William Makepeace Thackeray

English author of Vanity Fair

William Makepeace Thackeray - English author of Vanity Fair
Born

July 18th, 1811
214 years ago

Died

December 24th, 1863
161 years ago — 52 years old

Category

Artists & Creatives

Country

United Kingdom

Links & References

An English author and poet, recognized for wit and social commentary. The most notable work includes 'Vanity Fair', a novel depicting English society during the early 19th century. Thackeray's writing often focused on themes of morality and class distinctions. He also edited and contributed to various periodicals, gaining popularity through serialized works. Born in Calcutta, India, Thackeray was educated in England, where he began his career as an illustrator before shifting to literature. His narratives often employed a satirical tone, shedding light on the hypocrisies of society.

Authored 'Vanity Fair'

Contributed to the Cornhill Magazine

Wrote 'The History of Pendennis'

Other People Born on July 18th

Ryan Cabrera

Singer-songwriter and guitarist; 'On the Way Down'
Born
July 18th, 1982 43 years ago

A singer-songwriter and guitarist emerged in the early 2000s music scene. Released debut album, 'Take It All Away', featuring single 'On the Way Down', which became a top 15 hit on the Billboard Hot 100. Continued to release music, including albums such as 'You Stand Watching'. Gained recognition through performances on television and tours.

Continue Reading

Jack Layton

Canadian politician and NDP leader
Born
July 18th, 1950 75 years ago
Died
August 22nd, 2011 13 years ago — 61 years old

Born in 1950, this politician served as the leader of the New Democratic Party (NDP) from 2003 until his death in 2011. During tenure, played a key role in shaping party policies and increasing its influence within Canadian politics. Advocated for social justice, environmental issues, and healthcare reform. Elected as a Member of Parliament for Toronto-Danforth in 2004, achieved significant electoral success in the 2011 federal elections, where the NDP became the official opposition. Left a legacy of dedication to public service and advocacy for marginalized communities.

Continue Reading

Peace Pilgrim

Mystic and activist for peace
Born
July 18th, 1908 117 years ago
Died
1981 44 years ago — 73 years old

A spiritual figure devoted to promoting peace, engaged in continuous walking across the United States to advocate for nonviolence and reconciliation. Undertook a pilgrimage in 1953, traversing thousands of miles on foot, sharing messages of peace and inner harmony with individuals and groups across the nation. Authored a book detailing her philosophy and experiences, gaining attention for her unwavering dedication to peace.

Continue Reading

Henri Salvador

French singer and guitarist
Born
July 18th, 1917 108 years ago
Died
2008 17 years ago — 91 years old

A prominent figure in French music, celebrated for a distinctive blend of jazz and traditional Brazilian bossa nova. Became popular in the 1940s and continued to influence music throughout the decades. Achieved acclaim for both singing and guitar performance, showcasing a unique vocal style and charisma. Released a multitude of albums, with notable works such as 'Les Étoiles' and 'Chante Hier Pour Aujourd'hui'. His contributions to music spanned over 60 years, leaving a lasting legacy in the French chanson genre.

Continue Reading

Bernard Pons

French politician and medical doctor
Born
July 18th, 1926 99 years ago
Died
2022 3 years ago — 96 years old

Served as a member of the French National Assembly from 1968 to 1997. Held ministerial positions, including Minister of Equipment and Ministry of Transport. Contributed to the development of infrastructure policies during tenure. Worked as a medical doctor early in life before transitioning into politics. Engaged in local and national politics, influencing various health and transportation issues.

Continue Reading

Sada Yacco

Japanese actress and dancer, first star
Born
July 18th, 1871 154 years ago
Died
1946 79 years ago — 75 years old

Pioneering Japanese actress and dancer gained prominence in the late 19th century. Started career in kabuki theater, later transitioned to Western-style performances and became an icon of the taisho era. Established a significant presence in the United States, where she introduced Japanese theatrical art to American audiences. Notably performed in productions that showcased traditional Japanese culture, enhancing cultural exchange between Japan and the West. Also contributed to the development of modern performance art in Japan.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on December 24th

Walter Bower

Scottish chronicler and historian
Born
1385 640 years ago
Died
December 24th, 1449 575 years ago — 64 years old

A Scottish chronicler who authored the 'Scotichronicon', a comprehensive history of Scotland from its legendary origins to the early 15th century. This work served as a crucial source for later historians and emphasized the importance of Scottish identity during a tumultuous period. Bower was also a monk at the Abbey of Inchcolm, and his chronicling efforts aimed to provide a narrative that unified Scottish history and culture. Through meticulous research and narrative style, Bower contributed to the understanding of Scotland's past in the context of medieval Europe.

Continue Reading

Martha Érika Alonso

Governor of Puebla, Mexico
Born
1973 52 years ago
Died
December 24th, 2018 6 years ago — 45 years old

Served as governor of Puebla from 2018 until her death in December of the same year. Alonso was the first woman to hold the position in Puebla's history. Prior to her governorship, she was involved in various political roles and was a representative in the local congress. Her tenure was marked by a focus on governance and public service, working on projects aimed at improving infrastructure and social conditions in the state.

Continue Reading

Syl Apps

Canadian pole vaulter and ice hockey player
Born
January 18th, 1915 110 years ago
Died
December 24th, 1998 26 years ago — 83 years old

A dual-sport athlete and politician, this individual excelled in pole vaulting and ice hockey. In pole vaulting, set multiple Canadian records and competed in the 1936 Berlin Olympics. As a player, participated in the National Hockey League (NHL) with the Toronto Maple Leafs and was part of the team that won the Stanley Cup in 1942. After retiring from sports, entered politics and served as a Member of Parliament in Canada.

Continue Reading

Frans de Munck

Dutch footballer and manager
Born
1922 103 years ago
Died
December 24th, 2010 14 years ago — 88 years old

Played as a defender for several clubs including Ajax Amsterdam and FC Utrecht. Managed multiple teams after retiring from playing, contributing to Dutch football development. Won the KNVB Cup during playing career with Ajax. Transitioned into coaching, leading teams in both the Netherlands and abroad, showcasing tactical knowledge.

Continue Reading

John Cantius

Polish scholar and theologian
Born
1390 635 years ago
Died
December 24th, 1473 551 years ago — 83 years old

A scholar and theologian, contributed significantly to education and religious thought in Poland during the 15th century. Founded the university in Cracow, which became a center for higher learning in central Europe. His teachings emphasized scholasticism and the study of philosophy and theology. Played a key role in the development of church education systems.

Continue Reading

Peter Lawford

English-American actor and producer
Born
September 7th, 1923 101 years ago
Died
December 24th, 1984 40 years ago — 61 years old

Born in 1923, this individual became an actor and producer in both England and America. He gained prominence during the 1940s and 1950s, appearing in multiple films and television shows. One notable association is with the Rat Pack, a group of entertainers that included Frank Sinatra and Dean Martin. This actor starred in classic films such as 'Ocean's 11' and 'The Long, Hot Summer' and worked alongside leading actresses of the era. Throughout the career, involvement in both film and television played a significant role in shaping the entertainment landscape.

Continue Reading