Roger Ailes
Media Consultant and Fox News Founder
A prominent media consultant and television executive, significant contributions included founding a major news network. Worked as a political advisor and media strategist, shaping communication strategies for presidential campaigns. Served as chairman and CEO of Fox News Channel, which became a leading cable news outlet during his tenure. Ailes developed a controversial approach to news broadcasting and was influential in the evolution of modern conservative media.
Founded Fox News Channel in 1996
Advised presidential campaigns including Richard Nixon and Ronald Reagan
Other People Born on May 15th
Dayana Yastremska
Ukrainian tennis player, WTA titles winner
Born
May 15th, 2000 25 years ago
Born in Ukraine, this tennis player achieved recognition early in her career. A prominent figure on the WTA tour, successful performances included reaching the third round of the Australian Open in 2020. Victories in WTA tournaments showcased her skills, with significant wins in both singles and doubles competitions. Known for powerful baseline play and aggressive style, the player became one of the top young talents in women's tennis.
Continue ReadingCecilia Malmström
Swedish politician and trade commissioner
Born
May 15th, 1968 57 years ago
An academic and politician, served as the 15th European Commissioner for Trade from 2014 to 2019. Focused on modernizing trade agreements and promoting free trade policies. Played a significant role in negotiations for trade agreements with various countries and regions. Contributed to initiatives aimed at balancing trade and sustainability.
Continue ReadingAnastasia Gasanova
Russian tennis player and professional competitor
Born
May 15th, 1999 26 years ago
Started playing tennis at a young age and turned professional in 2015. Competed on the ITF Women's Circuit and achieved success with multiple titles. Made a significant impact in WTA tournaments, reaching the main draw of Grand Slam events. Gained recognition for performances on the international stage, showcasing talent and determination.
Continue ReadingKatherine Anne Porter
American short story writer and novelist
Born
May 15th, 1890 135 years ago
Died
September 18th, 1980 45 years ago — 90 years old
A prominent writer, produced significant works in literature, focusing on themes of human experience and social justice. Best recognized for short stories and novels that explore the complexities of life, reflecting on personal and collective struggles. Received accolades for literary contributions, including winning the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction in 1966 for the novel 'Ship of Fools'. Her mastery of prose captures a range of emotions and insights, establishing a strong presence in American literature.
Continue ReadingMaximilian Hell
Astronomer and priest, observation of transits
Born
May 15th, 1720 305 years ago
Died
April 14th, 1792 233 years ago — 71 years old
An astronomer and priest contributed to the field of astronomy in the 18th century. Most recognized for conducting observations of the transit of Venus in 1769 from northern Siberia. Conducted extensive research and produced studies on various celestial phenomena. Operated a celestial observatory in Vienna, which fostered astronomical studies. His work facilitated a better understanding of the solar system and helped in measuring the distance of the sun.
Continue ReadingPaul Samuelson
Economist and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
May 15th, 1915 110 years ago
Died
2009 17 years ago — 94 years old
An American economist and academic, contributed significantly to economic theory and analysis. Developed the neoclassical synthesis, integrating key ideas from various schools of economic thought. Authored the influential textbook "Economics," which became a standard in the field for decades. Awarded the Nobel Memorial Prize in Economic Sciences in 1970 for his contributions to the development of modern economic theory.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on May 18th
Aleksei Balabanov
Russian Director and Screenwriter, Brother
Born
1959 67 years ago
Died
May 18th, 2013 12 years ago — 54 years old
A prominent director and screenwriter, contributed significantly to Russian cinema. Achieved renown with films such as 'Brother' and 'Brother 2', which garnered critical acclaim and commercial success. Created a unique style characterized by dark humor and social commentary. Worked extensively within the Russian film industry, influencing a generation of filmmakers. His films often explored themes of morality, crime, and the human condition, reflecting the tumultuous societal changes in Russia during the 1990s.
Continue ReadingIan Curtis
English singer-songwriter of Joy Division
Born
July 15th, 1956 69 years ago
Died
May 18th, 1980 45 years ago — 23 years old
A prominent English singer-songwriter and guitarist, contributed significantly to the post-punk music scene. Formed the band Joy Division in 1976, which became one of the genre's most influential groups. Released the critically acclaimed album 'Unknown Pleasures' in 1979, which showcased a distinctive sound characterized by atmospheric instrumentation and introspective lyrics. The band's follow-up album, 'Closer,' was released in 1980 shortly before the singer's death. Curtis's lyrics often explored themes of existentialism and emotional turmoil, resonating with listeners and cementing his legacy in music history.
Continue ReadingHarry Ricardo
English engineer and academic notably in engines
Born
January 26th, 1885 141 years ago
Died
May 18th, 1974 51 years ago — 89 years old
An accomplished engineer and academic, significant contributions were made to the field of internal combustion engines. Developed the Ricardo Engine, which is recognized for its advanced efficiency and performance. Held a position as a lecturer at the University of London, where engineering principles were taught and innovative research was conducted. The work during World War II focused on improving aircraft engine performance, which supported the war effort. Later involvement in automotive engineering and the promotion of high-efficiency engines marked a notable career in engineering education and practical application.
Continue ReadingJacques Marquette
French explorer of North America
Born
June 1st, 1637 388 years ago
Died
May 18th, 1675 350 years ago — 37 years old
A French Jesuit missionary and explorer, filled a pivotal role in the early exploration of North America. Arrived in Canada in 1666 and established missions among Indigenous peoples. In 1673, conducted a significant expedition down the Mississippi River with Louis Jolliet, mapping vast territories and engaging with various Native American tribes. The exploration revealed the potential of the Mississippi as a trade route and contributed to European interest in the region. Died in 1675 while on a mission to retrace the Mississippi River's course, leaving a legacy of exploration and religious outreach.
Continue ReadingWerner Sombart
Economist and sociologist, Modern Capitalism
Born
January 19th, 1863 163 years ago
Died
May 18th, 1941 84 years ago — 78 years old
Contributed significantly to the fields of economics and sociology during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Explored the development of modern capitalism and its societal implications. Authored numerous works, including 'Der moderne Kapitalismus', which analyzed the evolution and characteristics of capitalist economies. Engaged in the debate about capitalism's role in modern society and its relationship with socialism. Influenced later economic and sociological thought, particularly in Germany.
Continue ReadingJaan Eilart
Geographer and ecologist from Estonia
Born
1933 93 years ago
Died
May 18th, 2006 19 years ago — 73 years old
A prominent Estonian geographer, ecologist, and historian contributed significantly to the fields of geography and ecology. Eilart's work primarily focused on the study of the natural environment and its relationship to human activity. He held a pivotal role in advancing ecological awareness within Estonia, particularly during a period marked by significant environmental challenges. Eilart's research encompassed various aspects of geographical and ecological science, influencing both his contemporaries and future generations of scientists. His writings on Estonia's landscapes and ecosystems provided valuable insights into environmental conservation and geographical studies.
Continue Reading