Saadat Hasan Manto
Pakistani author and screenwriter
An influential writer and playwright, Manto gained recognition for his short stories focusing on the struggles and complexities of human nature, particularly during the partition of India in 1947. Manto's works explore themes of sexuality, identity, and social issues, often causing controversy due to their frankness. Significant contributions include a series of short stories that depict the harrowing experiences of people in a newly divided society. Additionally, Manto wrote screenplays for films, showcasing his versatility as a writer. His unique voice and narrative style left a lasting legacy in Urdu literature.
Wrote 'Toba Tek Singh'
Wrote 'Thanda Gosht'
Authors of several controversial short stories
Other People Born on May 11th
Martha Graham
Dancer and choreographer of modern dance
Born
May 11th, 1894 131 years ago
Died
April 1st, 1991 35 years ago — 96 years old
Pioneered modern dance and developed a unique style characterized by expressive movement. Founded the Martha Graham Dance Company in 1926, which became a vital force in American dance. Created over 180 dance works, with notable pieces including "Appalachian Spring," "Lamentation," and "Night Journey." Received numerous accolades, including the Capezio Dance Award and the Presidential Medal of Freedom, acknowledging contributions to the art form.
Continue ReadingKonsta Helenius
Finnish ice hockey player
Born
May 11th, 2006 19 years ago
A professional ice hockey player from Finland, played as a forward. Won a gold medal with the Finnish national team at the 2023 IIHF World U18 Championships. Known for contributions to HIFK in the Finnish Liiga. Developed skills in various youth teams before advancing to the professional level.
Continue ReadingAntony Hewish
Astronomer, Nobel Prize Winner for Pulsars
Born
May 11th, 1924 101 years ago
Died
2021 5 years ago — 97 years old
An English astronomer and academic, contributed to the discovery of pulsars in 1967. Conducted significant research in radio astronomy, leading to important advancements in the understanding of celestial objects. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1974, sharing the honor for pioneering contributions to astrophysics. Served as a professor at the University of Cambridge, influencing future generations of astronomers through education and mentorship.
Continue ReadingLouis Farrakhan
Religious leader and Nation of Islam figure
Born
May 11th, 1933 92 years ago
A religious leader became the prominent figure of the Nation of Islam, advocating for Black empowerment and religious education. Founded the original Million Man March in 1995, which aimed to promote unity and self-improvement among African American men. Involved in various social and political issues, addressing topics such as social justice, racism, and economic development within the African American community. Sustained leadership over multiple decades, influencing the direction of the Nation of Islam and engaging in controversial discussions.
Continue ReadingJacques Brugnon
Tennis player and Davis Cup champion
Born
May 11th, 1895 130 years ago
Died
March 20th, 1978 48 years ago — 82 years old
A prominent French tennis player, achieved significant recognition during the 1920s and 1930s. Competed in singles and doubles, demonstrating exceptional skill on the court. Secured multiple Grand Slam titles and contributed to France's success in international competitions. Played a crucial role in the French team that won the Davis Cup in 1927, showcasing talent alongside other notable players. Retired from professional tennis after a successful career that spanned over a decade.
Continue ReadingPaul Nash
British painter of war landscapes
Born
May 11th, 1889 136 years ago
Died
1946 80 years ago — 57 years old
A significant British painter, associated with the British Surrealism movement. Engaged as an official war artist during World War I, captured the devastation of battlefields through evocative landscapes. Participated in various exhibitions throughout the 20th century, influencing the artistic representation of war. Published several writings on art and painting, contributing to the discourse within the art community.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on January 18th
Sargent Shriver
American diplomat, 21st Ambassador to France
Born
November 9th, 1915 110 years ago
Died
January 18th, 2011 15 years ago — 95 years old
A politician and diplomat served as the 21st United States Ambassador to France from 1968 to 1970. Instrumental in establishing the Peace Corps and served as its first director. Involved in various social justice initiatives, often focusing on issues affecting the underprivileged. Worked within the Johnson administration on domestic programs related to education and healthcare, most notably the War on Poverty.
Continue ReadingEugenio Cruz Vargas
Chilean poet and painter
Born
1923 103 years ago
Died
January 18th, 2014 12 years ago — 91 years old
Contributed significantly to Chilean literature and art. Published several volumes of poetry exploring themes of identity and existence. Engaged in visual arts, creating impactful paintings that reflected social issues. Actively participated in cultural discussions within Chile and beyond.
Continue ReadingGlenn Frey
Singer-songwriter and guitarist for Eagles
Born
November 6th, 1948 77 years ago
Died
January 18th, 2016 10 years ago — 67 years old
An influential singer-songwriter and musician co-founded the rock band Eagles. The group achieved massive success in the 1970s with hits like 'Hotel California' and 'Take It Easy,' contributing significantly to the genre of rock music. Frey also pursued a solo career, releasing several albums and singles, including 'The Heat Is On' for the soundtrack of the movie 'Beverly Hills Cop.' In addition to music, Frey appeared as an actor in shows such as 'Miami Vice.' His contributions to music were recognized with various awards, including multiple Grammy Awards. Frey remained active in music until his passing in 2016.
Continue ReadingLois Nettleton
American actress in 'The Twilight Zone'
Born
August 16th, 1927 98 years ago
Died
January 18th, 2008 18 years ago — 80 years old
An accomplished actress with a prolific career in television and film. Performance in the series 'The Twilight Zone' garnered significant attention. Appeared in notable productions including 'The Group' and 'Watership Down'. Received an Emmy Award for outstanding performance in a daytime drama. Active in theatre throughout life, showcasing talent on Broadway and in regional theaters. Recognized for versatility across genres, portraying both dramatic and comedic roles.
Continue ReadingAlberto Nisman
Argentinian prosecutor of AMIA bombing
Born
December 5th, 1963 62 years ago
Died
January 18th, 2015 11 years ago — 51 years old
A prominent Argentine lawyer and prosecutor focused on significant criminal cases. Best recognized for the investigation of the 1994 AMIA bombing in Buenos Aires, which resulted in 85 deaths. Nisman played a key role in uncovering evidence and seeking justice for the victims of this terrorist attack. The case attracted national and international attention due to allegations linking the bombing to Iranian officials. Nisman was found dead in his apartment in January 2015, a day before he was scheduled to present his findings to Congress, leading to numerous speculations and controversies surrounding his death.
Continue ReadingEdmund Mortimer
5th Earl of March, English politician
Born
November 6th, 1391 634 years ago
Died
January 18th, 1425 601 years ago — 33 years old
The 5th Earl of March held significant political power in England during the early 15th century. Associated with the House of York, Mortimer played a critical role in the early stages of the Wars of the Roses. His lineage was tied to claims to the English throne, and he was involved in the turbulent politics of the time. Mortimer had a strong claim to the monarchy through his mother, and this connection influenced the rivalries of the period. His political maneuvers were marked by alliances and conflicts with other prominent figures of the era.
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