Chris Whitley
Singer-songwriter and guitarist
A prominent figure in the American music scene, this singer-songwriter and guitarist gained recognition for a unique blend of blues, rock, and a hint of country. Released several albums including 'Living with the Law', which showcased a distinctive sound characterized by slide guitar and poignant lyrics. Collaborated with various artists and explored different musical styles throughout his career, earning a dedicated following. Influenced by traditional American music forms, he often incorporated themes of life experiences and personal struggles into his work.
Released 'Living with the Law' in 1991
Collaborated with artists like Jewel and Wayne Kramer
Explored multiple musical genres in various albums
Other People Born on August 31st
Georg von Hertling
German Chancellor and politician
Born
August 31st, 1843 182 years ago
Died
January 4th, 1919 107 years ago — 75 years old
Served as the 7th Chancellor of the German Empire from 1917 to 1918. Prior to the Chancellorship, held various academic roles and participated in politics. Contributed to discussions surrounding Germany's involvement in World War I and its eventual peace negotiations. Oversaw the final stages of the war during a time of significant upheaval in German society and politics. Resigned as Chancellor shortly before the end of the war in 1918 amidst growing pressures and challenges facing the German government.
Continue ReadingBrian Edmund Baker
English Air Marshal and pilot
Born
August 31st, 1896 129 years ago
Died
October 8th, 1979 46 years ago — 83 years old
Served as an influential Air Marshal in the Royal Air Force during and after World War II. Baker played a significant role in various military operations and strategy development. Contributed to the advancement of aviation tactics and training within the RAF. His leadership ensured the effective integration of new technologies and methodologies in military aviation. Continued to serve in various capacities within the RAF, shaping future generations of pilots and officials.
Continue ReadingCraig Stapleton
Rugby League Player, Penrith Panthers
Born
August 31st, 1978 47 years ago
A rugby league player, contributed significantly to the sport during the late 1990s and early 2000s. Played for the Penrith Panthers in the National Rugby League (NRL). Participated in the 2003 NRL Grand Final, where the team emerged victorious. Also represented Australia at the international level.
Continue ReadingQueen Rania of Jordan
Queen and advocate for education reform
Born
August 31st, 1970 55 years ago
Born in 1970, the Queen holds a degree in Business Administration. Engaged in various educational initiatives, she established the Jordan River Foundation, focusing on community empowerment and education. Advocating for global education, she has worked with UNICEF and launched the 'The Queen Rania Teacher Academy' to improve teaching standards and professionalism in Jordan. The Queen participates in numerous forums discussing the importance of education and women's rights. Her royal duties also include supporting various charitable initiatives that promote social development.
Continue ReadingHarald Ertl
Race car driver and journalist
Born
August 31st, 1948 77 years ago
Died
April 7th, 1982 43 years ago — 33 years old
Competed in Formula One during the late 1970s and early 1980s. Participated in 29 Grands Prix, with a best finish of sixth place. Also worked as a journalist, providing insights and analysis on motorsport events. His tenure in racing was cut short by an untimely death in a plane crash.
Continue ReadingRamon Magsaysay
Filipino politician and President
Born
August 31st, 1907 118 years ago
Died
March 17th, 1957 68 years ago — 49 years old
Served as the 7th President of the Philippines from 1953 until his death in 1957. Held a reputation for promoting social justice and integrity in government. Focused on improving the lives of the Filipino people through land reform and infrastructure development. Championed the cause of the common man and established programs aimed at alleviating poverty and fostering education.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on November 20th
Peter Berling
German actor and film producer
Born
1934 92 years ago
Died
November 20th, 2017 8 years ago — 83 years old
An actor, film producer, and writer engaged in the film industry for several decades. Contributed to multiple prominent films and television series, building a reputation within German cinema. Founded a production company that enabled various projects and collaborated with numerous filmmakers. Achieved recognition for performances in films and contributed to adaptations of literary works.
Continue ReadingGabriel Badilla
Costa Rican footballer
Born
1984 42 years ago
Died
November 20th, 2016 9 years ago — 32 years old
Played as a defender in professional football. Started career with Alajuelense in Costa Rica before moving to the United States to play in Major League Soccer. Joined Chivas USA in 2006 and made a significant contribution during his tenure. Represented the national team of Costa Rica in international competitions, including the 2007 CONCACAF Gold Cup, showcasing talents on a larger stage. Later returned to Costa Rican football, continuing to contribute to local clubs until retirement.
Continue ReadingJohn Prescott
British politician and Deputy Prime Minister
Born
May 31st, 1938 87 years ago
Died
November 20th, 2024 1 years ago — 86 years old
A prominent British politician and sailor, served as Deputy Prime Minister of the United Kingdom from 1997 to 2007 under Prime Minister Tony Blair. Played a significant role in the Labour Party's return to government after 18 years in opposition. Held various ministerial positions prior to the deputy premiership, including Secretary of State for Environment, Transport and the Regions. Represented the Hull East constituency in Parliament for over 30 years, focusing on urban regeneration and public transport issues. Active in the maritime community, achieved significant accomplishments in sailing as well.
Continue ReadingWolfgang Borchert
German author and playwright
Born
May 20th, 1921 104 years ago
Died
November 20th, 1947 78 years ago — 26 years old
An influential German author and playwright, who emerged in the post-World War II period. His most celebrated work, the play 'Draußen vor der Tür' (Outside in the Cold), addresses the existential struggles of returning soldiers. Borchert's writing reflects the trauma and disillusionment faced by individuals in a devastated Germany. His works, marked by existential themes and poignant language, sought to capture the zeitgeist of a war-torn society. Borchert's life was cut short by illness, but his literary contributions resonate in discussions of post-war literature.
Continue ReadingAaron Klug
Chemist and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
August 11th, 1926 99 years ago
Died
November 20th, 2018 7 years ago — 92 years old
A chemist and biophysicist, contributions focused on the structure of viruses and nucleic acids. Established techniques that integrated X-ray crystallography and electron microscopy to analyze biological molecules. Received the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1982 for developing crystallographic electron microscopy. Held positions at the MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology and the University of Cambridge.
Continue ReadingSylvia Browne
American author on spirituality and psychic phenomena
Born
1936 90 years ago
Died
November 20th, 2013 12 years ago — 77 years old
An author focused on spirituality and psychic phenomena, wrote numerous books on these subjects that gained significant popularity. A prominent figure in the field of psychic readings, conducted workshops and private sessions for clients seeking guidance. Featured on various television programs, including 'The Montel Williams Show', where psychic abilities and spiritual insights were discussed. Founded a spiritual organization to promote understanding of psychic abilities and spirituality.
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