Samuel Pisar
Polish-American lawyer and author
Born in Poland, an early life was marked by the horrors of World War II, including imprisonment in Nazi concentration camps. After the war, resettlement in the United States occurred, leading to a legal education at Harvard Law School. A prominent lawyer, worked on international law and human rights. Authored several books, including a memoir detailing wartime experiences and advocacy for Holocaust survivors. Pisar became an influential figure in promoting human rights globally.
Authored 'Of Blood and Hope'
Served as an advocate for Holocaust survivors
Other People Born on March 18th
Edward Everett Horton
American actor in 'Flicka' and 'Topper'
Born
March 18th, 1886 139 years ago
Died
September 29th, 1970 55 years ago — 84 years old
An American actor, singer, and dancer, celebrated for performances in film and television during the early to mid-20th century. Achieved recognition for work in the movie 'Topper' and the TV series 'The Twilight Zone'. Gained acclaim for comedic roles, often portraying characters with an air of sophistication and charm. Contributed to the entertainment industry through both stage and screen performances, engaging audiences with talent and wit.
Continue ReadingGeorge Plimpton
Journalist and actor, initiated participatory journalism
Born
March 18th, 1927 98 years ago
Died
September 25th, 2003 22 years ago — 76 years old
Engaged in participatory journalism, contributing to various publications, including The Paris Review as a founding editor. Pursued an acting career, appearing in films such as 'Paper Lion' and productions like 'The Great Gatsby'. Authored multiple books that chronicled experiences in sports and literature, blending narrative non-fiction with immersive methods.
Continue ReadingPhilippe de La Hire
French mathematician and astronomer
Born
March 18th, 1640 385 years ago
Died
April 21st, 1719 306 years ago — 79 years old
Contributed significantly to mathematics and astronomy during the 17th century. Developed a method for calculating the position of celestial bodies and made important advancements in the field of geometry. Worked on the theory of conics and analytical geometry. Engaged in various scientific discussions of the time and corresponded with notable contemporaries.
Continue ReadingUnita Blackwell
Civil rights activist and politician
Born
March 18th, 1933 92 years ago
Died
May 13th, 2019 6 years ago — 86 years old
Born in 1933, this individual was a prominent civil rights activist and the first African American woman elected mayor in Mississippi. Active during the civil rights movement, significant contributions included efforts to improve the social and economic conditions of African Americans in the Delta region. Served as the mayor of Mayersville from 2000 to 2004 and was a member of the Mississippi House of Representatives. Participated in numerous protests and marches advocating for voting rights and educational access, working alongside other civil rights leaders.
Continue ReadingLuc Besson
Film director and producer of 'Léon'
Born
March 18th, 1959 66 years ago
A prominent figure in French cinema, contributions include directing, producing, and screenwriting for various successful films. Founded EuropaCorp, a significant film production company in France. Directed well-known films, showcasing a unique visual style and storytelling approach. Gained international recognition for works that blend action and character-driven narratives.
Continue ReadingHarriet Smithson
Irish actress and muse of Berlioz
Born
March 18th, 1800 225 years ago
Died
1854 171 years ago — 54 years old
An Irish actress gained recognition for her role as Ophelia in Shakespeare's 'Hamlet'. She inspired composer Hector Berlioz, resulting in works such as 'Symphonie Fantastique', which is partly based on her. Smithson's theatrical career included performances in London and Dublin. Her influence on Berlioz and the Romantic movement in music solidified her legacy in the arts.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on July 27th
Jerry Doyle
Actor and talk show host with major role
Born
1956 69 years ago
Died
July 27th, 2016 9 years ago — 60 years old
An American actor and talk show host, gained recognition for portraying the character Michael Garibaldi on the television series 'Babylon 5'. The performance contributed significantly to the show's popularity, which aired from 1994 to 1998. In addition to acting, hosted a nationally syndicated radio program where various topics were discussed, including politics and current events. Transitioned from acting to a media career, engaging in public discourse and advocacy.
Continue ReadingChai Rong
Chinese emperor during the Five Dynasties
Born
October 27th, 921 1104 years ago
Died
July 27th, 959 1066 years ago — 37 years old
Ruled as emperor of the Later Zhou dynasty in China. Ascended the throne in the early 10th century and maintained a relatively stable regime during a period of fragmentation and political turmoil known as the Five Dynasties and Ten Kingdoms period. Focused on military campaigns against rival states and implemented various administrative reforms to strengthen central authority. His reign contributed to the eventual unification of China under the Song dynasty.
Continue ReadingBud Day
Colonel and Medal of Honor recipient
Born
February 24th, 1925 100 years ago
Died
July 27th, 2013 12 years ago — 88 years old
A colonel and pilot in the United States Air Force, distinguished for service during the Vietnam War. Day flew over 60 combat missions and was shot down while on a bombing mission in 1967. After surviving capture, endured over five years as a prisoner of war in North Vietnam, facing severe torture and hardships. Released in 1973, continued to serve the military and became a prominent advocate for veterans' rights.
Continue ReadingA. P. J. Abdul Kalam
Indian engineer and 11th President of India
Born
October 15th, 1931 94 years ago
Died
July 27th, 2015 10 years ago — 83 years old
An engineer and academic, served as the 11th President of India from 2002 to 2007. Contributed significantly to India's space and missile programs, particularly during tenure at the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO). Instrumental in the development of the Agni and Prithvi missiles. After presidency, engaged in teaching and writing, focusing on inspiring the youth and promoting education.
Continue ReadingCharles Fryatt
English captain during World War I
Born
1872 153 years ago
Died
July 27th, 1916 109 years ago — 44 years old
Served as a captain in the British Merchant Navy. On March 24, 1916, while commanding the vessel SS Brussels, engaged in a confrontation with a German U-boat. Successfully rammed the submarine, which became a significant act of defiance during the war. Captured by German forces later that year and faced a court-martial for his actions against the U-boat. Executed on July 27, 1916, for his defiance and perceived act of war against Germany.
Continue ReadingEinojuhani Rautavaara
Finnish composer and educator known for symphonies
Born
October 9th, 1928 97 years ago
Died
July 27th, 2016 9 years ago — 87 years old
Born in Finland in 1928, a prominent composer and educator became influential in contemporary classical music. Studied at the Sibelius Academy and later in the United States, contributing significantly to the revival of Finnish music. Composed over 100 works, including orchestral, choral, and chamber pieces. Gained recognition for a unique blend of modernism and mysticism, which characterized many compositions. Receivers of numerous prestigious awards, including the Finnish Music Award and the Wihuri Sibelius Prize. Held teaching positions at various institutions, mentoring future composers and musicians.
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