Gilberto Rodríguez Orejuela
Colombian drug lord, Cali Cartel leader
Born
1939
87 years ago
Died
Category
Leaders & Politicians
Country
Colombia
Links & References
Co-founded the Cali Cartel, a powerful drug trafficking organization in Colombia during the late 20th century. Operated in the Medellín and Cali regions, facilitating cocaine distribution to the United States and other countries. Engaged in extensive money laundering and corruption to bolster operations and evade law enforcement. Captured in 1995, extradited to the United States in 2004, and sentenced to 30 years in prison. Convictions included drug conspiracy and racketeering.
Co-founded the Cali Cartel
Led extensive cocaine trafficking operations
Sentenced to 30 years in prison
Other People Who Died on May 31st
Krishnakumar Kunnath
Indian playback singer and musician
Born
1968 58 years ago
Died
May 31st, 2022 3 years ago — 54 years old
An Indian playback singer contributed to the film industry across multiple languages, primarily focusing on Malayalam, Tamil, Hindi, and Telugu cinema. Achievements included a successful career featuring numerous hit songs and collaborations with various renowned music composers. Played a significant role in the popularization of film music in India and received several awards for outstanding contributions to music. His melodious voice resonated across generations, making him a beloved figure in the Indian music scene.
Continue ReadingElizabeth Blackwell
Pioneer female physician and educator
Born
February 3rd, 1821 205 years ago
Died
May 31st, 1910 115 years ago — 89 years old
First woman to receive a medical degree in the United States, completing studies at Geneva Medical College in 1849. Founded the New York Infirmary for Women and Children in 1857, which provided medical care and education. Authored several books on medicine and health, contributing to medical education and public health.
Continue ReadingJairo Mora Sandoval
Environmental activist and sea turtle protector
Born
March 22nd, 1987 39 years ago
Died
May 31st, 2013 12 years ago — 26 years old
An environmental activist focused on sea turtle conservation. Organized efforts to protect nesting beaches in Costa Rica from poaching and development. Founded projects aimed at raising awareness about the importance of marine wildlife and habitat protection. Worked with local communities to promote sustainable practices and the preservation of biodiversity. Tragically, faced violence and death due to activism against illegal activities threatening marine life.
Continue ReadingCarla Lane
Television writer of 'Bread' and 'Butterflies'
Born
1928 98 years ago
Died
May 31st, 2016 9 years ago — 88 years old
A television writer created several popular British sitcoms. 'Bread' aired from 1986 to 1991, focusing on a working-class family in Liverpool, and garnered significant viewership and critical attention. 'Butterflies', which ran from 1978 to 1983, explored the life of a suburban housewife experiencing a mid-life crisis. Lane's distinctive voice and humor resonated with audiences, making her works significant in the landscape of British television comedy.
Continue ReadingGerald E. Brown
American physicist and academic
Born
1926 100 years ago
Died
May 31st, 2013 12 years ago — 87 years old
Contributed significantly to nuclear and particle physics. Held academic positions and published extensively, focusing on theoretical aspects of physics. Served as a respected faculty member at various universities, providing education and mentorship to students. Engaged in research that advanced understanding of complex physical phenomena, demonstrating a commitment to scientific inquiry and education throughout a lengthy career.
Continue ReadingPauline Betz
Tennis player, 1942 U.S. Open champion
Born
August 6th, 1919 106 years ago
Died
May 31st, 2011 14 years ago — 91 years old
Achieved significant success in tennis during the 1940s. Won the U.S. Women's Singles Championship in 1942. Achieved a high ranking of World No. 1. Represented the United States in international competition and contributed to the popularity of women's tennis during that era. After retirement, remained involved in the sport through coaching and mentoring.
Continue Reading