René Clément
French film director and screenwriter
A prominent film director and screenwriter, this individual was a key figure in French cinema during the 20th century. His directorial debut occurred in 1946, and he achieved widespread recognition with 'La Bataille du Rail' (1946), which portrayed the French Resistance during World War II. He later directed 'Plein Soleil' (1960), an adaptation of Patricia Highsmith's novel 'The Talented Mr. Ripley,' earning acclaim for its complex psychological themes. His work often explored moral ambiguity and human nature. This individual received the Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film for 'The Deadly Trap' (1971), reinforcing a legacy of cinematic artistry and storytelling.
Directed 'La Bataille du Rail'
Directed 'Plein Soleil'
Won Academy Award for 'The Deadly Trap'
Other People Born on March 18th
Fred Shuttlesworth
Civil Rights Activist, Co-founder SCLC
Born
March 18th, 1922 104 years ago
Died
2011 15 years ago — 89 years old
Played a crucial role in the American civil rights movement. Co-founded the Southern Christian Leadership Conference alongside Martin Luther King Jr. Focused efforts on desegregation and voter registration, advocating for equality and justice in the South. Led numerous protests and demonstrations to combat racial discrimination, particularly in Birmingham, Alabama. Known for his courageous activism despite facing violence and intimidation.
Continue ReadingRudi Altig
German cyclist and sportscaster
Born
March 18th, 1937 89 years ago
Died
June 11th, 2016 10 years ago — 79 years old
Achieved significant success in professional cycling during the 1960s. Won the prestigious World Road Race Championship in 1966. Competed in multiple editions of the Tour de France, securing stage victories. After retiring from competitive cycling, transitioned to sports broadcasting, providing commentary and analysis for cycling events. Contributed to the promotion of cycling through media engagement and public appearances.
Continue ReadingRudolf Diesel
Engineer and inventor of the Diesel engine
Born
March 18th, 1858 168 years ago
Died
September 29th, 1913 112 years ago — 55 years old
Born in 1858 in Germany, a pioneering engineer developed the Diesel engine, which revolutionized the efficiency of internal combustion engines. The invention was aimed at improving energy consumption compared to existing steam engines. Diesel conducted extensive research and experimentation, leading to the patenting of the Diesel engine in 1892. This new engine technology became integral in various industries, including transportation and manufacturing. The Diesel engine's design enhanced fuel efficiency and reduced environmental impact, laying the groundwork for modern diesel engines used in automobiles, ships, and industrial applications.
Continue ReadingJohn Zachary Young
Zoologist and neurophysiologist
Born
March 18th, 1907 119 years ago
Died
July 4th, 1997 28 years ago — 90 years old
Contributed significantly to the fields of zoology and neurophysiology. Conducted extensive research on the nervous systems of various species. Played a crucial role in understanding the structure and function of neurons, particularly through studies on cephalopods. Served as a professor at University College London and published several influential works.
Continue ReadingShashi Kapoor
Indian actor and film producer, starred in films
Born
March 18th, 1938 88 years ago
Died
December 4th, 2017 8 years ago — 79 years old
An Indian actor and film producer, active in Indian cinema, featured prominently in Bollywood. Gained recognition in the 1970s and 1980s for performances in significant films. Worked extensively in Hindi and English films, participating in numerous international co-productions. Received acclaim for roles in works such as 'Deewar,' 'Kabhi Kabhie,' and 'Namak Halaal.' Contributed to the establishment of the Prithvi Theatre in Mumbai, a crucial platform for nurturing theatrical talent.
Continue ReadingBonnie Blair
American speed skater, Olympic champion
Born
March 18th, 1964 62 years ago
Born in 1964, this American speed skater dominated the ice in the late 1980s and early 1990s, achieving remarkable success in international competitions. Competing primarily in the 500 meters and 1000 meters, the skater secured five Olympic gold medals over three Winter Games, specifically at the 1988 and 1992 Olympics. With a strong showing at the World Championships, multiple titles were earned, showcasing exceptional talent and endurance in the sport. The athlete's career contributed to the growth of speed skating in the United States, inspiring future generations.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on March 17th
Andre Norton
Science fiction and fantasy author
Born
February 17th, 1912 114 years ago
Died
March 17th, 2005 21 years ago — 93 years old
An influential author in the science fiction and fantasy genres, contributions include over 30 novels and a vast number of short stories. A successful career spanned several decades, with work aimed predominantly at young adult audiences. Achievements include receiving the Gandalf Grand Master Award in 1977 and being one of the first women to gain prominence in the field. Many works became integral parts of science fiction literature, with particular attention given to series such as 'Witch World' and 'The Beast Master'. Publications often explored themes of adventure, discovery, and the complexities of different worlds.
Continue ReadingLouisa E. Rhine
Botanist and parapsychologist, researched ESP
Born
November 9th, 1891 134 years ago
Died
March 17th, 1983 43 years ago — 91 years old
Contributed to the field of parapsychology and conducted extensive research on extrasensory perception (ESP). Worked alongside husband, Joseph B. Rhine, at Duke University. Established the Foundation for Research on the Nature of Man. Significant publications include studies on psychic phenomena and investigatory works in botanical sciences. Focused on experimental approaches to parapsychological phenomena, setting foundations for future research in the field. Active in discussions surrounding the scientific study of paranormal activity.
Continue ReadingJohn Magufuli
Fifth President of Tanzania
Born
October 29th, 1959 66 years ago
Died
March 17th, 2021 5 years ago — 61 years old
Served as the fifth president of Tanzania from 2015 until death in 2021. Magufuli was a member of the Chama Cha Mapinduzi party and previously held the position of Minister of Works. Focused on infrastructure development and anti-corruption measures, his administration initiated various public projects, including roads and hospitals. Implemented policies aimed at reducing government spending and increasing revenue through tax collection. His leadership style received mixed reactions, characterized by a crackdown on dissent and media freedom.
Continue ReadingShenouda III
Pope of Alexandria
Born
1923 103 years ago
Died
March 17th, 2012 14 years ago — 89 years old
Served as the 117th Pope of Alexandria from 1971 until 2012. Managed the Coptic Orthodox Church during a time of significant social and political change in Egypt. Focused on religious education, moral teachings, and intercultural dialogue. Advocated for the rights of the Coptic community and addressed issues related to Christian-Muslim relations. Contributed to numerous religious publications and established the Coptic Museum in Cairo.
Continue ReadingJohn Backus
Computer Scientist, Designed Fortran
Born
1924 102 years ago
Died
March 17th, 2007 19 years ago — 83 years old
A mathematician and computer scientist contributed significantly to computer programming. Developed Fortran, the first high-level programming language, which was widely adopted for scientific and engineering applications. Led a team at IBM that created the language, revolutionizing how developers wrote code. Worked on various other projects including functional programming concepts, impacting the evolution of programming languages.
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.
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