S. I. Hayakawa
Linguist and California Senator
Born
Died
Category
Leaders & Politicians
Country
Canada/United States
Links & References
A Canadian-American linguist and politician, significant for contributions to linguistics and public policy. Served as a U.S. Senator representing California from 1977 to 1983. Delivered perspectives on language issues during the development of educational policies and immigrant language rights. Promoted English as the official language in various public forums and legislative efforts.
Served as U.S. Senator from California
Authored 'Language in Thought and Action'
Other People Born on July 18th
Lupe Vélez
Mexican-American actress and dancer
Born
July 18th, 1908 117 years ago
Died
December 14th, 1944 81 years ago — 36 years old
Born in Ciudad Guzmán, Mexico, an actress and dancer gained prominence in the early 20th century, particularly during the 1920s and 1930s. Achievements included leading roles in films such as 'The Cuban Love Song', 'The Naked Age', and the 'Mexican Spitfire' series. Often portrayed strong-willed characters, and became a celebrated figure in Hollywood, earning acclaim for her performances. In addition to film, her career found success in music and dance on stage, showcasing talents in major theatrical productions.
Continue ReadingRichard Leacock
Film director and producer, documentary cinema
Born
July 18th, 1921 104 years ago
Died
2011 14 years ago — 90 years old
A pioneer of documentary cinema, contributed significantly to the development of direct cinema. Worked on influential films that emphasized observational filmmaking. Collaborated with significant figures in the industry, including the production of 'Primary' in 1960, which captured the Wisconsin primary election between John F. Kennedy and Hubert Humphrey. Involved in educational film projects and taught at various institutions, influencing future generations of filmmakers.
Continue ReadingPauline Viardot
Soprano and composer, sang in La Traviata
Born
July 18th, 1821 204 years ago
Died
May 18th, 1910 115 years ago — 88 years old
Born in Paris, a celebrated soprano and composer emerged from a musical family. Initially studied under prominent vocal coaches, quickly gained recognition for exceptional vocal talent and stage presence. Collaborated with notable composers, contributing to the opera repertoire. Created leading roles in various original operas, including her own compositions. In addition to performing, focused on teaching and fostering new talent, establishing a lasting influence on vocal performance. Established vocal techniques that are still referenced today.
Continue ReadingJayendra Saraswathi
Indian guru, 69th Shankaracharya
Born
July 18th, 1935 90 years ago
Died
2018 7 years ago — 83 years old
Assumed leadership as the 69th Shankaracharya of Kanchi Kamakoti Peetham in 1994. Contributed to the revival and propagation of Hindu traditions and philosophy. Engaged in social welfare activities, including education and healthcare initiatives. Played a significant role in promoting interfaith dialogue and cultural harmony in India. Actively involved in philanthropic works throughout his life.
Continue ReadingLarry McLean
Baseball player and catcher for Reds
Born
July 18th, 1881 144 years ago
Died
1921 104 years ago — 40 years old
Born in 1881, this Canadian-American baseball player played as a catcher in Major League Baseball. McLean debuted with the Cincinnati Reds and later played for the St. Louis Cardinals and the Chicago Cubs. He was active in the league from 1903 to 1910. Over his career, he became notable for his defensive skills behind the plate and contributed to the teams he played for with both offense and defense. His tenure in professional baseball included participation in key games and seasons.
Continue ReadingJack Layton
Canadian politician and NDP leader
Born
July 18th, 1950 75 years ago
Died
August 22nd, 2011 14 years ago — 61 years old
Born in 1950, this politician served as the leader of the New Democratic Party (NDP) from 2003 until his death in 2011. During tenure, played a key role in shaping party policies and increasing its influence within Canadian politics. Advocated for social justice, environmental issues, and healthcare reform. Elected as a Member of Parliament for Toronto-Danforth in 2004, achieved significant electoral success in the 2011 federal elections, where the NDP became the official opposition. Left a legacy of dedication to public service and advocacy for marginalized communities.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on February 27th
Otis Chandler
American publisher and newspaper executive
Born
1927 98 years ago
Died
February 27th, 2006 19 years ago — 79 years old
A prominent publisher based in the United States, played a crucial role in transforming a major newspaper into a leading multimedia organization. Served as the publisher of the Los Angeles Times from 1960 to 1980, overseeing its expansion and modernization during a significant growth period. Championed investigative journalism and introduced innovative editorial practices that enhanced the newspaper's reputation. Under leadership, the Times won numerous Pulitzer Prizes, solidifying its status in American journalism.
Continue ReadingFrance-Albert René
Seychellois politician, 2nd President
Born
1935 90 years ago
Died
February 27th, 2019 6 years ago — 84 years old
Served as the second president of Seychelles from 1977 to 2004. Played a significant role in the country's independence from British colonial rule and established a one-party state under his leadership. Implemented various social programs and initiated economic development plans aimed at improving the living standards of Seychellois citizens. Steered Seychelles through periods of political turmoil and economic challenges, maintaining a presence in regional and global political forums.
Continue ReadingGary Winick
Film director and producer, 13 Going on 30
Born
1961 64 years ago
Died
February 27th, 2011 14 years ago — 50 years old
Started a career in film as a production assistant before becoming a director and producer. Gained recognition with the feature film '13 Going on 30', a romantic comedy that achieved commercial success. Directed and produced several films, including 'Charlotte's Web', which is based on the classic children's book, and 'Bride Wars'. Collaborated with various actors and crews throughout the career leading to multiple successful projects. His work spanned both independent films and major studio productions.
Continue ReadingWilliam F. Buckley
Political commentator, founder of National Review
Born
1925 100 years ago
Died
February 27th, 2008 17 years ago — 83 years old
An influential author and journalist, established a prominent conservative publication that shaped American political discourse. Served as a columnist and host of the television show 'Firing Line,' which featured debates with various public figures. Authored numerous books on politics and philosophy, contributing significantly to conservative thought in the 20th century.
Continue ReadingGeorge H. Hitchings
Pharmacologist and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
April 18th, 1905 120 years ago
Died
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 ReadingFrank Buckles
American soldier and World War I veteran
Born
February 1st, 1901 124 years ago
Died
February 27th, 2011 14 years ago — 110 years old
Enlisted in the United States Army at the age of 16 during World War I. Served as an ambulance driver with the 1st Fort Riley Casual Detachment. Participated in battles including the Meuse-Argonne Offensive. Completed military service in 1919, becoming the last recognized American veteran of World War I. Advocated for veterans' issues later in life. Served in World War II as a civilian director of a shipyard in the Pacific. Passed away in 2011, leaving a legacy as a link to a pivotal time in history.
Continue Reading