Richard Harding Davis
American journalist and author
Born
Died
Category
Performers & Entertainers
Country
United States
Links & References
A journalist and author contributed significantly to American literature and reporting in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Worked as a war correspondent during the Spanish-American War, providing firsthand accounts of battles, which gained substantial readership. Published several literary works, including novels and short stories, with a notable focus on the themes of adventure and romance. His journalism influenced public opinion during critical historical events, blending factual reporting with narrative techniques. Also known for social commentary on the changing American society during his era.
Covered the Spanish-American War
Wrote the novel 'The Lion and the Mouse'
Contributed to 'The New York Times' and other publications
Other People Born on April 18th
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Mayan ruler and leader
Born
April 18th, 588 1437 years ago
Died
July 21st, 658 1367 years ago — 70 years old
Ruled as a king of Palenque during the 7th century, presiding over a significant period of the city's history. This ruler was involved in various construction projects and territorial expansion, contributing to the city's prominence in the Maya civilization. His reign occurred during a time when Palenque was characterized by remarkable achievements in art and architecture. K'an II's leadership facilitated the development of the city as a cultural and political center. Inscriptions and monuments from this period elaborate on royal lineage and dynastic claims.
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Founder of Debenhams department store
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April 18th, 1794 231 years ago
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Established a retail business in 1778 that eventually evolved into the department store chain Debenhams. Expanded operations and opened multiple locations throughout England. The business became well-recognized for its wide range of goods and innovative approach to retailing.
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King of Navarre, notable for wars
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April 18th, 1503 522 years ago
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May 25th, 1555 470 years ago — 52 years old
Ruled as King of Navarre from 1547 until 1555. Under his reign, faced significant challenges including conflicts related to the Protestant Reformation. Supported the Huguenots in France, aligning Navarre's political stance with Protestant interests. Strategically navigated complex political alliances during the Wars of Religion in France. His reign was marked by efforts to strengthen Navarre's defenses and consolidate authority amid external threats.
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Pharmacologist and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
April 18th, 1905 120 years ago
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February 27th, 1998 27 years ago — 92 years old
A prominent pharmacologist and academic contributed significantly to the field of medicine. Pioneered research in chemotherapy, focusing on the development of antiviral and antibacterial agents. Collaborated with other researchers in the formation of essential medicines that advanced treatment methodologies. Received the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1988 for discoveries related to drug development and therapeutic compounds, which have had a lasting influence on modern pharmaceutical practices.
Continue ReadingRobert Christgau
Music journalist and critic
Born
April 18th, 1942 83 years ago
Pioneered rock music criticism, contributing to publications such as The Village Voice. Developed a distinctive method of music evaluation, incorporating a grading system for albums. Authored influential books and essays on music and culture. Served as a significant voice in discussions about popular music and its intersection with society.
Continue ReadingGrigory Sokolov
Pianist acclaimed for classical performances
Born
April 18th, 1950 75 years ago
Born in 1950, this Russian pianist and composer gained recognition for exceptional performances of classical repertoire. Early training included studies at the Leningrad Conservatory, which fostered a profound understanding of music. Competitions such as the International Tchaikovsky Competition in 1966, where first prize was awarded, showcased remarkable talent. Over the decades, extensive international touring occurred, with multiple concerts at prestigious venues including Carnegie Hall and the Vienna Musikverein. Recordings of works by Chopin, Beethoven, and Rachmaninoff further contributed to reputation as one of the leading pianists of the late 20th and early 21st centuries.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on April 11th
John Gilroy
English artist and illustrator of advertising
Born
May 30th, 1898 127 years ago
Died
April 11th, 1985 40 years ago — 86 years old
An English artist and illustrator specialized in advertising art. Notable contributions include iconic artwork for the Guinness beer brand. Created a series of memorable posters that featured anthropomorphic animals and engaging slogans, significantly enhancing the brand's visual identity. Gilroy's work remained influential in advertising throughout the 20th century and exemplified the creativity of commercial illustration during that period.
Continue ReadingEdna Doré
English actress with key TV roles
Born
May 31st, 1921 104 years ago
Died
April 11th, 2014 11 years ago — 92 years old
An accomplished English actress with a career spanning several decades. Best recognized for performances in television, particularly in the series 'The Bill' and 'EastEnders'. Contributed significantly to theatre, showcasing talent in various productions. Received acclaim for work in both dramatic and comedic roles, establishing a reputation in British entertainment.
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Indian author and playwright of modern drama
Born
June 21st, 1912 113 years ago
Died
April 11th, 2009 16 years ago — 96 years old
An influential writer and playwright, this individual contributed significantly to modern Indian literature. Works included novels, short stories, and plays that explored social issues and the human condition. Established a reputation for crafting multi-layered characters and engaging narratives. Engaged with themes of nationalism, identity, and existentialism. Served in various capacities in literary organizations and contributed to the development of contemporary Indian theater. Also known for translating several literary works into Hindi.
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Singer-songwriter and guitarist
Born
May 17th, 1944 81 years ago
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April 11th, 2014 11 years ago — 69 years old
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Continue ReadingJulius Lothar Meyer
Chemist and periodic table developer
Born
August 19th, 1830 195 years ago
Died
April 11th, 1895 130 years ago — 64 years old
Contributed significantly to the development of the periodic table of elements. Conducted extensive research on atomic weights and chemical properties of elements, which supported the organization of elements in a systematic manner. Developed a version of the periodic table independently around the same time as Dmitri Mendeleev, presenting it in a different format. Published the book 'Die modernen Theorien der Chemie', which served to communicate new ideas in the field of chemistry.
Continue ReadingAhmed Ben Bella
Algerian soldier and politician, 1st President
Born
December 25th, 1916 109 years ago
Died
April 11th, 2012 13 years ago — 95 years old
A soldier and politician played a key role in Algeria's struggle for independence from France. Served as the first President of Algeria from 1963 to 1965 after leading the National Liberation Front (FLN) during the war. After being overthrown in a coup, spent many years in exile. Returned to Algeria after the end of the civil war, becoming a respected figure in the country.
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