ago
Died
January 15th, 1994 32 years ago — 72 years old
A prominent Hungarian-French pianist, noted for virtuosity and intense emotive performances. Gained acclaim performing works by Liszt, Chopin, and Rachmaninoff. After World War II, established a successful career in Europe and the United States. Recognized for impressive interpretations and technical brilliance, especially in a series of recordings. Founded a music festival in France to promote young pianists.
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