Gay Brewer
Professional golfer with Masters win
Became a professional golfer in the 1950s. Achieved significant success on the PGA Tour, including a victory at the 1967 Masters Tournament. Regularly competed in major championships throughout the 1960s and 1970s. Participated in the 1969 Ryder Cup, contributing to the United States team. Continued to influence the game through participation in senior tours later in the career.
Won the 1967 Masters Tournament
Competed in the 1969 Ryder Cup
Other People Born on March 19th
Eric Christmas
English-Canadian actor, 'A Christmas Story'
Born
March 19th, 1916 109 years ago
Died
July 22nd, 2000 25 years ago — 84 years old
Born in England and later moved to Canada, a career in acting included appearances in television and film. Gained recognition for roles in iconic productions. Best known for portraying the character 'Mr. Parker' in the holiday classic 'A Christmas Story' and for appearances in the series 'The X-Files' and 'The A-Team'. Engaged in a range of dramatic roles that showcased versatility in both comedic and serious performances.
Continue ReadingPamela Britton
American actress in TV and film
Born
March 19th, 1923 102 years ago
Died
1974 51 years ago — 51 years old
An American actress, notable for performances on television and in film. Gained recognition through roles in various series, particularly as the lead character on the television series "My Favorite Martian". Worked in the entertainment industry for several decades, making appearances in films and stage productions. Contributed to popular culture during the mid-20th century.
Continue ReadingJohn IV of Portugal
Monarch during Portuguese Restoration War
Born
March 19th, 1604 421 years ago
Died
1656 369 years ago — 52 years old
Ascended to the throne in 1640, initiating the Portuguese Restoration War against Spain, which had ruled Portugal since 1580. His reign established Portugal’s sovereignty and saw the restoration of the Portuguese monarchy. A significant figure in the political landscape of Europe during the 17th century, he also engaged in multiple military campaigns to solidify Portugal's independence. John IV's rule was marked by efforts to strengthen the economy and improve trade, particularly in the Empire's overseas territories. His efforts culminated in the successful treatment of Portugal's status in Europe by the end of his reign in 1656. A patron of the arts, he is also recognized for his contributions to Portuguese culture.
Continue ReadingAlbert Speer
German architect and politician
Born
March 19th, 1905 120 years ago
Died
September 1st, 1981 44 years ago — 76 years old
An architect and politician, played a key role in the Nazi regime. Served as Minister of Armaments and War Production from 1942 to 1945, significantly increasing munitions production during World War II. Spearheaded architectural projects under Hitler, including the design of the new Reich Chancellery and proposals for the total reconfiguration of Berlin. Captured by Allied forces in 1945 and sentenced to 20 years in prison at Nuremberg, where he later expressed remorse for his actions.
Continue ReadingJoseph Carroll
American General during World War II
Born
March 19th, 1910 115 years ago
Died
1991 34 years ago — 81 years old
A United States Army General, notable for leadership during World War II, especially in the Pacific Theater. Played a key role in operations in the Philippines, contributing to strategies that led to significant victories. Commanded the 40th Infantry Division and oversaw various military planning and execution activities. Later, served in the Korean War, further solidifying a reputation within military ranks. Engaged in post-war activities, taking part in the organization and training of military personnel.
Continue ReadingLouis Hayward
Actor known for action films
Born
March 19th, 1909 116 years ago
Died
February 21st, 1985 40 years ago — 75 years old
South African-American actor gained recognition during the mid-20th century. Starred in notable action films and television series. Gained fame for leading roles in 'The Count of Monte Cristo' and 'The Man in the Iron Mask'. Appeared in numerous films, showcasing versatility in both leading and supporting roles. Spent a significant part of career in Hollywood, contributing to adventure and action genres.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on August 31st
Lionel Hampton
Vibraphone player and bandleader
Born
April 20th, 1908 117 years ago
Died
August 31st, 2002 23 years ago — 94 years old
An American vibraphone player, pianist, bandleader, and actor, achieved prominence in the jazz genre from the 1930s onward. Gained recognition as a member of the Benny Goodman Quartet, contributing to the popularization of the vibraphone in jazz music. Led his own band and became a pivotal figure in the big band era. Achieved significant acclaim for performances that bridged jazz and popular music, also participated in television and film as an entertainer.
Continue ReadingThomas Bavin
Politician, 24th Premier of New South Wales
Born
May 5th, 1874 151 years ago
Died
August 31st, 1941 84 years ago — 67 years old
Bavin served as the 24th Premier of New South Wales from 1927 to 1930. Before his premiership, Bavin held various important political roles including Minister of Education and Minister of Public Works. He was a key figure in the New South Wales Legislative Assembly, contributing to significant legislative reforms and government initiatives during his tenure. Promoting education and infrastructure development were central aspects of his political agenda. His leadership style and policies shaped the political landscape of the state during a time of economic challenges.
Continue ReadingGeorges Braque
Painter and sculptor, Cubism pioneer
Born
May 13th, 1882 143 years ago
Died
August 31st, 1963 62 years ago — 81 years old
A major figure in the development of Cubism, this artist collaborated closely with Pablo Picasso in creating this revolutionary art movement. The approach deconstructed objects into geometric forms, reshaping modern art. Early works displayed influence from Fauvism before the shift towards Cubism. The artist's still lifes and portraits incorporated bold colors and complex structures. In addition to painting, involved in sculpture and collage, pushing boundaries of artistic expression. Participation in World War I influenced later works with a more subdued palette. Retrospective exhibitions celebrated contributions to art throughout multiple decades.
Continue ReadingAndranik
Armenian general and military leader
Born
February 25th, 1865 160 years ago
Died
August 31st, 1927 98 years ago — 62 years old
Born in 1865, Andranik played a significant role in the Armenian national liberation movement during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. He became a general in the Armenian Revolutionary Army and was a key figure in the struggle for Armenian rights against Ottoman rule. He led various military operations to defend Armenian communities and contributed to the establishment of the First Republic of Armenia in 1918. His leadership helped in organizing defense against external threats and shaping the armed forces of the new republic. After the fall of the First Republic, he continued to fight for Armenian independence and was active in various military campaigns until his death.
Continue ReadingE. E. Smith
Science fiction author and engineer
Born
May 2nd, 1890 135 years ago
Died
August 31st, 1965 60 years ago — 75 years old
An engineer and writer, crafted influential science fiction works primarily in the mid-20th century. His notable series included 'Lensman,' which set a foundation for space opera subgenre in literature. The intricate world-building and complex narratives in his novels garnered a dedicated following and inspired future writers in the genre. In addition to writing, contributions to engineering and technical fields were notable, illustrating a career bridging imagination and innovation.
Continue ReadingFrançois-André Danican Philidor
Chess player and music composer
Born
September 7th, 1726 299 years ago
Died
August 31st, 1795 230 years ago — 68 years old
A prominent chess player and composer, Philidor contributed significantly to both fields. In chess, he developed strategies that advanced the understanding of the game, particularly through the publication of 'L'Analyse des échecs' in 1749, which is often cited as one of the first comprehensive chess books. As a composer, Philidor is recognized for his operas and the development of French comic opera. His work in music includes pieces that blended humor and melodrama, influencing the genre.
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