Tony O'Reilly
Rugby player and businessman
Played rugby union for Ireland and represented the British and Irish Lions on their 1959 tour to Australia and New Zealand. Transitioned to a successful business career, leading the H.J. Heinz Company as the managing director of its Irish operations. O'Reilly became a prominent media figure, acquiring a controlling interest in Independent News & Media, which published several major newspapers and media outlets in Ireland.
Represented Ireland in rugby union
Participated in the British and Irish Lions tour of 1959
Led H.J. Heinz Company in Ireland
Acquired Independent News & Media
Other People Born on May 7th
Cameron Young
Golfer acclaimed for PGA Tour performances
Born
May 7th, 1997 29 years ago
Professional golfer achieved prominence in the sport with impressive performances on the PGA Tour. Born in 1997, has participated in various prestigious tournaments, showing consistent skill and competitiveness. Gained significant attention for outstanding play, including finishes in major championships, establishing a reputation as a rising star in golf. Contributed to team success in collegiate golf before transitioning to the professional circuit.
Continue ReadingRuud Lubbers
Dutch Prime Minister and diplomat
Born
May 7th, 1939 87 years ago
Died
February 14th, 2018 8 years ago — 78 years old
Held the position of Prime Minister of the Netherlands from 1982 to 1994, serving as a member of the Christian Democratic Appeal party. Played a significant role in Dutch politics during a time of economic challenges, implementing various reforms aimed at improving the economy and social welfare. After his tenure as Prime Minister, served as the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees from 2001 to 2005, focusing on global refugee issues and advocating for the rights of displaced persons.
Continue ReadingEarl Thomas
American football safety, Super Bowl champion
Born
May 7th, 1989 37 years ago
Career in professional American football spanned from 2010 to 2020. Played primarily as a safety for the Seattle Seahawks and later for the Baltimore Ravens. Was a key player in the Seahawks' Super Bowl XLVIII victory. Achieved multiple Pro Bowl selections and was named an All-Pro. Recognized for significant contributions to the defenses of the teams played for, especially during championship runs.
Continue ReadingViktor Puskar
Estonian colonel and military leader
Born
May 7th, 1889 137 years ago
Died
April 12th, 1943 83 years ago — 53 years old
Served as a colonel in the Estonian Army during the period of Estonia's independence. Participated in the Estonian War of Independence, which established Estonia's autonomy after World War I. Engaged in military reforms and played a pivotal role in modernizing the army structure. His leadership was evident during significant military engagements against Soviet forces. Contributed to the formation of a national defense strategy during a time of geopolitical instability in the region.
Continue ReadingAshlyn Krueger
Tennis player with junior Grand Slam success
Born
May 7th, 2004 22 years ago
An American tennis player gained recognition in junior tennis competitions. Achieved significant milestones in the ITF Junior Circuit, showcasing talent and determination on the court. Competed at high levels in both singles and doubles events, amassing titles and climbing the junior rankings. Transitioned into professional tournaments, marking the beginning of a promising career.
Continue ReadingJohannes Brahms
German composer and pianist
Born
May 7th, 1833 193 years ago
Died
April 3rd, 1897 129 years ago — 63 years old
A composer and pianist, focused on symphonic and choral compositions. Contributed significantly to the chamber music repertoire. Achieved prominence in the Romantic era with a distinctive style that combined classic forms with personal expression. Composed four symphonies, the Violin Concerto in D major, and numerous lieder. His works were celebrated for their structural integrity and emotional depth.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on May 18th
Joseph Pevney
Actor and director of television classics
Born
1911 115 years ago
Died
May 18th, 2008 17 years ago — 97 years old
A prominent actor and director, recognized for contributions to television during the mid-20th century. Directed numerous episodes of iconic shows including 'Star Trek', 'The Twilight Zone', and 'Bonanza'. Transitioned from acting to directing, showcasing a talent for crafting engaging stories. Over a career that spanned several decades, worked on various projects that garnered a dedicated following and critical acclaim.
Continue ReadingChris Cornell
Singer-songwriter and guitarist of Soundgarden
Born
July 20th, 1964 61 years ago
Died
May 18th, 2017 8 years ago — 52 years old
Cornell gained prominence as the lead vocalist and rhythm guitarist of the rock band Soundgarden, which played a key role in the 1990s Seattle grunge movement. The band achieved critical acclaim with albums like 'Superunknown' and 'Badmotorfinger'. In addition to his work with Soundgarden, he formed the band Audioslave, contributing to their success with hits like 'Like a Stone' and 'Cochise'. Cornell's solo career included the well-received album 'Euphoria Morning'. He was recognized for his powerful vocal range and emotional performances, earning multiple awards throughout his career including Grammys and an MTV Video Music Award. His contributions to music extended beyond his bands, with collaborations and contributions to soundtracks and tribute albums.
Continue ReadingDomenico di Pace Beccafumi
Italian Renaissance painter of Siena
Born
1486 540 years ago
Died
May 18th, 1551 474 years ago — 65 years old
Active during the early 16th century, worked primarily in Siena. Became prominent for contributions to the Mannerist style, integrating classical elements into religious and mythological subjects. Created frescoes for several churches, including the Basilica of San Domenico in Siena. Also known for developing a unique technique in painting on both wood and canvas, influencing future artists.
Continue ReadingJacque Fresco
Engineer and futurist, The Venus Project
Born
March 13th, 1916 110 years ago
Died
May 18th, 2017 8 years ago — 101 years old
An engineer and social inventor focused on designing sustainable cities and a resource-based economy. Developed The Venus Project, which presents a vision for a potential sustainable future through innovative technology and urban planning concepts. Advocated for the redesign of society based on rationality, efficiency, and sustainability. Worked towards raising awareness about social issues and the potential for human advancement through integrative engineering solutions.
Continue ReadingErnie Davis
American football player, Heisman Trophy winner
Born
December 14th, 1939 86 years ago
Died
May 18th, 1963 62 years ago — 23 years old
Played college football at Syracuse University, leading the team to a national championship in 1959. Became the first African American to win the Heisman Trophy in 1961. Selected first overall in the 1962 NFL Draft by the Washington Redskins but was traded to the Cleveland Browns. Suffered from leukemia, which shortened professional career.
Continue ReadingHalldór Ásgrímsson
Icelandic politician and Prime Minister
Born
September 8th, 1947 78 years ago
Died
May 18th, 2015 10 years ago — 67 years old
Served as the 22nd Prime Minister of Iceland from 2004 to 2006. Led the Progressive Party and was a significant figure in Icelandic politics. Held various ministerial positions including Minister of Fisheries and Minister of Transport and Communications. Focused on economic development and international relations during tenure. Contributed to shaping Iceland's policy on fisheries and the economy.
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