Jani Sievinen
Finnish swimmer and Olympic medalist
Competitor in swimming events, particularly recognized in individual medley and butterfly disciplines. Achieved notable success at the 1992 Barcelona Olympics by earning a bronze medal in the 200-meter individual medley. Also participated in the World Championships, securing multiple medals across different competitions during the 1990s. Retired from competitive swimming after a successful career and has contributed to the sport through coaching and mentoring.
Bronze medal in 200m individual medley at 1992 Olympics
Medaled at multiple World Championships
Other People Born on March 31st
Evan Williams
Businessman, co-founder of Twitter
Born
March 31st, 1972 53 years ago
American businessman co-founded Pyra Labs, which developed Blogger, a widely used blog publishing platform. Later co-founded Twitter, a popular social media platform that revolutionized online communication. Williams served as CEO during the platform's early development and subsequent growth, facilitating significant increases in user engagement and media presence.
Continue ReadingDennis Kamakahi
Guitarist and composer of Hawaiian music
Born
March 31st, 1953 72 years ago
Died
April 28th, 2014 11 years ago — 61 years old
A prominent figure in Hawaiian music, contributed significantly to the genre through guitar playing and songwriting. Mastered multiple instruments and incorporated traditional styles into original compositions. Worked extensively as a recording artist and performer, sharing Hawaiian culture through music. Received recognition for dedication to Hawaiian music and arts, influencing many artists within the genre.
Continue ReadingLyra McKee
Irish journalist and author
Born
March 31st, 1990 35 years ago
Died
April 18th, 2019 6 years ago — 29 years old
A journalist and author recognized for investigative reporting, particularly focused on issues affecting Northern Ireland. Contributed to various publications, including the Guardian and Atlantic. Wrote ‘Angels with Blue Faces,’ a book that explored the life and death of a young man from Derry, and delved into the legacy of the Troubles. McKee was also an advocate for the rights of the LGBTQ+ community. Passed away in 2019 during a riot in Derry while reporting.
Continue ReadingJohn Fowles
English Novelist, author of 'The French Lieutenant's Woman'
Born
March 31st, 1926 99 years ago
Died
November 5th, 2005 20 years ago — 79 years old
An English novelist, Fowles gained prominence with his literary contributions in the mid to late 20th century. His breakthrough work, 'The French Lieutenant's Woman', published in 1969, blended historical fiction with existential themes. Fowles explored the intersections of freedom and fate, often challenging narrative conventions. Other notable works include 'The Collector', his debut novel released in 1963, which delved into psychological themes of obsession and power. Fowles also published essays and nonfiction, including explorations of literature and philosophy, further establishing his reputation as a significant literary figure.
Continue ReadingJimmy Johnson
American football coach and analyst
Born
March 31st, 1938 87 years ago
Died
May 8th, 2024 1 years ago — 86 years old
A prominent figure in American football, this individual served as the head coach for the University of Miami, leading the team to a national championship in 1987. Later, he became head coach of the Dallas Cowboys from 1989 to 1993, guiding the team to consecutive Super Bowl victories in 1992 and 1993. Following coaching, transitioned to a successful career as a sports analyst, providing insights and commentary on various platforms, and contributing to the sport's media landscape.
Continue ReadingAnandi Gopal Joshi
Pioneer female physician in India
Born
March 31st, 1865 160 years ago
Died
January 26th, 1887 139 years ago — 21 years old
Graduated with an MD degree from the Women's Medical College of Pennsylvania in 1886, becoming one of the first Indian female physicians. Contributed to medical education initiatives for women in India. Advocated for women's rights, emphasizing the importance of female education and health care. Returned to India after studies to provide care and support for women’s health issues.
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