Nick Newton
Inventor of the Newton Starting Blocks
Born
1933
92 years ago
Died
Category
Scientists & Innovators
Country
United States
Links & References
An inventor focused on athletic equipment, contributed to the advancement of track and field. Developed the Newton Starting Blocks, which enhanced sprinter performance by providing better footing at the start of races. Collaborated with athletes and coaches to refine the design and functionality of the starting blocks, which have been widely adopted in various competitions. The innovation played a significant role in the optimization of sprinting techniques.
Invented the Newton Starting Blocks
Enhanced performance for sprinters
Widely adopted in track and field competitions
Other People Who Died on March 31st
Shirley Burkovich
Former AAGPBL baseball player
Born
1933 92 years ago
Died
March 31st, 2022 3 years ago — 89 years old
Played in the All-American Girls Professional Baseball League (AAGPBL) from 1943 to 1954. Represented the Rockford Peaches during her career and contributed to the team’s success. Overcame challenges in a male-dominated sport, demonstrating exceptional talent on the field. Worked to promote women's baseball after retirement and participated in various reunions of AAGPBL players.
Continue ReadingHans-Dietrich Genscher
German politician and Vice-Chancellor
Born
March 21st, 1927 98 years ago
Died
March 31st, 2016 9 years ago — 89 years old
Born in 1927, served as a soldier in the German Army during World War II. Entered politics post-war and became a prominent figure in the Free Democratic Party (FDP). Served as Vice-Chancellor and Minister of Foreign Affairs in Germany from 1974 to 1992, playing a significant role in German reunification and European integration. His diplomatic efforts were crucial in negotiating treaties and fostering relations during a period of significant change in Europe.
Continue ReadingMuhammad Wakkas
Bangladeshi teacher and parliamentarian
Born
January 15th, 1952 73 years ago
Died
March 31st, 2021 4 years ago — 69 years old
Born in 1952, a notable figure in Bangladeshi education and politics. Served as a teacher and held a significant role in parliament as a member of the Awami League. Engaged in various educational initiatives aimed at improving literacy and access to education in Bangladesh. Contributed to legislative discussions and policies affecting the educational sector in the country.
Continue ReadingSemyon Timoshenko
Soviet Commander in WWII
Born
1894 131 years ago
Died
March 31st, 1970 55 years ago — 76 years old
Led Soviet military operations during the Winter War against Finland and the Eastern Front of World War II. Contributed to significant battles such as Stalingrad and Kursk. Held various high-ranking positions within the Red Army throughout his career, implementing strategies that shaped Soviet military tactics during the war. Served as a Marshal of the Soviet Union, playing a crucial role in the post-war reconstruction of the Soviet military structure.
Continue ReadingGonzalo Anes
Economist and historian of Spain
Born
1931 94 years ago
Died
March 31st, 2014 11 years ago — 83 years old
An economist and historian contributed significantly to the fields of economics and historical research in Spain. Focused primarily on the economic history and contemporary economic issues, engaged in academia for many years. Served as the director of the Economic and Social History Department at the University of Barcelona. Made substantial contributions to studies regarding the economic structures and policies of the Spanish economy, particularly during the 20th century. Involved in various research projects and published multiple works that analyzed Spain's economic development and historical context.
Continue ReadingCarlos Gaviria Díaz
Colombian lawyer and politician
Born
1937 88 years ago
Died
March 31st, 2015 10 years ago — 78 years old
A prominent Colombian lawyer who dedicated life to public service and advocacy. Served as the president of the Constitutional Court of Colombia from 2001 to 2003. Participated in the Constitutional Assembly of 1991, which produced a new constitution aimed at improving democratic structures. Founded the Progressive Movement party and became a significant figure in Colombia's leftist political landscape. Engaged in various legal and political reforms throughout career, focusing on human rights and social justice.
Continue Reading