What Happened This Year 1918
Born in 1918
Percy Rodriguez
Born on June 13, 1918, an actor and voice artist contributed significantly to the entertainment industry. Rodriguez provided the voice for several iconic animated characters and was recognized for his work in film and television. His voice work in 'The Jetsons' as the character of Mr. Spacely highlighted his talent. He also appeared in various live-action shows including 'Mission: Impossible' and 'The Green Hornet', showcasing versatility and skill in performance.
Continue ReadingHelmut Lent
Served as a Luftwaffe pilot during World War II, achieving notable success as a night fighter ace. Credited with 110 aerial victories, Lent became one of the most decorated German pilots of the war. He received the Knight's Cross of the Iron Cross with Oak Leaves for his achievements. His expertise in aerial combat contributed to the effectiveness of the Nachtjagd (night fighter) units, especially in the defense against Allied bombers. Lent's tenure in the Luftwaffe exemplified the strategies of air combat during this period.
Continue ReadingFrançois Tombalbaye
Served as the first President of Chad from 1960 until 1975. Initially a schoolteacher, engaged in various academic roles before entering politics. Held positions within the Chadian government and worked to establish independence and modern governance structures. His administration faced significant challenges, including internal conflict and opposition. Tombalbaye's rule ended with his assassination in 1975, marking a pivotal moment in Chad's political landscape.
Continue ReadingAjahn Chah
Born in Thailand in 1918, became a prominent figure in the Thai Forest Tradition of Theravada Buddhism. Established Wat Pah Pong and Wat Nong Pah Pong, attracting many monks and lay practitioners. Emphasized mindfulness and meditation techniques, spreading teachings beyond Thailand. Contributed to the development of Western Buddhist practices through his disciples. Engaged in teaching and writing on Buddhism until death in 1992.
Continue ReadingAlf Francis
Born in West Prussia, a motor racing mechanic and constructor contributed significantly to the sport's development in the mid-20th century. Relocated to England, involved with various racing teams including the notable Cooper Car Company. Played a pivotal role in designing and building race cars that competed in prestigious events. Collaborated with prominent racers and supported the motorsport community through technical innovation.
Continue ReadingFranco Modigliani
Born in Italy, an economist and academic contributed significantly to economic theory. Played a key role in developing the life-cycle hypothesis of savings, influencing how individuals plan for retirement. His work laid the groundwork for understanding consumer behavior and capital markets. The research led to numerous developments in macroeconomic policy and personal finance. Received the Nobel Prize in Economic Sciences in 1985 for his contributions to economic analysis.
Continue ReadingJerome Karle
A chemist whose research focused on crystallography, contributed significantly to the development of methods to determine molecular structures. Worked at the U.S. Naval Research Laboratory and later at the University of Michigan. Received the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1985 for pioneering contributions to the field. Published numerous papers, advancing the understanding of chemical and molecular science.
Continue ReadingEddie Lopat
Played as a left-handed pitcher in Major League Baseball from 1944 to 1955. Spent time with teams such as the Chicago White Sox, New York Yankees, and Philadelphia Phillies. Won three consecutive World Series titles with the Yankees from 1949 to 1951. Selected for the American League All-Star team in 1951. Transitioned to coaching after retirement, contributing to the development of players.
Continue ReadingJosephine Webb
Born in 1918, an American engineer contributed to advancements in telecommunications and computing. Webb developed innovative technologies that improved communication systems. Education included a degree in electrical engineering. A prominent role was at an organization focused on developing groundbreaking electronic systems for military and commercial applications. Webb's career spanned several decades, during which numerous patents were obtained, showcasing leadership in engineering practices and fostering collaboration among teams to solve complex technical challenges.
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