What Happened This Year 1918
Born in 1918
Phil Lamason
Served as a pilot in the Royal New Zealand Air Force during World War II. Participated in missions in the Pacific theater and became a prisoner of war after being shot down. During captivity, led a group of Allied airmen in escape efforts from a Japanese prison camp. Post-war, received recognition for bravery and leadership. Contributed to veterans' organizations, supporting fellow servicemen.
Continue ReadingChaim Herzog
Served as the 6th President of Israel from 1983 to 1988. During military service, held the rank of Major General in the Israel Defense Forces. Advocated for peace and security in the region. Was involved in legal and political matters, contributing to the Israeli legal system and political landscape. Authored several works on Israeli history and politics.
Continue ReadingJohnny Mantz
Competed professionally as a race car driver during the mid-20th century. Achieved significant success in the Indianapolis 500, securing victory in 1950. Participated in multiple annual racing events, showcasing skill and determination on various tracks. Set records in several competitions, leaving a mark in the racing community.
Continue ReadingHenry Wittenberg
A prominent figure in American wrestling, this individual won a gold medal in freestyle wrestling at the 1948 London Olympics. Throughout his career, he competed at a high level and earned recognition for his outstanding skills on the mat. After retiring from competitive wrestling, he transitioned into coaching, helping to train future generations of wrestlers. His influence extended into educational institutions where he taught and mentored young athletes.
Continue ReadingPablita Velarde
A Santa Clara Pueblo artist focused on preserving Native American culture through art. Specializing in traditional Pueblo pottery and painting, gained recognition for contributing to the revival of Pueblo style painting. Worked on significant murals that depict the history and stories of the Santa Clara Pueblo people. Received numerous awards, including being the first woman to receive a fellowship from the New Mexico Community Foundation.
Continue ReadingJuan José Arreola
Wrote numerous short stories, essays, and plays throughout a prolific career. Published works include "Bestiario" and "La feria," which paired fantasy with reality, establishing a unique literary voice in Mexican literature. Served as a cultural ambassador, engaging with international literary communities. Contributed to journalism and literary critique, influencing future generations of writers.
Continue ReadingJohn Gofman
A physicist, chemist, and biologist, this individual contributed significantly to the understanding of radiation and its effects on health. Gofman served as a professor and researcher, focusing on the relationship between nuclear energy and public health. His work included the development of techniques for studying the biological effects of radiation. In the mid-20th century, he was involved in the Manhattan Project and later became a prominent critic of nuclear power. This individual authored several books and papers addressing the dangers of radiation exposure and advocated for the regulation of nuclear energy. His career spanned several decades, during which he engaged with various scientific societies and institutions.
Continue ReadingKarl Slover
An American actor, most recognized for a role in the film 'The Wizard of Oz' as a member of the Lollipop Guild. Slover also lent his voice to the character of a Munchkin in the same film. The role in this 1939 classic defined his career and remained a significant part of his identity in the entertainment industry. Later appearances included various television shows, where Slover continued to engage audiences with his work. Slover's contributions to film and television have been celebrated by fans of classic cinema.
Continue ReadingHenryk Szeryng
A renowned violinist and composer, this individual gained acclaim for performances around the world. Born in Poland, later moved to Mexico, and became a significant figure in the classical music scene. Notable achievements include extensive recordings and collaborations with numerous orchestras. The musical repertoire included both traditional and contemporary works, showcasing exceptional technique and artistry. Additionally, contributions to music education and mentorship influenced many aspiring musicians, ensuring the continuation of classical music traditions.
Continue Reading