John Canton
English physicist and academic researcher
An English physicist and academic contributed significantly to the field of experimental physics. Best remembered for inventing the electrometer, which measured electric charge and helped advance the understanding of electricity. Served as a professor at the Royal Academy, where teachings included topics on natural philosophy and electrical experiments. Conducted experiments on heat conduction and published numerous papers on the behavior of electrified bodies.
Invented the electrometer
Conducted important experiments in electricity
Other People Born on July 31st
Emperor Nijō of Japan
Emperor of Japan during Heian period
Born
July 31st, 1143 882 years ago
Died
1165 860 years ago — 22 years old
Ruled as the 75th emperor of Japan from 1158 to 1165. Son of Emperor Go-Shirakawa, ascended the throne at a young age. His reign coincided with the power struggles of the Fujiwara clan and the emergence of the samurai class. Known for political instability and influence from powerful regents, including the Fujiwara family. Sought to balance the traditional court practices with the rising military power, yet faced challenges during his reign. Abdicated in 1165 in favor of his son, continuing a lineage of power struggles in the imperial family.
Continue ReadingCurt Gowdy
American sportscaster and television host
Born
July 31st, 1919 106 years ago
Died
February 20th, 2006 19 years ago — 86 years old
A prominent sportscaster in the United States, played a significant role in the evolution of sports broadcasting. Served as the lead announcer for the Boston Red Sox from 1951 to 1965, bringing baseball to television audiences. Became known for broadcasting the Super Bowl and other major sports events. Worked with NBC Sports and ABC Sports, where coverage of the World Series and college football became notable. Received several accolades for contributions to sports broadcasting, including a Sports Emmy Award and induction into the National Sportscasters and Sportswriters Association Hall of Fame.
Continue ReadingMaximilian II
Holy Roman Emperor
Born
July 31st, 1527 498 years ago
Died
October 12th, 1576 449 years ago — 49 years old
Ruled as Holy Roman Emperor from 1564 until 1576. Maximilian II pursued policies that promoted religious tolerance, supporting both Catholicism and Protestantism within the Holy Roman Empire. His reign was marked by efforts to strengthen the empire's eastern defenses against the Ottoman Empire and to centralize authority. A patron of the arts, he encouraged cultural developments and maintained a court that attracted many artists and philosophers of the time.
Continue ReadingBryan Hextall
Ice hockey player and NHL All-Star
Born
July 31st, 1913 112 years ago
Died
July 25th, 1984 41 years ago — 70 years old
Born in Canada, this ice hockey player played primarily for the New York Rangers in the National Hockey League (NHL). A forward, he was recognized for his playing style and scoring ability during the late 1930s and early 1940s. This athlete participated in four NHL All-Star Games and contributed to the Rangers’ success during his tenure. After his playing career, he served as a coach and scout, further influencing the sport.
Continue ReadingJohn Ericsson
Swedish-American engineer and inventor
Born
July 31st, 1803 222 years ago
Died
March 8th, 1889 136 years ago — 85 years old
Swedish-American engineer and inventor contributed significantly to naval engineering and mechanical design. Developed the first practical marine screw propeller, which transformed naval architecture. Engineered the ironclad warship USS Monitor during the American Civil War, notable for its battle against the CSS Virginia. His work in steam power included the design of various ships and improvements in engine efficiency.
Continue ReadingMilton Friedman
Economist and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
July 31st, 1912 113 years ago
Died
November 16th, 2006 19 years ago — 94 years old
A leading figure in the field of economics, significant contributions include the development of the theory of monetarism. Served as a professor at the University of Chicago and authored several influential books on economic theory, including 'Capitalism and Freedom'. Played a vital role in policy discussions regarding inflation and monetary policy. Advocated for free-market principles and limited government intervention in the economy.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on March 22nd
Arkady Arkanov
Ukrainian-Russian actor and playwright
Born
1933 92 years ago
Died
March 22nd, 2015 10 years ago — 82 years old
An actor and playwright operated primarily in the Soviet Union and later in Russia. Worked extensively in theater and television, contributing significantly to the arts scene. Gained popularity through performances and scriptwriting that resonated with audiences. Involved in various productions that showcased a blend of humor and social commentary. Maintained a notable presence in the cultural landscape until death in 2015.
Continue ReadingStepas Butautas
Lithuanian basketball player and coach
Born
August 25th, 1925 100 years ago
Died
March 22nd, 2001 24 years ago — 75 years old
Played professional basketball in Lithuania and transitioned to coaching after retirement. Gained recognition as a successful coach in various Lithuanian basketball teams. Served as a national team coach, contributing to the development of basketball in Lithuania.
Continue ReadingDavid Strickland
American actor best known for 'Suddenly Susan'
Born
October 14th, 1969 56 years ago
Died
March 22nd, 1999 26 years ago — 29 years old
Strickland began his acting career in the early 1990s, appearing in various television series and films. The most notable role featured a lead character in the sitcom 'Suddenly Susan', which aired from 1996 to 2000. His work on this series garnered attention and established him as a recognizable figure in television comedy. Strickland also appeared in guest roles on shows such as 'The Wonder Years' and 'Spin City'. His life ended prematurely in 1999, but his contributions to television remain appreciated by viewers of his time.
Continue ReadingMatthew White Ridley
English politician and academic leader
Born
1925 100 years ago
Died
March 22nd, 2012 13 years ago — 87 years old
Served as the 4th Viscount Ridley and held various positions in academia and public service. Acted as the Lord Lieutenant of Northumberland, overseeing ceremonial duties and representing the monarchy. Contributed to discussions on politics and science, emphasizing the importance of rational discourse in public policy. Engaged in writing, providing commentary on modern scientific issues and their societal implications.
Continue ReadingMickey Sullivan
Baseball player and coach
Born
1932 93 years ago
Died
March 22nd, 2012 13 years ago — 80 years old
Played as a professional baseball player in Major League Baseball, primarily as an outfielder. Sullivan had a playing career spanning from the late 1940s into the early 1950s, including time spent with the Chicago Cubs and the Philadelphia Phillies. After retiring from playing, transitioned into coaching, contributing to the development of players in various minor league teams. Served as a manager in the minor leagues, influencing the careers of numerous athletes.
Continue ReadingSteve Olin
Baseball player for the Cleveland Indians
Born
October 4th, 1965 60 years ago
Died
March 22nd, 1993 32 years ago — 27 years old
Played as a relief pitcher in Major League Baseball, primarily for the Cleveland Indians from 1988 to 1993. Olin's career was marked by effective performance on the mound, showcasing a strong ability to close out games and contribute to his team's success. His career was tragically cut short due to his untimely death in a boating accident in 1993.
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