Don Murray
American actor in TV and film
Born
Died
Category
Performers & Entertainers
Country
United States
Links & References
An American actor gained prominence in the 1950s. Starred in the movie 'Bus Stop' alongside Marilyn Monroe, which showcased a compelling performance. Earned an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor for the film 'Pillars of the Sky'. His career included significant roles in television, including a recurring part on the acclaimed series 'Knots Landing'. Worked extensively on stage, appearing in various Broadway productions. Continued to act for several decades, cementing a legacy in both film and television.
Starred in 'Bus Stop'
Earned Academy Award nomination for 'Pillars of the Sky'
Had a recurring role in 'Knots Landing'
Other People Born on July 31st
Louisa Bolus
South African botanist and taxonomist
Born
July 31st, 1877 148 years ago
Died
April 5th, 1970 55 years ago — 92 years old
Contributed significantly to the study of South African flora, specializing in the taxonomy of flowering plants. Held a strong interest in succulent plants, particularly those of the genera Crassula and Mesembryanthemum. Actively participated in botanical societies and education, fostering a deeper understanding of plant classification and conservation. Published numerous scientific papers and descriptions of new species, aiding in the advancement of botanical knowledge.
Continue ReadingLouis de Funès
French actor and screenwriter
Born
July 31st, 1914 111 years ago
Died
January 27th, 1983 42 years ago — 68 years old
One of the leading figures in French cinema, recognized for a distinctive style of comedy and energetic performances. Starred in a variety of films, including the popular 'Gendarme' series and 'La Grande Vadrouille'. Contributed to the development of the comedy genre in France during the 20th century, becoming a cultural icon. Collected a substantial following for comedic portrayals that often featured exaggerated expressions and physical humor.
Continue ReadingJoshua Cain
Guitarist and music producer
Born
July 31st, 1976 49 years ago
Born in 1976, a prominent guitarist and music producer, recognized for contribution to alternative rock music. Played guitar for the band Anberlin, which gained popularity in the early 2000s. Produced and collaborated with various artists, enhancing their musical sound. His work has influenced many within the genre, showcasing a mix of melodic and intricate guitar work.
Continue ReadingJohn Canton
English physicist and academic researcher
Born
July 31st, 1718 307 years ago
Died
March 22nd, 1772 253 years ago — 53 years old
An English physicist and academic contributed significantly to the field of experimental physics. Best remembered for inventing the electrometer, which measured electric charge and helped advance the understanding of electricity. Served as a professor at the Royal Academy, where teachings included topics on natural philosophy and electrical experiments. Conducted experiments on heat conduction and published numerous papers on the behavior of electrified bodies.
Continue ReadingBilly Hitchcock
Baseball player and manager
Born
July 31st, 1916 109 years ago
Died
April 9th, 2006 19 years ago — 89 years old
An American baseball player and manager, played in Major League Baseball primarily as a shortstop during the 1940s and 1950s. Served with teams such as the Detroit Tigers and the New York Yankees. Transitioned to coaching and managing roles after retirement, offering insights into player development.
Continue ReadingPeter Benenson
Human rights lawyer, founded Amnesty International
Born
July 31st, 1921 104 years ago
Died
February 25th, 2005 20 years ago — 83 years old
A lawyer initiated the founding of Amnesty International in 1961 to advocate for human rights globally. The organization focused on preventing and addressing cases of unjust imprisonment and torture. Through commitment to the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, efforts contributed to the awareness of political prisoners and abuses. The organization's campaigns led to the release of numerous individuals and shifted perspectives on state-sponsored violence.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on February 2nd
Gaston
Duke of Orléans, court figure
Born
1608 417 years ago
Died
February 2nd, 1660 365 years ago — 52 years old
Gaston served as the Duke of Orléans during the early 17th century. He was a prominent figure in the French court, involved in various political intrigues and relationships. A brother to King Louis XIII, Gaston played a significant role in the power struggles of the time, including attempts to undermine the royal authority. His life was marked by aspirations for greater power and influence, which often led to conflicts with the king and other royal allies. Gaston was involved in several military campaigns and was a supporter of various factions, contributing to the political landscape of France before his death in 1660.
Continue ReadingKatoucha Niane
Guinean model and author
Born
October 23rd, 1960 65 years ago
Died
February 2nd, 2008 17 years ago — 47 years old
Began modeling career in the late 1980s and worked with several prestigious fashion houses. Featured in major fashion shows and campaigns, including those for Jean-Paul Gaultier and Yves Saint Laurent. Authored a memoir detailing experiences in the fashion industry as well as her life in Guinea. Expanded her influence by participating in various cultural and humanitarian initiatives.
Continue ReadingGerd Albrecht
German conductor associated with opera
Born
1935 90 years ago
Died
February 2nd, 2014 11 years ago — 79 years old
A conductor who led numerous prestigious orchestras and opera companies across Europe and beyond. Albrecht served as music director for the Hamburg State Opera and conducted the Berlin Philharmonic. He gained recognition for innovative interpretations of well-known works and championed contemporary compositions. Throughout his career, he made significant contributions to the classical music scene and was involved in various international music festivals.
Continue ReadingHaroun Tazieff
Geologist and documentary filmmaker
Born
1914 111 years ago
Died
February 2nd, 1998 27 years ago — 84 years old
A prominent geologist and cinematographer, contributed significantly to volcanology and geology. Filmed numerous volcanic eruptions, providing valuable insights into volcanic activities. Worked closely with scientists to document geological phenomena and increase public understanding of natural disasters. Authored several books on geology and hazards, combining scientific rigor with engaging storytelling. Emphasized the importance of public education in the field of geology through documentaries and lectures.
Continue ReadingGiovanni Pierluigi da Palestrina
Composer of sacred choral music
Born
1525 500 years ago
Died
February 2nd, 1594 431 years ago — 69 years old
An Italian composer of the Renaissance period, focused on sacred music. Established a style that influenced the development of choral music. Served as the music director at various churches in Italy and educated many students in composition. The body of work includes various masses, motets, and hymns, with a clear focus on polyphonic texture and clarity of text. Contributed to the formulation of the canon of church music and is often associated with the development of the Roman School of composition.
Continue ReadingVladimir Sukhomlinov
Russian general and politician
Born
August 16th, 1848 177 years ago
Died
February 2nd, 1926 99 years ago — 77 years old
Served as a general in the Imperial Russian Army and held the position of Minister of War. Contributed to military reforms and modernization efforts in the early 20th century. Involved in the planning and execution of military strategies during World War I, facing significant challenges. Captured during the war and later held accountable for various military failures. Engaged in political activities post-war before his death.
Continue Reading