Leo Buscaglia
Author and academic on love and human connection
An author and academic focused on the themes of love, relationships, and human connection. Instructed at the University of Southern California and gained popularity through his engaging seminars on love. Authored several influential books, including 'Love' and 'Living, Loving, and Learning', which explored the emotional and social aspects of human relationships. Spoke widely on the importance of compassion and empathy in society, contributing to discussions on personal fulfillment and community.
Taught seminars at the University of Southern California
Wrote 'Love' and 'Living, Loving, and Learning'
Other People Born on March 31st
Philippa of Lancaster
Portuguese queen, wife of Afonso V
Born
March 31st, 1360 666 years ago
Died
July 19th, 1415 610 years ago — 55 years old
A Portuguese queen, played a significant role in the early 15th century as the spouse of King Afonso V of Portugal. Marrying Afonso V in 1420, contributed to strengthening the alliance between England and Portugal during the Hundred Years' War. Her marriage symbolized the bond between the two nations, reflecting political strategies of the time. Managed royal affairs during her husband's military campaigns, especially when he focused on overseas exploration and territorial expansion. Died in 1415, leaving a legacy intertwined with the political dynamics of the Iberian Peninsula and beyond.
Continue ReadingEdward FitzGerald
Poet and translator of Persian poetry
Born
March 31st, 1809 217 years ago
Died
June 14th, 1883 142 years ago — 74 years old
Born in England in 1809, a notable poet and translator, contributed significantly to English literature through the translation of the Rubaiyat of Omar Khayyam. This work brought Persian poetry to the English-speaking world, showcasing the art and beauty of its verses. FitzGerald's translation, published in 1859, combined lyrical quality with fidelity to the original text, becoming a staple of literary culture. The published work underwent several revisions, further refining the translation and enhancing its popularity. His translation influenced both the perception of Persian literature and inspired various artistic expressions in subsequent years.
Continue ReadingJohn Fowles
English Novelist, author of 'The French Lieutenant's Woman'
Born
March 31st, 1926 100 years ago
Died
November 5th, 2005 20 years ago — 79 years old
An English novelist, Fowles gained prominence with his literary contributions in the mid to late 20th century. His breakthrough work, 'The French Lieutenant's Woman', published in 1969, blended historical fiction with existential themes. Fowles explored the intersections of freedom and fate, often challenging narrative conventions. Other notable works include 'The Collector', his debut novel released in 1963, which delved into psychological themes of obsession and power. Fowles also published essays and nonfiction, including explorations of literature and philosophy, further establishing his reputation as a significant literary figure.
Continue ReadingSergei Diaghilev
Theatre producer of Ballets Russes
Born
March 31st, 1872 154 years ago
Died
August 19th, 1929 96 years ago — 57 years old
A key figure in early 20th-century ballet and theatre, a Russian critic and producer founded the Ballets Russes in 1909, revolutionizing ballet with innovative choreography, design, and music. This company introduced the works of significant choreographers and composers, influencing the development of modern dance. Notable collaborations included Igor Stravinsky, Vaslav Nijinsky, and Pablo Picasso. The Ballets Russes became a cultural sensation in Europe and America, respected for blending classical ballet with contemporary art forms.
Continue ReadingZviad Gamsakhurdia
Georgian politician, 1st President of Georgia
Born
March 31st, 1939 87 years ago
Died
December 31st, 1993 32 years ago — 54 years old
Gamsakhurdia served as the first president of Georgia following its independence from the Soviet Union. An anthropologist by training, contributions included advocating for the preservation of Georgian culture and identity. Elected president in 1991, his tenure faced numerous challenges, including political turmoil and civil unrest. In 1992, Gamsakhurdia was deposed in a coup and spent time in exile before returning to Georgia. His leadership style sparked controversy and divided the public, ultimately leading to a significant political crisis in the country. Gamsakhurdia's political legacy encompasses his efforts to establish a democratic government and promote national sovereignty for Georgia.
Continue ReadingEliyahu M. Goldratt
Physicist and economist; authored The Goal
Born
March 31st, 1947 79 years ago
Died
June 11th, 2011 14 years ago — 64 years old
An Israeli physicist and economist, focused on management theory and production efficiency. Developed the Theory of Constraints, a management philosophy that emphasizes the importance of identifying and addressing limiting factors in a process. Authored the influential book 'The Goal,' which is a business novel that illustrates these principles in a factory setting. Founded the Avraham Goldratt Institute, which provides education and consulting on operational efficiency. Contributed to the fields of supply chain management and project management through various publications and educational initiatives.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on June 12th
Jon Hiseman
English drummer with Colosseum fame
Born
June 21st, 1944 81 years ago
Died
June 12th, 2018 7 years ago — 73 years old
A prominent drummer in the British progressive rock and jazz genres, contributions included founding the band Colosseum, which formed in 1968. The band released several notable albums, with 'Valentyne Suite' being a significant work that showcased innovative jazz-rock fusion. Hiseman also played with other influential musicians and bands throughout his career, including the groups Tempest and the band’s latter incarnation, Colosseum II. His style influenced many drummers in the jazz and rock scenes during the late twentieth century.
Continue ReadingMenachem Mendel Schneerson
Rabbi and Chabad-Lubavitch leader
Born
April 5th, 1902 124 years ago
Died
June 12th, 1994 31 years ago — 92 years old
Born in Russia, served as the seventh leader of the Chabad-Lubavitch movement. Guided the movement from New York, expanding its reach globally. Emphasized the importance of education, outreach, and the study of Jewish texts. Played a significant role in the revitalization of Jewish life in post-Holocaust communities.
Continue ReadingMiroslav Dvořák
Czech ice hockey player & Olympian
Born
October 11th, 1951 74 years ago
Died
June 12th, 2008 17 years ago — 56 years old
A Czech ice hockey player who competed in international tournaments. Represented Czechoslovakia in the Winter Olympics, achieving a silver medal in 1976. Played for HC Slovan Bratislava, gaining recognition for contributions to the team's success during the 1970s.
Continue ReadingFrank Walker
Australian politician and attorney general
Born
1942 84 years ago
Died
June 12th, 2012 13 years ago — 70 years old
Served as the 41st Attorney General of New South Wales. Held the position from 1995 to 1999. Engaged in various legal reforms during tenure. Involved in local government and politics for several decades prior to appointment as Attorney General.
Continue ReadingGyörgy Ligeti
Hungarian-Austrian composer of avant-garde music
Born
May 28th, 1923 102 years ago
Died
June 12th, 2006 19 years ago — 83 years old
Born in 1923, this composer contributed significantly to contemporary classical music. Studied at the Franz Liszt Academy of Music in Budapest. Emigrated to the West in 1956, settling in Austria. Worked with various forms of music, including orchestral, choral, and chamber compositions. Influenced by multiple musical styles and integrated complex rhythms and textures into works. Achieved recognition for compositions such as "Atmosphères," "Lux Aeterna," and the opera "Le Grand Macabre."
Continue ReadingGuo Moruo
Chinese historian and poet
Born
November 16th, 1892 133 years ago
Died
June 12th, 1978 47 years ago — 85 years old
Contributed extensively to the field of history and literature in China. Served as a prominent figure in the Chinese literary scene and was involved in the early years of the Communist Party. Worked as a historian and played a vital role in editing many historical texts. Authored numerous poems and essays, blending traditional Chinese literary forms with modern themes. Held various government positions, including the role of president of the Chinese Academy of Sciences.
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