What Happened This Year 1918

Born in 1918

Shankar Dayal Sharma

9th President of India and academic
Born
1918 108 years ago
Died
December 26th, 1999 26 years ago — 81 years old

Served as the 9th President of India from 1992 to 1997, following a career as an academic and politician. Held various positions in government, including Governor of Punjab and Chief Minister of Madhya Pradesh. Contributed to the Indian National Congress party and was involved in many educational initiatives. Was an advocate for social and educational reform throughout his career. Academic pursuits led to significant involvement in the promotion of education in India.

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Cecil Alexander

American architect; designed State of Georgia Building
Born
1918 108 years ago
Died
July 30th, 2013 12 years ago — 95 years old

An architect based in the United States, designed significant buildings in the early 20th century. Played a pivotal role in shaping governmental architecture through the design of the State of Georgia Building in Atlanta, a prominent structure that reflects the city's history and aesthetic values. Worked on various projects that contributed to the architectural landscape of Georgia and surrounding areas, emphasizing functionality and design.

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George McAfee

American football player, NFL star
Born
1918 108 years ago
Died
March 4th, 2009 17 years ago — 91 years old

Played as a halfback and safety in the National Football League (NFL) during the 1940s and early 1950s. Primarily represented the Chicago Bears. Contributed to the Bears' victory in the 1943 NFL Championship. Recognized as a dynamic player, earning Pro Bowl selections for multiple seasons.

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René Lecavalier

Canadian sportscaster and broadcaster
Born
1918 108 years ago
Died
September 6th, 1999 26 years ago — 81 years old

Lecavalier served as a prominent sportscaster in Canada, covering various sports including hockey and football. His broadcasting career spanned several decades, primarily with the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation (CBC). Lecavalier established a reputation for insightful commentary and a deep understanding of the games he covered. His influence extended beyond the radio waves, as he contributed to the growth of sports journalism in Canada. Lecavalier's legacy in the broadcasting field remains significant even after his death in 1999.

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W. Eugene Smith

Photojournalist known for war photography
Born
1918 108 years ago
Died
October 15th, 1978 47 years ago — 60 years old

A prominent photojournalist, this individual significantly contributed to the field of photojournalism through powerful and evocative imagery. Early career involved documenting World War II as a war correspondent, capturing the realities of the battlefield. Later, extensive work took place in Japan, focusing on the effects of industrial pollution on villagers in the Minamata region. This person's comprehensive photographic essays, particularly 'Country Doctor' and 'Minamata', showcased the intense human experiences behind major events and social issues. Work emphasized the importance of photojournalism in storytelling and social awareness.

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Adriaan Kortlandt

Ethologist and biologist focused on animal behavior
Born
1918 108 years ago
Died
October 18th, 2009 16 years ago — 91 years old

An ethologist and biologist specialized in animal behavior, contributed extensively to the understanding of animal communication and cognitive processes. Conducted fieldwork on various species, including studies in the behavior of birds and the social interactions of primates. Focused on the evolutionary aspects of behavior and its relation to human psychology. Published numerous articles and books, providing insights into the mind of animals and their interactions with the environment. Engaged in teaching and mentoring future biologists, leaving a legacy in the field of ethology.

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Marcus Klingberg

Physician and biologist, Nobel nominee
Born
1918 108 years ago
Died
November 30th, 2015 10 years ago — 97 years old

A Polish-Israeli physician and biologist, contribution focused on virology and bacteriology. Education completed in Poland, later moved to Israel. Worked at the Weizmann Institute of Science, contributing to significant research in the field of immunology. Recognized for the development of various vaccines and treatments. His work on the effects of viruses in human health gained notable attention in scientific communities. Honored during a long career with various accolades including a nomination for the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine.

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Józef Franczak

Polish Partisan Sergeant
Born
1918 108 years ago
Died
October 21st, 1963 62 years ago — 45 years old

Served as a sergeant in the Polish Army during World War II and became a key figure in the anti-communist resistance after the war. After the war, continued to evade capture and operated as a partisan in rural areas, engaging in armed resistance against the communist regime. Used guerrilla tactics to conduct raids and supported local villagers against oppression. Remained active until killing by government forces.

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Bob Broeg

Soldier and journalist, St. Louis Post-Dispatch
Born
1918 108 years ago
Died
October 28th, 2005 20 years ago — 87 years old

Served in the U.S. Army during World War II and later became a prominent sports journalist. Worked primarily for the St. Louis Post-Dispatch, where coverage of baseball and local sports gained recognition. Contributed to the discussion of numerous significant sports events and authored multiple articles on the subject. His writing style and insights into baseball resonated with the audience, making him a noteworthy figure in sports journalism.

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