Salvador Laurel
Filipino lawyer and Vice President
Served as the 10th Vice President of the Philippines from 1986 to 1992. Held various positions in government, including Secretary of Justice and Presidential Advisor on Legal Affairs. Contributed to the legal and political landscape of the Philippines through active involvement in key legislative reforms and governance.
Served as Vice President under Corazon Aquino
Held the position of Secretary of Justice
Other People Born on November 18th
Eugene Ormandy
Conductor of the Philadelphia Orchestra
Born
November 18th, 1899 126 years ago
Died
March 12th, 1985 41 years ago — 85 years old
Born in Hungary, a prominent conductor active during the 20th century. Served as the music director of the Philadelphia Orchestra for four decades, significantly shaping its sound and programming. Conducted numerous orchestral recordings, many of which were award-winning. His interpretations of classical repertoire were highly regarded, and he collaborated with notable soloists throughout his career. Contributed to the popularization of classical music through innovative performances and extensive touring.
Continue ReadingGary Bettenhausen
American race car driver, Indianapolis 500
Born
November 18th, 1941 84 years ago
Died
March 16th, 2014 12 years ago — 72 years old
Competed in numerous racing events, primarily in the Indianapolis 500, participating in 17 races between 1972 and 1993. Achieved notable finishes, including a top placement of fourth in the 1980 Indianapolis 500. Before focusing on IndyCar, raced in various series including USAC and NASCAR. Gained recognition for driving in the National Championship car series and participated in several shorts for local tracks. Had a career spanning over four decades in the racing industry.
Continue ReadingMargaret Atwood
Canadian author, 'The Handmaid's Tale'
Born
November 18th, 1939 86 years ago
An author and poet, contributed extensively to literature with a focus on themes such as feminism, dystopia, and environmentalism. Published several acclaimed novels, including 'The Handmaid's Tale', which gained significant attention through its adaptation into a television series. Other notable works include 'Oryx and Crake' and 'The Blind Assassin', which won the Booker Prize. Atwood also engaged in literary criticism and political activism, addressing issues such as climate change and women's rights.
Continue ReadingLeonardo Sandri
Argentinian cardinal and church leader
Born
November 18th, 1943 82 years ago
Ordained a priest in 1969, served in various roles within the Catholic Church, including roles in the Vatican. Appointed as an archbishop in 2000 and later became the Prefect of the Congregation for the Eastern Churches in 2007. Participated in several significant church events and synods, focusing on matters related to Eastern Catholic Churches. Played a prominent role in the Vatican's diplomatic efforts and has been involved in interfaith dialogue.
Continue ReadingNorbert Ratsirahonana
Malagasy politician, Prime Minister
Born
November 18th, 1938 87 years ago
Served as Prime Minister of Madagascar during significant political transitions. Held the office from 1995 to 1996 under the presidency of Albert Zafy. As a prominent figure in Malagasy politics, contributed to the country's governance and reform efforts during the 1990s. Engaged in various administrative roles prior to becoming Prime Minister, shaping policies that affected both domestic and international relations.
Continue ReadingLinda Evans
American actress, starred in 'Dynasty'
Born
November 18th, 1942 83 years ago
An actress gained prominence through work in television series. Starred in the soap opera 'Dynasty', which aired from 1981 to 1989, and became a defining role. Prior to that, appeared in 'The Big Valley', showcasing talent in a Western setting. Received multiple Golden Globe nominations for performances. Active in the entertainment industry for several decades, contributing to both film and television.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on January 27th
Külüg Khan
Emperor of the Yuan Dynasty
Born
August 4th, 1281 744 years ago
Died
January 27th, 1311 715 years ago — 29 years old
Ruled as the Emperor Wuzong of Yuan during a period marked by attempts to consolidate the Mongol Empire's power in China. His reign faced challenges from internal conflicts and natural disasters. Focused on restoring the power of the Yuan Dynasty and enforcing the Mongol aristocracy's authority. Also engaged in efforts to suppress corruption within the administration and aimed to stabilize the economy.
Continue ReadingMort Walker
American cartoonist of Beetle Bailey
Born
September 3rd, 1923 102 years ago
Died
January 27th, 2018 8 years ago — 94 years old
Worked as a cartoonist, creating the comic strip Beetle Bailey, which debuted in 1950. The strip, set in a military setting, provided humorous commentary on army life and became widely popular. Walker also launched other comic strips, including Hi and Lois, which featured suburban family life. His contributions to the field of comics earned recognition in the industry, including multiple awards for his work. Walker's influence on comic strips was notable, as he helped shape the modern American comic strip format.
Continue ReadingIsaac Babel
Russian short story writer and playwright
Born
July 13th, 1894 131 years ago
Died
January 27th, 1940 86 years ago — 45 years old
A prominent short story writer, journalist, and playwright, this individual contributed significantly to Russian literature in the early 20th century. Heralded for vivid characterizations and profound themes, work included short stories inspired by personal experiences and historical events. As a journalist, coverage of the Russian Civil War in 'Red Cavalry' garnered attention. The playwright created the influential work 'Bensimon'. Contributions to literature were cut short due to political repression, culminating in arrest and execution in 1940.
Continue ReadingNellie Bly
Investigative journalist, 'Around the World'
Born
May 5th, 1864 162 years ago
Died
January 27th, 1922 104 years ago — 57 years old
Pioneered investigative journalism in the late 19th century. Authored the famous exposed account 'Ten Days in a Mad-House' after reporting on conditions in a mental institution. Undertook a record-breaking trip, completing a journey around the world in 72 days, which garnered significant attention. Advocated for social reforms through journalism, focusing on issues such as women's rights and labor conditions.
Continue ReadingGian Paolo Lomazzo
Italian Painter and Art Theorist
Born
April 26th, 1538 488 years ago
Died
January 27th, 1592 434 years ago — 53 years old
An Italian painter and art theorist, contributed significantly to the art world during the late Renaissance. Lomazzo had a diverse body of work, with a strong emphasis on religious and mythological subjects. His written works, particularly 'Trattato dell'arte della pittura', outlined theories on painting and aesthetics, influencing artists of his time and later generations. Lomazzo's theoretical approach included discussions on composition, perspective, and the emotional impact of color in art. His paintings often displayed vibrant colors and dynamic compositions, marking him as a notable figure in the Lombard painting tradition.
Continue ReadingBartolomeo Cristofori
Italian instrument maker, inventor of piano
Born
May 4th, 1655 371 years ago
Died
January 27th, 1731 295 years ago — 75 years old
An Italian instrument maker contributed to the evolution of keyboard instruments through the invention of the piano in the early 1700s. This invention marked a significant technical advancement in musical performance, offering dynamic expression and versatility that previous keyboard instruments lacked. Cristofori's early pianos were crafted with a unique hammer mechanism, allowing for both soft and loud playing, a revolutionary concept at the time. His work laid the foundation for the development of the modern piano, influencing musicians and composers in the years that followed. His original instruments can still be found in museums today, showcasing the craftsmanship and innovation of the period.
Continue Reading