John Mott
American activist and Nobel laureate
An influential activist focused on youth and student movements. Mott served as the head of the World Student Christian Federation and played a critical role in establishing several international organizations aimed at promoting social responsibility among students. Mott was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1946 for efforts dedicated to fostering peace and understanding through education and religion. His work emphasized the importance of youth leadership in community development and international cooperation.
Received the Nobel Peace Prize in 1946
Led the World Student Christian Federation
Advocated for youth leadership and social responsibility
Other People Born on May 25th
Sarah Marshall
English actress known for 'The Goonies'
Born
May 25th, 1933 92 years ago
Died
January 18th, 2014 11 years ago — 80 years old
Sarah Marshall was an English actress who appeared in various films and television shows. Notable roles included performances in 'The Goonies' and 'Murder, She Wrote'. Over her career, she worked extensively in theater and gained recognition for her versatility in performing arts. Marshall also had a significant presence on British television, contributing to numerous series.
Continue ReadingGert Kams
Estonian footballer and midfielder
Born
May 25th, 1985 40 years ago
A professional footballer, played as a midfielder predominantly in the Estonian leagues and represented the national team. Began the career at Flora Tallinn, contributing significantly to the club's successes. Later played in various international leagues, including stints in Finland and Azerbaijan, while also earning caps for the Estonian national team in international competitions.
Continue ReadingIgor Sikorsky
Aircraft designer and founder of Sikorsky
Born
May 25th, 1889 136 years ago
Died
October 26th, 1972 53 years ago — 83 years old
Born in 1889, a pioneering aircraft designer who emigrated to the United States from Russia. Established Sikorsky Aircraft in 1923, significantly contributing to aviation technology and helicopter design. Developed the first successful helicopter, the VS-300, which became the basis for many subsequent designs. Played a crucial role in the advancement of rotorcraft and aviation principles, helping to lay the foundation for modern helicopter development.
Continue ReadingUta Frith
Developmental psychologist and researcher
Born
May 25th, 1941 84 years ago
A prominent developmental psychologist, Frith has focused on the study of autism and cognitive development. Frith's research has contributed significantly to understanding the theory of mind and the cognitive processes in individuals with autism spectrum conditions. Frith served as the Director of the Institute of Cognitive Neuroscience at University College London, where extensive studies were conducted on the relationship between brain function and psychological processes. Frith's work provided insights into social cognition and the challenges faced by individuals with autism.
Continue ReadingIan McKellen
English actor, Gandalf in 'The Lord of the Rings'
Born
May 25th, 1939 86 years ago
An acclaimed actor with a career spanning over six decades. Gained prominence in theater and film, portraying a range of characters. Notably played Gandalf in 'The Lord of the Rings' film trilogy and Magneto in the 'X-Men' series. Recognized for contributions to the performing arts and for advocacy work related to LGBTQ+ rights.
Continue ReadingLouis Franchet d'Espèrey
Algerian-French general and military leader
Born
May 25th, 1856 169 years ago
Died
July 8th, 1942 83 years ago — 86 years old
Served as a prominent general in the French Army during World War I. Commanded the Allied forces in the Balkans and was instrumental in the successful offensive on the Macedonian front. Led the campaign that resulted in the capture of Monastir and played a key role in the overall success of the Allied forces. After the war, contributed to military reorganizations and served in various capacities within the military establishment until retirement.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on January 31st
Gordon R. Dickson
Science Fiction Author and Novelist
Born
November 1st, 1923 102 years ago
Died
January 31st, 2001 24 years ago — 77 years old
Born in 1923, this author made significant contributions to the science fiction genre. His career spanned more than five decades, during which he published numerous novels and short stories. Several of his works explored themes of future societies, technology, and the human condition. He received multiple awards, including the Hugo and Nebula awards. Some of his notable works include the 'Dorsai!' series and the 'Way of the Pilgrim' stories. He also wrote for television and contributed to the development of science fiction literature.
Continue ReadingPaul Singer
German politician and reform advocate
Born
1844 181 years ago
Died
January 31st, 1911 114 years ago — 67 years old
A German politician, contributed significantly to the development of social reforms in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Engaged in efforts aimed at improving the living conditions of workers and promoting labor rights. Primary focus was on advancing social legislation, particularly in the areas of health and labor. Elected as a member of the German Reichstag, where he advocated for progressive policies and social justice.
Continue ReadingHassan Habibi
Iranian lawyer and politician, 1st Vice President
Born
1937 88 years ago
Died
January 31st, 2013 12 years ago — 76 years old
A lawyer and politician held the position of 1st Vice President of Iran from 1981 to 1985. Served as a prominent member of the Iranian government following the 1979 revolution. Played a significant role in shaping post-revolutionary Iran's legal and political landscape. Contributed to constitutional reforms and was instrumental in assisting the establishment of the government during the early years of the Islamic Republic.
Continue ReadingArthur Percival
English General and Singapore Defender
Born
December 26th, 1887 137 years ago
Died
January 31st, 1966 59 years ago — 78 years old
Served as a British Army officer, particularly during World War II. Commanded the garrison in the defense of Singapore against Japanese forces in 1942. Surrendered to the Japanese, marking the largest capitulation in British military history. After the war, held various posts in the British military and contributed to post-war military planning. Authored accounts of military strategy and operations in his later years.
Continue ReadingJohn Joseph Scanlan
Bishop and religious leader
Born
1930 95 years ago
Died
January 31st, 1997 28 years ago — 67 years old
Served as the bishop of the Diocese of New Ulm, Minnesota from 1957 until death in 1997. Contributed to the pastoral care and administration of the diocese, overseeing various initiatives and the growth of the Catholic community in the area. Actively engaged in ecumenical and interfaith dialogue, fostering relationships among different religious groups. Worked to improve social services and education within the region.
Continue ReadingMoira Shearer
Ballet dancer and actress in The Red Shoes
Born
January 17th, 1926 99 years ago
Died
January 31st, 2006 19 years ago — 80 years old
This individual was a prominent ballerina and actress, gaining recognition for her role in the film The Red Shoes. Trained at the Sadler's Wells Ballet School, performance career included dancing for the Royal Ballet. Transitioned to film, where The Red Shoes gained critical acclaim and won two Academy Awards. Her artistry combined classical ballet with acting, leading to notable performances on stage and screen. With a career spanning decades, involvement in both dance and film left a lasting legacy.
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