Birger

King of Sweden during the early 14th century

Birger - Leaders & Politicians born 1280
Born

1280
746 years ago

Died
Category

Leaders & Politicians

Country

Sweden

Links & References

Ruled as king of Sweden from 1306 until death in 1321. Birger struggled with internal conflicts among Swedish nobility and external threats from neighboring territories. His reign was marked by efforts to consolidate power and maintain stability within the kingdom. He faced opposition from his brothers who sought to undermine his rule. Notable for his campaigns against Denmark, Birger's leadership sought to expand Swedish influence in the region. His policies and military actions were pivotal in shaping early Swedish governance and territorial integrity.

Ruled Sweden from 1306 to 1321

Fended off Danish aggression

Consolidated power against noble opposition

Other People Who Died on May 31st

Krishnakumar Kunnath

Indian playback singer and musician
Born
1968 58 years ago
Died
May 31st, 2022 3 years ago — 54 years old

An Indian playback singer contributed to the film industry across multiple languages, primarily focusing on Malayalam, Tamil, Hindi, and Telugu cinema. Achievements included a successful career featuring numerous hit songs and collaborations with various renowned music composers. Played a significant role in the popularization of film music in India and received several awards for outstanding contributions to music. His melodious voice resonated across generations, making him a beloved figure in the Indian music scene.

Continue Reading

Lewis Katz

Businessman and philanthropist
Born
1942 84 years ago
Died
May 31st, 2014 11 years ago — 72 years old

A prominent American businessman and philanthropist, contributed to various industries and causes throughout his career. Co-founded the New Jersey Nets and played a pivotal role in the team's relocation to Brooklyn, becoming one of the NFL's significant players in the business aspect of sports. Invested in a wide range of enterprises, including media, real estate, and aviation. Made substantial philanthropic contributions, particularly in education and healthcare, including significant donations to Temple University. Passed away in an airplane crash in 2014.

Continue Reading

Gilberto Rodríguez Orejuela

Colombian drug lord, Cali Cartel leader
Born
1939 87 years ago
Died
May 31st, 2022 3 years ago — 83 years old

Co-founded the Cali Cartel, a powerful drug trafficking organization in Colombia during the late 20th century. Operated in the Medellín and Cali regions, facilitating cocaine distribution to the United States and other countries. Engaged in extensive money laundering and corruption to bolster operations and evade law enforcement. Captured in 1995, extradited to the United States in 2004, and sentenced to 30 years in prison. Convictions included drug conspiracy and racketeering.

Continue Reading

Gerald E. Brown

American physicist and academic
Born
1926 100 years ago
Died
May 31st, 2013 12 years ago — 87 years old

Contributed significantly to nuclear and particle physics. Held academic positions and published extensively, focusing on theoretical aspects of physics. Served as a respected faculty member at various universities, providing education and mentorship to students. Engaged in research that advanced understanding of complex physical phenomena, demonstrating a commitment to scientific inquiry and education throughout a lengthy career.

Continue Reading

Randall B. Kester

American lawyer and judge
Born
1916 110 years ago
Died
May 31st, 2012 13 years ago — 96 years old

Served as a judge on the U.S. District Court for the District of Colorado. Appointed as a district judge in 1972 and assumed senior status in 1996. Kester contributed to several landmark decisions in various legal areas during a career that spanned several decades. Engaged in private legal practice prior to becoming a judge and served in various judicial capacities throughout his career.

Continue Reading

Tim Samaras

Engineer and storm chaser, Tornado Intercept Vehicle
Born
November 12th, 1957 68 years ago
Died
May 31st, 2013 12 years ago — 55 years old

An American engineer and storm chaser specialized in studying tornadoes. Developed advanced tornado intercept technologies, including the Tornado Intercept Vehicle (TIV), which captured footage and data during severe weather events. Conducted numerous field missions to analyze tornado behavior and contribute to meteorological research. Featured in the documentary series 'Storm Chasers', which highlighted storm chasing efforts and the challenges faced in severe weather environments.

Continue Reading