Hijikata Toshizō
Japanese military commander and rebel leader
Born in 1835, he served as the vice commander of the Shinsengumi during the late Edo period. The Shinsengumi was a special police force formed to protect the Tokugawa shogunate. He played a crucial role in various battles during the Boshin War, which was a civil war between imperial and shogunate forces. Hijikata's leadership helped shape the resistance against the Meiji Restoration, aiming to preserve the samurai way of life. He died in 1869 at the Battle of Hakodate, marking the end of the Shinsengumi.
Served as vice commander of the Shinsengumi
Fought in the Boshin War
Died during the Battle of Hakodate
Other People Born on May 31st
William Pirrie
Canadian-Irish businessman & politician
Born
May 31st, 1847 178 years ago
Died
June 7th, 1924 101 years ago — 77 years old
Born in 1847, served as the 1st Viscount Pirrie and was a significant figure in the shipbuilding industry. Played a crucial role in the formation of Harland and Wolff, where the Titanic was built. Held the position of Lord Mayor of Belfast and was involved in local governance. Contributed to various civic projects and was influential in Belfast's development during the early 20th century.
Continue ReadingLudwig Tieck
German author and romantic poet
Born
May 31st, 1773 252 years ago
Died
April 28th, 1853 172 years ago — 79 years old
A significant figure in German literature, contributed to the Romantic movement through poetry, prose, and plays. His works often explored themes of imagination and the supernatural. Wrote fairy tales and influenced later writers with his critical essays. Collaborated with contemporaries such as E.T.A. Hoffmann and contributed to literary journals. His most notable works include 'The Old Town', 'The Pictures of the Past', and various translations of Shakespeare.
Continue ReadingLauri Kristian Relander
Finnish politician, 2nd President of Finland
Born
May 31st, 1883 142 years ago
Died
February 9th, 1942 84 years ago — 58 years old
Served as the second President of Finland from 1925 to 1931. Prior to the presidency, held positions in the Finnish parliament and was a prominent member of the National Coalition Party. Focused on national unity and agricultural reform during the presidency. Efforts were made to strengthen Finland's international relations during a time of political turbulence in Europe.
Continue ReadingRobert Richards
Australian politician, 32nd Premier
Born
May 31st, 1885 140 years ago
Died
April 24th, 1967 58 years ago — 81 years old
Served as the 32nd Premier of South Australia from 1944 to 1947. Held the position of Minister for Health and Minister for Education prior to becoming Premier. Led the Liberal and Country League party during his political career. Focused on post-war recovery and development in South Australia. Involved in various legislative reforms during tenure as Premier.
Continue ReadingAlida Valli
Italian actress from 'The Third Man'
Born
May 31st, 1921 104 years ago
Died
April 22nd, 2006 19 years ago — 84 years old
An actress achieved prominence in the 1940s through Italian and international cinema. Gained widespread acclaim for a role in the film 'The Third Man' directed by Carol Reed. Collaborated with notable directors such as Luchino Visconti and Michelangelo Antonioni. Worked in both Italian and American films, establishing a strong presence in European cinema during the mid-20th century. Continued career into the later years, remaining active in film and theater until her death.
Continue ReadingSantino Ferrucci
Race car driver; IndyCar Series competitor
Born
May 31st, 1998 27 years ago
Competed in various racing series, including the IndyCar Series. Debuted in the series in 2019, gaining attention for performances with Dale Coyne Racing. Participated in the 2020 Indianapolis 500, finishing in 7th place. Prior to IndyCar, raced in Formula 2 and was part of the Ferrari Driver Academy.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on June 20th
Miriam Schapiro
Painter and sculptor of feminist art
Born
1923 103 years ago
Died
June 20th, 2015 10 years ago — 92 years old
A Canadian-American artist contributed to the feminist art movement, utilizing techniques like fabric collage and assemblage. Schapiro co-founded the influential artist collective, the Womanhouse, which promoted women's roles in art. Utilization of domestic materials in works highlighted themes of femininity and identity. Contributions to the art world included teaching positions at institutions such as the University of California, Los Angeles, and the School of Visual Arts in New York. She engaged with various media, producing works that spanned painting, installation, and printmaking. Exhibited her works in major galleries and museums throughout her career.
Continue ReadingJack Kilby
Engineer, Nobel Prize-winning inventor
Born
November 8th, 1923 102 years ago
Died
June 20th, 2005 20 years ago — 81 years old
An American physicist and engineer developed the first integrated circuit in 1958, which laid the groundwork for modern electronics. This innovation significantly advanced computing technology and contributed to the growth of the semiconductor industry. In 2000, received the Nobel Prize in Physics for his contributions to the invention of the integrated circuit. Collaborated with Texas Instruments during his career, further innovating in the fields of electronics and computing. Participated in various engineering projects and contributed to the development of handheld electronic devices.
Continue ReadingAngelo Niculescu
Football manager and player
Born
1921 105 years ago
Died
June 20th, 2015 10 years ago — 94 years old
Played as a forward and later became a football manager. Managed the Romanian national team, leading them during the 1970 FIFA World Cup. Coached several club teams, including Steaua București and FC Argeș Pitești, achieving domestic league success.
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Basketball Player, NBA Draft 2021
Born
January 7th, 2003 23 years ago
Died
June 20th, 2011 14 years ago — 8 years old
An American basketball player, participated in college basketball at a high level before entering the NBA Draft in 2021. Played as a forward and garnered attention for athleticism and scoring ability. Drafted and signed by a professional team, contributing to game dynamics with notable performances on the court during the regular season.
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Australian snooker champion and player
Born
1912 114 years ago
Died
June 20th, 1974 51 years ago — 62 years old
An accomplished snooker player from Australia, won the World Professional Snooker Championship in 1952. Achieved significant success in both national and international competitions. Played a key role in popularizing snooker during the mid-20th century. Enjoyed a lengthy career that highlighted exceptional skills and techniques.
Continue ReadingBruno Frank
Author and playwright of 'The Living' and 'The Forgotten'
Born
June 13th, 1887 138 years ago
Died
June 20th, 1945 80 years ago — 58 years old
Born in Germany, an author, poet, and playwright who emigrated to the United States. Renowned for works that explored themes of identity and exile. One of the most significant works, 'The Living', examined the human experience in the aftermath of war. Further contributions to literature included various plays and poetry that reflected personal and societal struggles during turbulent times. Engaged with the literary community both in Germany and America, influencing future generations through written works.
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