Andrew Volstead
U.S. Congressman and 18th Amendment architect
Served as a member of the United States House of Representatives from Minnesota from 1903 to 1923. Played a significant role in the passage of the Volstead Act, which defined the legal parameters of Prohibition. Held the position of Chairman of the House Judiciary Committee. Authored the Volstead Act to support the enactment of Prohibition under the 18th Amendment, implementing nationwide alcohol prohibition from 1920 until its repeal in 1933.
Authored the Volstead Act
Served as Chairman of the House Judiciary Committee
Other People Born on October 31st
Hedwig
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 ReadingAlexander Alekhine
Russian chess player and World Champion
Born
October 31st, 1892 133 years ago
Died
March 24th, 1946 79 years ago — 53 years old
A prominent chess player, achieved the title of World Chess Champion in 1927 and held it until 1935, then regained it from 1937 until death in 1946. Renowned for innovative strategies and complex play, contributed extensively to chess literature, particularly in opening theory. His rivalry with José Raúl Capablanca and subsequent matches are considered pivotal in chess history.
Continue ReadingPope Clement XIV
Pope with major papal decrees
Born
October 31st, 1705 320 years ago
Died
September 22nd, 1774 251 years ago — 68 years old
Elected pope in 1769, served until 1774. Played a crucial role in the dissolution of the Society of Jesus, leading to the suppression of Jesuit missions globally. Oversaw various reform efforts within the papacy and the Catholic Church during a period of tumultuous political changes in Europe. Engaged in diplomacy to manage relations among Catholic states, particularly in light of rising Enlightenment ideologies. His tenure was marked by significant challenges, including managing opposition from various monarchies and church factions.
Continue ReadingAdelbert Ames
American general and Mississippi governor
Born
October 31st, 1835 190 years ago
Died
April 12th, 1933 92 years ago — 97 years old
Served as a general in the Union Army during the Civil War, achieving the rank of brevet major general. Became the 30th Governor of Mississippi from 1874 to 1876. His tenure focused on reconstruction efforts in the South after the Civil War. After serving as governor, held various political roles including a U.S. Senator. Advocated for civil rights and was involved in the Republican Party during his political career.
Continue ReadingCount Carl Johan Bernadotte of Wisborg
Swedish count and notable author
Born
October 31st, 1916 109 years ago
Died
2012 13 years ago — 96 years old
Born into a prominent Swedish family, the count served in various social and cultural roles throughout his life. He was a descendant of the Swedish royal family and held a significant position within Swedish nobility. The count gained recognition for writing several books, contributing to literature and historical scholarship. His works often reflected on his heritage and experiences, providing insights into Swedish culture and society during the 20th century. In addition to his literary pursuits, he played a role in various charitable initiatives and organizations, promoting cultural exchange and understanding.
Continue ReadingJohn Hugenholtz
Dutch engineer and road safety advocate
Born
October 31st, 1914 111 years ago
Died
March 25th, 1995 30 years ago — 80 years old
Contributed significantly to road safety and traffic engineering. Played a crucial role in developing the Dutch road safety program that reduced fatalities and improved overall traffic management. Led various national and international initiatives that influenced policy and engineering standards. Active in educating and promoting safer driving habits through comprehensive studies and seminars.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on January 20th
Theobald V
Count of Blois during the Crusades
Died
January 20th, 1191 834 years ago — None years old
Count of Blois and Chartres, governed from the mid-12th century. Participated in the Second Crusade, aligning with prominent leaders of the time. Engaged in various territorial conflicts and politics in France. Held notable titles and is recognized for contributions to the feudal system and regional governance during a tumultuous period.
Continue ReadingGarrincha
Renowned Brazilian footballer and winger
Born
October 28th, 1933 92 years ago
Died
January 20th, 1983 42 years ago — 49 years old
A highly skilled winger, played for Botafogo and the Brazil national team. Considered one of the greatest dribblers in football history, contributed significantly to Brazil's World Cup victories in 1958 and 1962. His playing style, characterized by extraordinary agility and technique, captivated fans worldwide. After a successful club career, which included multiple championships, faced personal and health challenges later in life, leading to a decline in visibility. Passed away in 1983.
Continue ReadingJohn de Bohun
5th Earl of Hereford, noble leader
Born
1306 719 years ago
Died
January 20th, 1336 689 years ago — 30 years old
This noble figure served as the 5th Earl of Hereford during the 14th century. His tenure included participation in the political and military affairs of England. Engaged in the conflicts of his time, the Earl's actions were significant in the context of the territorial and power struggles of the English nobility. He held considerable influence and commanded forces, contributing to the political landscape of the period until his death in 1336.
Continue ReadingJonas Trinkūnas
Lithuanian ethnologist and academic
Born
1939 86 years ago
Died
January 20th, 2014 11 years ago — 75 years old
Contributed significantly to the field of ethnology and folklore studies in Lithuania. Provided comprehensive analyses of Lithuanian folk traditions and cultural practices. Engaged in academic research and published works that shed light on the historical and sociological aspects of Lithuanian culture. Served as a professor and mentor to many students in the field of ethnology.
Continue ReadingTheophilos
Byzantine emperor during the 9th century
Died
January 20th, 842 1183 years ago — None years old
Reigned as Byzantine emperor from 829 to 842. His rule was marked by military campaigns against the Arabs, striving to recapture lost territories. Theophilos promoted the arts and is noted for his patronage of literature and iconography. Under his leadership, the Byzantine Empire experienced a cultural renaissance. His efforts to strengthen the empire's defenses and military capabilities were significant during his reign.
Continue ReadingŌnomatsu Midorinosuke
Sumo wrestler, 6th Yokozuna
Born
1794 231 years ago
Died
January 20th, 1852 173 years ago — 58 years old
Achieved the rank of Yokozuna in sumo wrestling, establishing a legacy in the sport. Competed during the Edo period, contributing to the popularity of sumo through notable tournaments. Played a significant role in shaping the competitive landscape of sumo wrestling during the mid-19th century.
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