Dante Giacosa
Italian automotive engineer and designer
An influential automotive engineer, contributions included the design of several notable Fiat models during the mid-20th century. Worked on vehicles such as the Fiat 600 and Fiat 124, which became highly popular in Europe. Also involved in the development of the iconic Fiat 500, which transformed urban mobility in post-war Italy. Integrated innovative engineering techniques, emphasizing compact design and efficiency.
Designed the Fiat 500
Worked on the Fiat 600
Contributed to the Fiat 124
Other People Born on January 3rd
Kimberley Locke
Singer and television personality with 'American Idol'
Born
January 3rd, 1978 48 years ago
Gained recognition as a contestant on the second season of 'American Idol' in 2003, finishing in third place. Released the album 'One Light' in 2004, which included the hit single '8th World Wonder'. Served as a television personality on various shows and participated in multiple reality competitions, including 'Celebrity Fit Club'. Collaborated with other artists and contributed to charitable projects through music.
Continue ReadingDouglas William Jerrold
English journalist and playwright
Born
January 3rd, 1803 223 years ago
Died
June 8th, 1857 168 years ago — 54 years old
Born in 1803, this individual made significant contributions to English literature as a journalist and playwright. He worked for various publications, including the 'Morning Chronicle' and 'Punch', where satirical journalism thrived. As a playwright, he penned numerous successful plays, with 'Black-Eyed Susan' becoming a staple in the British theatre repertoire. This work garnered widespread acclaim and was performed frequently during the 19th century.
Continue ReadingIchizō Kobayashi
Japanese businessman and art collector
Born
January 3rd, 1873 153 years ago
Died
January 25th, 1957 69 years ago — 84 years old
Founded Hankyu Hanshin Holdings, a major transportation and real estate conglomerate in Japan. Oversaw expansions in railway services and developed urban shopping centers. Established a renowned art collection, contributing to the cultural landscape of Japan.
Continue ReadingDarren Daulton
Baseball catcher and World Series champion
Born
January 3rd, 1962 64 years ago
Died
August 6th, 2017 8 years ago — 55 years old
A professional baseball catcher played for the Philadelphia Phillies and the Florida Marlins during a career spanning from 1983 to 1997. Daulton was instrumental in the Phillies' success, helping the team reach the 1993 World Series. He later won a championship with the Marlins in 1997. In addition to his on-field contributions, Daulton also served as a team leader and mentor to younger players, influencing the game beyond just statistics.
Continue ReadingNicole Beharie
Actress notable for 'Sleepy Hollow'
Born
January 3rd, 1985 41 years ago
An American actress gained prominence through roles in film and television. Played the character Abbie Mills in the television series 'Sleepy Hollow', which aired from 2013 to 2017. Featured in the critically acclaimed film '28 Days' alongside Sandra Bullock and received attention for her performance in 'Miss Juneteenth'. Had a recurring role on the series 'The Corner', which further showcased acting skills. Engaged in various projects across genres, contributing to the entertainment industry with a focus on strong, complex characters.
Continue ReadingMarion Davies
Actress and comedian from silent films
Born
January 3rd, 1897 129 years ago
Died
September 22nd, 1961 64 years ago — 64 years old
An American actress and comedian, celebrated for contributions to the film industry during the silent and early sound eras. Gained prominence in the 1920s with successful comedies and dramas. Starred in several significant films, including 'Little Old New York' and 'The Patsy'. Established a notable partnership with producer William Randolph Hearst, which influenced both personal and professional trajectories. After transitioning into sound films, continued to perform in leading roles until the mid-1930s. Retired from acting but remained a prominent figure in Hollywood social circles until her death.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on March 31st
Nipsey Hussle
American rapper and entrepreneur
Born
August 15th, 1985 40 years ago
Died
March 31st, 2019 6 years ago — 33 years old
A prominent figure in the hip-hop scene, contributed to the genre with a unique blend of West Coast sound and entrepreneurial spirit. Released several mixtapes, including the critically acclaimed 'South Central State of Mind' and 'Mailbox Money'. Founded the record label All Money In No Money Out and launched various business ventures, including a clothing store in Los Angeles. Engaged in community activism focused on economic empowerment and violence prevention. Tragic death occurred in 2019, garnering widespread memorials and tributes across the music industry.
Continue ReadingSemyon Timoshenko
Soviet Commander in WWII
Born
1894 132 years ago
Died
March 31st, 1970 55 years ago — 76 years old
Led Soviet military operations during the Winter War against Finland and the Eastern Front of World War II. Contributed to significant battles such as Stalingrad and Kursk. Held various high-ranking positions within the Red Army throughout his career, implementing strategies that shaped Soviet military tactics during the war. Served as a Marshal of the Soviet Union, playing a crucial role in the post-war reconstruction of the Soviet military structure.
Continue ReadingYuri Knorozov
Linguist and ethnographer, Maya script researcher
Born
November 19th, 1922 103 years ago
Died
March 31st, 1999 26 years ago — 76 years old
A Russian linguist and ethnographer, contributions focused on deciphering the Maya script. Developed a method for reading and understanding the ancient text, which significantly advanced the field of Mesoamerican studies. Published works that outlined grammatical structures and meanings within the glyphs. The research provided insights into Maya culture and history, facilitating further scholarly investigation into Maya civilization and languages.
Continue ReadingAnne Hyde
Queen of England, consort of James II
Born
March 12th, 1637 388 years ago
Died
March 31st, 1671 354 years ago — 34 years old
Born in 1637, the spouse of James II, consort served in the position from 1685 until death in 1671. Anne was the daughter of Edward Hyde, who served as the first Earl of Clarendon. Her marriage to James II was initially clandestine, occurring in 1660, before his ascension to the throne. Anne gave birth to several children, including two daughters who later became queens. Throughout her life, she maintained a significant role in court politics and affairs of state.
Continue ReadingShirley Burkovich
Former AAGPBL baseball player
Born
1933 93 years ago
Died
March 31st, 2022 3 years ago — 89 years old
Played in the All-American Girls Professional Baseball League (AAGPBL) from 1943 to 1954. Represented the Rockford Peaches during her career and contributed to the team’s success. Overcame challenges in a male-dominated sport, demonstrating exceptional talent on the field. Worked to promote women's baseball after retirement and participated in various reunions of AAGPBL players.
Continue ReadingJeffrey Lee Pierce
Singer-songwriter and guitarist
Born
June 27th, 1958 67 years ago
Died
March 31st, 1996 29 years ago — 37 years old
Played guitar and sang for the band The Gun Club, which blended punk rock and blues. Released several albums, including 'Fire of Love' and 'Miami', contributing to the alternative music scene in the 1980s. Collaborated with artists like Kid Congo Powers and wrote songs that reflected on themes of love, loss, and rebellion. His musical style influenced various genres and contributed to the development of punk blues.
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