Indira Gandhi
Indian politician, 3rd Prime Minister
Served as the third Prime Minister of India from 1966 to 1977 and again from 1980 until her assassination in 1984. Played a significant role in the Green Revolution, which transformed India into a self-sufficient nation in food grains. Implemented the Emergency from 1975 to 1977, a controversial period of political repression. Focused on reducing poverty and increasing industrialization through various programs and policies.
First and only female Prime Minister of India
Led India during the Indo-Pakistan War in 1971
Promoted the Green Revolution in India
Other People Born on November 19th
Eleanor Audley
American actress and voice artist
Born
November 19th, 1905 120 years ago
Died
November 25th, 1991 34 years ago — 86 years old
An actress associated with early television and animation. Gained popularity for voice roles in animated films produced by Disney, alongside live-action performances in television series. Featured prominently as the voice of Maleficent in 'Sleeping Beauty' and Lady Tremaine in 'Cinderella'. Had a significant career in radio and stage, contributing to various performances throughout the mid-20th century. Appeared in multiple television shows, leaving a mark on the entertainment industry.
Continue ReadingLouis D. Rubin Jr.
American author and literary critic
Born
November 19th, 1923 102 years ago
Died
November 16th, 2013 12 years ago — 89 years old
An author and critic focused on Southern literature, produced several influential works in the field. Rubin served as a professor at various institutions, contributing significantly to academic discourse. His writings explored themes of identity and culture within the Southern experience, often reflecting on the complexities of life in the American South. In addition to fiction, he wrote critical essays and edited notable anthologies, aiding in the promotion of Southern writers and expanding their reach. His efforts helped establish the Southern literary landscape in the mid-20th century.
Continue ReadingJack Dorsey
Businessman, co-founder of Twitter
Born
November 19th, 1976 49 years ago
Co-founded Twitter in 2006, which became a significant social media platform affecting communication and information dissemination. Played a pivotal role in developing Square, a financial services and mobile payment company, launched in 2009. Served as CEO of Twitter twice, from 2006 to 2008 and then from 2015 to 2021. Contributed to the evolution of social media by introducing innovative features and fostering digital discourse.
Continue ReadingTom Villard
Actor in 'Weird Science'
Born
November 19th, 1953 72 years ago
Died
November 14th, 1994 31 years ago — 40 years old
An American actor gained recognition for roles in various television shows and films during the 1980s and 1990s. Most notably, appeared in the cult classic film 'Weird Science' as one of the lead characters. Villard also had a recurring role on the television series 'The Golden Girls' and participated in various made-for-TV movies. His work spanned across multiple genres, showcasing talents in comedic and dramatic roles, contributing to his popularity during that era. In addition to acting, Villard was involved in stage performances and demonstrated significant skills in improvisational comedy. His career continued until his passing in 1994.
Continue ReadingRobert Simpson
American meteorologist and author
Born
November 19th, 1912 113 years ago
Died
December 18th, 2014 11 years ago — 102 years old
Contributed significantly to the field of meteorology. Co-developed the Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Scale, a widely used classification system for hurricanes that measures intensity and potential property damage. Served as the director of the National Hurricane Center from 1967 to 1976, overseeing critical advancements in hurricane forecasting and public safety measures. Authored multiple publications on tropical meteorology and hurricane preparedness, educating both the scientific community and the general public.
Continue ReadingReid Scott
Actor in 'Veep' and 'My Boys'
Born
November 19th, 1977 48 years ago
An American actor appeared primarily in television and film. Gained prominence for portraying Dan Egan in the HBO series 'Veep', which received critical acclaim and multiple awards. Featured as Greg in the TBS series 'My Boys', showcasing comedic talent. Acted in films such as 'The Kevin Hart Show' and 'The Last of the Good Guys'.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on October 31st
Willie McCovey
Baseball player, San Francisco Giants
Born
January 10th, 1938 88 years ago
Died
October 31st, 2018 7 years ago — 80 years old
An accomplished first baseman in Major League Baseball, this player played primarily for the San Francisco Giants. Career spanned from 1959 to 1980, marked by impressive batting statistics and pivotal moments in critical games. Celebrated for powerful hitting, including significant home run totals and multiple All-Star selections. Achieved the highest honor in baseball with induction into the National Baseball Hall of Fame in 1986.
Continue ReadingFrancesco Maria Veracini
Italian violinist and composer
Born
February 1st, 1690 336 years ago
Died
October 31st, 1768 257 years ago — 78 years old
Born in 1690, a significant violinist and composer emerged in the Baroque period. Studied in Venice and became known for virtuosic playing and innovative compositions. Moved to London, where performances garnered attention. Composed numerous sonatas and concertos, particularly for the violin, influencing the development of violin music. Notable for integrating Italian and English styles in compositions. Ended his career in Italy, leaving a lasting legacy through his works.
Continue ReadingAntónio José de Almeida
Portuguese physician and 6th President
Born
July 27th, 1866 159 years ago
Died
October 31st, 1929 96 years ago — 63 years old
Served as the 6th President of Portugal from 1919 to 1923. Almeida was a prominent physician, contributing to medical advancements in the country. His political career included involvement in various government roles, including Minister of Public Works, where significant public infrastructure projects were initiated. Almeida's tenure as president focused on stabilizing the nation during tumultuous times following the Portuguese Republican Revolution.
Continue ReadingRobert S. Mulliken
Physicist and Chemist, Nobel Prize Winner
Born
June 7th, 1896 129 years ago
Died
October 31st, 1986 39 years ago — 90 years old
Contributions to quantum chemistry and the development of molecular orbital theory established a framework for understanding chemical bonding. Mulliken's research emphasized the connection between physics and chemistry, leading to advancements in the interpretation of chemical reactions. This work had a significant influence on theoretical and computational chemistry, enabling scientists to explore molecular structures and properties more effectively. Mulliken also served in the Army during World War I and later became a distinguished academic, holding positions at the University of Chicago.
Continue ReadingJan Werich
Czech actor and playwright, collaborated on The Emperor and the Golem
Born
February 6th, 1905 121 years ago
Died
October 31st, 1980 45 years ago — 75 years old
A prominent figure in Czech cinema and theatre, worked as both an actor and a playwright. Co-founded the famous theatrical group, Divadloabc, and created memorable film roles in productions such as 'The Emperor's New Clothes' and 'The Golem'. During the 20th century, became a significant cultural icon in Czechoslovakia, blending humor and social commentary in performances. Collaborated with other notable artists to enrich the Czech theatrical landscape, including the direction of various plays and films that showcased a unique style.
Continue ReadingHuang Xing
Chinese revolutionary leader and statesman
Born
October 25th, 1874 151 years ago
Died
October 31st, 1916 109 years ago — 42 years old
Born in 1874, contributed to the early 20th-century revolutionary movement against the Qing Dynasty in China. Studied in Japan, where revolutionary ideas took root. Formed alliances with other revolutionaries and played a crucial role in several uprisings, leading to the establishment of the Republic of China in 1912. Served as the military governor of Hunan and held various influential positions in the new government, advocating for modern military reform and national unification. His vision for a republican China included significant democratic principles and modernization efforts.
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