February 18th marks moments of exploration and historical legacy. This day in 1930 heralded the discovery of Pluto by astronomer Clyde Tombaugh at the Lowell Observatory, a groundbreaking step in our understanding of the solar system's outer reaches. Considerably earlier, in 1885, The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn by Mark Twain was published, a cornerstone of American literature examining themes of friendship, freedom, and social criticism.
This date also embraces the birth of Nobel laureate Toni Morrison in 1931, whose literary masterpieces such as Beloved capture the intricacies of identity and perception. February 18th delivers opportunities to dive into the imaginative labyrinth of literature, philosophy, and astronomical breakthroughs that challenge perspectives and enrich narratives inherently human.
71 Years Old
A legendary actor, singer, and producer who starred in iconic films like "Saturday Night Fever" and "Pulp Fiction," earning him a permanent place in pop culture history.
60 Years Old
A legendary rapper, producer, and entrepreneur who revolutionized hip-hop with his unique sound and founded Aftermath Entertainment and Beats Electronics. He's a hip-hop icon and s...
68 Years Old
Long-running hostess of Wheel of Fortune, famous for revealing letters and wearing dazzling gowns.
57 Years Old
Iconic 80s teen movie star, known for her relatable and quirky characters in coming-of-age films like "The Breakfast Club" and "Sixteen Candles".
Died in 2009, aged 59
A mastermind behind iconic 80s teen movies, crafting relatable stories that resonated with generations of adolescents, leaving an indelible mark on the coming-of-age genre.
Died in 2019, aged 88
A celebrated author and editor, renowned for crafting powerful, poignant novels that explore the African American experience, particularly the lives of black women, and the horrors...
92 Years Old
A pioneering multimedia artist and musician who blurred the lines between art, music, and activism, creating thought-provoking and often controversial works that challenged societa...
50 Years Old
Former Manchester United and England right-back, renowned for his tenacious defending and insightful punditry.
51 Years Old
A fitness guru and TV star who motivates millions to get in shape and live healthier lifestyles through her workout programs and reality shows.
Died in 2016, aged 91
Academy Award-winning actor renowned for his rugged, authoritative presence in iconic films like "Cool Hand Luke" and "Airport." He brought depth and nuance to tough-guy roles.
31 Years Old
A South Korean rapper, singer-songwriter, dancer, and record producer who is a member of the global K-pop phenomenon BTS, known for energetic performances and chart-topping hits. H...
58 Years Old
Italian football legend and Ballon d'Or winner, known for his exceptional dribbling skills, vision, and goalscoring ability, leading Italy to the 1994 World Cup final.
Died in 2006, aged 87
A rugged actor and former boxer, known for his tough-guy persona and iconic roles in films like "Shane" and "City Slickers".
93 Years Old
A Czech-American actor, director, and screenwriter who brought complex, nuanced stories to life on screen, earning acclaim for his work on films like "One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Ne...
78 Years Old
A legendary musician, singer, and songwriter behind iconic hits like "Come Sail Away" and "Mr. Roboto" with the rock band Styx, known for his powerful vocals and theatrical style.
75 Years Old
Star of TV sitcoms "Moonlighting" and "Cybill," winning multiple Golden Globe Awards for her charming, witty performances.
61 Years Old
A ruggedly handsome actor who brought iconic characters to life in films and TV, earning him a Golden Globe and Emmy nominations.
33 Years Old
A talented running back who played in the NFL for several teams, including the Pittsburgh Steelers, and is known for his versatile playing style and holdout from the 2018 season.
89 Years Old
Author of the Earth's Children series, a sweeping epic of prehistoric fiction that explores human origins and early societies. Her novels have captivated millions worldwide with th...
45 Years Old
Quirky, poetic singer-songwriter known for her distinctive vocal style and eclectic, genre-bending music. She's a critically acclaimed indie-pop sensation with a devoted fan base.
Died in 1827, aged 82
Italian physicist who invented the first electrical battery, revolutionizing the field of electricity and paving the way for countless technological advancements.
32 Years Old
Professional NBA shooting guard known for his athleticism and three-point shooting ability. Plays for the Washington Wizards and has been an NBA champion and NBA All-Defensive Team...
Died in 1558, aged 42
The first queen to rule England in her own right, Bloody Mary tried to restore Catholicism, earning her notorious reputation for burning hundreds of Protestants at the stake.
79 Years Old
An American actress, best known for her long-running role as Jill Foster Abbott on the CBS soap opera "The Young and the Restless".
48 Years Old
A comedic actor and writer, best known for his roles in TV shows like "The Mindy Project" and films like "Blockers", often playing lovable but awkward characters.
Born in 1836
A 19th-century Indian spiritual leader who preached the unity of all religions and achieved a state of spiritual enlightenment through intense meditation and devotion. He is revere...
Died in 2012, aged 90
Pioneering editor-in-chief of Cosmopolitan magazine, known for revolutionizing women's media with her frank and provocative approach to sex, relationships, and feminism.
79 Years Old
A renowned BBC journalist and newsreader, best known for his emotive reporting on the 1984 Ethiopian famine, which raised global awareness and sparked a massive humanitarian respon...
Died in 1956, aged 66
A prolific actor of stage and screen, starring in over 150 films, including classics like "Mr. Smith Goes to Washington" and "Meet John Doe". Known for his distinctive voice and au...
Born in 1862
Co-founder of Bethlehem Steel, a pioneering steel producer that revolutionized American industry, and a shrewd businessman who built a steel empire.
Died in 2009, aged 76
A legendary footballer and manager who led England to the 1990 World Cup semifinals and won numerous titles with Ipswich Town and Barcelona. He's revered for his tactical genius an...
68 Years Old
A world-class sprinter who dominated the 400 meters in the 1970s and 1980s, setting multiple world records that stood for decades.
Died in 1963, aged 73
A dashing leading man of Hollywood's Golden Age, starring in over 150 films, including the first-ever Best Picture winner, "Wings." He's remembered for his debonair charm and suave...
73 Years Old
Soulful vocalist known for her smooth, rich tone and hit singles like "Street Life" and "One Day I'll Fly Away". She's a legendary jazz and R&B singer with a distinctive voice.
Died in 1993, aged 84
A Pulitzer Prize-winning writer who explored the American West through novels, short stories, and essays, capturing the region's spirit and complexities. His works often blended hi...
96 Years Old
A renowned spy novelist and historian, best known for his meticulously researched and gripping thrillers that often explored the world of espionage and international intrigue.
42 Years Old
Former Tottenham Hotspur and Newcastle United midfielder who won 21 England caps and now works as a TV pundit and commentator.
Died in 1274, aged 73
A 13th-century Persian polymath who made significant contributions to astronomy, mathematics, and philosophy, including writing influential works on trigonometry and astronomy.
33 Years Old
American actor known for his roles in teen comedies and dramas, particularly in the Disney Channel universe. He's a familiar face among young audiences who grew up watching his sho...
Died in 2007, aged 76
Co-creator of the popular comic strip The Wizard of Id, known for its humorous take on medieval life and satire of modern society. His work has been widely syndicated and enjoyed b...
84 Years Old
Known as the "Soul Queen of New Orleans," she's a legendary vocalist who blended gospel, R&B, and rock to create a unique sound that's still widely admired today. Her powerful, sou...
70 Years Old
A bestselling author of historical fiction novels that explore the lives of Chinese-American women and their cultural heritage, delving into themes of identity, family, and social ...
Died in 1933, aged 84
A renowned artist and designer who pioneered the Art Nouveau style in stained glass, creating exquisite lamps, windows, and jewelry that continue to mesmerize with their vibrant co...
Died in 1985, aged 85
A renowned historian and journalist, best known for his vivid and engaging narratives of British history, particularly his three-volume "History of England" series. He was also a p...
Died in 1980, aged 74
An Austrian pediatrician and academic who identified and described autistic psychopathy, now known as Asperger syndrome, and advocated for a more compassionate approach to treating...
66 Years Old
An accomplished stage and screen actress, known for her Tony-nominated performances and iconic roles in TV series like "24" and "House of Cards".
44 Years Old
A versatile small forward who played in the NBA and internationally, known for his all-around skills and defensive prowess.
Died in 1944, aged 52
A corporate lawyer who became the Republican presidential nominee in 1940, known for his liberal views and advocacy for international cooperation. He's also famous for being the on...
73 Years Old
A dominant power forward who won an NBA championship with the Portland Trail Blazers in 1977 and was a four-time NBA All-Star, known for his physical play and rebounding prowess.
58 Years Old
A renowned Welsh athlete who dominated the 110m hurdles, winning numerous Olympic and World Championship medals, and holding the world record for nearly 13 years.
Died in 2000, aged 86
A country music pioneer who blended honky-tonk and western swing styles, known for hits like "The Tennessee Waltz" and "Slow Poke".
74 Years Old
A Filipino-Spanish journalist who has written for prominent publications and has been a popular TV presenter, known for her in-depth interviews with world leaders and celebrities.
73 Years Old
Country-pop crossover artist known for hits like "Queen of Hearts" and "Love's Been a Little Bit Hard on Me", blending folk, rock, and country styles.
65 Years Old
Italian-Australian actress known for her versatility in film, television, and theater, starring in a wide range of roles from dramatic to comedic. She won an Emmy Award for her por...
Died in 1448, aged 75
A renowned Islamic scholar and jurist who wrote extensively on Islamic law, theology, and history, particularly his commentary on the Hadith, a collection of the Prophet Muhammad's...
Died in 1916, aged 78
A pioneer in modern physics, he challenged traditional notions of space and time, and his critique of Newton's laws paved the way for Einstein's relativity. He also made significan...
56 Years Old
Russian ice hockey superstar who played in the NHL and won numerous awards, including the Stanley Cup and Olympic gold. Known for his incredible speed and scoring ability.
37 Years Old
American-Brazilian actress known for her roles in TV shows and films, particularly in the Disney Channel series "Cory in the House" and "Desperate Housewives".
Born in 1871
Inventor of stainless steel, revolutionizing industries like cutlery, cookware, and construction with his corrosion-resistant alloy .
Died in 1978, aged 63
A talented baseball player and manager who led the New York Yankees to multiple championships, earning him a spot in the Baseball Hall of Fame.
Died in 2003, aged 85
A flamboyant and charismatic wrestling personality, known for his loud mouth, flashy style, and iconic figure-four leg lock, entertaining audiences in the ring and beyond.
Died in 1999, aged 58
Italian singer-songwriter and guitarist renowned for poetic lyrics and eclectic blend of folk, rock, and Mediterranean music, influencing generations of Italian musicians.
37 Years Old
An American actress known for her role as Catherine Meyer in the HBO comedy series Veep, earning her multiple award nominations. She's also appeared in various TV shows and films.
35 Years Old
A talented shortstop who played for several MLB teams, including the New York Yankees, and is known for his impressive defensive skills and clutch hitting.
29 Years Old
Professional basketball player who has played in the NBA and internationally, known for his scoring ability and clutch performances.
Died in 1906, aged 57
A prominent figure in Norwegian literature, known for his realistic and socially conscious plays and novels that critiqued the social conventions of his time.
Died in 1920, aged 60
A renowned Swedish painter, sculptor, and printmaker, celebrated for his captivating portraits and nudes that showcased his mastery of watercolor and etching techniques.
48 Years Old
An American actor known for his versatile roles in TV shows and films, including romantic comedies, dramas, and mystery series. He's had recurring roles in popular shows like "Life...
30 Years Old
Dutch defender who plays for Manchester City and the Netherlands national team, known for his versatility and defensive skills.
45 Years Old
Kazakhstani-Canadian professional ice hockey forward who played 15 seasons in the NHL, scoring over 750 points, and representing Kazakhstan internationally. He's a notable figure i...
42 Years Old
A professional basketball player who played in the NBA from 2005 to 2015, known for his athleticism and defensive skills.
59 Years Old
A right-arm fast-medium bowler and hard-hitting lower-order batsman, known for his impressive all-round skills and playing for England in 44 Tests and 103 ODIs.
54 Years Old
Danish golfer who won 15 European Tour titles, including the 2016 Open de France, and captained the European team to a Ryder Cup victory in 2018.
35 Years Old
A talented forward who played in the NHL for several teams, including the Buffalo Sabres and Vancouver Canucks, and represented Canada in international competitions.
Died in 1975, aged 42
A talented stage and screen actress, known for her powerful performances in films like "Sons and Lovers" and "Look Back in Anger".
Died in 1992, aged 58
A powerful voice for marginalized communities, this writer and activist championed intersectional feminism, queer rights, and racial justice through poetry and essays.
Died in 1950, aged 83
A prolific author of romance novels and short stories, particularly popular in Germany during the early 20th century, known for her sentimental and melodramatic style.
43 Years Old
A German midfielder who played for several clubs, including Bayern Munich and Eintracht Frankfurt, and was known for his versatility and set-piece expertise.
Died in 1697, aged 71
An Italian physician who pioneered the study of parasites and disproved spontaneous generation, making significant contributions to the field of biology.
51 Years Old
An American environmentalist and author who lived in a 1,000-year-old redwood tree for 738 days to prevent its logging, becoming an iconic symbol of eco-activism.
Died in 1578, aged 48
A powerful feudal lord who unified Japan's Echigo Province and fought several battles, earning a legendary reputation for bravery and martial prowess.
Died in 1674, aged 65
A 17th-century historian and politician who served as Chancellor of the Exchequer, known for his influential historical writings and shaping England's government. He penned the "Hi...
Died in 1980, aged 82
First democratically elected governor of Puerto Rico, leading the island's transition from US territory to commonwealth status, and a renowned poet and writer.
Died in 1968, aged 39
A brilliant pianist and composer, known for his virtuosic performances and innovative compositions that blended classical and jazz elements.
Died in 1957, aged 74
A Greek philosopher, author, and playwright who explored the human condition through novels like "Zorba the Greek" and "The Last Temptation of Christ", delving into themes of spiri...
Born in 1885
A pioneering Cubist sculptor and illustrator, known for his abstract, fragmented forms and innovative use of materials, influencing modern art and design.
Died in 1996, aged 57
A renowned African scholar who made significant contributions to the fields of political science, development, and African studies, particularly in the areas of democracy, governan...
Died in 1900, aged 86
A 19th-century lawyer and politician who advocated for women's suffrage and abolition, playing a significant role in shaping America's social and political landscape.
Died in 2002, aged 87
A British film and television actress, starring in over 40 films and numerous TV shows, particularly in the 1940s and 1950s, often playing strong, independent women.
Died in 2013, aged 91
A renowned pianist and composer, he was a prominent figure in the Russian and Ukrainian music scene, known for his virtuosic performances and contributions to the classical music r...
35 Years Old
American saber fencer who won the 2018 World Fencing Championships and is a two-time Olympian, known for her aggressive and dynamic fencing style.
24 Years Old
A talented shooting guard and small forward who plays for the UCLA Bruins men's basketball team, known for his versatility and strong all-around skills on the court.
25 Years Old
Italian forward who plays for Sassuolo and the Italy national team, known for his goal-scoring ability and versatility on the pitch.
65 Years Old
A goalie who played 18 seasons in the NHL, winning three Stanley Cups and representing Canada in international competitions. Known for his clutch performances and strong playoff re...
41 Years Old
A Cameroonian professional footballer who played as a goalkeeper, known for his impressive skills and achievements in the sport, including winning the African Cup of Nations.
Born in 1486
A 16th-century Indian monk and saint who popularized Bhakti yoga, a devotional practice emphasizing love and devotion to a personal god, and is revered for his ecstatic spiritual e...
Died in 1904, aged 58
A renowned actor, playwright, and manager who dominated the late 19th and early 20th century British theatre scene with his melodramatic productions. He's most known for his sensat...
35 Years Old
Costa Rican left-back who played for clubs like Everton and Sunderland, and represented his country in the 2014 World Cup.
Died in 1970, aged 74
A pioneering educator and diplomat who played a crucial role in modernizing China's education system and fostering international relations, particularly with the United States.
Died in 1680, aged 78
A 17th-century Swedish military leader and statesman who governed Finland, known for his military campaigns and administrative reforms. He's remembered for his efforts to modernize...
Died in 1698, aged 56
French actress known for her roles in silent films and her beauty, earning her the nickname "the most beautiful woman in the world" during the 1920s.
24 Years Old
French professional footballer who plays as a midfielder for Bundesliga club Borussia Dortmund and the France national team, known for his versatility and defensive skills.
Died in 1995, aged 73
Female baseball player who broke gender barriers in the 1940s, playing in the All-American Girls Professional Baseball League.
Died in 1932, aged 77
French historian, author, and diplomat who served as Ambassador to the United States, known for his writings on medieval history and his diplomatic efforts to strengthen Franco-Ame...
98 Years Old
A Pakistani fast bowler who took 139 wickets in 34 Tests, known for his unorthodox bowling style and leading Pakistan to their first Test victory against England in 1954.
31 Years Old
German professional basketball player who played in the NBA and internationally, known for his athleticism and three-point shooting.
Died in 1863, aged 46
A Confederate general who led a brigade in Pickett's Charge during the Battle of Gettysburg, known for his bravery and sacrifice in a pivotal Civil War battle.
Died in 1983, aged 79
A Ukrainian engineer and politician who served as the Chairman of the Presidium of the Supreme Soviet, playing a key role in Soviet politics during the 1960s and 1970s.
25 Years Old
A Moroccan professional footballer who plays as a winger for AZ Alkmaar and the Morocco national team, known for his speed and skill on the field.
Died in 1608, aged 65
A 16th-century French nobleman who ruled Lorraine and was a key player in the Wars of Religion, known for his diplomatic efforts to maintain independence from France.
Died in 1934, aged 84
A renowned singer-songwriter, pianist, and conductor who bridged the gap between German and English musical traditions, leaving a lasting legacy in the world of classical music.
Died in 1997, aged 75
First Prime Minister of Grenada, leading the country to independence from British colonial rule in 1974 and implementing progressive social and economic reforms. Known for his char...
39 Years Old
Professional basketball player who played in the NBA and overseas, known for his athleticism and defensive skills.
Died in 1614, aged 55
A 16th-century Renaissance humanist who edited and translated ancient Greek texts, making classical knowledge accessible to a wider audience.
Born in 1589
A prominent English politician who served as Chancellor of the Exchequer and Treasurer of the Household, known for his strong advocacy of parliamentary rights and liberties.
Died in 1998, aged 76
A pioneering toxicologist and public health researcher who investigated the effects of air pollution on human health, particularly the impact of particulate matter on respiratory s...
74 Years Old
The royal consort of King Gyanendra, she played a significant role in promoting Nepalese culture and women's empowerment during her reign. She was also known for her philanthropic ...
51 Years Old
A contemporary painter and professor, known for her provocative and intricate oil paintings that blend historical and pop cultural references, often featuring powerful female figur...
42 Years Old
A talented center who played in the WNBA and overseas, known for her dominant rebounding and defensive skills. She won a WNBA championship with the Detroit Shock in 2008.
33 Years Old
Slovak professional ice hockey player who played in the NHL and represented Slovakia in international competitions. Known for his skills as a left winger and scoring abilities.
Born in 1632
A 17th-century virtuoso violinist and composer who wrote influential works that showcased his mastery of harmony and counterpoint, particularly in his famous "Chaconne" for violin.
Born in 1920
A renowned French musician and educator, celebrated for her exceptional organ and piano performances, as well as her contributions to music education and composition.
99 Years Old
A pioneer of the 1950s and 60s California assemblage movement, creating collages and sculptures that blended surrealism and pop art, influencing the development of West Coast avant...
34 Years Old
German professional footballer who played as a midfielder and won the UEFA Cup with Schalke 04 in 1997. He also earned 10 caps for the German national team.
Born in 1732
A prominent Baroque-era organist and composer, known for his contributions to the development of the chorale prelude and his influential teaching methods.
Died in 1883, aged 65
The 2nd Premier of Victoria, a pioneering figure in Australian politics, known for his instrumental role in shaping the country's early governance and infrastructure development.
37 Years Old
A German-Russian footballer who plays as a defensive midfielder and has represented Russia in international competitions, known for his versatility and vision on the field.
Born in 1870
A painter and author, known for his Impressionist landscapes and writings on art and philosophy. His works often explored the intersection of nature and human experience.
Died in 1889, aged 70
A Polish collector and art connoisseur who donated a vast collection to the National Museum in Kraków, significantly enriching the country's cultural heritage. His generosity has m...
51 Years Old
Czech midfielder who played for clubs like Slavia Prague and Sigma Olomouc, earning 26 caps for the Czech Republic national team between 1994 and 2001.
Died in 1621, aged 74
Founder of the Isfahan School of Islamic Philosophy, he integrated Islamic theology with Greek philosophy, influencing Islamic thought and mysticism. His works blended spirituality...
Born in 1589
A 17th-century Dutch explorer who charted the coast of eastern Asia, including present-day Russia and Japan, and is credited with being the first Westerner to explore and map these...
Born in 1602
A 17th-century painter of still-life and genre scenes, known for his vivid and detailed depictions of everyday life in Rome.
Born in 1658
French philosopher and author who advocated for perpetual peace and proposed a union of European states to prevent war, influencing modern international relations and global govern...
Died in 1797, aged 43
A Finnish church painter renowned for vibrant, Baroque-style murals and altarpieces that adorned churches throughout 18th-century Finland. His works continue to inspire and influen...
Born in 1893
A Belarusian prose writer, journalist, and activist who advocated for democracy and human rights in Belarus through his literary works and public activities. He's known for his cou...
75 Years Old
A Ghanaian queen mother and advocate who championed women's rights, education, and social justice, leaving a lasting legacy in her community.
44 Years Old
A talented outfielder with a strong throwing arm, known for his impressive defensive skills and consistent batting average.
36 Years Old
A Serbian professional basketball player who has represented the Serbian national team in several international competitions, known for her skills on the court and contributions to...