Jimmy Johnson
American football coach and analyst
Born
Died
Category
Athletes & Sports Figures
Country
United States
Links & References
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.
Coached the University of Miami to a national championship
Led the Dallas Cowboys to two Super Bowl titles
Other People Born on March 31st
Emil Fenyvessy
Hungarian actor and screenwriter
Born
March 31st, 1859 166 years ago
Died
1924 102 years ago — 65 years old
Born in Hungary in 1859, this individual achieved recognition as a prominent actor and screenwriter. His career spanned several decades, during which he contributed to the theater scene as well as the film industry. The artistic endeavors included performances in various stage plays and significant screenwriting projects. The influence on Hungarian cinema was noted during the early 20th century. This individual also worked extensively in silent films, helping to lay the groundwork for future generations of filmmakers and actors.
Continue ReadingFrederick V of Denmark
Danish monarch and brother of Frederick VI
Born
March 31st, 1723 302 years ago
Died
January 14th, 1766 260 years ago — 42 years old
Ruled as King of Denmark and Norway from 1746 until 1766. During the reign, emphasized cultural development and established a framework for the arts in the realm. Oversaw the construction of several significant structures in Copenhagen, promoting architectural expansion. Maintained the Danish-Norwegian monarchy during a period of relative peace and stability, balancing the interests of both regions.
Continue ReadingPeggy Rea
Actress known for 'The Dukes of Hazzard'
Born
March 31st, 1921 104 years ago
Died
February 5th, 2011 15 years ago — 89 years old
An American actress and casting director, this individual gained prominence for roles in television and film. The most notable performance was in the series 'The Dukes of Hazzard', where a prominent role contributed to the show's popularity. Additional work included performances in 'Grace Under Fire' and 'The Waltons', further showcasing versatility in character portrayals. Active in the entertainment industry for several decades, this individual also held a position as a casting director, influencing the selection of talent for various productions.
Continue ReadingBarney Frank
American politician and lawyer
Born
March 31st, 1940 85 years ago
Born in 1940, a prominent lawyer and politician from Massachusetts served as a member of the United States House of Representatives from 1981 to 2013. Played a pivotal role in the drafting and enactment of the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act, aimed at reducing risks in the financial system following the 2008 financial crisis. Also served as the chairman of the House Financial Services Committee. Advocated for LGBTQ rights and openly identified as one of the first openly gay members of Congress. Retired from Congress in 2013 and transitioned to a career in academia and public speaking.
Continue ReadingZviad Gamsakhurdia
Georgian politician, 1st President of Georgia
Born
March 31st, 1939 86 years ago
Died
December 31st, 1993 32 years ago — 54 years old
Gamsakhurdia served as the first president of Georgia following its independence from the Soviet Union. An anthropologist by training, contributions included advocating for the preservation of Georgian culture and identity. Elected president in 1991, his tenure faced numerous challenges, including political turmoil and civil unrest. In 1992, Gamsakhurdia was deposed in a coup and spent time in exile before returning to Georgia. His leadership style sparked controversy and divided the public, ultimately leading to a significant political crisis in the country. Gamsakhurdia's political legacy encompasses his efforts to establish a democratic government and promote national sovereignty for Georgia.
Continue ReadingMary Boykin Chesnut
American author of Civil War diary
Born
March 31st, 1823 202 years ago
Died
November 22nd, 1886 139 years ago — 63 years old
Born in 1823, this individual gained recognition for the detailed diary that chronicled life during the American Civil War. The diary provided insights into the social and political climate of the South during the conflict. It captured personal experiences and notable events, contributing to the understanding of this tumultuous period in American history. The work was published posthumously as 'A Diary from Dixie' and has since been regarded as a significant historical document. Contributions to literature centered around themes of war, society, and human experience.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on May 8th
Barbara Radziwiłł
Queen of Poland during the 16th century
Born
December 6th, 1520 505 years ago
Died
May 8th, 1551 474 years ago — 30 years old
Born into the influential Radziwiłł family, served as Queen consort of Poland from 1530 until her death in 1551. Married to King Zygmunt II August, her reign was marked by political alliances. Active in court life, she played a significant role in the patronage of the arts and culture, contributing to the Renaissance flourishing in Poland. Barbara's sudden death led to a profound effect on the king, leading to policies favoring her family. Her legacy lives on through the historical narratives and historical accounts of the era.
Continue ReadingJules Dumont d'Urville
French Admiral and Antarctic Explorer
Born
May 23rd, 1790 235 years ago
Died
May 8th, 1842 183 years ago — 51 years old
An admiral and explorer, contributed to the understanding of the Antarctic region and the Pacific Ocean. Commanded several voyages, with notable expeditions aboard the Astrolabe and Zélée between 1837 and 1840. Played a significant role in the early exploration of Australasia and the South Pole, mapping numerous territories and introducing advancements in scientific exploration methodologies.
Continue ReadingJohn Beresford
Irish polo player and champion
Born
December 5th, 1866 159 years ago
Died
May 8th, 1925 100 years ago — 58 years old
A leading figure in the sport of polo, played during the late 19th century. Achievements included participation in high-profile tournaments and contributions to the development of the sport in Ireland. Competed at a time when polo gained popularity among the British aristocracy and was involved in establishing polo clubs that fostered further interest in the sport.
Continue ReadingU Saw
Burmese politician, Prime Minister of Burma
Born
1900 126 years ago
Died
May 8th, 1948 77 years ago — 48 years old
Served as Prime Minister of Burma from 1948 to 1948. Played a significant role in the country's political landscape during a pivotal time in its history following independence from British rule. Involved in various political activities and organizations that shaped the early government frameworks of Burma. Engaged in national politics and was active in the struggle for independence, highlighting the complexities of post-colonial governance.
Continue ReadingDuan Zong
Chinese emperor during the Song dynasty
Born
1269 757 years ago
Died
May 8th, 1278 747 years ago — 9 years old
Duan Zong served as a ruler during a tumultuous period in the Southern Song dynasty. Ascending the throne in 1276, his reign was marked by continued conflict with the Mongol Empire, which sought to conquer China. The Mongol invasions led to significant challenges for the Song, including territorial losses. His reign ended in 1278 amidst the fall of the Song dynasty, with the Mongols ultimately unifying China under their rule. The emperor's efforts to maintain sovereignty faced insurmountable difficulties, and his rule concluded with the collapse of the dynasty.
Continue ReadingRoger L. Easton
American scientist, co-inventor of GPS
Born
April 30th, 1921 104 years ago
Died
May 8th, 2014 11 years ago — 93 years old
A scientist co-invented the Global Positioning System (GPS), significantly advancing navigational technology. This system allows users to determine their precise location anywhere on Earth using satellite signals. Easton worked with a team at the Naval Research Laboratory during the 1960s, leading to the initial deployment of GPS technology. The system has since evolved and is widely used in military, commercial, and personal navigation.
Continue Reading