John Prescott
British politician and Deputy Prime Minister
A prominent British politician and sailor, served as Deputy Prime Minister of the United Kingdom from 1997 to 2007 under Prime Minister Tony Blair. Played a significant role in the Labour Party's return to government after 18 years in opposition. Held various ministerial positions prior to the deputy premiership, including Secretary of State for Environment, Transport and the Regions. Represented the Hull East constituency in Parliament for over 30 years, focusing on urban regeneration and public transport issues. Active in the maritime community, achieved significant accomplishments in sailing as well.
Served as the Deputy Prime Minister of the UK
Represented Hull East for over 30 years
Other People Born on May 31st
Lauri Kristian Relander
Finnish politician, 2nd President of Finland
Born
May 31st, 1883 142 years ago
Died
February 9th, 1942 83 years ago — 58 years old
Served as the second President of Finland from 1925 to 1931. Prior to the presidency, held positions in the Finnish parliament and was a prominent member of the National Coalition Party. Focused on national unity and agricultural reform during the presidency. Efforts were made to strengthen Finland's international relations during a time of political turbulence in Europe.
Continue ReadingAndy Hurley
American musician with Fall Out Boy
Born
May 31st, 1980 45 years ago
Musician gained recognition as the drummer for the band Fall Out Boy. The band achieved significant success with albums such as "From Under the Cork Tree," which included hits like "Sugar, We're Goin Down" and "Dance, Dance." The group's influence in the pop-punk and alternative rock scenes contributed to the resurgence of the genre in the 2000s. Additionally, participated in various side projects, showcasing versatility in musical styles, including the band The Damned Things.
Continue ReadingSándor Festetics
Hungarian Minister of War
Born
May 31st, 1882 143 years ago
Died
September 12th, 1956 69 years ago — 74 years old
Served as a key political figure in Hungary during the early 20th century. Held the position of Minister of War, guiding military policies through a turbulent period. Played a significant role in the Hungarian military establishment during the interwar period. Engaged in military organization and administration, influencing Hungary's defense strategies and military preparedness.
Continue ReadingLaura Ikauniece
Latvian heptathlete and Olympian
Born
May 31st, 1992 33 years ago
Competed internationally in heptathlon events. Achieved significant results in European Championships and World Championships. Represented Latvia at the 2016 Summer Olympics. Established personal records that contributed to ranking among the top athletes in the discipline.
Continue ReadingJohnny Paycheck
Country Music Singer-Songwriter
Born
May 31st, 1938 87 years ago
Died
February 19th, 2003 22 years ago — 64 years old
A country music singer-songwriter and guitarist, achieved fame during the 1970s. Best recognized for the hit single 'Take This Job and Shove It', which became an anthem for the working class. Emerged in the music industry in the 1960s and contributed to the genre with a distinctive honky-tonk style. Released multiple albums and singles, leaving a lasting legacy in country music.
Continue ReadingJean Chalopin
French director and producer of DIC Entertainment
Born
May 31st, 1950 75 years ago
Directed and produced numerous animated television series and films. Founded DIC Entertainment in 1971, which became a prominent player in children's programming. Chaired the production of classic series such as 'Inspector Gadget', 'The Real Ghostbusters', and 'Care Bears'. Contributed to the creation and development of many beloved characters and narratives that resonated with audiences worldwide.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on November 20th
Mstislav Dobuzhinsky
Painter and illustrator of Russian scenes
Born
August 14th, 1875 150 years ago
Died
November 20th, 1957 68 years ago — 82 years old
Born in 1875, this artist contributed significantly to the visual arts through painting and illustration. Primarily active in the early 20th century, the work focused on impressions of urban and rural scenes, particularly in Russia and Lithuania. This individual became associated with the Mir Iskusstva (World of Art) movement, which emphasized the importance of fine arts. The engagement with stage design was also notable, providing artistic direction for several theatrical productions. Eventually, circumstances led to emigration, influencing the work's themes and style while in the countries of residence.
Continue ReadingFrancis William Aston
Nobel Prize-winning chemist and physicist
Born
September 1st, 1877 148 years ago
Died
November 20th, 1945 80 years ago — 68 years old
Contributed significantly to the field of chemistry and physics through the development of the mass spectrograph. This innovation allowed for precise measurements of atomic masses and the identification of isotopes, which advanced the understanding of chemical elements. Received the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1922 for the invention of the mass spectrograph and the discovery of isotopes. Held various academic positions throughout his career and published numerous scientific papers, which furthered research in atomic structure and behavior.
Continue ReadingJodi Rell
American politician, 87th Governor
Born
June 16th, 1946 79 years ago
Died
November 20th, 2024 1 years ago — 78 years old
Served as the 87th Governor of Connecticut from 2004 to 2011. Prior to the governorship, held the position of Lieutenant Governor from 1997 to 2004. Rell was a member of the Connecticut House of Representatives for more than a decade, representing the 107th district. During the governorship, focused on issues such as budget policies, education reform, and health care.
Continue ReadingCaroline of Ansbach
Queen and regent of Great Britain
Born
March 1st, 1683 342 years ago
Died
November 20th, 1737 288 years ago — 54 years old
Born in 1683, served as queen consort of Great Britain from 1727 until death in 1737. Played a significant role in political affairs during the reign of her husband, George II. Actively influenced royal decisions and patronized the arts, contributing to the cultural landscape of the period. Her regency included interventions in parliamentary matters and advocacy for her husband's interests in British politics.
Continue ReadingCharles Plumier
French botanist and author of Plant Catalogs
Born
April 20th, 1646 379 years ago
Died
November 20th, 1704 321 years ago — 58 years old
A prominent botanist, contributed significantly to the field of botany in the 17th century. Conducted extensive explorations in the Caribbean, documenting various plant species. Published several works, including 'Nova Plantarum Americanarum Genera', which described previously unknown plants. His detailed illustrations and writings greatly advanced botanical knowledge and classification. Developed a systematic approach to the study of plants, influencing future botanical research and exploration.
Continue ReadingGiorgio de Chirico
Painter and set designer of metaphysical art
Born
July 10th, 1888 137 years ago
Died
November 20th, 1978 47 years ago — 90 years old
Born in Greece and later relocating to Italy, this painter became a significant figure in the early 20th century art movement known as metaphysical painting. The works often feature enigmatic and desolate landscapes filled with classical architecture and elongated shadows. This artist's unique approach influenced the Surrealists and created a distinctive visual language. Key works include 'The Melancholy of Departure,' which exemplifies the dreamlike quality of metaphysical art, and 'The Painter's Family,' showcasing the use of stillness and profound symbolism. In addition to painting, also contributed to theater as a set designer, enriching stage productions with imaginative backdrops.
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