Historical events for
Tuesday, 18 August 2026

Antonio Salieri, an Italian composer born in 1750, was an influential figure during the classical period, known both for his operatic compositions and for his rivalry with Mozart.

Luc Montagnier, a French virologist born in 1932, was awarded the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 2008 for his discovery of the HIV virus.

Roman Polanski, born in 1933, is a world-renowned Polish filmmaker, known for making iconic films such as 'Rosemary's Baby' and 'The Pianist'.

Robert Redford, born in 1937, is a renowned American actor and director, recognized for his performances in films such as 'Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid' and 'All the President's Men'.

Edward Norton, born in 1953, is a talented American actor known for his performances in films such as "Fight Club" and "The Departed".

Patrick Swayze, American actor and dancer born in 1954, became famous for his roles in 'Dirty Dancing', 'Ghost' and 'Point Break'.

In 1502, Saint Helena Island was discovered by Estêvão da Gama during his return from India, a place that would later become an important place of exile.

Commemoration of the arrival of the first Portuguese settlers in Timor-Leste, marking the beginning of the Portuguese presence in the region.

Commemoration of the creation of the Diocese of Portalegre in 1549, an important religious entity in the region.

In 1812, the Russian army was defeated at Smolensk by Napoleon Bonaparte's forces during the Russian Campaign.

Celebration of the inauguration of the Campo Pequeno bullring in Lisbon, an important venue for cultural and sporting events.

During the Great War (1914-18), a military expedition was carried out to Angola and Mozambique to defend the territories from enemy forces, commanded by General Pereira d’Eça and Lieutenant-Colonel Alves Roçadas.

During the Great War (1914-18), there was combat in Mongua, Angola, against German troops.

Sonae (Sociedade Nacional de Estratificados) was founded in 1959, an important Portuguese company in the distribution and retail sector.

Celebration of Freedom Day in South Africa, a historic national holiday commemorating the first post-apartheid democratic and multiracial elections, held in 1994.