John George II

Elector of Saxony during the Thirty Years' War

John George II - Leaders & Politicians born May 31st, 1613
Born
Died
Category

Leaders & Politicians

Country

Germany

Links & References

Born in 1613, held the title of Elector of Saxony from 1656 until his death in 1680. His reign occurred during the latter part of the Thirty Years' War, a period marked by significant conflict across Europe. Focused on rebuilding his territory's economy and strengthening its political influence. Known for efforts that included supporting Protestant interests and maintaining a balance within the Holy Roman Empire. Engaged in diplomatic efforts and alliances to secure Saxon interests.

Reorganized the Saxon economy post-war

Supported Protestant states during the war

Enhanced the political power of Saxony

Other People Born on May 31st

Breece Hall

American football running back
Born
May 31st, 2001 24 years ago

Professional football player played as a running back in the National Football League (NFL). Attended Iowa State University, where achieved significant success, earning All-American honors. Selected in the second round of the 2022 NFL Draft by the New York Jets. Made an immediate impact during rookie season with impressive rushing yards and touchdowns, becoming one of the standout players on the team before suffering an injury.

Continue Reading

Marlies Schild

Austrian alpine ski racer and champion
Born
May 31st, 1981 44 years ago

An alpine ski racer specialized in slalom, competed for Austria. Achieved great success in the FIS Alpine Ski World Cup, securing multiple victories throughout her career. Won the World Cup slalom title in 2010 and 2011. Also earned medals at World Championships, including a gold medal in slalom in 2011. Retired from competitive skiing in 2017.

Continue Reading

Alida Valli

Italian actress from 'The Third Man'
Born
May 31st, 1921 104 years ago
Died
April 22nd, 2006 19 years ago — 84 years old

An actress achieved prominence in the 1940s through Italian and international cinema. Gained widespread acclaim for a role in the film 'The Third Man' directed by Carol Reed. Collaborated with notable directors such as Luchino Visconti and Michelangelo Antonioni. Worked in both Italian and American films, establishing a strong presence in European cinema during the mid-20th century. Continued career into the later years, remaining active in film and theater until her death.

Continue Reading

Normani Kordei Hamilton

American singer with 'Worth It'
Born
May 31st, 1996 29 years ago

Born in 1996, a singer gained prominence as a member of the girl group Fifth Harmony, which formed on the reality television show The X Factor in 2012. The group released hit songs including 'Worth It' and 'Work from Home' and achieved significant commercial success. Following the group's hiatus, embarked on a solo career. Released the single 'Motivation' in 2019, which showcased vocal abilities and performance skills. Recognized for a blend of pop and R&B influences, the artist has established a distinct presence in the music industry.

Continue Reading

Walt Whitman

American poet and author of Leaves of Grass
Born
May 31st, 1819 206 years ago
Died
March 26th, 1892 133 years ago — 72 years old

A key figure in American literature, this poet and essayist is celebrated for his groundbreaking work that explored themes of democracy, nature, and the human experience. The publication of 'Leaves of Grass' marked a significant innovation in poetic form and structure, embracing free verse and celebrating individuality and humanity. Throughout a prolific career, the author worked as a journalist and editor, contributing to the discourse of his time. The literary style and themes influenced generations of writers and poets.

Continue Reading

Brandon Smith

New Zealand rugby league player
Born
May 31st, 1996 29 years ago

A rugby league player from New Zealand, Smith achieved recognition for playing as a hooker. Initially represented the Melbourne Storm in the NRL, contributing to the team's 2017 and 2020 premiership victories. Later joined the New Zealand Warriors, continuing to showcase skills on the field and playing a key role in the team's performance.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on August 22nd

Paul Shan Kuo-hsi

Chinese cardinal and church leader
Born
1923 102 years ago
Died
August 22nd, 2012 13 years ago — 89 years old

Served as a cardinal in the Catholic Church, contributing significantly to the formation of the Church's presence in China. Appointed by Pope John Paul II in 1998, held the title of Bishop of the Diocese of Kaohsiung. Engaged in various ecclesiastical duties, including promoting education and social services within his community. Actively participated in numerous synods and conferences aimed at addressing the challenges faced by the Church in the Asian context, particularly in relation to governmental policies.

Continue Reading

Daniel Petrie

Film and television director and producer
Born
November 26th, 1920 105 years ago
Died
August 22nd, 2004 21 years ago — 83 years old

A director and producer in film and television. Directed the classic TV movie 'Brian's Song' in 1971, which depicted the life of football player Brian Piccolo. His work spanned several decades, contributing to both television and film. Received several accolades throughout his career, including an Emmy Award for Outstanding Directing for a Limited Series or a Special. Also directed films like 'The Dollmaker' and 'Forty Carats'.

Continue Reading

Pete Ladygo

American football player and coach
Born
1928 97 years ago
Died
August 22nd, 2014 11 years ago — 86 years old

Played professional American football as a guard for the Chicago Bears. Transitioned into coaching after retiring from playing, serving as an assistant coach for the Bears. Contributed to the team's operations and development of players during the 1960s and 1970s, influencing future generations in the sport.

Continue Reading

S. R. Nathan

6th President of Singapore
Born
July 3rd, 1924 101 years ago
Died
August 22nd, 2016 9 years ago — 92 years old

Served as the sixth President of Singapore from 1999 to 2011. Prior to assuming the presidency, held various key governmental roles, including Minister of Defence and Chief of the Civil Service. Played a significant role in Singapore's diplomatic relations and contributed to the nation's development in the public sector. Undertook several initiatives focused on social issues during presidency and advocated for community development.

Continue Reading

Arthur Morris

Cricketer and journalist, Ashes series star
Born
January 19th, 1922 103 years ago
Died
August 22nd, 2015 10 years ago — 93 years old

An accomplished cricketer and journalist, played for Australia as an opening batsman. Debuted for the national team in 1946 and secured his place as a key player during the 1948 Ashes series. Achieved a batting average of 46.48 in Test cricket, contributing significantly to the team's success. Post-retirement, transitioned to journalism, covering the sport and sharing expertise through writing. Recognized for contributions to both cricket and sports journalism.

Continue Reading

Michael J. C. Gordon

British Computer Scientist and Researcher
Born
1948 77 years ago
Died
August 22nd, 2017 8 years ago — 69 years old

Contributed significantly to the field of computer science, focusing on programming languages, systems, and verification. Served as a professor at the University of Cambridge and played a key role in the development of the Occam programming language. His work in automated theorem proving was influential in formal verification, particularly in the context of concurrent systems. Engaged in research that bridged theoretical frameworks and practical applications, benefiting both academia and industry.

Continue Reading