Túpac Amaru II
Peruvian rebel leader and insurrectionist
A leader of indigenous resistance in Peru during the colonial era, this figure initiated a significant uprising against Spanish colonial authority in 1780. The rebellion was fueled by widespread discontent among indigenous peoples due to harsh taxation and oppression. The insurrection aimed to restore indigenous sovereignty and empower native populations. The uprising gained momentum, gathering a large following, but ultimately faced repression from Spanish forces. The leader was captured in 1781 and executed, becoming a symbol of resistance and indigenous rights in Peru.
Led the Great Rebellion of 1780-1781
Attempted to abolish the Spanish authority
Executed in 1781 after the rebellion's failure
Other People Born on March 19th
Yegor Gaidar
Russian economist and politician
Born
March 19th, 1956 70 years ago
Died
December 16th, 2009 16 years ago — 53 years old
An economist and politician, served as First Deputy Prime Minister of Russia in the early 1990s. Played a significant role in implementing economic reforms during the transition from a planned economy to a market-based economy after the dissolution of the Soviet Union. Gaidar introduced radical policies that aimed to stabilize the Russian economy, including price liberalization and privatization efforts. His leadership during this tumultuous period shaped the economic landscape of post-Soviet Russia.
Continue ReadingJay Berwanger
American football player and coach, Heisman Trophy winner
Born
March 19th, 1914 112 years ago
Died
June 26th, 2002 23 years ago — 88 years old
An American football player and coach, one of the first recipients of the Heisman Trophy in 1935. Played as a halfback at the University of Chicago, leading the team to a Big Ten championship. After college, transitioned to coaching, including a tenure at the University of Chicago where he contributed to the development of the football program. Was notable for athleticism and versatility on the field, contributing to the growth of the sport.
Continue ReadingMoms Mabley
Comedian and singer, 'The Original Queen of Comedy'
Born
March 19th, 1894 132 years ago
Died
May 23rd, 1975 51 years ago — 81 years old
A comedian and singer active from the 1920s to the 1970s, rose to prominence in the world of stand-up comedy. Performed at the Apollo Theater, where a significant fanbase was developed. Appeared in films including 'Amazing Grace' and 'The Big Broadcast of 1938'. Renowned for her distinctive style, which combined humor with commentary on social issues. Pioneered breaking racial barriers in entertainment, appealing to both black and white audiences.
Continue ReadingAnna Held
Polish singer and Broadway star
Born
March 19th, 1872 154 years ago
Died
1918 108 years ago — 46 years old
Born in Poland, a prominent singer and actress emerged in the early 20th century. She gained recognition in the United States during the 1890s and became a major star of the Ziegfeld Follies. Her performances showcased her talent in musical theater, pioneering various styles and interpretations of songs. Held's signature songs and theatrical flair made a significant impact on the Broadway scene. She also participated in early motion pictures, expanding her artistic influence beyond the stage.
Continue ReadingZhang Zuolin
Chinese warlord and military leader
Born
March 19th, 1875 151 years ago
Died
June 4th, 1928 98 years ago — 53 years old
Born in 1875, held significant power during the early 20th century in China as a military leader and warlord in Manchuria. Established the Fengtian clique and controlled northeastern China, exerting influence over regional politics and military affairs. Engaged in conflicts during the warlord era, which was characterized by fragmentation of authority and numerous power struggles. Following years of conflicts, played a crucial role in the Beijing government, attempting to stabilize the region amidst ongoing chaos. Assassinated in 1928, his death marked the decline of the Fengtian clique's power and a pivotal moment in Chinese history.
Continue ReadingJohn Sirica
American lawyer and Watergate judge
Born
March 19th, 1904 122 years ago
Died
August 14th, 1992 33 years ago — 88 years old
Served as a federal judge in the United States District Court for the District of Columbia. Gained prominence during the Watergate scandal, overseeing the trial of key figures involved in the break-in at the Democratic National Committee headquarters. Ordered the release of tapes that led to significant revelations about presidential misconduct. His rulings contributed to the eventual resignation of President Richard Nixon in 1974.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on May 18th
Steve Forrest
American drummer, played for Placebo
Born
September 25th, 1986 39 years ago
Died
May 18th, 2013 13 years ago — 26 years old
A drummer, prominently associated with the band Placebo since 2006. Contributed to the band's sound through various albums and tours. Prior to joining Placebo, worked with other bands and gained experience in the music industry. Active in live performances and studio recordings, showcasing a blend of alternative rock styles.
Continue ReadingVelupillai Prabhakaran
Sri Lankan rebel leader, LTTE founder
Born
November 26th, 1954 71 years ago
Died
May 18th, 2009 17 years ago — 54 years old
A prominent figure in Sri Lankan conflict, played a significant role in the establishment of the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) in 1976. The organization sought an independent Tamil state in the north and east of Sri Lanka, engaged in an armed struggle against the Sri Lankan government for decades. Under leadership, the LTTE was involved in numerous military operations, including suicide bombings and targeted assassinations. The conflict escalated into a prolonged civil war that lasted until 2009. Prabhakaran was ultimately killed in the final stages of the civil war.
Continue ReadingŌnishiki Daigorō
Sumo wrestler, 28th Yokozuna
Born
1883 143 years ago
Died
May 18th, 1943 83 years ago — 60 years old
Achieved the rank of Yokozuna, the highest title in sumo wrestling. Competed during the early 20th century and became notable for his powerful style and technique in the sport. Set multiple records in tournaments and was a prominent figure within the sumo community. Retired in 1923 but remained influential in sumo until death in 1943.
Continue ReadingLothar Schmid
German chess player and arbiter
Born
May 10th, 1928 98 years ago
Died
May 18th, 2013 13 years ago — 85 years old
Accomplished chess player and international arbiter. Played in numerous tournaments throughout the 20th century. Achieved the title of International Arbiter in 1984. Contributed to various chess publications and served as an organizer for major chess events. Actively participated in the chess community, promoting the game across different platforms.
Continue ReadingStephen I of Constantinople
Bishop and Saint of Constantinople
Died
May 18th, 893 1133 years ago — None years old
A prominent religious figure, served as Bishop of Constantinople from 886 until death in 893. Instrumental in strengthening the Christian church in the Byzantine Empire. Recognized for upholding orthodoxy and confronting heretical movements. His tenure saw the church navigate complex political landscapes, aligning ecclesiastical authority with imperial interests. Canonized as a saint, his legacy influenced later church leaders and theologians.
Continue ReadingAustin Eubanks
Addiction recovery advocate and speaker
Born
1981 45 years ago
Died
May 18th, 2019 7 years ago — 38 years old
Survived the Columbine High School shooting in 1999. Became an advocate for addiction recovery, drawing from personal experiences with substance abuse following the trauma of the shooting. Engaged in speaking events across the country to share insights on mental health and addiction, aiming to reduce stigma and promote understanding of these issues. Worked with various organizations and initiatives focused on recovery and prevention. Contributed to numerous media outlets, spreading awareness about the impact of trauma and the importance of mental wellness.
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