Willi Wülbeck
German middle-distance runner Olympic medalist
Achieved prominence as a middle-distance runner specializing in the 800 meters. Secured a silver medal at the 1984 Los Angeles Olympics. Won multiple championships, including the European Athletics Championships in 1982 and the World Championship in 1983. Competed for the SC Köln club, establishing a legacy in German athletics during the 1980s.
Won silver medal in 800m at 1984 Olympics
Secured gold at the 1983 World Championships
Won 800m gold at the 1982 European Championships
Other People Born on December 18th
Emil Starkenstein
Czech pharmacologist, co-founded clinical pharmacology
Born
December 18th, 1884 141 years ago
Died
November 6th, 1942 83 years ago — 57 years old
A pharmacologist co-founded the discipline of clinical pharmacology, significantly contributing to the understanding of drug effects on the human body. Starkenstein's work laid the groundwork for future research in medical therapies and the evaluation of drug efficacy and safety. Throughout the career, collaboration with other prominent scientists drove advancements in pharmacological studies, shaping the way drugs are tested and used in clinical settings.
Continue ReadingJack Brooks
American colonel and politician
Born
December 18th, 1922 103 years ago
Died
December 4th, 2012 13 years ago — 89 years old
Served as a U.S. Congressman from Texas for over 40 years. Played a significant role in various legislative efforts, particularly in education and civil rights. Contributed to significant oversight on governmental agencies and was a member of key committees. Participated in military service during World War II and the Korean War. After a distinguished career in the military, transitioned to politics and became an influential figure in Texas.
Continue ReadingCharles Griffin
American general during Civil War
Born
December 18th, 1825 200 years ago
Died
1876 150 years ago — 51 years old
Served as a Union general in the American Civil War. Commanded troops during significant battles such as the Battle of Gettysburg and the Battle of the Wilderness. Held the rank of Brigadier General and contributed to several military campaigns in the war.
Continue ReadingGladys Cooper
English actress and singer
Born
December 18th, 1888 137 years ago
Died
November 17th, 1971 54 years ago — 82 years old
An English actress and singer achieved acclaim in both film and theater. Career began in the early 1900s on stage, transitioning to film in the 1910s. Notable stage works included performances in 'The Royal Family' and 'What Every Woman Knows'. In cinema, key roles were in 'The Letter', 'Mary of Scotland', and 'My Fair Lady'. Recognized for her remarkable versatility and strong presence, also performed extensively on radio and television later in her career.
Continue ReadingDaniel Cleary
Ice hockey player, Stanley Cup champion
Born
December 18th, 1978 47 years ago
Born in 1978, a Canadian professional ice hockey player played in the National Hockey League (NHL) for several teams, prominently on the Detroit Red Wings. Originating from Kingston, Ontario, played junior hockey with the Belleville Bulls. Drafted in 1997, played for the Chicago Blackhawks and the Edmonton Oilers before joining the Red Wings in 2005. Contributed significantly to the team's success, helping secure the Stanley Cup in 2008.
Continue ReadingLionel Monckton
English composer and lyricist
Born
December 18th, 1861 164 years ago
Died
February 15th, 1924 101 years ago — 62 years old
A significant figure in English musical theatre during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Contributed to the development of the revue and musical comedy genres, creating a number of popular works. Collaborated with prominent performers and authors of the era. Additionally, served as a musical director and conductor for various productions, showcasing a strong command of stagecraft and composition.
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