Zoltán Halmay
Hungarian swimmer and Olympic medalist
Competed in swimming events in the early 20th century, achieving success in both the Olympics and World Championships. Participated in three Olympic Games from 1900 to 1908. Won multiple medals in freestyle and relay events, contributing to the prominence of Hungarian swimming on the international stage. Established numerous national records during his career, further solidifying a legacy within the sport.
Won a gold medal in the 4x200m freestyle relay at the 1906 Intercalated Games
Secured a silver medal in the 1500m freestyle at the 1900 Paris Olympics
Achieved bronze in the 4x100m freestyle relay at the 1908 London Olympics
Other People Born on June 18th
Alexander Wetmore
Ornithologist; authored numerous studies
Born
June 18th, 1886 139 years ago
Died
December 7th, 1978 47 years ago — 92 years old
Contributed significant research in ornithology and paleontology. Served as the chief ornithologist of the U.S. Biological Survey. Worked at the Smithsonian Institution for over four decades, leading advancements in bird study and conservation. Authored several key publications, including comprehensive works on North American birds. His studies helped establish foundational knowledge in avian ecology. His work included critical assessments of migratory patterns, taxonomy, and habitat requirements.
Continue ReadingTibor Rubin
Medal of Honor recipient and soldier
Born
June 18th, 1929 96 years ago
Died
December 5th, 2015 10 years ago — 86 years old
Born in Hungary, served in the U.S. Army during the Korean War. Demonstrated bravery in combat while assigned to the 8th Cavalry Regiment. Captured in 1950 and held as a prisoner of war for 27 months. Faced harsh conditions, continued to assist fellow prisoners. Received the Medal of Honor in 2005 for his heroism and selflessness during the war. Later moved to California, where he lived until his death in 2015.
Continue ReadingTakeoff
American rapper with Migos
Born
June 18th, 1994 31 years ago
Died
November 1st, 2022 3 years ago — 28 years old
A prominent rapper, part of the hip-hop trio Migos, contributed significantly to the genre's popularity in the 2010s. Migos achieved mainstream success with the single 'Bad and Boujee,' which topped the Billboard Hot 100 chart in 2017. The group's innovative style and catchy hooks influenced many artists and reshaped the rap landscape. Migos released several critically acclaimed albums, showcasing a blend of trap and Southern hip-hop. Takeoff was recognized for his unique flow and lyrical contributions, often taking the spotlight in collective performances.
Continue ReadingHenry Clay Folger
Businessman and philanthropist, Folger Library
Born
June 18th, 1857 168 years ago
Died
1930 95 years ago — 73 years old
An American businessman and philanthropist, contributed significantly to the field of literature through the establishment of a notable library. Founded the Folger Shakespeare Library in Washington, D.C., which houses the largest collection of William Shakespeare's works. The library opened to the public in 1932 and has served as a major center for research and education on Shakespeare and his time.
Continue ReadingMiklós Horthy
Hungarian admiral and Regent of Hungary
Born
June 18th, 1868 157 years ago
Died
February 9th, 1957 68 years ago — 88 years old
Served as the Regent of Hungary from 1920 to 1944. Horthy was an admiral in the Austro-Hungarian Navy during World War I and played a significant role in the establishment of the interwar period in Hungary. His leadership was marked by the restoration of the monarchy without a king, as well as economic and political instability. Horthy aligned Hungary with the Axis Powers during World War II, which included the implementation of anti-Jewish laws. Following the war, he was captured by the Allies and exiled, living in Portugal until his death in 1957.
Continue ReadingEleanor of England
Countess of Bar and royal figure
Born
June 18th, 1269 756 years ago
Died
August 29th, 1298 727 years ago — 29 years old
Born in 1269, served as Countess of Bar. Married to Baldwin II, Count of Bar, strengthening alliances between England and the region. Daughter of Edward I of England and Eleanor of Castile, contributed to diplomatic ties in royal circles. Raised in the royal court, participated in various political negotiations throughout her life.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on May 20th
Clara Schumann
Pianist and composer with notable concertos
Born
September 13th, 1819 206 years ago
Died
May 20th, 1896 129 years ago — 76 years old
A prominent pianist and composer, she gained recognition during the 19th century for virtuosic piano performances and innovative compositions. As a child prodigy, she began performing publicly at the age of nine, showcasing exceptional talent. In addition to a successful career as a performer, she composed several works for piano, chamber music, and songs. Schumann was one of the first women to make a significant impact on the concert stage and often collaborated with leading musicians of her time. She was also instrumental in promoting the works of her husband, Robert Schumann, and Johannes Brahms. Throughout her life, she upheld a substantial presence in the music world, inspiring future generations of musicians.
Continue ReadingJon Pertwee
English actor and Doctor Who star
Born
July 7th, 1919 106 years ago
Died
May 20th, 1996 29 years ago — 76 years old
An English actor gained prominence through significant roles in television and film. Best recognized for portraying the Third Doctor in the long-running sci-fi series Doctor Who, the performance spanned from 1970 to 1974. Pertwee's career included various works in theater, radio, and television, showcasing versatility in character roles. His portrayal of the Doctor brought a blend of charm and authority, influencing the iconic character's future development. Apart from Doctor Who, Pertwee starred in the sitcom Worzel Gummidge as the title character, a scarecrow who comes to life, which became a beloved series in the UK.
Continue ReadingWilliam Seawell
American general and military leader
Born
January 27th, 1918 107 years ago
Died
May 20th, 2005 20 years ago — 87 years old
Born in 1918, a prominent general served in the United States Army. Participated in various military operations throughout a notable career. Achieved the rank of major general, overseeing significant divisions and contributing to strategic military planning. Served in key leadership roles during the Cold War era, focusing on military preparedness and national security. Retired with a legacy of service that influenced military operations.
Continue ReadingPhilipp Lenard
Physicist, Nobel Prize winner in Physics
Born
June 7th, 1862 163 years ago
Died
May 20th, 1947 78 years ago — 84 years old
A Slovak-German physicist contributed significantly to the field of physics with a focus on cathode rays. Conducted important experiments and formulated theories on the properties of electrons and their behavior in various mediums. Received the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1905 for work on cathode rays and their application in demonstrating the existence of subatomic particles. Held academic positions at various institutions and influenced the trajectory of experimental physics during the early 20th century.
Continue ReadingColumba of Rieti
Italian Dominican sister and mystic
Born
February 2nd, 1467 558 years ago
Died
May 20th, 1501 524 years ago — 34 years old
Born in Italy in 1467, a Dominican sister focused on a spiritual life marked by mysticism and religious devotion. Primarily associated with the convent of Santa Maria in Rieti, played a significant role in the spiritual lives of her community and visitors. Engaged in contemplative prayer and served as a spiritual advisor, guiding others in their faith. Died in 1501, leaving behind a legacy of religious commitment.
Continue ReadingJean-Pierre Rampal
Flute player and classical musician
Born
January 7th, 1922 103 years ago
Died
May 20th, 2000 25 years ago — 78 years old
Renowned for contributions to the classical music scene, distinguished in the field of flute performance. Achieved a celebrated career by collaborating with various orchestras and artists worldwide. Rampal recorded over 100 albums and expanded the solo flute repertoire through innovative arrangements and compositions. Known for pioneering the flute as a solo instrument in concert settings and increasing its popularity in classical music circles.
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