W. G. Grace
Cricketer and physician notable for batting
A prominent cricketer and physician, played in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Associated with Gloucestershire and England's national team, played a significant role in popularizing the sport. Excelled as a batsman, accumulating over 54,000 runs in first-class cricket. His playing style and innovative techniques contributed to the evolution of batting in cricket. Also practiced medicine, balancing both careers. Considered one of the greatest cricketers in the history of the game.
Accumulated over 54,000 runs in first-class cricket
Played for Gloucestershire and England national team
Pioneered batting techniques in cricket
Other People Born on July 18th
Clifford Odets
American playwright and screenwriter
Born
July 18th, 1906 119 years ago
Died
August 14th, 1963 62 years ago — 57 years old
A significant figure in American theater, achieved prominence during the 1930s. Played a key role in the development of the social and political themes in drama. Best known for the plays 'Waiting for Lefty' and 'Rocket to the Moon', which reflect the struggles of the working class. Also contributed to film as a screenwriter and director. Worked with prestigious studios, creating memorable works that combined social commentary with compelling storytelling.
Continue ReadingPauline Viardot
Soprano and composer, sang in La Traviata
Born
July 18th, 1821 204 years ago
Died
May 18th, 1910 115 years ago — 88 years old
Born in Paris, a celebrated soprano and composer emerged from a musical family. Initially studied under prominent vocal coaches, quickly gained recognition for exceptional vocal talent and stage presence. Collaborated with notable composers, contributing to the opera repertoire. Created leading roles in various original operas, including her own compositions. In addition to performing, focused on teaching and fostering new talent, establishing a lasting influence on vocal performance. Established vocal techniques that are still referenced today.
Continue ReadingMargaret Laurence
Canadian author, 'The Stone Angel'
Born
July 18th, 1926 99 years ago
Died
January 5th, 1987 39 years ago — 60 years old
An influential Canadian author and academic, contributions were pivotal in Canadian literature. Wrote acclaimed novels exploring themes of identity, gender, and the human experience. Most recognized for 'The Stone Angel,' a novel that delves into the life of an aging woman reflecting on her past. Also contributed essays, short stories, and children’s books, establishing a significant presence in literary circles. Engaged in academic pursuits, teaching at various universities and encouraging new generations of writers.
Continue ReadingLupe Vélez
Mexican-American actress and dancer
Born
July 18th, 1908 117 years ago
Died
December 14th, 1944 81 years ago — 36 years old
Born in Ciudad Guzmán, Mexico, an actress and dancer gained prominence in the early 20th century, particularly during the 1920s and 1930s. Achievements included leading roles in films such as 'The Cuban Love Song', 'The Naked Age', and the 'Mexican Spitfire' series. Often portrayed strong-willed characters, and became a celebrated figure in Hollywood, earning acclaim for her performances. In addition to film, her career found success in music and dance on stage, showcasing talents in major theatrical productions.
Continue ReadingKadambini Ganguly
Pioneer Indian female physician
Born
July 18th, 1861 164 years ago
Died
1923 103 years ago — 62 years old
A pioneering figure in the medical field, the individual became one of the first Indian women to obtain a degree, graduating in 1886 from the Calcutta Medical College. She played a crucial role in advocating for women's rights in education and healthcare. Throughout her career, she worked to improve the healthcare access for women and children in India, often facing societal challenges while striving to break the barriers established by gender norms. Her determination and achievements set a precedent for future generations of women in medicine.
Continue ReadingArthur Friedenreich
Brazilian footballer with prolific scoring
Born
July 18th, 1892 133 years ago
Died
September 6th, 1969 56 years ago — 77 years old
A prominent Brazilian footballer, played primarily as a forward. Achieved significant success during the early 20th century, becoming one of the first stars of Brazilian football. Gained recognition for outstanding scoring ability and technical skill on the field. Contributed greatly to club football in Brazil, particularly with the teams Paulistano and São Paulo FC. Represented Brazil in international competitions, scoring an impressive number of goals. Retired with a legacy as a pioneer in Brazilian football.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on October 23rd
John Boyd Dunlop
Scottish businessman, co-founded Dunlop Rubber
Born
February 5th, 1840 186 years ago
Died
October 23rd, 1921 104 years ago — 81 years old
A Scottish businessman co-founded a tire manufacturing company that revolutionized transportation with the development of the pneumatic tire. Dunlop's invention drastically improved the comfort and performance of bicycles and later automobiles. The company quickly expanded its operations internationally, becoming a key player in the rubber industry. The company's products gained widespread recognition, contributing significantly to the rise of motorized vehicles in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Dunlop Rubber maintained a substantial market presence and was instrumental in further innovations within tire technology.
Continue ReadingEric Reece
Australian politician, 32nd Premier of Tasmania
Born
July 6th, 1909 116 years ago
Died
October 23rd, 1999 26 years ago — 90 years old
Served as the 32nd Premier of Tasmania from 1972 to 1975, representing the Australian Labor Party. Held various ministerial positions, including Minister for Education and Minister for Transport. Worked to improve public services and infrastructure within Tasmania during the time in office.
Continue ReadingCharles Demuth
American painter and precisionist
Born
November 8th, 1883 142 years ago
Died
October 23rd, 1935 90 years ago — 51 years old
An American painter advanced the Precisionist art movement, focusing on cityscapes and industrial subjects. Works displayed a strong influence from Cubism and showed an interest in modern American life. Notable pieces included 'My Egypt', which depicted a grain elevator, and 'The Figure 5 in Gold', inspired by a poem by William Carlos Williams. Demuth also engaged in watercolor painting, showcasing a mastery of color and form.
Continue ReadingZane Grey
American author of Western novels
Born
January 31st, 1872 154 years ago
Died
October 23rd, 1939 86 years ago — 67 years old
An author, primarily recognized for Western novels, contributed significantly to the genre. Early works include 'Riders of the Purple Sage', which became an iconic representation of the American West. Other notable titles include 'The Lone Star Ranger' and 'The Light of Western Stars'. Grey's passion for outdoor life and adventure was often reflected in his writing. In addition to novels, Grey authored stories for magazines and non-fiction works, addressing fishing and outdoor activities. His style combined vivid descriptions of landscapes with tales of rugged individuals. His influence helped shape public perception of the Western genre and its romanticized ideals of frontier life.
Continue ReadingBob Grim
Baseball player with Yankees 1954 All-Star
Born
March 8th, 1930 95 years ago
Died
October 23rd, 1996 29 years ago — 66 years old
Played as a professional baseball player primarily as a pitcher in Major League Baseball from 1954 to 1963. Played most notably for the New York Yankees, achieving recognition for performance in the 1954 All-Star Game. Contributed to the success of the team during the 1950s, earning a reputation as a reliable player. Also played for the Kansas City Athletics and other teams during career.
Continue ReadingEdward Adelbert Doisy
Biochemist, Nobel Prize laureate
Born
November 13th, 1893 132 years ago
Died
October 23rd, 1986 39 years ago — 92 years old
A prominent biochemist contributed significantly to the understanding of vitamins and hormones. Conducted pivotal research on the chemistry of vitamin K and its role in blood coagulation. Served as a professor at Washington University in St. Louis, influencing the field of biochemistry through teaching and research. Received the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1943, shared with another scientist for their work in the discovery of vitamins.
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