What happened today in history?

What happened
today in history?
[ May 18 ]

2023 - The Legacy of Buddy Melges: A Sailor's Farewell

Buddy Melges, an iconic American sailor and Olympic gold medalist, passed away at 93. His legacy includes five world championships and skippers of America's Cup 1992. Melges inspired countless sailors, leaving a lasting impact on the sport.

2023 - Remembering Jim Brown: A Legacy Beyond Football

Jim Brown (1936-2023) American College-Pro Football HOF running back (Syracuse University; Cleveland Browns - NFL Rookie of the Year 1957; NFL MVP 1957, 58, 65; 8 x First-team All-Pro; 9 x Pro Bowl), actor (The Dirty Dozen; ...tick...tick...tick...), and civil rights activist, dies at 87 [1]

Remembering Jim Brown: A Legacy Beyond Football

2021 - The Legacy of Franco Battiato: Remembering a Musical Icon

Franco Battiato, the iconic Italian pop and rock singer-songwriter, passed away in 2021. Known for his profound lyrics and innovative sounds, he made significant contributions to music and film, leaving behind a rich legacy. His album 'La Voce del Padrone' is a timeless masterpiece.

2017 - The Tragic Death of Chris Cornell: A Musical Legend

Chris Cornell, the legendary musician known for his work with Soundgarden and Audioslave, tragically committed suicide in 2017 at the age of 52. His death raised awareness about mental health issues, impacting fans and fellow artists alike.

2017 - The Life and Legacy of Jacque Fresco

Jacque Fresco, a renowned industrial designer and founder of the Venus Project, passed away at the age of 101. His innovative ideals focused on sustainable solutions and social reform, leaving a lasting impact on future generations.

2017 - The Death of Roger Ailes: A Controversial Legacy

Roger Ailes, the former CEO of Fox News, died on May 18, 2017, at the age of 77. Ailes was a pivotal figure in the evolution of cable news, renowned for his role in shaping conservative media. His controversial legacy continues to influence the media landscape today.

2015 - Remembering Raymond Gosling: A Pioneer of DNA Research

Raymond Gosling, a British scientist and key figure in DNA research, passed away in 2015 at the age of 88. His groundbreaking work contributed significantly to the understanding of DNA’s double helix structure, marking a milestone in genetic science.

Remembering Raymond Gosling: A Pioneer of DNA Research

2014 - The Legacy of Jerry Vale: Remembering a Pop Music Icon

Jerry Vale, the beloved American pop singer known for hits like 'Arrivederci Roma' and 'Have You Looked Into Your Heart', passed away in 2014 at the age of 83. His music continues to resonate with fans, cementing his legacy as a timeless icon in pop culture.

2014 - The Life and Legacy of Wubbo Ockels

Wubbo Ockels, the first Dutch astronaut, passed away on May 18, 2014, at the age of 68 due to renal cell cancer. His legacy in science and sustainability continues to inspire future generations.

2011 - Remembering Leonard Kastle: A Creative Force

Leonard Kastle, renowned for his opera, *The Passion of Mother Ann*, and film *The Honeymoon Killers*, passed away in 2011 at 82. His work deeply impacted the arts with its emotional storytelling and unique voice.

2009 - Tragic Death of Rapper Dolla in 2009

In 2009, American rapper Dolla, born Roderick Anthony Burton II, tragically died at the age of 21, showcasing the challenges faced by young artists in the music industry. Remembering his contributions reminds us of the lessons and legacies that remain relevant today.

2009 - The Legacy of Wayne Allwine: Voice of Mickey Mouse

Wayne Allwine, the beloved voice of Mickey Mouse from 1977 until 2009, passed away at the age of 62. His warm portrayal helped shape the character into the cultural icon it is today, marking a significant loss in the voice acting community.

2004 - The Life and Legacy of Lincoln Kilpatrick

Lincoln Kilpatrick, the talented American actor known for his role in the BJ-Leslie Uggams Show, passed away on April 2, 2004, at the age of 72. His legacy as a pioneer for African American actors remains influential in the film and television industry.

2003 - Remembering Barb Tarbox: The Anti-Smoking Crusader

Barb Tarbox, a Canadian anti-smoking crusader, died at 42 in 2003 after battling lung cancer. Her advocacy raised awareness about the dangers of smoking and impacted tobacco legislation, leaving a lasting legacy in the fight against tobacco use.

2002 - The Untimely Death of Davey Boy Smith

David 'Davey Boy' Smith, the esteemed British wrestler, passed away from a heart attack at 39 in 2002, a loss felt deeply by fans and the wrestling community. Remembering his legacy, we celebrate his achievements and lasting impact on the sport.

1997 - The Untimely Death of Bridgette Andersen

Bridgette Andersen, a notable American actress known for her work in 'Savannah Smiles', tragically passed away at 21 in 1997. Her untimely death highlights the struggles young stars face in Hollywood, leaving a legacy remembered by fans.

1996 - The Untimely Death of Kevin Gilbert

Kevin Gilbert, a talented American singer and composer, died tragically at the age of 29 from accidental asphyxiation. Known for his work in Toy Matinee and Tuesday Night Music Club, his untimely death shocked the music community and left a lasting legacy.

1995 - The Tragic Death of Alexander Godunov

Alexander Godunov, talented Russian-American ballet dancer and actor, passed away in 1995 at the age of 45 due to hepatitis and alcoholism. His journey from the Bolshoi Ballet to Hollywood reflects both his artistic brilliance and personal struggles.

1995 - The Life and Legacy of Elisha Cook Jr.

Elisha Cook Jr., an iconic American actor known for roles in The Maltese Falcon and Shane, passed away at 91. His extensive career in film and television left an indelible mark on Hollywood.

1995 - The Life and Legacy of Elizabeth Montgomery

Elizabeth Montgomery, the iconic actress known for her role as Samantha in 'Bewitched', passed away from cancer at 62. Remembered for her charm and talent, Montgomery's legacy continues to influence the entertainment world today.

The Life and Legacy of Elizabeth Montgomery

1993 - The Legacy of Heinrich Albertz: A Life Remembered

Heinrich Albertz, a significant figure in German politics and the mayor of Berlin, passed away in 1993. His advocacy for social justice and efforts towards unity among Berliners during a politically tense era are key highlights of his impactful life.

1990 - The Life and Legacy of Jill Ireland

Jill Ireland, beloved English actress known for her roles in 'Carry on Nurse' and 'Family', succumbed to cancer at the age of 54 on May 18, 1990. Her life and career continue to inspire and entertain audiences today.

1988 - The Legacy of David Moule-Evans: A Life of Music

David Moule-Evans, an influential English composer and conductor, passed away at the age of 82 in 1988. His remarkable contributions to classical music continue to resonate, inspiring new generations of musicians and audiences alike.

1985 - Celebrating the Life of Tex Terry: A Hollywood Icon

Tex Terry, an esteemed American actor, known for his roles in <strong>Apache Rose</strong> and <strong>Timberjack</strong>, passed away at the age of 82 on August 18, 1985. His remarkable career in Hollywood left a significant mark on the Western genre.

1981 - The Life and Legacy of Arthur O'Connell

Arthur O'Connell, renowned American actor known for his roles in 'Mr. Peepers' and 'The Second Hundred Years', passed away at the age of 73 on May 18, 1981. His legacy in television and film continues to resonate, leaving an indelible mark on the entertainment industry.

1981 - The Death of William Saroyan: A Literary Legacy

The renowned writer William Saroyan, known for works like 'The Time of Your Life', died in 1981 at the age of 72. His rich storytelling and commentary on the human experience have left an enduring legacy in American literature.

1975 - The Life and Legacy of Kazimierz Fajans

Kazimierz Fajans, a notable Polish-American physical chemist, passed away in 1975 at the age of 84. He is famed for developing Fajans' Rules, which explain the nature of ionic and covalent bonds, greatly influencing modern chemistry.

The Life and Legacy of Kazimierz Fajans

1974 - The Legacy of Tyree Glenn: A Jazz Icon

Tyree Glenn, an acclaimed jazz trombonist and vibraphone player known for his work with legends like Cab Calloway, Duke Ellington, and Louis Armstrong, died of cancer in 1974 at age 61. His contributions to jazz and innovative style left a lasting legacy in the music world.

1969 - Ludwig Berger: A Cinematic Legacy

Ludwig Berger, a German film director and cinematographer known for his work on 'The Thief of Bagdad,' died at the age of 77 in 1969. His contributions to cinema, particularly in visual effects and storytelling, have left a lasting legacy in the film industry.

1967 - The Untimely Death of Richard Ainley

Richard Ainley, a noted British actor recognized for roles in 'I Dood It' and 'As You Like It', tragically passed away in 1967 from barbiturate poisoning at the age of 56, marking a significant loss to the theatre and film industry.

1966 - The Life and Legacy of Paul Althaus

Discover the life of Paul Althaus, a significant German theologian whose contributions, especially in his work 'That Christian Wahrheit', have left a lasting impact on modern Christian thought. Althaus passed away in 1966 at the age of 78.

1936 - The Life and Legacy of Alexander 'Alick' Maclean

Alexander 'Alick' Maclean, a notable British composer and conductor, passed away in 1936 at the age of 63. His legacy includes significant contributions to the Scarborough Spa Orchestra, where he showcased his talent for over two decades, leaving a lasting impact on British music.

1930 - The Legacy of João Marcelino Arroio: A Musical Journey

On June 4, 1930, Portuguese composer João Marcelino Arroio, known for his work 'Amor de Perdiçâo,' died at the age of 68, leaving behind a significant legacy in the world of classical music. His compositions reflect the rich musical tradition of Portugal.

1927 - The Tragic Bath School Disaster of 1927

In 1927, Andrew Kehoe, an American mass murderer, committed suicide after killing his wife and orchestrating the catastrophic Bath School disaster, leading to the tragic deaths of 38 children and 6 adults.

1922 - The Life and Legacy of Charles Louis Alphonse Laveran

Charles Louis Alphonse Laveran, the distinguished French physician and Nobel laureate, passed away in 1922. His groundbreaking work in parasitology and the discovery of the malaria parasite changed the course of medicine and public health worldwide.

1918 - The Tragic Death of Finnish Composer Toivo Kuula

In 1918, Finnish composer Toivo Kuula tragically died at the age of 34 after a quarrel that led to an unexpected shooting. His contributions to music left a lasting impact on Finnish culture, and his legacy continues to inspire.

1910 - The Life and Legacy of Eliza Orzeszkowa

Eliza Orzeszkowa, a revered Polish novelist known for her impactful work 'Dziurdziowie', passed away in 1910. Her literary legacy and advocacy for social issues continue to influence writers and activists today.

1889 - The Life and Legacy of Isabella Glyn Dallas

Isabella Glyn Dallas, a celebrated Scottish Shakespearean actress, passed away in 1889 at the age of 65. Known for her iconic roles and profound impact on theatre, her legacy continues to inspire modern actors.

1877 - The Death of William "Extra Billy" Smith

William "Extra Billy" Smith, a prominent American lawyer and politician, died in 1877 at the age of 89. Known for his leadership as Governor of Virginia and as the oldest General in the Confederate Army, his life reflected the tumultuous events of his time.

1864 - The Death of Brigadier General James Byron Gordon

Brigadier General James Byron Gordon, a key figure in the Confederate Army, died at the age of 41 on June 14, 1864. His leadership in pivotal battles shaped military strategies of his time, leaving a lasting impact despite the challenges of the American Civil War.

1844 - The Death of Richard McCarty: A Commemoration

Richard McCarty, an influential American politician, passed away on April 24, 1844, at the age of 64. His legacy as a champion for civil rights and the common man is remembered in discussions of 19th-century America's political history.

1829 - The Life and Legacy of Bernardo Bittoni

Bernardo Bittoni, the renowned Italian composer, passed away on January 24, 1829, at the age of 72. His impactful works and contributions to music education shaped the Italian musical landscape during the late Baroque and early Classical periods.

1808 - The Legacy of Jacob Albright: A Leader's Death

Jacob Albright, a pivotal figure in American Christianity and founder of the Evangelical Association, passed away on February 17, 1808. His impactful life and dedication to faith and community continue to resonate today.

1800 - The Death of General Alexander Suvorov

The death of General Alexander Suvorov in 1800 marked the end of an era for Russian military strategy. Known for his brilliant tactics and leadership, Suvorov left a lasting legacy in military history.

1799 - The Passing of Pierre de Beaumarchais

In 1799, Pierre de Beaumarchais, the influential French polymath and dramatist of works such as 'The Marriage of Figaro' and 'The Barber of Seville', passed away at the age of 67, leaving a significant legacy in theater and literature.

1767 - The Untimely Death of Thaddaus Ferdinand Lipowsky

Thaddaus Ferdinand Lipowsky, a gifted German composer, died at the young age of 28 in 1767 from a fever, leaving a legacy of remarkable yet limited contributions to classical music. His untimely death is a reminder of the fragility of life and the impact of disease in his era.

1733 - The Legacy of Georg Böhm: A Life in Music

Georg Böhm, a notable German organist and composer, passed away in 1733 at the age of 71. Renowned for his intricate organ compositions, his influence helped shape the landscape of Baroque music in Germany, leaving a lasting legacy.

1692 - The Life and Death of Elias Ashmole

Elias Ashmole, a pioneering English antiquarian and the founder of the Ashmolean Museum, died at 74, leaving a legacy of historical preservation and curatorial excellence that shaped the field of antiquarianism.

1675 - The Life and Legacy of Jacques Marquette

Jacques Marquette, a French Jesuit missionary and explorer known for his work along the Mississippi River, died on May 18, 1675, at the young age of 37. His legacy lives on through his contributions to exploration and missionary work.

1584 - The Death of Ikeda Motosuke: A Samurai's Legacy

Ikeda Motosuke, a notable Japanese samurai commander, passed away in 1584 at the age of 48. Renowned for his military expertise and loyalty to the Tokugawa clan, his life and contributions left a significant impact on Japanese history.

1550 - The Death of John, Cardinal of Lorraine

In 1550, John, Cardinal of Lorraine, a significant figure in the Catholic Church and French politics, died at the age of 52. As a staunch opponent of the Protestant Reformation, his influence resonated through the intricate political landscape of France. His legacy continues to be recognized in the context of French history.

1410 - The Death of Rupert, King of Germany

Rupert of the Palatinate, King of Germany, died in 1410 at age 58, marking a significant moment in German history as political strife persisted in the Holy Roman Empire. His reign was characterized by his attempts for unity amid fragmentation and conflict.

1401 - The Death of Vladislaus II, Duke of Opole

Vladislaus II, the Duke of Opole, died at the age of 69 on March 17, 1401. His legacy as a leader and diplomat left a lasting impact on the region of Silesia, marked by economic prosperity and cultural advancements.

526 - The Death of Pope John I

Pope John I died in 526 after a tumultuous papacy marked by efforts to reconcile Christian factions. His legacy as a martyr for the faith highlights the political and religious struggles of early Christianity.