Yuya Osako
Japanese footballer, FC Köln forward
This footballer began his professional career with the J. League club, Kashima Antlers, and contributed to their 2011 league championship title. In 2014, moved to Germany to join 1. FC Köln in the Bundesliga. Represented the Japan national team in multiple international tournaments, including the FIFA World Cup and AFC Asian Cup. Played a key role in Japan's victory in the 2011 AFC Asian Cup, scoring important goals during the tournament.
Won the 2011 AFC Asian Cup with Japan
Competed in the 2014 and 2018 FIFA World Cups
Scored in the 2011 J. League Championship final
Other People Born on May 18th
Fred Saberhagen
American author of science fiction novels
Born
May 18th, 1930 95 years ago
Died
June 29th, 2007 18 years ago — 77 years old
A soldier and author, contributed significantly to the science fiction genre through imaginative narratives and creative world-building. Gained prominence with the 'Berserker' series, which explored themes of artificial intelligence and conflict across galaxies. Other notable works include 'The Lost Swords' series and collaborations with fellow authors on anthologies and novels. His stories often featured intricate plots and philosophical dilemmas, appealing to a wide audience of science fiction enthusiasts.
Continue ReadingJay Wells
Ice Hockey Player and Coach
Born
May 18th, 1959 66 years ago
Played as a defenseman in the National Hockey League (NHL) for multiple teams including the New York Rangers, Los Angeles Kings, and Buffalo Sabres. Transitioned to coaching after retirement from professional play, contributing to various junior and minor league teams. Participated in a total of over 700 NHL games during a career spanning more than a decade.
Continue ReadingGiovanni Falcone
Italian judge against organized crime
Born
May 18th, 1939 86 years ago
Died
May 23rd, 1992 33 years ago — 53 years old
A prominent Italian judge and prosecutor, dedicated efforts focused on fighting organized crime, particularly the Mafia. Worked in the Anti-Mafia Commission and conducted high-profile investigations that led to significant convictions. Implemented the use of wiretaps as a legal tool in Italy. Collaborated with international law enforcement to combat Mafia operations. Assassinated in 1992 due to relentless work against Mafia activities.
Continue ReadingW. G. Sebald
Novelist known for 'The Emigrants'
Born
May 18th, 1944 81 years ago
Died
December 14th, 2001 24 years ago — 57 years old
An influential writer, focused on themes of memory, exile, and the impact of history. Worked primarily in German and was awarded several literary prizes. Utilized a unique narrative style, blending fiction with essays and photographs. Spent a significant part of his life in England, where he taught and published extensively. 'The Emigrants', a seminal work, explored the lives of displaced individuals and their ties to the past. Other notable works include 'Austerlitz' and 'Vertigo', which delve into similar themes.
Continue ReadingNicholas II of Russia
Last Emperor of Russia before 1917
Born
May 18th, 1868 157 years ago
Died
1918 108 years ago — 50 years old
Born in 1868, the last Emperor of Russia ruled from 1894 until his abdication in 1917 during the Russian Revolution. Nicholas II faced numerous challenges, including military defeats in World War I and widespread social unrest. His reign saw the fall of the Russian Empire, and he and his family were executed by Bolsheviks in 1918. Historically significant, his reign marked the end of over three centuries of Romanov rule.
Continue ReadingOmar Khayyám
Persian mathematician, astronomer, poet
Born
May 18th, 1048 977 years ago
Died
December 4th, 1131 894 years ago — 83 years old
Contributions to mathematics include advancements in algebra and the development of the geometric method for solving cubic equations. As an astronomer, contributed to the creation of a more accurate calendar, known as the Jalali calendar, which was more precise than the Gregorian calendar. Poetry expressed themes of love, nature, and existential thought, with the Rubaiyat serving as one of the most recognized works, later translated into many languages. This work earned a significant place in world literature and inspired numerous adaptations.
Continue Reading