What Happened This Year 1918

Born in 1918

James Aldridge

Journalist and author, wrote 'The Sea and the Jungle'
Born
July 10th, 1918 106 years ago
Died
February 23rd, 2015 10 years ago — 96 years old

Worked as a journalist and author, producing several influential works. Wrote 'The Sea and the Jungle' which reflects experiences in the Amazon rainforest. Contributed articles to various publications, providing insight into issues ranging from war to culture. A significant figure in the literary world, highlighted the relationship between nature and humanity.

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Roy Krenkel

American illustrator of fantasy art
Born
July 11th, 1918 106 years ago
Died
1983 42 years ago — 65 years old

An illustrator active during the mid-20th century, contributed extensively to the genre of fantasy art. Worked with publishing companies to illustrate numerous works, including those of renowned authors in the science fiction and fantasy genres. Gained recognition for collaborations with famous writers and for his own original creations. Influenced the visual style of many fantasy narratives through distinctive artwork, particularly in book illustrations and magazine covers.

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Venetia Burney

Educator who named the planet Pluto
Born
July 11th, 1918 106 years ago
Died
2009 16 years ago — 91 years old

An English educator, contributed to astronomy by naming the planet Pluto at the age of 11. The name was suggested during a conversation with her grandfather, who was an avid astronomer. This proposal gained traction and was ultimately adopted by the astronomical community. Burney's suggestion reflected the mythological theme of naming planets after Roman gods. She pursued a career in education, teaching for several decades, and remained involved in discussions about astronomy and science education throughout her life.

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Alberto Ascari

Race car driver, two-time Formula One champion
Born
July 13th, 1918 106 years ago
Died
May 26th, 1955 69 years ago — 36 years old

Ascari was an Italian race car driver active in the 1940s and 1950s. Competing in Formula One, he became the first double world champion, securing titles in 1952 and 1953 with Ferrari. Ascari began his racing career in the post-World War II era, quickly gaining recognition for his skill and speed on the track. His tenure in Formula One established him as one of the premier drivers of his time, characterized by a series of significant victories and a partnership with Ferrari that led to notable success. Tragically, his career was cut short when he died in a racing accident in 1955 during a non-championship event in Monza, leaving behind a legacy in motorsport history.

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Ronald Bladen

Painter and sculptor of large-scale artworks
Born
July 13th, 1918 106 years ago
Died
1988 37 years ago — 70 years old

An American painter and sculptor, Bladen became distinguished for creating monumental works characterized by their scale and bold forms. Active during the mid-20th century, Bladen participated in a variety of exhibitions, showcasing his ability to merge abstract ideas with physical structures. His work is often associated with the movement of modernist sculpture, and he contributed significantly to the public art landscape in America. Bladen's pieces interacted with their environments, occupying both indoor and outdoor spaces, and were made from various materials, including metal and wood. His artistic philosophy emphasized the spatial experience and viewer interaction.

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Marcia Brown

Children's book author and illustrator
Born
July 13th, 1918 106 years ago
Died
April 28th, 2015 9 years ago — 96 years old

An American author and illustrator of children's literature, this individual created numerous beloved picture books. Much of the work focused on stories that highlighted cultural themes and moral lessons. Several of the books received recognition and awards, including the Caldecott Medal, which honors outstanding children's book illustrations.

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Fred Baur

Chemist, founder of Pringles
Born
July 14th, 1918 106 years ago
Died
2008 17 years ago — 90 years old

A chemist and inventor, developed the concept for a snack food that led to the creation of Pringles. Baur worked on formulating the unique potato chip as a more uniform and stackable product. His design allowed for improved packaging and distribution. The first canister of Pringles was released in 1968, forever changing the snack food industry. Baur's contributions included the use of specific blends of dehydrated potato flakes and the patented design of the Pringles can.

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Arthur Laurents

American playwright, director, screenwriter
Born
July 14th, 1918 106 years ago
Died
2011 14 years ago — 93 years old

A prominent playwright and screenwriter, contributed significantly to American theater and film. Best recognized for writing the book for the musical 'West Side Story' and the play 'See You Next Tuesday'. His works often featured complex characters and intricate storytelling. Directed productions on Broadway and received acclaim for revivals and adaptations. Also worked in television, creating and writing scripts for series that garnered critical praise. Received multiple awards including Tony Awards and a Drama Desk Award for contributions to theater.

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Ingmar Bergman

Swedish film director and screenwriter
Born
July 14th, 1918 106 years ago
Died
July 30th, 2007 17 years ago — 89 years old

Born in 1918, a prominent Swedish director, producer, and screenwriter. Focused on existential themes, psychological depth, and the human condition in cinema. Directed several acclaimed films, including 'The Seventh Seal' and 'Wild Strawberries'. Worked extensively in theater and had a significant influence on filmmaking. Known for innovative storytelling and unique visual style, which shaped modern cinema.

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