Evonne Goolagong Cawley
Tennis player and Wimbledon champion
Born
Category
Athletes & Sports Figures
Country
Australia
Links & References
This Australian tennis player achieved significant success during her career. Winning the Australian Open in both 1970 and 1971, she also captured the Wimbledon title in 1971, becoming the first Aboriginal Australian to win a Grand Slam. Her powerful baseline game and graceful playing style contributed to her popularity and success on the international stage. After retiring, she became involved in tennis coaching and mentoring, promoting the sport among young players, especially Indigenous youth.
Winning the Australian Open in 1970 and 1971
Winning the Wimbledon title in 1971
Other People Born on July 31st
Emperor Nijō of Japan
Emperor of Japan during Heian period
Born
July 31st, 1143 882 years ago
Died
1165 861 years ago — 22 years old
Ruled as the 75th emperor of Japan from 1158 to 1165. Son of Emperor Go-Shirakawa, ascended the throne at a young age. His reign coincided with the power struggles of the Fujiwara clan and the emergence of the samurai class. Known for political instability and influence from powerful regents, including the Fujiwara family. Sought to balance the traditional court practices with the rising military power, yet faced challenges during his reign. Abdicated in 1165 in favor of his son, continuing a lineage of power struggles in the imperial family.
Continue ReadingAhmet Ertegun
Record producer, co-founder of Atlantic Records
Born
July 31st, 1923 102 years ago
Died
December 14th, 2006 19 years ago — 83 years old
A Turkish-American music producer and composer, played a significant role in the development of rock and rhythm and blues music. Co-founded Atlantic Records in 1947, nurturing the careers of many influential artists. Worked with prominent musicians such as Ray Charles, Aretha Franklin, and Led Zeppelin, shaping the sound of popular music in the mid-20th century. Held the position of Atlantic's president and was instrumental in expanding its catalog and reach within the music industry. Received numerous accolades for contributions to the music field until passing in 2006.
Continue ReadingIrv Kupcinet
American football player and journalist
Born
July 31st, 1912 113 years ago
Died
November 10th, 2003 22 years ago — 91 years old
Played as a quarterback in American football, primarily with the Chicago Bears. Transitioned to a successful career in journalism, writing a popular column for the Chicago Daily News for several decades. Contributed to television and radio broadcasting, becoming a prominent media figure in Chicago. Engaged in coverage of various sports and local events, making a name as a sports commentator.
Continue ReadingJacques Villon
French painter of modern art
Born
July 31st, 1875 150 years ago
Died
June 9th, 1963 62 years ago — 87 years old
A significant figure in the development of modern art, this painter contributed to the Cubist movement and was an influential member of the Puteaux Group. He adopted a unique style that blended elements of Cubism with other artistic influences. His work was characterized by a focus on geometric forms and structural composition. Not only did this artist create paintings, but also prints and illustrated books. His pieces often depicted urban landscapes and still lifes.
Continue ReadingJames E. Faust
Religious leader and lawyer in the U.S.
Born
July 31st, 1920 105 years ago
Died
August 10th, 2007 18 years ago — 87 years old
A prominent religious leader served as the second counselor in the First Presidency of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints from 1995 until 2007. Held various leadership positions within the church and contributed to its legal affairs as a lawyer and leader. Influenced many through speeches and wrote extensively on religious and ethical topics. Engaged in public service and community initiatives throughout life, emphasizing moral values and education. Participated in establishing church-owned educational institutions.
Continue ReadingHank Bauer
Baseball player and manager, 1954 MVP
Born
July 31st, 1922 103 years ago
Died
February 9th, 2007 19 years ago — 84 years old
A Major League Baseball player and manager, this individual played primarily as an outfielder. His career in MLB began in 1948 and included several seasons with the New York Yankees. A member of the Yankees during their championship years, this player contributed to five World Series titles from 1949 to 1953. After his playing career, transitioned into management, leading the Baltimore Orioles and earning the American League Manager of the Year award in 1964. His career accomplishments include a well-regarded tenure as a manager, demonstrating success in both playing and managing capacities.
Continue Reading