Toyah Willcox
Singer-songwriter and actress
A prolific English singer-songwriter, producer, and actress emerged in the late 1970s. Gained widespread recognition through the single 'It's a Mystery' and the album 'Anthem'. Acted in the film 'Quadrophenia' and the television series 'The Crystal Maze'. Continues to have a presence in music and theater.
Released the hit single 'It's a Mystery'
Starred in the film 'Quadrophenia'
Appeared in the TV series 'The Crystal Maze'
Other People Born on May 18th
Jacob K. Javits
American politician and attorney general
Born
May 18th, 1904 121 years ago
Died
March 7th, 1986 40 years ago — 81 years old
Served as a U.S. Congressman and U.S. Senator from New York. During tenure in the Senate, advocated for labor reforms and civil rights. Played a significant role in the establishment of the New York City Fiscal Control Board. Served as the 58th Attorney General of New York, implementing various legal reforms. Worked on advancing issues related to health care and environmental protection.
Continue ReadingWalter Gropius
Architect, designed John F. Kennedy Building
Born
May 18th, 1883 142 years ago
Died
July 5th, 1969 56 years ago — 86 years old
A leading architect of the 20th century, contributed significantly to modern architecture as the founder of the Bauhaus school in Germany. Emphasized functional design and the integration of art with technology. Designed multiple iconic buildings including the John F. Kennedy Federal Building in Boston and the Werkbund Exhibition in 1914. Advocated for the unity of art and industrial design, influencing generations of architects and designers.
Continue ReadingPriscilla Pointer
American actress in television and film
Born
May 18th, 1924 101 years ago
An actress with a career spanning several decades, she achieved recognition for roles in television and film. Early performances included appearances in classic series and movies. Voiced various characters in animated productions, showcasing versatility and talent. In addition to acting, she contributed to theater and taught drama.
Continue ReadingWarren Rudman
American politician, Senator from New Hampshire
Born
May 18th, 1930 95 years ago
Died
November 19th, 2012 13 years ago — 82 years old
Served as a U.S. Senator from New Hampshire from 1980 to 1993. Positioned as a Republican, emphasized fiscal responsibility and national security. Played a crucial role in various legislative efforts, including the establishment of the National Commission on the Future of the Army. Co-authored the landmark Gramm-Rudman-Hollings Act, aimed at reducing the federal budget deficit. After leaving the Senate, contributed to public policy discussions and served on several boards and committees.
Continue ReadingMark Mothersbaugh
Singer-songwriter and composer, Devo
Born
May 18th, 1950 75 years ago
A prominent figure in American music and art, contributions span various fields including music, visual arts, and film scoring. Co-founded the band Devo, which gained notoriety in the late 1970s for its unique blend of new wave and punk rock, coupled with its intellectual themes. Mothersbaugh's work with Devo includes classic hits such as 'Whip It'. In addition to music, engaging in visual art practices, he has exhibited his artwork in numerous galleries. Composed scores for films including 'The Lego Movie' and 'Rushmore', establishing a reputation in film music.
Continue ReadingPope John Paul II
Religious leader and author of encyclicals
Born
May 18th, 1920 105 years ago
Died
April 2nd, 2005 20 years ago — 84 years old
Served as the Pope of the Roman Catholic Church from 1978 until 2005. Played a key role in the fall of communism in Eastern Europe, notably influencing events in Poland. Advocated for human rights and interfaith dialogue, making significant contributions to the Church's teachings through numerous encyclicals. Undertook extensive travels, visiting 129 countries during papacy and meeting with leaders from various faiths. His efforts included promoting peace and addressing issues such as poverty and social injustice.
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