What Happened This Year 1918

Born in 1918

Josephine Webb

American engineer with significant contributions
Born
June 21st, 1918 106 years ago
Died
2017 8 years ago — 99 years old

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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Tibor Szele

Hungarian mathematician and scholar
Born
June 21st, 1918 106 years ago
Died
April 5th, 1955 69 years ago — 36 years old

Contributed significantly to the fields of mathematics and set theory. Worked extensively on combinatorial set theory and made advances in the axiomatic foundations of mathematics. Published numerous papers, influencing mathematical research and education in Hungary. Also served as a professor, guiding students in advanced mathematical concepts.

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Yeoh Ghim Seng

Acting President of Singapore
Born
June 22nd, 1918 106 years ago
Died
June 3rd, 1993 31 years ago — 74 years old

Born in 1918, this politician served as the acting president of Singapore in 1965. In this role, oversaw the transition of Singapore from a state of Malaysia to full independence. Previously held various governmental positions including the Minister for Health and served as a member of parliament. Active in the creation of policies that shaped Singapore's early governance.

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Cicely Saunders

Pioneer in hospice care and palliative medicine
Born
June 22nd, 1918 106 years ago
Died
July 14th, 2005 19 years ago — 87 years old

A nurse, social worker, and physician, dedicated her career to the development of hospice care and palliative medicine. Established the first modern hospice, St. Christopher's Hospice, in London in 1967, providing specialized medical, emotional, and spiritual support for terminally ill patients and their families. Authored several influential texts on pain management and end-of-life care, influencing practices worldwide. Promoted the importance of quality of life for patients facing serious illnesses.

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Yong Nyuk Lin

Singaporean Minister for Education
Born
June 24th, 1918 106 years ago
Died
June 29th, 2012 12 years ago — 94 years old

Held significant positions in Singapore's education system and business sector. Served as Minister for Education from 1959 to 1963, contributing to the development of educational policies during Singapore's early years of independence. Played a pivotal role in shaping the education landscape, emphasizing the importance of education in national development. Involved in various business ventures, including leadership in several companies, promoting economic growth.

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P. H. Newby

English soldier and acclaimed author
Born
June 25th, 1918 106 years ago
Died
September 6th, 1997 27 years ago — 79 years old

P. H. Newby served as a soldier during World War II and later pursued a career in literature. He published several novels and became recognized for his storytelling abilities. One of the significant works includes 'Something to Answer For', which received critical acclaim and won the 1960 Somerset Maugham Award. His contributions to literature reflected a deep engagement with themes of identity and narrative, rooted in his experiences.

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J. B. Fuqua

Entrepreneur and philanthropist
Born
June 26th, 1918 106 years ago
Died
2006 19 years ago — 88 years old

An American entrepreneur made significant contributions to the telecommunications industry. Founded Fuqua Industries, which expanded into areas such as plastics, packaging, and paper products. Actively engaged in philanthropy, establishing the Fuqua Foundation, which focused on education and health initiatives. Contributed to numerous educational institutions and supported various charitable causes throughout his life.

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Adolph Kiefer

Swimmer and Olympic gold medalist
Born
June 27th, 1918 106 years ago
Died
2017 8 years ago — 99 years old

An accomplished swimmer, excelled in backstroke events during the 1930s. Secured a gold medal at the 1936 Berlin Olympics in the 100-meter backstroke. Dominated national competitions, earning multiple titles and setting numerous world records. Post-competition career included contributions to swimming through coaching and innovation in swimming gear.

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William Whitelaw

Scottish-English Deputy Prime Minister
Born
June 28th, 1918 106 years ago
Died
1999 26 years ago — 81 years old

A prominent political figure in the United Kingdom, served as Deputy Prime Minister under Margaret Thatcher from 1979 to 1981. Held the position of Secretary of State for Northern Ireland from 1970 to 1972, playing a significant role during a tumultuous period in the region's history. He was instrumental in peace negotiations and legislative developments during his tenure. Elevated to the peerage as the 1st Viscount Whitelaw in 1990, continued to influence British politics until his retirement.

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