Thabo Mbeki
South African politician, 2nd President
Served as the second president of South Africa from 1999 to 2008. Played a significant role in the African National Congress during the anti-apartheid movement. Promoted economic growth and stability during presidency while advocating for African unity and development. Focused on domestic policies to address social and economic issues.
Served as South Africa's Deputy President from 1994 to 1999
Was instrumental in negotiating the end of apartheid
Other People Born on June 18th
Eleanor of England
Countess of Bar and royal figure
Born
June 18th, 1269 756 years ago
Died
August 29th, 1298 727 years ago — 29 years old
Born in 1269, served as Countess of Bar. Married to Baldwin II, Count of Bar, strengthening alliances between England and the region. Daughter of Edward I of England and Eleanor of Castile, contributed to diplomatic ties in royal circles. Raised in the royal court, participated in various political negotiations throughout her life.
Continue ReadingRed Adair
Firefighter and oil well firefighter
Born
June 18th, 1915 110 years ago
Died
August 7th, 2004 21 years ago — 89 years old
Expert in extinguishing oil well blowouts. Developed techniques for controlling and capping wildfires ignited by oil well leaks, contributing significantly to oilfield safety. Founded a firefighting company specializing in oil well emergencies, which operated worldwide. Gained recognition for high-profile firefighting efforts in various countries, including notable operations during the 1991 Gulf War.
Continue ReadingMiklós Horthy
Hungarian admiral and Regent of Hungary
Born
June 18th, 1868 157 years ago
Died
February 9th, 1957 68 years ago — 88 years old
Served as the Regent of Hungary from 1920 to 1944. Horthy was an admiral in the Austro-Hungarian Navy during World War I and played a significant role in the establishment of the interwar period in Hungary. His leadership was marked by the restoration of the monarchy without a king, as well as economic and political instability. Horthy aligned Hungary with the Axis Powers during World War II, which included the implementation of anti-Jewish laws. Following the war, he was captured by the Allies and exiled, living in Portugal until his death in 1957.
Continue ReadingZoltán Halmay
Hungarian swimmer and Olympic medalist
Born
June 18th, 1881 144 years ago
Died
May 20th, 1956 69 years ago — 74 years old
Competed in swimming events in the early 20th century, achieving success in both the Olympics and World Championships. Participated in three Olympic Games from 1900 to 1908. Won multiple medals in freestyle and relay events, contributing to the prominence of Hungarian swimming on the international stage. Established numerous national records during his career, further solidifying a legacy within the sport.
Continue ReadingHenry Clay Folger
Businessman and philanthropist, Folger Library
Born
June 18th, 1857 168 years ago
Died
1930 96 years ago — 73 years old
An American businessman and philanthropist, contributed significantly to the field of literature through the establishment of a notable library. Founded the Folger Shakespeare Library in Washington, D.C., which houses the largest collection of William Shakespeare's works. The library opened to the public in 1932 and has served as a major center for research and education on Shakespeare and his time.
Continue ReadingJohn Bellany
Scottish painter celebrated for his work
Born
June 18th, 1942 83 years ago
Died
August 28th, 2013 12 years ago — 71 years old
A Scottish painter gained recognition for vivid and emotive artworks, often reflecting themes of personal and cultural identity. The creative journey began at Edinburgh College of Art, leading to a distinctive style that blended traditional techniques with contemporary subjects. Various exhibitions showcased works across the UK and internationally. Bellany's paintings frequently drew inspiration from folklore and the Scottish landscape, incorporating elements of the surreal and symbolic. The artist faced personal challenges that influenced his creative output, particularly during periods of illness, which deepened the emotional resonance of his art. The recipient of numerous accolades, his legacy endures in both public collections and private galleries.
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