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
Edward FitzGerald
Poet and translator of Persian poetry
Born
March 31st, 1809 216 years ago
Died
June 14th, 1883 142 years ago — 74 years old
Born in England in 1809, a notable poet and translator, contributed significantly to English literature through the translation of the Rubaiyat of Omar Khayyam. This work brought Persian poetry to the English-speaking world, showcasing the art and beauty of its verses. FitzGerald's translation, published in 1859, combined lyrical quality with fidelity to the original text, becoming a staple of literary culture. The published work underwent several revisions, further refining the translation and enhancing its popularity. His translation influenced both the perception of Persian literature and inspired various artistic expressions in subsequent years.
Continue ReadingAnandi Gopal Joshi
Pioneer female physician in India
Born
March 31st, 1865 160 years ago
Died
January 26th, 1887 138 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.
Continue ReadingZviad Gamsakhurdia
Georgian politician, 1st President of Georgia
Born
March 31st, 1939 86 years ago
Died
December 31st, 1993 31 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 ReadingPhilippa of Lancaster
Portuguese queen, wife of Afonso V
Born
March 31st, 1360 665 years ago
Died
July 19th, 1415 610 years ago — 55 years old
A Portuguese queen, played a significant role in the early 15th century as the spouse of King Afonso V of Portugal. Marrying Afonso V in 1420, contributed to strengthening the alliance between England and Portugal during the Hundred Years' War. Her marriage symbolized the bond between the two nations, reflecting political strategies of the time. Managed royal affairs during her husband's military campaigns, especially when he focused on overseas exploration and territorial expansion. Died in 1415, leaving a legacy intertwined with the political dynamics of the Iberian Peninsula and beyond.
Continue ReadingEvan 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 ReadingÉtienne Bézout
French mathematician and theorist
Born
March 31st, 1730 295 years ago
Died
September 27th, 1783 242 years ago — 53 years old
Contributions to mathematics primarily involved polynomial equations and their solutions. Developed Bézout's theorem, which relates to the intersection points of algebraic curves. Published works that advanced mathematical theories and methods. Led academic discussions and established a reputation as an authority in the field of mathematics during the 18th century.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on May 8th
Vital Brazil
Immunologist and physician in Brazil
Born
1865 160 years ago
Died
May 8th, 1950 75 years ago — 85 years old
Contributed significantly to the fields of immunology and tropical medicine. Developed serum therapies for various snake bites, including anti-venoms for bites from the Jararaca snake. Founded the Butantan Institute in São Paulo, a leading center for biomedical research and production of vaccines and anti-serums. Conducted extensive research on infectious diseases, contributing to public health in Brazil and beyond.
Continue ReadingFrank Bourne
British soldier, last Rorke's Drift survivor
Born
1854 171 years ago
Died
May 8th, 1945 80 years ago — 91 years old
Served as a soldier in the British Army during the Anglo-Zulu War. Fought at the Battle of Rorke's Drift in January 1879, a significant conflict in which British troops faced a larger Zulu force. Demonstrated exceptional bravery and skill in the defense of the post. Survived the battle and lived until 1945, becoming the last surviving participant of the event. Bourne's account of the battle contributed to historical understanding and remembrance of the conflict.
Continue ReadingGeoffrey Baker
Field Marshal of the British Army
Born
June 20th, 1912 113 years ago
Died
May 8th, 1980 45 years ago — 67 years old
Served as a senior officer in the British Army, achieving the rank of Field Marshal. Held the position of Chief of the General Staff, guiding military operations and strategy in the mid-20th century. Played a significant role during World War II, influencing army tactics and administrative capabilities. After the war, focused on reorganizing the army to meet post-war demands and challenges. Engaged in various military reforms throughout tenure.
Continue ReadingMordechai Anielewicz
Polish commander of the Warsaw Ghetto Uprising
Born
1919 106 years ago
Died
May 8th, 1943 82 years ago — 24 years old
Served as a commander in the Jewish Fighting Organization during World War II. Led the Warsaw Ghetto Uprising against Nazi forces in April 1943. Coordinated resistance efforts in one of the most significant uprisings in occupied Europe. Anielewicz and his group faced severe challenges due to overwhelming odds and limited resources, ultimately leading to the destruction of the ghetto. Died during the uprising on May 8, 1943, while fighting against the Nazis.
Continue ReadingAhmed Sanjar
Seljuk Sultan and military leader
Born
1086 939 years ago
Died
May 8th, 1157 868 years ago — 71 years old
Ruled as a Sultan of the Great Seljuk Empire during the 12th century, one of the last prominent rulers of the Seljuk dynasty. Established a brief reign characterized by military campaigns against various factions and significant control over Persian territories. Oversaw the expansion of the empire into regions of modern-day Iran and parts of Central Asia. Experienced defeats against rival states but maintained authority over important areas until the decline of Seljuk power.
Continue ReadingRikissa of Denmark
Queen of Sweden
Died
May 8th, 1220 805 years ago — None years old
Served as queen consort of Sweden through marriage. Completed her role in the royal family during the early 13th century, significantly influencing dynastic alliances. Demonstrated political acumen during her tenure in a time of significant territorial and political changes in Northern Europe.
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