William C. Durant
Businessman, founder of General Motors
Founded General Motors in 1908 and played a pivotal role in revolutionizing the automotive industry. Launched Chevrolet in 1911, which became one of the most prominent automobile brands. Advocated for the development of innovative manufacturing techniques and established a network of dealerships that expanded automotive accessibility. Experienced ups and downs in the business world, including a period of bankruptcy in the 1930s before making a comeback. Durant's vision and leadership helped shape the modern automobile market.
Founded General Motors in 1908
Launched Chevrolet in 1911
Other People Born on December 8th
Peter Andreas Hansen
Astronomer and mathematician with star catalogs
Born
December 8th, 1795 230 years ago
Died
March 28th, 1874 151 years ago — 78 years old
A Danish-German astronomer and mathematician contributed significantly to the field of astronomy. He worked closely with other prominent astronomers, including providing essential data on planetary motion and celestial mechanics. Hansen produced numerous star catalogs that enhanced the accuracy of astronomical observations. His efforts in calculating precise orbits of celestial bodies were influential in advancing the field. A major focus included studying the motion of asteroids and comets, contributing to the understanding of their trajectories. His work laid important groundwork for future astronomers.
Continue ReadingBob Arum
Boxing promoter, founder of Top Rank
Born
December 8th, 1931 94 years ago
Founded Top Rank, a premier boxing promotional company, which has represented numerous world champions. Promoted significant fights, contributing to the careers of many notable boxers. Played a crucial role in the rise of pay-per-view boxing events in the United States and organized high-profile matches involving legends of the sport.
Continue ReadingJohnny Green
American Basketball Player, NBA Champion
Born
December 8th, 1933 92 years ago
Died
May 15th, 1989 36 years ago — 55 years old
A professional basketball player with a career spanning the 1950s and 1960s. Played for the Syracuse Nationals and later joined the Philadelphia 76ers. Contributed to the team's success in clinching the NBA Championship in 1967. Recognized for exceptional skills on the court and as a forward during his time, demonstrating versatility in offense and defense.
Continue ReadingAdolph Menzel
German painter and illustrator known for 'The Dinner at the Tuileries'
Born
December 8th, 1815 210 years ago
Died
1905 120 years ago — 90 years old
Born in 1815, this individual established a significant career in painting and illustration. He specialized in historical and genre scenes, gaining prominence for detailed depictions of life in 19th-century Germany. His work often showcased exceptional realism and meticulous attention to detail. Key contributions include the monumental project, 'The History of Frederick the Great', which consists of many paintings illustrating various events in the life of the Prussian king. Menzel was also an accomplished illustrator, working for various journals and magazines during his lifetime. He contributed to the visual arts by blending the styles of Romanticism and Realism.
Continue ReadingWang Anshi
Chinese economist and chancellor
Born
December 8th, 1021 1004 years ago
Died
May 21st, 1086 939 years ago — 64 years old
An influential Chinese economist and chancellor, focused on reforming the Sung dynasty's economic policies. Implemented the New Policies, which aimed to stabilize the economy, improve agricultural productivity, and expand state control over tax collection. These reforms included the promotion of state-sponsored loans and the establishment of a better government procurement system for grain. Writings on economic theory, governance, and philosophy contributed extensively to intellectual discourse during his time and afterward.
Continue ReadingGeorges Méliès
French film director and illusionist
Born
December 8th, 1861 164 years ago
Died
January 21st, 1938 87 years ago — 76 years old
A pioneering figure in filmmaking, primarily recognized for creating the first narrative films and introducing special effects. Established the use of multiple scenes in a single shot and storytelling in cinema. Directed and starred in over 500 films, with a significant impact on the art form during the early 20th century. The film 'A Trip to the Moon' (1902) showcased innovative techniques and visual storytelling that influenced future filmmakers. Founded the Star Film Company, which produced many of the earliest fantasy films, helping to define the genre and artistic possibilities of cinema.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on March 18th
R. A. Lafferty
American author of speculative fiction
Born
November 7th, 1914 111 years ago
Died
March 18th, 2002 23 years ago — 87 years old
An author contributed significantly to speculative fiction, particularly known for intricate narratives and complex characters. Works featured elements of fantasy, science fiction, and sometimes absurdism, showcasing a distinct style. Various short stories and novels earned recognition for originality. Often blended mythological and historical references into narratives, creating unique worlds. Made a lasting contribution to the genre through published works.
Continue ReadingCharley Lau
Baseball player and hitting coach
Born
1933 92 years ago
Died
March 18th, 1984 41 years ago — 51 years old
Played as a catcher in Major League Baseball from 1957 to 1961, primarily with the Chicago White Sox. Transitioned to coaching and gained recognition for developing hitting techniques. Served as a hitting coach for various teams, including the Kansas City Royals and the Oakland Athletics. Recognized for his innovative approach to batting instruction, influencing many successful players during his tenure.
Continue ReadingJean-Baptiste Bréval
Cellist and composer of chamber music
Born
1753 272 years ago
Died
March 18th, 1823 202 years ago — 70 years old
Contributed to the repertoire for cello and piano, along with writing works for string quartets. Established a style that blended classical forms with expressive melodies, significantly influencing cello performance. Active during the late 18th and early 19th centuries, engaged with prominent musicians of the time and developed a pedagogical approach to teaching cello.
Continue ReadingOmid Reza Mir Sayafi
Iranian journalist and blogger
Born
1980 45 years ago
Died
March 18th, 2009 16 years ago — 29 years old
Worked primarily as a journalist and blogger in Iran. Focused on civil rights issues and freedom of expression. Committed to reporting on social and political topics despite facing significant risks. Died in custody under suspicious circumstances, drawing attention to the treatment of journalists in Iran.
Continue ReadingPope Honorius III
Pope and influential church leader
Born
1148 877 years ago
Died
March 18th, 1227 798 years ago — 79 years old
Served as pope from 1216 to 1227, overseeing significant developments within the Catholic Church. Focused on reforming the church and addressing various political issues of the time. Worked closely with figures like Saint Francis of Assisi and supported the Fourth Crusade. Played a key role in the establishment of several religious orders. Advocated for the rights of the Church in relation to secular authorities.
Continue ReadingGeorge I of Greece
King of Greece, expanded territory
Born
December 24th, 1845 180 years ago
Died
March 18th, 1913 112 years ago — 67 years old
Reigned as king from 1863 until assassination in 1913. Oversaw the expansion of Greece's territory, including the acquisition of the Ionian Islands and parts of Thessaly. Strengthened the economy and modernized the armed forces during the late 19th century. Engaged in diplomatic efforts that contributed to Greece's involvement in the Balkan Wars. Assassination occurred in Thessaloniki, which led to political changes in the country.
Continue Reading