What Happened This Year 1918

Born in 1918

Hank Jones

American jazz pianist and composer
Born
July 31st, 1918 106 years ago
Died
May 16th, 2010 14 years ago — 91 years old

A prominent jazz pianist and composer, contributed significantly to the jazz genre. Worked as a bandleader and collaborated with various notable musicians throughout a long career in music. Recorded extensively and performed with prominent artists including Ella Fitzgerald and Dizzy Gillespie. Gained recognition for improvisational skills and style in both trio and big band formats. Received several awards for contributions to jazz, including a Grammy Award.

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T. J. Jemison

American minister and civil rights activist
Born
August 1st, 1918 106 years ago
Died
2013 12 years ago — 95 years old

An American minister who played a significant role in civil rights activism. Active in the 1950s and 1960s, focused on promoting voting rights and racial equality. Served as the president of the Baton Rouge chapter of the NAACP, leading initiatives to dismantle segregation in Louisiana. Instrumental in organizing one of the first bus boycotts in the Southern United States, challenging racial discrimination in public transportation.

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Eddie Jefferson

Jazz Singer-Songwriter with 'Vocalese'
Born
August 3rd, 1918 106 years ago
Died
May 9th, 1979 45 years ago — 60 years old

A prominent figure in jazz music, this singer-songwriter contributed significantly to the genre of vocalese, where lyrics are written to jazz instrumental solos. Rising to fame in the 1940s and 1950s, he worked alongside notable musicians and bands, including the likes of the Count Basie Orchestra. Jefferson's innovative style and unique interpretations of classics helped to popularize vocal arrangements in jazz. His work influenced many artists that followed. His performance at the 1956 Newport Jazz Festival showcased his talent and solidified his place in jazz history.

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Larry Haines

American actor in daytime dramas
Born
August 3rd, 1918 106 years ago
Died
2008 17 years ago — 90 years old

An American actor with a prolific career in radio and television, gained prominence through performances in daytime dramas. Played the character of Alan Quartermaine on the soap opera "General Hospital," contributing significantly to the show's success. Also appeared on "The Guiding Light" and other notable series during a lengthy career that spanned several decades. Recognized for contributions to the craft of acting, especially in the genre of soap operas.

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Brian Crozier

Historian and journalist, wrote on history
Born
August 4th, 1918 106 years ago
Died
August 4th, 2012 12 years ago — 94 years old

Born in 1918, the individual was a historian and journalist with a focus on the historical analysis of political issues. The work spanned several decades and involved contributions to various publications in both Australia and the United Kingdom. The individual held positions at several prominent organisations and authored several books that explored themes of war, literature, and politics. These writings often reflected deep insights into the political climate of the time, helping to shape discussions and debates in historical contexts.

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Betty Oliphant

Ballerina, co-founder of National Ballet School
Born
August 5th, 1918 106 years ago
Died
July 12th, 2004 20 years ago — 85 years old

An influential ballerina, contributed significantly to the ballet community in Canada. Co-founded Canada's National Ballet School in 1959, providing a platform for ballet education and nurturing talent. Served as the director of the school for many years, helping to establish rigorous training programs and fostering a new generation of dancers. Contributed to the growth of ballet in Canada through teaching and choreography, shaping the nation's dance landscape.

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Tom Drake

Actor and singer, appeared in 'Meet Me in St. Louis'
Born
August 5th, 1918 106 years ago
Died
August 11th, 1982 42 years ago — 64 years old

Born in 1918, an American actor and singer gained prominence in the 1940s. Gained recognition for the role of John Truitt in the beloved musical film 'Meet Me in St. Louis.' Appeared in several MGM productions during the Golden Age of Hollywood. Transitioned to television in the 1950s, earning roles in series such as 'The Adventures of Ozzie and Harriet.' Continued to perform in various stage productions and worked extensively in regional theater throughout the latter part of the 20th century. Known for a warm stage presence and a smooth singing voice, maintained an active career in the entertainment industry well into later life.

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Norman Granz

Record producer and jazz promoter
Born
August 6th, 1918 106 years ago
Died
November 22nd, 2001 23 years ago — 83 years old

Born in 1918, a significant figure in the world of jazz music, particularly recognized for founding the Verve Records label. Helped to establish the careers of many prominent jazz musicians and played a crucial role in promoting their work. Managed iconic performances and jazz festivals, showcasing talent across the globe. Advocated for civil rights within the music industry, ensuring that musicians received fair treatment. His contributions facilitated the accessibility of jazz to wider audiences, blending various styles and artists.

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C. Buddingh'

Dutch poet and translator
Born
August 7th, 1918 106 years ago
Died
1985 40 years ago — 67 years old

Born in the Netherlands, Buddingh' was a prolific poet and translator. His literary works spanned several collections, where he expressed themes of everyday life and the intricacies of human experiences. As a translator, he contributed significantly to the introduction of international poetry to Dutch audiences. Buddingh' received various awards for his poetry, establishing a prominent place in the Dutch literary scene.

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