What Happened This Year 1918

Born in 1918

Willy den Ouden

Dutch Olympic Swimmer, 1936 Berlin
Born
January 1st, 1918 107 years ago
Died
December 6th, 1997 27 years ago — 79 years old

Competed in swimming at the 1936 Summer Olympics in Berlin, representing the Netherlands. Achieved notable success in freestyle events during the 1930s and became a prominent figure in Dutch swimming. Participated in various national championships, securing several titles and contributing to the development of swimming in the country.

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Patrick Anthony Porteous

Scottish Colonel, Victoria Cross recipient
Born
January 1st, 1918 107 years ago
Died
2000 25 years ago — 82 years old

Served as a colonel in the British Army and received the Victoria Cross for gallantry during World War II. His notable action took place at the Battle of Monte Cassino in Italy, where he displayed exceptional valor in the face of enemy fire. This act of bravery led to the awarding of the Victoria Cross, the highest military honor in the British and Commonwealth forces.

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Willi Graf

German physician and activist.
Born
January 2nd, 1918 107 years ago
Died
1943 82 years ago — 25 years old

A physician and member of the anti-Nazi group White Rose, contributed to the resistance against the Nazi regime during World War II. Influenced by humanist values, advocated for non-violent resistance against totalitarianism. Arrested in 1943, accused of aiding enemy forces through the distribution of leaflets that called for resistance against the Nazis. Executed by guillotine on October 12, 1943, due to involvement in the resistance efforts.

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Alma Ziegler

Baseball player and golfer
Born
January 9th, 1918 107 years ago
Died
May 30th, 2005 19 years ago — 87 years old

Played professional baseball in the All-American Girls Professional Baseball League. Competed in women's golf tournaments, including the 1947 U.S. Women's Open. Contributed to the popularization of women's sports during the mid-20th century.

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Arthur Chung

Guyanese lawyer and 1st President
Born
January 10th, 1918 107 years ago
Died
June 23rd, 2008 16 years ago — 90 years old

Served as the first President of Guyana from 1970 to 1980. Prior to his presidency, he had a notable career in law and politics, contributing significantly to the legal framework of the country. His presidency followed a period of political transformation in Guyana, and he acted as a stabilizing figure. He was directly involved in the establishment of several key institutions during his tenure, influencing the nation’s governance and legal processes.

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Spencer Walklate

Rugby league player and soldier
Born
January 11th, 1918 107 years ago
Died
1945 80 years ago — 27 years old

An Australian rugby league player and soldier, had a notable career in the early to mid-20th century. Played for the St. George Dragons and was part of the team that won the 1941 NSWRL Premiership. His dual involvement in sports and military service characterized a significant period of his life during World War II. After serving, continued to contribute to the sport and community in various capacities.

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Robert C. O'Brien

American author and journalist, wrote 'Mrs. Frisby and the Rats of NIMH'
Born
January 11th, 1918 107 years ago
Died
March 5th, 1973 52 years ago — 55 years old

An American author and journalist, one celebrated work is 'Mrs. Frisby and the Rats of NIMH', a children's novel published in 1971. This book gained recognition for its engaging narrative and complex themes, which addressed issues of ethics and science. O'Brien also contributed to children's literature through other works, adopting the pseudonym 'C. Robert O'Brien' for some publications. His journalistic career included writing articles and essays for various publications, reflecting insights on societal issues. In addition to literature, he engaged with themes of science and the environment, influencing young readers through imaginative storytelling. O'Brien's impact on children's literature remains significant, and his works are often included in educational curricula.

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Édouard Gagnon

Cardinal of the Catholic Church
Born
January 15th, 1918 107 years ago
Died
2007 18 years ago — 89 years old

Ordained as a priest in 1943, served in various capacities within the Catholic Church. Elevated to the position of Bishop of Sherbrooke in 1963, then became Archbishop of Ottawa in 1978. Appointed as a Cardinal by Pope Paul VI in 1976, participating in significant ecclesiastical events. Contributed to the Second Vatican Council, which shaped modern Catholic practices. Engaged in social justice initiatives and pastoral care throughout the Canadian provinces.

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João Figueiredo

Brazilian politician and general
Born
January 15th, 1918 107 years ago
Died
December 24th, 1999 25 years ago — 81 years old

Became the 30th President of Brazil, serving from 1979 to 1985. Oversaw the transition from military rule to democratic governance. Implemented economic stabilization measures and faced significant political challenges during his presidency, including civil unrest and inflation reduction efforts. Figueiredo's administration is marked by attempts to liberalize the political landscape and restore civil rights after years of military dictatorship.

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