William Saroyan
American novelist and playwright
A significant writer during the 20th century, Saroyan authored numerous novels, plays, and short stories. He achieved recognition for works that depict the struggles and experiences of ordinary people. His most acclaimed works include the Pulitzer Prize-winning play 'The Time of Your Life' and the novel 'The Human Comedy'. Saroyan's writing often reflected his Armenian heritage and his experiences during the Great Depression. His unique narrative style combined realism with elements of joy and sorrow.
Won the Pulitzer Prize for Drama in 1940
Published the novel 'The Human Comedy' in 1943
Wrote the play 'The Time of Your Life', awarded the Pulitzer Prize
Other People Born on August 31st
Noble Willingham
American actor, best known for 'Midnight Run'
Born
August 31st, 1931 95 years ago
Died
January 17th, 2004 22 years ago — 72 years old
An American actor who gained recognition for roles in television and film. Appeared in the 1988 film 'Midnight Run' alongside Robert De Niro and Charles Grodin. Portrayed the character C.D. Parker in the television series 'Walker, Texas Ranger' from 1993 to 2001. Also featured in various episodes of 'The Wonder Years', showcasing versatility in both comedic and dramatic roles. Willingham's career spanned several decades, contributing to both film and television.
Continue ReadingRichard Basehart
American actor in 'Moby Dick'
Born
August 31st, 1914 112 years ago
Died
September 17th, 1984 42 years ago — 70 years old
An American actor began career in the 1940s and gained prominence through performances in film and television. Starred in the classic film 'Moby Dick' as Captain Ahab and received acclaim for the role. Appeared in the television series 'Voyage to the Bottom of the Sea' as Admiral Harriman Nelson, becoming a recognizable figure in sci-fi television. Worked with notable directors and actors throughout career, contributing to significant productions in various genres.
Continue ReadingMark Johnston
Canadian swimmer, Olympic competitor
Born
August 31st, 1979 47 years ago
Competed in swimming at the 2000 Sydney Olympic Games. Specialized in freestyle events and participated in multiple national championships. Achieved notable rankings in various international swimming competitions, contributing to the Canadian swimming team's reputation.
Continue ReadingRamon Magsaysay
Filipino politician and President
Born
August 31st, 1907 119 years ago
Died
March 17th, 1957 69 years ago — 49 years old
Served as the 7th President of the Philippines from 1953 until his death in 1957. Held a reputation for promoting social justice and integrity in government. Focused on improving the lives of the Filipino people through land reform and infrastructure development. Championed the cause of the common man and established programs aimed at alleviating poverty and fostering education.
Continue ReadingHarald Ertl
Race car driver and journalist
Born
August 31st, 1948 78 years ago
Died
April 7th, 1982 44 years ago — 33 years old
Competed in Formula One during the late 1970s and early 1980s. Participated in 29 Grands Prix, with a best finish of sixth place. Also worked as a journalist, providing insights and analysis on motorsport events. His tenure in racing was cut short by an untimely death in a plane crash.
Continue ReadingSanford Meisner
Acting teacher, developed Meisner technique
Born
August 31st, 1905 121 years ago
Died
February 2nd, 1997 29 years ago — 91 years old
An American actor and acting coach, played a pivotal role in the development of the Meisner Technique, a widely influential method of acting that emphasizes emotional authenticity and improvisation. Founded the Neighborhood Playhouse School of the Theatre in New York City, which became a renowned institution for training actors. Taught numerous successful actors and left a legacy that continues to shape acting education.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on May 18th
Jacque Fresco
Engineer and futurist, The Venus Project
Born
March 13th, 1916 110 years ago
Died
May 18th, 2017 9 years ago — 101 years old
An engineer and social inventor focused on designing sustainable cities and a resource-based economy. Developed The Venus Project, which presents a vision for a potential sustainable future through innovative technology and urban planning concepts. Advocated for the redesign of society based on rationality, efficiency, and sustainability. Worked towards raising awareness about social issues and the potential for human advancement through integrative engineering solutions.
Continue ReadingElias Ashmole
Astrologer and politician with antiquities journal
Born
May 23rd, 1617 409 years ago
Died
May 18th, 1692 334 years ago — 74 years old
An English astrologer and politician, contributed significantly to the study of astrology and antiquities. Served as a key figure in the founding of the Ashmolean Museum in Oxford, becoming one of the earliest public museums in the world. Authored 'Theatrum Chemicum Brittanicum', a compilation of alchemical texts, which remains a crucial resource for historians of chemistry and astrology. His interest in antiquities led to notable contributions to the historical understanding of various artifacts.
Continue ReadingJeannette Rankin
Social worker and first female congresswoman
Born
June 11th, 1880 146 years ago
Died
May 18th, 1973 53 years ago — 92 years old
A prominent figure in American politics and social work, this individual became the first woman elected to the United States Congress in 1916. Serving as a Republican representative from Montana, this individual advocated for pacifism, women's suffrage, and labor reforms. Initially elected before the passage of the Nineteenth Amendment, this individual was outspoken against World War I and maintained a strong anti-war stance throughout the career. Re-elected to Congress in 1940, this individual continued to champion peace and social justice, reflecting personal beliefs on disarmament and social equity.
Continue ReadingDolla
American rapper known for 'Who the F**k Is That?'
Born
1987 39 years ago
Died
May 18th, 2009 17 years ago — 22 years old
Born in the United States, this rapper gained recognition for his single 'Who the F**k Is That?' in the late 2000s. The song showcased a unique style that contributed to the rising popularity of hip-hop during that era. Collaborations with artists like T-Pain and Akon also marked a significant part of his career. Despite a promising start, the life of this rapper ended tragically in 2009 when he was killed in a shooting in Los Angeles.
Continue ReadingEric IX of Sweden
King of Sweden, established Christianity
Died
May 18th, 1160 866 years ago — None years old
Ruled as King of Sweden from 1156 until death in 1160. Played a significant role in the Christianization of Sweden, promoting the spread of Christianity among the Swedish people. Successfully formed alliances with neighboring regions and strengthened the monarchy's authority. Undertook military campaigns to protect and expand the realm, including conflicts with both internal rivals and external threats. His reign contributed to the establishment of Sweden as a more unified state.
Continue ReadingLothar Schmid
German chess player and arbiter
Born
May 10th, 1928 98 years ago
Died
May 18th, 2013 13 years ago — 85 years old
Accomplished chess player and international arbiter. Played in numerous tournaments throughout the 20th century. Achieved the title of International Arbiter in 1984. Contributed to various chess publications and served as an organizer for major chess events. Actively participated in the chess community, promoting the game across different platforms.
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