Molly Ivins
Journalist and author of witty commentary
A prominent journalist and author, contributed commentary on politics and society through writing and public speaking. Worked for various newspapers, including the Houston Chronicle and The New York Times, providing insights on Texas politics. Authored several books, including 'Bushwhacked' and 'Shrub', critiquing political figures and policies with sharp wit. Engaged in public speaking and commentary, influencing public discourse.
Wrote 'Bushwhacked' critiquing George W. Bush
Contributed to the Houston Chronicle
Provided commentary for The New York Times
Other People Born on August 30th
Nancy Wake
New Zealand-English World War II operative
Born
August 30th, 1912 113 years ago
Died
August 7th, 2011 14 years ago — 98 years old
Born in New Zealand, served as a key operative during World War II. Joined the Special Operations Executive and worked with the French Resistance. Played a significant role in disrupting German operations in occupied France. After the war, received multiple commendations for bravery and leadership.
Continue ReadingGary Gordon
American sergeant, Medal of Honor recipient
Born
August 30th, 1960 65 years ago
Died
October 3rd, 1993 32 years ago — 33 years old
Served as a United States Army sniper during the Battle of Mogadishu in 1993. Displayed extraordinary bravery while providing cover for a helicopter crew and ground troops during an intense firefight in Somalia. Gordon and his team attempted to rescue downed soldiers despite overwhelming enemy fire. His actions during the mission resulted in a posthumous Medal of Honor, awarded for selfless service and bravery in combat. Gordon's dedication to duty and courage under fire highlighted the sacrifices made by military personnel in conflict.
Continue ReadingRaymond Massey
Actor in movies 'East of Eden'
Born
August 30th, 1896 129 years ago
Died
July 29th, 1983 42 years ago — 86 years old
Born in Canada, pursued a successful career in the performing arts, primarily in film and theatre. Gained notable recognition for performances in 'East of Eden' and the production of 'Androcles and the Lion'. Worked extensively in both American and Canadian theatre, building a reputation as a distinguished actor. Received accolades during his career, affirming his contributions to the arts. Also engaged in playwriting, contributing original works to the stage. In the latter years, involved in television, gaining further recognition through performances in various series.
Continue ReadingDaryl Gates
American police officer, D.A.R.E. Program
Born
August 30th, 1926 99 years ago
Died
April 16th, 2010 15 years ago — 83 years old
A police officer with a long tenure in law enforcement developed a widely adopted drug prevention program aimed at school-aged children. This program focused on educating youth about the dangers of drug use and was designed to foster resistance to peer pressure regarding drugs. Served as the Chief of the Los Angeles Police Department from 1978 to 1992, leading the department during significant events and policy changes. After retirement, continued to engage in discussions about policing and drug-related issues.
Continue ReadingOlga Taussky-Todd
Mathematician known for contributions to algebra
Born
August 30th, 1906 119 years ago
Died
October 7th, 1995 30 years ago — 89 years old
An influential Austrian mathematician, contributions spanned areas of algebra, matrix theory, and numerical analysis. Earned a Ph.D. in 1935 from the University of Vienna. Held various academic positions, including at the California Institute of Technology. Published extensively, authored more than 100 research papers. Developed significant results in the theory of matrices and the stability of differential equations.
Continue ReadingDenis Healey
Chancellor of the Exchequer, politician
Born
August 30th, 1917 108 years ago
Died
October 3rd, 2015 10 years ago — 98 years old
A prominent British politician and soldier, served as Chancellor of the Exchequer from 1974 to 1979 under Prime Minister Harold Wilson. Contributed to economic policies during challenging times, with a focus on addressing inflation and public spending. Participated in World War II as a soldier in the British Army. Later became involved in various political roles, including Member of Parliament for Leeds East from 1952 to 1992.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on January 31st
Hassan 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 ReadingJohannes Clauberg
German philosopher and theologian
Born
February 24th, 1622 403 years ago
Died
January 31st, 1665 360 years ago — 42 years old
A philosopher and theologian contributed to the development of Cartesianism in Germany. Focused on the integration of philosophy and theology, emphasized the importance of rationality in religious belief. Engaged with the works of René Descartes and sought to reconcile reason with faith. Sought to articulate a robust framework for understanding God within the context of philosophical inquiry. His works laid groundwork for future theological discourse in Germany during the 17th century.
Continue ReadingXuande
Emperor of China during the Ming Dynasty
Born
1398 627 years ago
Died
January 31st, 1435 590 years ago — 37 years old
Ruled as the fifth emperor of the Ming Dynasty from 1425 to 1435. Oversaw significant developments in Chinese culture and the arts. Strengthened the central government and promoted trade. Established peace through diplomatic relations with neighboring states.
Continue ReadingRubén Bonifaz Nuño
Mexican poet, scholar, and translator
Born
November 12th, 1923 102 years ago
Died
January 31st, 2013 12 years ago — 89 years old
A prominent figure in Mexican literature, contributed to poetry, scholarship, and translation. Published various collections of poetry, exploring themes of identity, culture, and nature. Active in literary circles and served as a professor, sharing knowledge about Mexican literature and poetry. Translated significant works of foreign literature into Spanish, enriching the literary landscape. Received accolades for contributions to literature, enhancing understanding and appreciation of poetic forms.
Continue ReadingEdwin Howard Armstrong
Engineer, inventor of FM radio
Born
1890 135 years ago
Died
January 31st, 1954 71 years ago — 64 years old
An American engineer and inventor, contributed significantly to the field of radio technology. Innovated frequency modulation (FM) radio, which provided higher fidelity sound and improved clarity over amplitude modulation (AM) radio. Invented and patented various technologies, including the superheterodyne receiver. The work in radio transmission laid the foundation for modern broadcasting and communications.
Continue Reading11th Dalai Lama
Tibetan spiritual leader and reformer
Born
November 1st, 1838 187 years ago
Died
January 31st, 1856 169 years ago — 17 years old
Served as the spiritual leader of Tibet from 1838 until death in 1856. Held significant influence over Tibetan Buddhism and governance during a period of cultural and political change. Implemented various governmental reforms aimed at modernizing the administration. Promoted education and cultural preservation in Tibet, fostering a dialogue between traditional practices and contemporary needs.
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