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
Richard Desmond
Publisher and businessman, Northern & Shell founder
Born
December 8th, 1951 74 years ago
Established Northern & Shell, a publishing company in the UK, which produced titles such as 'The Daily Express' and 'The Daily Star'. Engaged in various media ventures, including television production with Channel 5, acquired in 2010. Focused on expanding the company's portfolio in publishing and entertainment sectors throughout the 1990s and 2000s. Additionally involved in charitable efforts, emphasizing health and education causes.
Continue ReadingJames MacArthur
American actor in 'Hawaii Five-O'
Born
December 8th, 1937 88 years ago
Died
October 28th, 2010 15 years ago — 72 years old
An American actor, best known for roles in film and television. Gained recognition for portraying Danno in the television series 'Hawaii Five-O'. Also featured in various films including 'Kidnapped' and 'The Love Bug'. Began a career in acting at a young age and continued to be active in the industry for several decades, appearing in both guest roles and leading parts. Contributed to the arts through performance in various roles across different media.
Continue ReadingVictor Nosach
Chronicler of Russian trade union history
Born
December 8th, 1929 96 years ago
Died
May 7th, 2011 14 years ago — 81 years old
Contributed to the documentation and analysis of the history of workers and trade unions in Russia. Engaged in extensive research and writing to uncover the narratives of labor movements, focusing on the roles and experiences of workers throughout key historical periods. Published several works that provided insight into the struggles and achievements of trade unions, highlighting the socio-economic conditions of workers in Russia.
Continue ReadingJosh Christopher
American Basketball Player
Born
December 8th, 2001 24 years ago
A professional basketball player participated in college basketball at Arizona State University. Announced for the 2021 NBA Draft, entered after one season where averaged 14.3 points per game. Selected 24th overall by the Houston Rockets in the 2021 NBA Draft, started professional career in the NBA.
Continue ReadingCarmen Martín Gaite
Spanish author and poet with literary acclaim
Born
December 8th, 1925 100 years ago
Died
July 22nd, 2000 25 years ago — 74 years old
A prominent Spanish author and poet, contributions spanned novels, essays, and poetry. Achieved significant recognition for literary works that explored themes of identity, memory, and the human experience. Collaborated with other writers and participated in various literary movements. Won prestigious awards including the Premio Nadal and the Premio Príncipe de Asturias. Engaged actively in the literary community throughout the latter half of the 20th century, influencing contemporary Spanish literature.
Continue ReadingAlbert Gleizes
French painter and Cubist artist
Born
December 8th, 1881 144 years ago
Died
June 23rd, 1953 72 years ago — 71 years old
A prominent painter, contributed significantly to the development of the Cubist movement. Participated in various exhibitions, including the 1911 Salon d'Automne, which showcased early Cubist works. Expanded the ideas of Cubism through writings and artistic theories while also engaging in group exhibitions with other influential artists. Involved in projects that sought to integrate art and life, including decorative arts and architecture. Relocated to the United States during World War II, where he continued to produce art and teach.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on March 18th
William G. Moore Jr.
American general and military leader
Born
1920 105 years ago
Died
March 18th, 2012 13 years ago — 92 years old
Served as a general in the United States Army. Held various leadership positions during a military career spanning several decades. Played a significant role in military operations during conflicts such as the Vietnam War and held important command responsibilities within the Army. Retired with a distinguished career marked by promotions and recognitions for service.
Continue ReadingGuido Westerwelle
German politician and Vice-Chancellor
Born
December 27th, 1961 63 years ago
Died
March 18th, 2016 9 years ago — 54 years old
A German lawyer and politician served as the 15th Vice-Chancellor of Germany from 2009 to 2013. He held the position of Federal Minister of Foreign Affairs during the same period. Westerwelle was a prominent member of the Free Democratic Party (FDP) and played a significant role in shaping German foreign policy, focusing on human rights and international cooperation. He actively promoted liberal and progressive policies while advocating for civil liberties and European integration.
Continue ReadingAlfred Worden
Astronaut of Apollo 15 mission
Born
February 7th, 1932 93 years ago
Died
March 18th, 2020 5 years ago — 88 years old
Served as the command module pilot for Apollo 15, the fourth crewed mission to land on the moon. Conducted experiments and performed a spacewalk during the mission. Flew aboard the first flight of the Space Shuttle program, STS-1, as part of a simulated flight test. Worked as a test pilot for several aircraft and contributed to various aerospace projects throughout a military and NASA career.
Continue ReadingJohn FitzAlan
14th Earl of Arundel, English nobleman
Born
February 14th, 1408 617 years ago
Died
March 18th, 1272 753 years ago — -136 years old
Born in 1408, held the title of 14th Earl of Arundel. During the tumultuous period of the Wars of the Roses, aligned with the Yorkist faction. Played a significant role in the political landscape of England. Served as a Member of Parliament and engaged in several military campaigns on behalf of the king. Inherited vast estates and demonstrated capacity for management and governance.
Continue ReadingAnselm of Lucca
Italian bishop and theologian
Born
1036 989 years ago
Died
March 18th, 1086 939 years ago — 50 years old
Served as the bishop of Lucca and was an influential theologian during the 11th century. Contributed significantly to the development of scholasticism and wrote various works on faith and reason. Played a vital role in the church's relationship with the state, particularly during the Investiture Controversy. His theological writings emphasized the importance of faith and reason in understanding divine mysteries.
Continue ReadingMatthew III Csák
Hungarian oligarch during the 14th century
Died
March 18th, 1321 704 years ago — None years old
A powerful Hungarian noble of the 13th and 14th centuries, significant for controlling vast territories in Hungary. Held the title of Lord of Trnava and exercised considerable influence over various regions. Engaged in conflicts with the royal authority, notably opposing the rule of Charles I of Anjou. His reign included efforts to consolidate power and autonomy, which ultimately contributed to the turbulent political landscape of Hungary during this period.
Continue Reading