Julia Peterkin
American author of Scarlet Sister Mary
An American author wrote about African American life in the rural South during the early 20th century. Scarlet Sister Mary, published in 1928, earned the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction in 1929. Her works often explored themes of culture, spirituality, and heritage. Peterkin's unique perspective contributed to the literary representation of Southern black communities. She published several other works, including children's books and poetry, reflecting her diverse interests and experiences in the South.
Won the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction in 1929
Authored the novel Scarlet Sister Mary
Other People Born on October 31st
Yeongjo of Joseon
Korean monarch during the Joseon Dynasty
Born
October 31st, 1694 331 years ago
Died
1776 249 years ago — 82 years old
Ruled the Joseon Dynasty from 1724 to 1776, implementing significant reforms in governance and society. Sought to stabilize the kingdom through a focus on Confucian ideals and promoted civil service examinations. Addressed social issues such as famine relief and corruption within the bureaucracy. Oversaw a flourishing of culture, particularly in literature and the arts, during the latter part of the dynasty. His reign was marked by efforts to strengthen royal authority and diminish factional conflicts.
Continue ReadingDavid Ogden Stiers
Actor and voice actor in M*A*S*H
Born
October 31st, 1942 83 years ago
Died
March 3rd, 2018 7 years ago — 75 years old
An accomplished actor and voice actor, had a significant career spanning several decades. Best remembered for the role of Charles Emerson Winchester III on the television series M*A*S*H, which aired from 1977 to 1983. Also provided voice work for numerous animated series and films, lending a distinctive character to his roles. Additionally, engaged in music, showcasing talents as a conductor and musician. In later years, continued to appear in various television and film projects, demonstrating versatility as an actor.
Continue ReadingDarryl Worley
Country Music Singer-Songwriter
Born
October 31st, 1964 61 years ago
Born in 1964, a country music singer-songwriter gained prominence in the early 2000s. Released the album 'Here and Now,' which included the hit single 'Have You Forgotten?' addressing the September 11 attacks. Achieved several top ten hits on the Billboard country charts and earned multiple award nominations throughout the career.
Continue ReadingAntonio Taguba
General, Taguba Report on Abu Ghraib
Born
October 31st, 1950 75 years ago
A Filipino-American general who served in the United States Army, focused on military leadership and investigations. Played a pivotal role in the Abu Ghraib prison abuse scandal by leading an inquiry into the treatment of detainees. The findings were compiled in what became known as the Taguba Report, which brought significant attention to issues of military conduct and accountability. Retired from the Army after a distinguished career, Taguba has followed his military tenure with advocacy for veterans and discussions on military ethics.
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 ReadingAdelbert Ames
American general and Mississippi governor
Born
October 31st, 1835 190 years ago
Died
April 12th, 1933 92 years ago — 97 years old
Served as a general in the Union Army during the Civil War, achieving the rank of brevet major general. Became the 30th Governor of Mississippi from 1874 to 1876. His tenure focused on reconstruction efforts in the South after the Civil War. After serving as governor, held various political roles including a U.S. Senator. Advocated for civil rights and was involved in the Republican Party during his political career.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on August 10th
János Kodolányi
Hungarian author of 'The Master of the World'
Born
1899 126 years ago
Died
August 10th, 1969 56 years ago — 70 years old
An influential Hungarian author and literary figure, noted for contributions to 20th-century literature. Wrote prose and essays, engaging with themes of existentialism and the Hungarian experience. Gained recognition for the novel 'The Master of the World', which explored profound philosophical questions. His works often reflected the political and social changes occurring in Hungary during his lifetime.
Continue ReadingJohn Boyle O'Reilly
Poet and journalist of 'Songs from the Cell'
Born
June 28th, 1844 181 years ago
Died
August 10th, 1890 135 years ago — 46 years old
An Irish-born poet, journalist, and fiction writer, this individual played a significant role in the literary world of the late 19th century. After being sentenced to prison in Ireland, a daring escape led to a new life in America. In the United States, contributions included writing for the Boston Pilot and publishing several acclaimed poetry collections. Works often reflected themes of freedom, social justice, and the Irish experience, earning admiration among readers and writers alike. The legacy includes promoting Irish nationalism and voices of the oppressed through both poetry and journalism.
Continue ReadingEydie Gormé
Singer with successful career in music
Born
August 16th, 1928 97 years ago
Died
August 10th, 2013 12 years ago — 84 years old
Achieved prominence as a singer in the 1950s, primarily within the pop and easy listening genres. Gained widespread recognition for performances alongside her husband, Steve Lawrence, as part of a popular duo. Released numerous albums and singles over a career spanning several decades, with notable success on the charts. Recorded hits such as 'Blame It on the Bossa Nova' and 'Someone to Watch Over Me'. Additionally, appeared on various television programs, including 'The Ed Sullivan Show' and her own TV specials.
Continue ReadingKristen Nygaard
Norwegian computer scientist, Turing Award
Born
August 27th, 1926 99 years ago
Died
August 10th, 2002 23 years ago — 75 years old
Contributed to the development of computer science, particularly in programming languages and software engineering. Developed the programming language Simula, which introduced the concept of object-oriented programming. Held academic positions at various institutions and influenced the field through both teaching and research. Published numerous papers addressing theoretical aspects of computer science and programming.
Continue ReadingBob Wiesler
Baseball player; New York Yankees
Born
August 13th, 1930 95 years ago
Died
August 10th, 2014 11 years ago — 83 years old
Played professional baseball as an outfielder, primarily with the New York Yankees. Wiesler's career spanned from the mid-1950s to the early 1960s. He participated in major league baseball during a competitive era, contributing to the team's successes. After leaving the Yankees, Wiesler played for several minor league teams before retiring from professional baseball. His legacy includes significant performances in key games.
Continue ReadingBilly Grammer
American singer-songwriter and guitarist
Born
August 28th, 1925 100 years ago
Died
August 10th, 2011 14 years ago — 85 years old
An influential figure in country music, active from the 1950s, characterized by a distinctive guitar style and rich storytelling lyrics. Gained acclaim with the hit song 'Gotta Travel On' in the 1950s. Established a successful career in music and made significant contributions to the genre. Produced multiple albums that showcased unique talent and songwriting abilities. Also known for his work as a session musician and his appearances on various television shows.
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