Unita Blackwell
Civil rights activist and politician
Born
Died
Category
Activists & Humanitarians
Country
United States
Links & References
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.
First African American woman mayor in Mississippi
Advocated for civil rights and social justice
Other People Born on March 18th
Courtney Pine
Saxophonist and clarinet player
Born
March 18th, 1964 62 years ago
Pine is a British musician specializing in saxophone and clarinet. Emerging in the late 1980s, merged jazz with elements of reggae and hip-hop. Created a distinctive sound and gained recognition in the United Kingdom and internationally. Released numerous albums, including 'Journey to the Urge Within', garnering critical acclaim and chart success. Contributed to the jazz scene with live performances and collaborations, emphasizing the importance of cultural fusion in music. Served as a mentor to emerging artists and frequently participated in educational initiatives to promote jazz.
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Norwegian singer and Minister of Culture
Born
March 18th, 1949 77 years ago
Born in 1949, a significant presence in Norwegian music and politics emerged from a career that spanned several decades. Achieved prominence in the 1970s as a folk and pop singer, gaining recognition for contributions to the genre. Served as the Norwegian Minister of Culture from 1990 to 1996, shaping cultural policies and promoting the arts during tenure. Involved in various cultural initiatives, furthering the landscape of Norwegian music and arts.
Continue ReadingEknath Solkar
Indian cricketer, Test specialist
Born
March 18th, 1948 78 years ago
Died
2005 21 years ago — 57 years old
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Continue ReadingBill Frisell
American guitarist and composer
Born
March 18th, 1951 75 years ago
A prominent guitarist and composer, contributions include a unique blend of jazz, folk, and avant-garde music. Led the ensemble 'The Bill Frisell Band' and collaborated with various artists across genres. Influenced contemporary music through innovative guitar techniques and meaningful compositions. Released numerous albums, showcasing a diverse range of musical styles.
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Professional wrestler and AWA champion
Born
March 18th, 1956 70 years ago
Born in 1956, a Canadian wrestler began a prominent career in professional wrestling during the 1970s. Achieved fame in the American Wrestling Association (AWA), where held the AWA World Heavyweight Championship. Additionally performed in the World Wrestling Federation (WWF), gaining popularity as a character known as 'The Model.' Became a key figure in tag team wrestling while performing alongside partners in various promotions. Also made notable contributions to international wrestling circuits throughout the 1980s and 1990s, wrestling for various organizations across Canada, Japan, and the United States. Retired in the late 1990s but remained involved in wrestling through appearances at fan conventions and events.
Continue ReadingJeff LaBar
American guitarist from Cinderella band
Born
March 18th, 1963 63 years ago
Died
2021 5 years ago — 58 years old
Guitarist contributed to the glam metal band Cinderella, which gained popularity in the late 1980s and early 1990s. The band achieved significant commercial success with the albums 'Night Songs' and 'Long Cold Winter.' LaBar was instrumental in shaping the band's signature sound and style, contributing to numerous hits that defined the era. Throughout his career, he also performed with other musical groups and participated in various projects encompassing hard rock and metal genres.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on May 13th
Doris Day
Singer and actress in musicals and films
Born
April 3rd, 1922 104 years ago
Died
May 13th, 2019 6 years ago — 97 years old
An American singer and actress, emerged in the late 1940s and became a leading figure in the entertainment industry. Achieved widespread fame during the 1950s and 1960s. Starred in iconic films such as 'Pillow Talk', 'Calamity Jane', and 'The Man Who Knew Too Much'. Transitioned seamlessly between music and acting, recording hit songs like 'Que Sera, Sera (Whatever Will Be, Will Be)'. Established an animal welfare foundation later in life, advocating for animal rights and protection.
Continue ReadingEliphalet Dyer
Colonel and American politician
Born
September 14th, 1721 304 years ago
Died
May 13th, 1807 218 years ago — 85 years old
Served as a colonel during the American Revolution and held various political positions in colonial Connecticut. Practiced law and was a prominent figure in the early governance of the state. Participated in the establishment of local government structures and contributed to legislative processes.
Continue ReadingJohan van Oldenbarnevelt
Dutch politician and statesman
Born
September 14th, 1547 478 years ago
Died
May 13th, 1619 406 years ago — 71 years old
A leading figure in the early Dutch Republic, played a pivotal role in the establishment of the Dutch state during the Eighty Years' War. Served as the Advocate of Holland from 1586 until 1619, overseeing significant political and military developments. Was instrumental in forming alliances and negotiating peace, influencing the political landscape of the era. His conflict with Maurits of Nassau, leading military commander, culminated in a power struggle that significantly affected the Dutch Republic's governance.
Continue ReadingF. E. McWilliam
Irish sculptor and educator
Born
April 30th, 1909 117 years ago
Died
May 13th, 1992 33 years ago — 83 years old
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Continue ReadingSamm-Art Williams
American playwright with acclaimed works
Born
1946 80 years ago
Died
May 13th, 2024 1 years ago — 78 years old
A playwright and screenwriter, contributions spanned theater and film. Developed works that highlighted African American experiences and narratives. Gained recognition for the play 'Home', which depicted the struggles of a returning Vietnam veteran. Served as a scriptwriter for various television productions, showcasing talent in creating relatable and poignant characters. Engaged in the arts community through multiple workshops and mentorship programs.
Continue ReadingCyril Wecht
Forensic pathologist and expert witness
Born
1931 95 years ago
Died
May 13th, 2024 1 years ago — 93 years old
A forensic pathologist served in multiple high-profile cases and provided expertise in over 40,000 autopsies. Contributed to various notable legal cases, including the assassination of President John F. Kennedy and the death of Elvis Presley. Held academic positions, including as a professor and established a career as a medical consultant for law enforcement agencies. Authored numerous publications on forensic pathology and offered services as an expert witness in court, often testifying in complex legal matters.
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