Michael Landon
Actor and director of Little House on the Prairie
Born
Died
Category
Performers & Entertainers
Country
United States
Links & References
Significant contributions to television as an actor, director, and producer included iconic roles in series such as Bonanza and Little House on the Prairie. Additionally, created and starred in Highway to Heaven, which combined drama with themes of redemption and spirituality. Achieved fame for the portrayal of complex characters that resonated with audiences over decades.
Starred in Little House on the Prairie
Directed and produced Highway to Heaven
Portrayed Joseph Cartwright in Bonanza
Other People Born on October 31st
Anthony Wilding
New Zealand tennis player and cricketer
Born
October 31st, 1883 142 years ago
Died
May 9th, 1915 110 years ago — 31 years old
Competed prominently in tennis and cricket early in the 20th century. Achieved significant success in tennis, capturing four Wimbledon singles titles between 1910 and 1913. Gained recognition for outstanding athletic abilities, becoming a leading figure in New Zealand sports. Also represented New Zealand in cricket, showcasing versatility in both individual and team sports. His contributions laid the groundwork for future generations in New Zealand athletics.
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Abbess of Quedlinburg
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October 31st, 1445 580 years ago
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1511 514 years ago — 66 years old
An influential religious leader, served as the abbess of the Quedlinburg Abbey in the Holy Roman Empire. During tenure, significant contributions to the spiritual and cultural development of the region were made. Hedwig oversaw the administration of the abbey and its lands, influencing local governance and fostering education among nuns. This period marked a notable consolidation of female monastic authority in the early modern period, emphasizing the importance of women's roles in religious life.
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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 ReadingAli Farka Touré
Malian singer-songwriter and guitarist
Born
October 31st, 1939 86 years ago
Died
March 7th, 2006 19 years ago — 66 years old
A prominent Malian musician and guitarist, renowned for blending traditional African music with blues. Achievements include multiple Grammy Awards, reflecting the global influence of his work. His albums, such as "Talking Timbuktu" and "Niafunke," showcased the rich musical heritage of Mali and introduced African music to wider audiences. Collaborated with various international musicians, enhancing cultural exchange through music.
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English gardener and author of 'Sylva'
Born
October 31st, 1620 405 years ago
Died
February 27th, 1706 319 years ago — 85 years old
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Continue ReadingAlexander Alekhine
Russian chess player and World Champion
Born
October 31st, 1892 133 years ago
Died
March 24th, 1946 79 years ago — 53 years old
A prominent chess player, achieved the title of World Chess Champion in 1927 and held it until 1935, then regained it from 1937 until death in 1946. Renowned for innovative strategies and complex play, contributed extensively to chess literature, particularly in opening theory. His rivalry with José Raúl Capablanca and subsequent matches are considered pivotal in chess history.
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Nicholas Winton
Humanitarian known for saving children
Born
May 19th, 1909 116 years ago
Died
July 1st, 2015 10 years ago — 106 years old
A banker and humanitarian organized the rescue of 669 children, mostly Jewish, from Czechoslovakia before World War II. The effort took place in 1939, facilitating their travel to safety in the United Kingdom. Winton maintained secrecy about the operation for many years, but after details emerged, efforts to acknowledge his work gained attention. In addition to his humanitarian efforts, he played a role in various charitable initiatives later in life, receiving honors for his contributions to society.
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Finnish soldier and author
Born
December 27th, 1917 107 years ago
Died
July 1st, 2009 16 years ago — 91 years old
Served as a soldier during the Continuation War in Finland. After the war, turned to writing where military experiences influenced various works. Authored several books detailing combat and personal experiences during wartime. These writings contributed to understanding Finnish military history and soldier narratives.
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Screenwriter of 'Chinatown'
Born
November 23rd, 1934 91 years ago
Died
July 1st, 2024 1 years ago — 89 years old
An American screenwriter, director, and actor, recognized for the screenplay of 'Chinatown', a landmark film in American cinema. This work earned an Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay. Towne also directed the film 'Tequila Sunrise' and wrote for several other significant projects, including 'The Last Detail' and 'Mission: Impossible'. His contributions to the film industry include not only writing but also significant roles in various productions throughout the years.
Continue ReadingErnst Röhm
Nazi Party leader and SA chief
Born
November 28th, 1887 138 years ago
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July 1st, 1934 91 years ago — 46 years old
Born in Germany, a soldier and politician emerged as a prominent figure in the early years of the Nazi Party. Played a key role in the establishment and expansion of the Sturmabteilung (SA), a paramilitary organization that supported Nazi activities. Instrumental in asserting Nazi influence through street violence and intimidation of political opponents. Held significant power within the party and was an ally of Adolf Hitler during the rise of the Third Reich. His growing influence led to concerns among other party leaders, contributing to internal conflicts within the Nazi hierarchy. Executed during the Night of the Long Knives in 1934, which marked a pivotal moment in the consolidation of power by Hitler.
Continue ReadingWilliam T. Cahill
American politician, former Governor
Born
June 25th, 1912 113 years ago
Died
July 1st, 1996 29 years ago — 84 years old
Served as the 46th Governor of New Jersey from 1970 to 1974. Worked as an attorney before entering politics, serving in various capacities within state government. Focused on education reform and environmental issues during governorship. Oversaw the establishment of the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection. After leaving office, continued involvement in state politics and public service.
Continue ReadingMollie Sugden
English actress in Are You Being Served?
Born
July 21st, 1922 103 years ago
Died
July 1st, 2009 16 years ago — 86 years old
An English actress gained recognition for a career in television, particularly for the role of Mrs. Slocombe in the sitcom 'Are You Being Served?' The character became iconic, contributing to the show's success. Additionally, appeared in various other programs, including 'The Liver Birds.' Career spanned several decades, with performances on both stage and screen throughout the 20th century.
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