Wendell Willkie
American lawyer and 1940 presidential nominee
Born in 1892, a lawyer and businessman emerged as a prominent political figure in the United States. Initially aligned with the Democratic Party, transitioned to the Republican Party and secured the presidential nomination in 1940. Ran against Franklin D. Roosevelt, advocating for free enterprise and internationalism during World War II. After the election, continued contributing to political discourse and public policy discussions until death in 1944.
Secured the Republican presidential nomination in 1940
Advocated for free enterprise and internationalism
Wrote 'One World', promoting global cooperation
Other People Born on February 18th
Charles-Irénée Castel de Saint-Pierre
French philosopher and author of treaties
Born
February 18th, 1658 367 years ago
Died
1743 283 years ago — 85 years old
Born in France in 1658, an influential philosopher and author contributed to early ideas on peace and international cooperation. Authored several works that focused on social and political philosophy, highlighting the importance of reason and coexistence. Worked on concepts of progress and the development of society, emphasizing rationality in human affairs. Engaged in discussions about forming a European federation and promoting peaceful resolutions to conflicts, setting the stage for future philosophical and political thought.
Continue ReadingBobby Robson
Football manager and England national coach
Born
February 18th, 1933 92 years ago
Died
July 31st, 2009 16 years ago — 76 years old
A prominent figure in football, this individual began his career as a player with Fulham and later played for West Bromwich Albion. Transitioning to management, he took charge of several clubs, including Ipswich Town, where he achieved notable success by winning the FA Cup in 1978 and the UEFA Cup in 1981. Additionally, this individual managed the England national team from 1982 to 1990, leading the team to the semifinals of the 1990 FIFA World Cup. Later managed clubs like Barcelona and Newcastle United, further solidifying a legacy as a respected figure in football.
Continue ReadingJean Jules Jusserand
French historian and diplomat
Born
February 18th, 1855 170 years ago
Died
July 18th, 1932 93 years ago — 77 years old
A prominent historian and author, served as the French Ambassador to the United States from 1902 to 1925. Contributed significantly to Franco-American relations and was involved in various diplomatic efforts during World War I. Authored several works on American history and culture, including 'With Americans of Past and Present Days', which examined the connections between France and the United States.
Continue ReadingElizabeth Nunez
American novelist with critical acclaim
Born
February 18th, 1944 81 years ago
Died
November 8th, 2024 1 years ago — 80 years old
An American novelist, this individual has published several works that explore themes of identity, culture, and the immigrant experience. 'Boundaries' and 'Prospero's Daughter' are among the notable titles. Works often draw from personal experiences, reflecting a deep engagement with Caribbean heritage and the African diaspora. In addition to fiction, contributions to literary criticism and advocacy for literature in diverse voices are significant aspects of the career. The individual has participated in various teaching and mentorship programs, focusing on supporting emerging writers. This contribution enhances the literary community's growth and diversity.
Continue ReadingFabrizio De André
Italian singer-songwriter and guitarist
Born
February 18th, 1940 85 years ago
Died
January 11th, 1999 27 years ago — 58 years old
An influential singer-songwriter and guitarist, recognized for contributions to Italian music through poetic lyrics and complex melodies. Gained notoriety in the 1960s and 1970s, crafting songs that addressed social issues, love, and existential themes. Released several acclaimed albums, with notable works including 'La Canzone di Marinella' and 'Via del Campo'. Combined traditional Italian folk music with contemporary sounds, leaving a lasting legacy in the genre.
Continue ReadingMiloš Forman
Czech-American film director and screenwriter
Born
February 18th, 1932 93 years ago
Died
2018 8 years ago — 86 years old
A prominent figure in cinema, significant contributions occurred during the late 20th century. Emigrated to the United States in the 1960s and gained recognition with films such as 'One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest' and 'Amadeus'. 'One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest' won five Academy Awards, including Best Director. 'Amadeus' also received critical acclaim, capturing eight Oscars at the 1985 Academy Awards. Forman's work often explored themes of freedom and individuality, utilizing unique storytelling techniques and character development.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on October 8th
Al Davis
American football coach and executive
Born
July 4th, 1929 96 years ago
Died
October 8th, 2011 14 years ago — 82 years old
A prominent figure in American football, played significant roles as a coach and executive. Served as the head coach of the Oakland Raiders and later became the team's owner and general manager. Instrumental in the Raiders' success during the 1970s and 1980s, leading the team to three Super Bowl titles. Advocated for player rights and was involved in multiple legal battles that shaped the league's structure. Encouraged innovation in the sport and was known for his commitment to the Raiders' brand and legacy.
Continue ReadingKonstantinos Tsatsos
Greek scholar and President of Greece
Born
July 1st, 1899 126 years ago
Died
October 8th, 1987 38 years ago — 88 years old
Engaged in the fields of law and political science, held the position of President of Greece from 1975 to 1980. Contributed significantly to the development of constitutional law and democratic governance in Greece. Actively participated in the Greek Resistance during World War II. Worked as a professor and published several works on political theory.
Continue ReadingEmperor Fushimi of Japan
Japanese Emperor during the Kamakura period
Born
1265 761 years ago
Died
October 8th, 1317 708 years ago — 52 years old
Ruled as Emperor of Japan from 1287 until death in 1317. Held the throne during the Kamakura period, a time marked by political instability and the rise of the samurai class. His reign was characterized by ongoing conflicts with the Hojo clan and internal power struggles within the imperial court. Fushimi was a puppet emperor, as real power resided with the shogun and the regents. Despite this, he attempted to assert imperial authority and strengthen the position of the throne. His reign saw a continuation of cultural developments within Japan, including advancements in literature and the arts, influenced by the broader historical context of his time.
Continue ReadingGordon Welchman
Mathematician and author of key texts
Born
June 15th, 1906 119 years ago
Died
October 8th, 1985 40 years ago — 79 years old
An English-American mathematician focused on cryptography and signals intelligence during World War II. Worked at Bletchley Park, contributing to the development of strategies and techniques for breaking enemy codes. Authored influential works on mathematics and cryptography, including 'The Hut 6 Story', which detailed experiences at Bletchley. After the war, continued academic career and held various positions in the United States, promoting advancements in mathematics and technology.
Continue ReadingConstantine Andreou
Greek painter and sculptor
Born
March 24th, 1917 108 years ago
Died
October 8th, 2007 18 years ago — 90 years old
A prominent Greek painter and sculptor, contributions to modern art include works that reflect a profound dedication to abstraction and form. Studied at the Athens School of Fine Arts and later moved to Paris, where extensive interactions with the European avant-garde took place. Works often featured a combination of painting and sculpture, utilizing various materials to explore spatial relationships and color dynamics. Andreou's works were showcased in numerous exhibitions throughout Europe and the United States, solidifying a significant place in the modern art scene.
Continue ReadingJohn George I
Elector of Saxony during the Thirty Years' War
Born
March 5th, 1585 440 years ago
Died
October 8th, 1656 369 years ago — 71 years old
Born in 1585, served as Elector of Saxony from 1611 until death in 1656. Played a significant role in the Thirty Years' War, initially aligning with the Protestant states in the Holy Roman Empire. In 1635, signed the Treaty of Prague, which sought to bring stability to the war-torn region. Focused on strengthening the economic and political power of Saxony during a period of upheaval. Engaged in various military campaigns to protect the interests of Saxony.
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