Jimmy Savile
Television host and radio personality
Served as a prominent television and radio presenter in the United Kingdom, gaining recognition for hosting the BBC music show 'Top of the Pops' and the television talk show 'Jim'll Fix It'. In addition to broadcasting, engaged in various charitable activities, founding the National Association for Boys' Clubs. His extensive media career spanned several decades, with a public persona built around entertaining and interacting with audiences through innovative formats.
Hosted 'Top of the Pops' for 37 years
Hosted 'Jim'll Fix It' where children made wishes
Other People Born on October 31st
Michael Collins
American astronaut and Apollo 11 pilot
Born
October 31st, 1930 95 years ago
Died
April 28th, 2021 4 years ago — 90 years old
An American astronaut played a key role in the Apollo 11 mission, which successfully landed the first humans on the Moon in 1969. Serving as the command module pilot, operated the command module Columbia while Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin explored the lunar surface. His contributions to space exploration extended beyond Apollo 11, with earlier missions including Gemini 10. Later, engaged in public advocacy for space exploration and education, emphasizing the importance of scientific progress.
Continue ReadingJohn Keats
English Romantic poet and writer
Born
October 31st, 1795 230 years ago
Died
February 23rd, 1821 204 years ago — 25 years old
This poet contributed significantly to English literature during the Romantic period. His work featured themes of beauty, nature, and mortality. Prominent works include 'Ode to a Nightingale', 'Ode on a Grecian Urn', and 'Endymion'. Keats's poetry is characterized by vivid imagery and lyrical quality that have influenced many poets after him. The poet struggled with illness throughout his life and died at a young age, but left behind a lasting legacy in the world of poetry.
Continue ReadingJohn Pople
Chemist, Nobel Prize in Chemistry
Born
October 31st, 1925 100 years ago
Died
March 15th, 2004 21 years ago — 78 years old
A chemist and academic contributed to the development of computational methods in quantum chemistry. His work provided significant insights into chemical processes, leading to advancements in molecular modeling. Pople's pioneering efforts in the field established new methods for computational simulations in chemistry. He collaborated with various institutions and made lasting contributions that shaped modern chemistry practices. Pople was awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1998 for his foundational contributions to computational quantum chemistry.
Continue ReadingAli Farka Touré
Malian singer-songwriter and guitarist
Born
October 31st, 1939 86 years ago
Died
March 7th, 2006 19 years ago — 66 years old
A prominent Malian musician and guitarist, renowned for blending traditional African music with blues. Achievements include multiple Grammy Awards, reflecting the global influence of his work. His albums, such as "Talking Timbuktu" and "Niafunke," showcased the rich musical heritage of Mali and introduced African music to wider audiences. Collaborated with various international musicians, enhancing cultural exchange through music.
Continue ReadingEdward
King of Portugal, founded the Avis Order
Born
October 31st, 1391 634 years ago
Died
September 9th, 1438 587 years ago — 46 years old
Became King of Portugal in 1433 and ruled until 1438. His reign was marked by a focus on the consolidation of royal power and expansion of the kingdom's influence. Established the Order of Aviz, a military order that played a significant role in Portuguese history. Strengthened ties with England through dynastic marriage. Engaged in military campaigns in Africa, furthering Portugal’s maritime interests.
Continue ReadingLuís I of Portugal
King of Portugal and the Algarves
Born
October 31st, 1838 187 years ago
Died
October 19th, 1889 136 years ago — 50 years old
Reign spanned from 1861 to 1889, overseeing significant political and social changes in Portugal. Focused on modernizing the Portuguese economy and infrastructure, particularly in transportation and communications. Engaged in efforts to stabilize the monarchy during a time of political turmoil, including a series of constitutional crises and revolutions. Actively involved in cultural and scientific initiatives, promoting the arts and supporting the establishment of more educational institutions.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on October 29th
Letitia Baldrige
Etiquette expert and author
Born
1926 100 years ago
Died
October 29th, 2012 13 years ago — 86 years old
An American etiquette expert and author, contributed significantly to the field of social behavior and manners. Served as the social secretary to First Lady Jacqueline Kennedy, organizing official events at the White House. Wrote several influential books on etiquette, including 'Letitia Baldrige's Complete Guide to Executive Manners'. Became a sought-after speaker and consultant on etiquette for various organizations, including Fortune 500 companies. Made appearances on numerous television programs, discussing etiquette in business and personal settings.
Continue ReadingJack Vaughn
Boxer and diplomat
Born
1920 106 years ago
Died
October 29th, 2012 13 years ago — 92 years old
One of the prominent figures in boxing during the mid-20th century, achieved success in the ring and transitioned to a role in diplomacy. Competed for the United States in various national and international competitions. Later engaged in diplomatic efforts, representing U.S. interests abroad and advocating for international cooperation.
Continue ReadingErnesto Herrera
Filipino businessman and politician
Born
1942 84 years ago
Died
October 29th, 2015 10 years ago — 73 years old
A prominent figure in Philippine politics and business, played a significant role in various economic developments in the country. Served as a member of the Philippine House of Representatives, representing the 1st District of Quezon City. Contributed to legislative reforms aimed at improving the business environment in the Philippines. Engaged in efforts to enhance infrastructure and promote investment in the region.
Continue ReadingGlenn McQueen
Animator and Pixar Studios leader
Born
December 24th, 1960 65 years ago
Died
October 29th, 2002 23 years ago — 41 years old
Contributed significantly to animated films, particularly at Pixar Animation Studios. Served as a supervising animator on notable projects such as Toy Story, A Bug's Life, and Monsters, Inc. Played a critical role in shaping the animation style and storytelling techniques used in these films. Collaborated closely with other animators and directors to elevate the quality of computer-generated animation during the late 20th century. His work helped define the standards and practices of modern animation.
Continue ReadingAngelika Amon
Molecular and cell biologist, cancer research
Born
1967 59 years ago
Died
October 29th, 2020 5 years ago — 53 years old
A molecular and cell biologist, made significant contributions to understanding the process of cell division and its implications in cancer. Conducted extensive research on the role of the spindle assembly checkpoint in ensuring accurate chromosome segregation. Worked at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and led a laboratory renowned for its pioneering insights in cell biology. Recipient of several prestigious awards and honors throughout the scientific community for groundbreaking studies.
Continue ReadingGeorges Brassens
Singer-songwriter and guitarist of France
Born
October 22nd, 1921 104 years ago
Died
October 29th, 1981 44 years ago — 60 years old
A prominent French singer-songwriter and guitarist, this artist played a pivotal role in the French music scene during the mid-20th century. Renowned for deep, poetic lyrics and memorable melodies, this individual incorporated elements of folk and chanson into the repertoire. With a distinctive voice and guitar style, the artist achieved considerable success and popularity, particularly in the 1960s. Contributions included performances at various venues, notably the Olympia in Paris. The music often featured themes of love, social commentary, and humor, appealing to a broad audience across generations.
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