Brenda Hale
English lawyer and judge, Supreme Court President
Born
Category
Leaders & Politicians
Country
England
Links & References
Born in 1945, a significant figure in the British legal system, served as the President of the Supreme Court from 2017 until 2020. Educated at the University of Cambridge and the Newnham College, later becoming a law lecturer and academic. Appointed to the Court of Appeal in 2004, becoming the first female Law Lord. Contributed to several landmark legal decisions, especially in human rights and constitutional law. Worked extensively to promote gender equality within the legal profession and participated in various initiatives aimed at enhancing the judiciary's accessibility and public understanding.
First female President of the Supreme Court
First female Law Lord
Other People Born on January 31st
Magdalena Dobromila Rettigová
Czech cookbook author and chef
Born
January 31st, 1785 240 years ago
Died
1845 180 years ago — 60 years old
A prominent figure in Czech culinary literature, this cookbook author published influential works that shaped the gastronomy of the region. The most significant publication was 'The Czech Cookery Book,' which provided a detailed collection of traditional recipes. This work played a crucial role in preserving Czech culinary traditions and influenced future generations of cooks in the Czech Republic. Through meticulous research and dedication, the author showcased the importance of regional ingredients and cooking techniques, ensuring that Czech cuisine gained recognition.
Continue ReadingIrving Langmuir
Chemist and physicist, Nobel Prize winner
Born
January 31st, 1881 144 years ago
Died
August 16th, 1957 68 years ago — 76 years old
Contributions to physical chemistry and surface chemistry defined a career that included development of the Langmuir isotherm. Achievements in the field of chemistry were recognized with the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1932. Significant work included investigations of high-temperature chemical processes and the discovery of the phenomena of plasma. Langmuir's research into chemical bonding and reactions greatly influenced the understanding of chemical systems.
Continue ReadingJulian Steward
Cultural Anthropologist and Ecologist
Born
January 31st, 1902 123 years ago
Died
February 6th, 1972 53 years ago — 70 years old
Contributed significantly to the field of anthropology through the development of the concept of cultural ecology. Focused on the relationship between culture and environment, emphasizing how environmental factors shape human behavior and social organization. Conducted extensive fieldwork in the Great Basin and among various Native American tribes. Authored influential works, including 'Theory of Culture Change: The Methodology of Cultural Ecology', outlining a framework for understanding cultural adaptation. Helped establish the subfield of ecological anthropology as a distinct area of study.
Continue ReadingNorman Mailer
Author and journalist of The Naked and the Dead
Born
January 31st, 1923 102 years ago
Died
November 10th, 2007 18 years ago — 84 years old
Born in 1923, this American author and journalist emerged as a prominent figure in 20th-century literature. The work 'The Naked and the Dead' published in 1948, provided a gritty, realistic portrayal of war, drawing from personal experiences during World War II. Over a prolific career, numerous novels, essays, and non-fiction pieces were produced, often exploring themes of masculinity, politics, and society. The author received multiple awards, including the Pulitzer Prize for Commentary in 1969 for 'The Armies of the Night', which detailed the anti-Vietnam War protests. Engaging in public debates and literary discussions, the figure also became known for his controversial opinions, self-promotional tactics, and contributions to the New Journalism movement.
Continue ReadingAndrée Boucher
Canadian educator and politician
Born
January 31st, 1937 88 years ago
Died
August 24th, 2007 18 years ago — 70 years old
Served as the 39th Mayor of Quebec City from 2005 until 2010. Contributed to local education policies and municipal affairs. Held various positions within the community and advocated for civic development during the mayoral tenure. Prior to the mayoralty, worked in education and community service sectors.
Continue ReadingBetty Parsons
Artist and influential art dealer
Born
January 31st, 1900 125 years ago
Died
1982 43 years ago — 82 years old
An American artist and art dealer, contributed significantly to the New York art scene. Established Betty Parsons Gallery in 1946, promoting numerous abstract expressionist artists. Emphasized the importance of showcasing emerging talents. Engaged in personal art practices, focusing primarily on abstraction throughout career. Played a role in the careers of various notable artists, including Mark Rothko and Jackson Pollock.
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