Chiyonofuji Mitsugu
Sumo wrestler with Kaiju record
Competed in sumo wrestling from 1970 to 1997, achieving significant success in the sport. Earned a total of 31 top division championships, which remains a record. Notable for an aggressive style and remarkable physical condition, contributed to a resurgence in the sport's popularity. After retirement, transitioned to a role as a coach and continued to influence the next generation of wrestlers.
Achieved 31 top division championships
Promoted to yokozuna in 1989
Other People Born on June 1st
Elena Alistar
Bessarabian politician and activist
Born
June 1st, 1873 152 years ago
Died
1955 71 years ago — 82 years old
Active in the early 20th century, served as a prominent politician in Bessarabia. Advocated for women's rights and participated in the political movements of the time. Worked towards the unification of Bessarabia with Romania, contributing to discussions during pivotal moments in regional politics. Engaged in various social and cultural initiatives aimed at improving the status of women in society.
Continue ReadingJohn Bell Hood
American Civil War general
Born
June 1st, 1831 194 years ago
Died
August 30th, 1879 146 years ago — 48 years old
Served as a Confederate general during the American Civil War, commanding the Army of Tennessee during key battles. Played a significant role in the battles of Atlanta and Franklin, where strategic maneuvers and leadership decisions were pivotal. Hood’s military career began in the Mexican-American War, after which he became a prominent figure in the Confederate army. Post-war, he faced personal and financial challenges, eventually moving to New Orleans and later serving as a businessman. He passed away in 1879 after a life marked by military service.
Continue ReadingAndy Griffith
Actor and comedian from The Andy Griffith Show
Born
June 1st, 1926 99 years ago
Died
July 3rd, 2012 13 years ago — 86 years old
An American actor, singer, producer, and screenwriter, played the lead role in The Andy Griffith Show, which aired from 1960 to 1968. His character, Sheriff Andy Taylor, became a staple of American television. Later, starred in Matlock from 1986 to 1995, portraying a shrewd defense attorney. Griffith also released several albums showcasing his musical talents. With a career spanning over six decades, he made significant contributions to both television and film.
Continue ReadingClementina Maude
Portrait photographer, Viscountess Hawarden
Born
June 1st, 1822 203 years ago
Died
1865 161 years ago — 43 years old
Born in 1822, a prominent English portrait photographer. Focused on portraits, capturing the likenesses of family, friends, and domestic life. Worked primarily with collodion wet plates, gaining recognition for the quality and emotional depth of the images. Contributed significantly to the early development of photography as an art form in the Victorian era. Exhibited widely and became an influential figure in the photographic community, particularly known for intimate and softly lit images showcasing her subjects.
Continue ReadingHap Day
Ice hockey player and referee
Born
June 1st, 1901 124 years ago
Died
1990 36 years ago — 89 years old
Born in 1901, a prominent figure in Canadian ice hockey played as a defenseman for the Toronto Maple Leafs. Contributed to the team's success during the 1930s, winning three Stanley Cup championships. Transitioned into officiating, becoming a referee in the National Hockey League, and later served as a manager. Known for a long and impactful career within the sport, both on and off the ice.
Continue ReadingNicolas Léonard Sadi Carnot
Physicist known for heat engines
Born
June 1st, 1796 229 years ago
Died
August 24th, 1832 193 years ago — 36 years old
A prominent physicist and engineer, contributed significantly to the field of thermodynamics. Formulated the Carnot cycle, which laid the foundation for the second law of thermodynamics. Focused on the efficiency of heat engines and proposed a theoretical model for understanding heat transfer. His work established principles that influenced later scientists and engineers in the study of energy conversion.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on July 31st
William Keepers Maxwell Jr.
American editor and novelist
Born
August 16th, 1908 117 years ago
Died
July 31st, 2000 25 years ago — 91 years old
An editor, novelist, short story writer, and essayist born in 1908. Served as a chief editor at The New Yorker, contributing significantly to the magazine's literary quality. Authored several novels, with 'They Came Like Swallows' recognized as a prominent work. Also engaged in short story writing, editing, and teaching literature. His literary career spanned several decades, showcasing a variety of themes and styles.
Continue ReadingPaul Bucha
United States Army Medal of Honor recipient
Born
1943 83 years ago
Died
July 31st, 2024 1 years ago — 81 years old
Served in the Vietnam War as a U.S. Army officer. Participated in combat operations as part of the 101st Airborne Division. Received the Medal of Honor for extraordinary heroism during a firefight in 1971. Later became active in veterans' affairs and community service. Authored a memoir detailing experiences in combat.
Continue ReadingGore Vidal
American novelist and screenwriter
Born
October 3rd, 1925 100 years ago
Died
July 31st, 2012 13 years ago — 86 years old
A prominent American writer, contributed significantly to literature and political discourse through novels, essays, and screenplays. Wrote critically acclaimed works such as 'Burr' and 'Myra Breckenridge', engaging with themes of politics, sexuality, and culture. Vidal also wrote for television and film, creating sharp commentaries on American society. His essays reflected a keen intellect and controversial opinions on various issues. Engaged in public debates and served in various political capacities, influencing both literature and public thought.
Continue ReadingChiune Sugihara
Japanese diplomat and humanitarian
Born
January 1st, 1900 126 years ago
Died
July 31st, 1986 39 years ago — 86 years old
A Japanese diplomat served as vice-consul in Lithuania during World War II. Issued visas to thousands of Jewish refugees seeking escape from Nazi persecution. His actions allowed many to flee to safety in Japan and other countries. After the war, returned to Japan and later worked in the manufacturing industry.
Continue ReadingAndrew Johnson
17th President of the United States
Born
December 29th, 1808 217 years ago
Died
July 31st, 1875 150 years ago — 66 years old
Served as the 17th President of the United States from 1865 to 1869 after the assassination of Abraham Lincoln. Prior to the presidency, held the position of Vice President and served as a U.S. Senator from Tennessee. Implemented a lenient Reconstruction policy following the Civil War, which aimed to reunite the nation. His presidency faced significant challenges, including conflicts with Congress and impeachment proceedings due to his opposition to Congressional Reconstruction efforts.
Continue ReadingRoddy Piper
Professional wrestler and actor
Born
April 17th, 1954 71 years ago
Died
July 31st, 2015 10 years ago — 61 years old
A Canadian professional wrestler and actor, contributed significantly to the wrestling industry during the 1980s and 1990s. Gained popularity in the World Wrestling Federation (WWF), where developed the character 'Rowdy' Roddy Piper. Featured in the cult classic film 'They Live' which showcased both acting and wrestling skills. Wrestled in major promotions across North America, returning to WWE as a commentator and manager.
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