Ali Farka Touré
Malian singer-songwriter and guitarist
A prominent Malian musician and guitarist, renowned for blending traditional African music with blues. Achievements include multiple Grammy Awards, reflecting the global influence of his work. His albums, such as "Talking Timbuktu" and "Niafunke," showcased the rich musical heritage of Mali and introduced African music to wider audiences. Collaborated with various international musicians, enhancing cultural exchange through music.
Won two Grammy Awards in 1994 and 2006
Released acclaimed albums like 'Talking Timbuktu'
Pioneered the fusion of African music and blues
Other People Born on October 31st
John Keats
English Romantic poet and writer
Born
October 31st, 1795 230 years ago
Died
February 23rd, 1821 204 years ago — 25 years old
This poet contributed significantly to English literature during the Romantic period. His work featured themes of beauty, nature, and mortality. Prominent works include 'Ode to a Nightingale', 'Ode on a Grecian Urn', and 'Endymion'. Keats's poetry is characterized by vivid imagery and lyrical quality that have influenced many poets after him. The poet struggled with illness throughout his life and died at a young age, but left behind a lasting legacy in the world of poetry.
Continue ReadingEdward
King of Portugal, founded the Avis Order
Born
October 31st, 1391 634 years ago
Died
September 9th, 1438 587 years ago — 46 years old
Became King of Portugal in 1433 and ruled until 1438. His reign was marked by a focus on the consolidation of royal power and expansion of the kingdom's influence. Established the Order of Aviz, a military order that played a significant role in Portuguese history. Strengthened ties with England through dynastic marriage. Engaged in military campaigns in Africa, furthering Portugal’s maritime interests.
Continue ReadingSamaire Armstrong
American actress and fashion designer
Born
October 31st, 1980 45 years ago
Born in 1980, a model and actress gained prominence through roles in television series and film. Featured in the TV series 'The OC' as Anna Stern, contributed to several other productions including 'Entourage' and 'Not Another Teen Movie'. In addition to acting, engaged in fashion design, launching her own clothing line which reflects personal style and artistic vision.
Continue ReadingDavid Ogden Stiers
Actor and voice actor in M*A*S*H
Born
October 31st, 1942 83 years ago
Died
March 3rd, 2018 7 years ago — 75 years old
An accomplished actor and voice actor, had a significant career spanning several decades. Best remembered for the role of Charles Emerson Winchester III on the television series M*A*S*H, which aired from 1977 to 1983. Also provided voice work for numerous animated series and films, lending a distinctive character to his roles. Additionally, engaged in music, showcasing talents as a conductor and musician. In later years, continued to appear in various television and film projects, demonstrating versatility as an actor.
Continue ReadingCharles Lavigerie
French-Algerian cardinal and academic
Born
October 31st, 1825 200 years ago
Died
November 26th, 1892 133 years ago — 67 years old
A cardinal of the Roman Catholic Church, this individual served as the Archbishop of Algiers. He was pivotal in establishing missionary activities in Africa, particularly in Algeria, where he sought to address social injustices and promote the Catholic faith among local populations. This person's academic contributions included various written works on theological and social issues. A notable commitment was demonstrated through the founding of the 'Society of Missionaries of Africa', which aimed to promote education and aid in Africa.
Continue ReadingHedwig
Abbess of Quedlinburg
Born
October 31st, 1445 580 years ago
Died
1511 514 years ago — 66 years old
An influential religious leader, served as the abbess of the Quedlinburg Abbey in the Holy Roman Empire. During tenure, significant contributions to the spiritual and cultural development of the region were made. Hedwig oversaw the administration of the abbey and its lands, influencing local governance and fostering education among nuns. This period marked a notable consolidation of female monastic authority in the early modern period, emphasizing the importance of women's roles in religious life.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on March 7th
John Box
Production designer for award-winning films
Born
1920 105 years ago
Died
March 7th, 2005 20 years ago — 85 years old
Worked as a production designer and art director in the film industry. Collaborated with renowned directors and contributed to the visual style of numerous films, enhancing narrative through design. Received multiple awards for contributions to film production design and played a significant role in shaping the aesthetic of notable cinematic works. His design work has been influential in the world of filmmaking across various genres.
Continue ReadingMartti Larni
Finnish writer and poet, notable work
Born
1909 116 years ago
Died
March 7th, 1993 32 years ago — 84 years old
A Finnish writer produced a significant body of work that contributed to Finnish literature. Published various novels and collections of poetry, exploring themes of identity, nature, and society. Larni's writing style captured the essence of Finnish culture, reflecting the landscape and existential nature of life in Finland. Gained recognition in the literary community and inspired subsequent generations of Finnish writers. Provided insights into the Finnish experience through artful prose and insightful storytelling.
Continue ReadingLucy Parsons
Labor organizer and activist
Died
March 7th, 1947 78 years ago — None years old
Active in the labor movement during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, played a significant role in advocating for workers' rights and social justice. Helped organize labor strikes and campaigns for better working conditions. Engaged in public speaking and writing, promoting anarchist and communist ideologies. Involved in the formation of various labor organizations, including the Industrial Workers of the World (IWW). Continued activism into her later years, opposing racism and militarism.
Continue ReadingRavi
South Korean rapper and songwriter
Born
February 15th, 1993 32 years ago
Died
March 7th, 2012 13 years ago — 19 years old
Born in 1993, this artist began his career in the South Korean music scene as a member of the hip-hop group VIXX, debuting in 2012. He demonstrated talent as a songwriter and lyricist, contributing to the group's hit songs. In addition to group activities, this individual pursued a solo career, releasing multiple EPs and singles that showcased a blend of rap and diverse musical styles. The artist founded the label Groovl1n, promoting the creation of original music. Collaborations with various artists and participation in television programs further expanded recognition.
Continue ReadingMaria of Aragon
Queen of Portugal
Born
June 29th, 1482 543 years ago
Died
March 7th, 1517 508 years ago — 34 years old
Born in 1482, played a significant role in the political alliances of 16th century Portugal. Married Manuel I of Portugal, strengthening ties between the Portuguese crown and Spain. This union initiated the merger of the Spanish and Portuguese crowns, shaping their future relations. Maria contributed to the cultural and religious development of the court during her reign until her death in 1517.
Continue ReadingPope Innocent XIII
Pope and religious leader from Catholic Church
Born
1655 370 years ago
Died
March 7th, 1724 301 years ago — 69 years old
Served as the head of the Catholic Church from 1721 until death in 1724. Focused on fostering relations with various European powers and addressed issues in the Church, including reforms. Engaged with matters relating to the Jansenism controversy, upholding traditional Catholic doctrine. Oversaw the completion of several initiatives aimed at improving Church governance and discipline during his papacy.
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