Jackie Robinson

Baseball player and sportscaster

Jackie Robinson - Baseball player and sportscaster
Born

January 31st, 1919
106 years ago

Died

October 24th, 1972
52 years ago — 53 years old

Category

Athletes & Sports Figures

Country

United States

Links & References

A significant figure in baseball history, this player broke Major League Baseball's color barrier in 1947. Playing for the Brooklyn Dodgers, he was the first African American to play in the league in the modern era. Over ten seasons, he garnered numerous accolades, showcasing exceptional skills while also being a pivotal figure in the fight for civil rights. After retiring from baseball, he became a sportscaster, furthering his influence in athletics and society.

Broke Major League Baseball's color barrier

Won the 1947 Rookie of the Year award

Selected for six All-Star Games

Inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1962

Other People Born on January 31st

Charlie Musselwhite

Blues musician and singer-songwriter
Born
January 31st, 1944 81 years ago

Born in 1944, this musician emerged from the Chicago blues scene, bringing the harmonica to the forefront of blues music. He gained recognition through his work with artists such as Paul Butterfield and various performances at iconic blues festivals. The artist's signature blend of blues, rock, and folk influences has spanned over five decades, showcasing both original compositions and traditional songs. In addition to his prolific recording career, the harmonica player has performed internationally, contributing to the blues genre's global appeal. Awards received include a Grammy Award, further solidifying a prominent position in American music.

Continue Reading

Joakim Bonnier

Swedish race car driver and Le Mans competitor
Born
January 31st, 1930 95 years ago
Died
1972 53 years ago — 42 years old

Competed in Formula One racing and was active from 1956 to 1971. Participated in 108 Grand Prix events, achieving a total of three podium finishes. Also raced in the 24 Hours of Le Mans, securing significant recognition for performances with various teams. Known for his dedication to the sport during a transformative era in racing.

Continue Reading

Tyler Seguin

Ice Hockey Player with Stanley Cup win
Born
January 31st, 1992 33 years ago

Played as a professional ice hockey center and winger in the National Hockey League (NHL). Drafted second overall by the Boston Bruins in 2010. Won the Stanley Cup in 2011 with the Bruins. Later joined the Dallas Stars, achieving multiple seasons as a leading scorer and contributing to the team's playoff appearances. Recognized for scoring prowess and playmaking abilities throughout his career.

Continue Reading

Joanne Dru

Actress in westerns and dramas
Born
January 31st, 1922 103 years ago
Died
September 10th, 1996 29 years ago — 74 years old

Gained prominence in the 1940s and 1950s as a film actress. Starred in critically acclaimed films including 'Red River' and 'She Wore a Yellow Ribbon'. Appeared in the television series 'The Westerner'. Known for roles that highlighted strength and resilience.

Continue Reading

Fatou Bensouda

Gambian lawyer and chief prosecutor
Born
January 31st, 1961 64 years ago

Served as the chief prosecutor of the International Criminal Court from 2012 to 2021. Focused on cases involving war crimes, genocide, and crimes against humanity. Before this role, held the position of deputy prosecutor at the ICC. Worked as a legal advisor in the International Criminal Tribunal for Rwanda. Contributed to the development of international criminal law through various legal positions and extensive legal advocacy.

Continue Reading

Bobby Moynihan

Actor, comedian from 'Saturday Night Live'
Born
January 31st, 1977 48 years ago

This actor and comedian gained recognition for performances on 'Saturday Night Live' from 2008 to 2017, where a variety of memorable characters were portrayed. After leaving SNL, involvement continued in television through roles in shows like 'DuckTales' and 'Mythic Quest'. A background in improvisational comedy included training at the Upright Citizens Brigade Theatre, which helped in developing a distinct comedic style that mixes silliness with sharp wit.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on October 24th

Jeri Taylor

Screenwriter for Star Trek series
Born
June 30th, 1938 87 years ago
Died
October 24th, 2024 0 years ago — 86 years old

A screenwriter contributed significantly to the Star Trek franchise, primarily as a writer and producer for Star Trek: The Next Generation and Star Trek: Voyager. Developed memorable characters and engaging storylines, including themes that explored complex societal issues. Worked on the series from its early seasons through its later developments, helping shape the narrative of Star Trek during the 1990s. Additionally, co-created numerous episodes that became highlights in the series' portfolio.

Continue Reading

Peggy Moran

American actress in B-movies and musicals
Born
1918 107 years ago
Died
October 24th, 2002 22 years ago — 84 years old

An American actress and singer contributed significantly to the film industry during the 1940s. Featured in B-movies, gained recognition for roles in films such as 'The Mummy's Curse' and 'The Devil's Mask'. Transitioned to television appearances in the later part of the career, showcasing versatility as both an actress and a singer. Additionally, had a following in musical theater, performing in various stage productions. Continued to be engaged with the entertainment community until retirement.

Continue Reading

Pierre Gassendi

French philosopher and astronomer
Born
January 22nd, 1592 433 years ago
Died
October 24th, 1655 369 years ago — 63 years old

A mathematician, astronomer, and philosopher contributed significantly to the early development of empirical science. Gassendi advocated for a philosophy of naturalism and sought to reconcile the teachings of Epicureanism with Christianity. He observed and documented celestial phenomena, including the transit of Mercury, and challenged Aristotelian views of the universe. In addition to astronomy, contributions to mathematics included work on the theory of probabilities and a formal critique of the Cartesian dualism. Gassendi's blend of scientific inquiry and philosophical thought laid groundwork for future Enlightenment thinkers.

Continue Reading

Hugh Capet

French king, founder of the Capetian dynasty
Died
October 24th, 996 1028 years ago — None years old

Ascended the throne in 987, initiating the Capetian dynasty that would govern France for over 800 years. His reign marked the consolidation of royal power in France and the establishment of hereditary monarchy. Played a crucial role in the transition of leadership from feudal lords to centralized authority, laying the groundwork for a more unified France.

Continue Reading

George Cadbury

Businessman and chocolate manufacturer
Born
1839 186 years ago
Died
October 24th, 1922 102 years ago — 83 years old

Founded the Cadbury chocolate company, which became a leading manufacturer of chocolate products. Championed social reforms in the workplace, improving conditions for workers in the factory. Promoted the establishment of the Bournville village for employees, which featured better housing and amenities. Contributed to the development of Fairtrade products within the chocolate industry.

Continue Reading

Enolia McMillan

American educator and civil rights activist
Born
October 20th, 1904 120 years ago
Died
October 24th, 2006 18 years ago — 102 years old

Significant contributions to education and civil rights characterized a career dedicated to promoting equity and justice. Established the first African American Parent Teacher Association in Washington D.C., advocating for the rights of African American children in public schools. Played a key role in the integration of public schools during the civil rights movement. Worked alongside various organizations to improve educational opportunities for minority students and to fight against segregation policies.

Continue Reading