What Happened This Year 1918

Born in 1918

Katherine Johnson

American mathematician and physicist
Born
August 26th, 1918 106 years ago
Died
February 24th, 2020 5 years ago — 101 years old

A physicist and mathematician contributed significantly to the United States space program, particularly during the early years of NASA. She calculated flight trajectories for the first American in space, Alan Shepard, and provided crucial calculations for the Apollo 11 mission, which landed the first humans on the Moon. In 2015, received the Presidential Medal of Freedom for contributions to the fields of mathematics and aerospace.

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Jelle Zijlstra

Dutch economist and Prime Minister
Born
August 27th, 1918 106 years ago
Died
2001 24 years ago — 83 years old

An economist and politician from the Netherlands, served as Prime Minister from 1967 to 1971. Played a significant role in Dutch economic policy during a period of economic growth and modernization. Also held the position of Minister of Finance and contributed to the establishment of the Netherlands Bank. His tenure was marked by initiatives to improve fiscal stability and economic reform.

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Ted Williams

Baseball player, manager, and Hall of Famer
Born
August 30th, 1918 106 years ago
Died
July 5th, 2002 22 years ago — 83 years old

An American baseball player and manager, achieved prominence in Major League Baseball (MLB) with the Boston Red Sox. Played as an outfielder between 1939 and 1960. Notably, recorded a career batting average of .344, with 521 home runs. Served in the military during World War II and the Korean War, missing nearly five seasons. Managed the Washington Senators from 1969 to 1971. Achieved induction into the National Baseball Hall of Fame in 1966.

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Alan Jay Lerner

Songwriter and composer of musicals
Born
August 31st, 1918 106 years ago
Died
June 14th, 1986 38 years ago — 67 years old

A prominent American songwriter and librettist, contributed significantly to the world of musical theater. Collaborated with composer Frederick Loewe, creating enduring works that are celebrated for their melodies and lyrics. Famous works include 'My Fair Lady', 'Camelot', and 'Brigadoon'. The collaboration established a standard for musical storytelling. Received numerous accolades throughout a prolific career in theater, including Tony Awards and an Academy Award.

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Allen Drury

Journalist and author of 'Advise and Consent'
Born
September 2nd, 1918 106 years ago
Died
September 2nd, 1998 26 years ago — 80 years old

A significant figure in American literature, this individual gained prominence as a journalist and novelist. The work 'Advise and Consent', published in 1959, achieved critical acclaim and won the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction in 1960. This novel focused on political intrigue and the machinations of Washington, D.C., portraying the struggles within the U.S. Senate. Beyond fiction, contributions included reporting for various newspapers and influential commentary on significant political issues of the time. The narrative style reflected a deep understanding of political dynamics and human behavior within government.

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Helen Wagner

American actress on As the World Turns
Born
September 3rd, 1918 106 years ago
Died
May 1st, 2010 14 years ago — 91 years old

An accomplished actress, her career spanned over seven decades, prominently featured in the role of Nancy Hughes on the soap opera 'As the World Turns'. The character became a significant part of daytime television history, and Wagner's portrayal contributed to the show's long run from 1956 to 2010. Wagner's work in the soap opera genre established her as a beloved figure in American television.

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Gerald Wilson

Trumpet player and jazz composer
Born
September 4th, 1918 106 years ago
Died
September 8th, 2014 10 years ago — 96 years old

This individual was a prominent trumpet player and jazz composer, contributing significantly to the jazz genre over several decades. Active in the music scene from the late 1930s, he collaborated with various influential artists and bands, including the Count Basie Orchestra and the Duke Ellington Orchestra. He led his own bands and produced numerous albums that showcased his innovative compositions. His work earned recognition and respect in the music community, influencing many musicians. Later career highlights included performances at major jazz festivals and accolades for compositions that blended different musical styles.

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Paul Harvey

Radio host and news commentator
Born
September 4th, 1918 106 years ago
Died
February 28th, 2009 16 years ago — 90 years old

A prominent American radio host and commentator, significant contributions included delivering news and commentary with a distinctive style that captured audiences. Developed an influential radio program, reaching millions of listeners through engaging storytelling and insightful perspectives. The show, 'The Rest of the Story,' aired for decades, exploring nuanced narratives behind news events and figures. Spent over 60 years in broadcasting, establishing a legacy as a beloved voice in American media.

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Luis Alcoriza

Mexican actor and film director
Born
September 5th, 1918 106 years ago
Died
1992 33 years ago — 74 years old

An influential figure in Mexican cinema, contributed as an actor, director, and screenwriter. Directed films that reflected social and cultural issues in Mexico. Collaborated with prominent filmmakers and artists of the time, showcasing both artistic vision and narrative depth. Was involved in the film industry for several decades, contributing to the growth and recognition of Mexican film. Continued to be active in theater, further enhancing the theatrical arts in Mexico City.

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