Norman Kirk

Prime Minister of New Zealand

Norman Kirk - Prime Minister of New Zealand
Born

January 6th, 1923
102 years ago

Died

August 31st, 1974
50 years ago — 51 years old

Category

Leaders & Politicians

Country

New Zealand

Links & References

An engineer and politician served as the 29th Prime Minister of New Zealand from 1972 until 1974. Focused on social reform and economic development, advocated for policies that improved social services and public infrastructure. Played a significant role in the opposition against the Vietnam War. His leadership style emphasized unity among various sectors of society, particularly labor and the working class. Died in office in 1974, leaving a legacy in New Zealand's political landscape.

Served as the 29th Prime Minister of New Zealand

Opposed New Zealand's involvement in the Vietnam War

Promoted social welfare reforms

Other People Born on January 6th

James Farrior

American football linebacker and champion
Born
January 6th, 1975 50 years ago

A former professional American football linebacker, achieved success in the National Football League (NFL). Played college football at the University of Virginia before entering the NFL. Selected by the New York Jets in the first round of the 1997 NFL Draft. Later signed with the Pittsburgh Steelers, where contributed to two Super Bowl victories. After retirement, transitioned to a coaching role and remained involved in football.

Continue Reading

Carolyn D. Wright

Poet and academic with notable works
Born
January 6th, 1949 76 years ago
Died
2016 9 years ago — 67 years old

An American poet and academic, contributions included teaching at various institutions and publishing multiple poetry collections. Most significant works include 'Another Turn' and 'Cooling Time: An American Poetry Perspective'. Engaged with themes of personal experience and broader societal issues, utilizing a distinctive voice and style. Served as a professor at the University of Arkansas at Little Rock and was involved in the founding of the Arkansas Literary Festival. Received accolades for literary achievements, showcasing a commitment to the craft of poetry.

Continue Reading

Jedediah Smith

American explorer and author of journals
Born
January 6th, 1799 226 years ago
Died
May 27th, 1831 194 years ago — 32 years old

An early American explorer, engaged in extensive travels across the western United States. Explored regions that are now part of California, Nevada, and Utah. His journeys contributed to the mapping and understanding of the American West. Authored detailed journals describing encounters with Native American tribes, wildlife, and landscapes. Played a significant role in the fur trade and established new routes that facilitated later westward expansion.

Continue Reading

Ndamukong Suh

American football defensive tackle
Born
January 6th, 1987 38 years ago

Played as a defensive tackle in the National Football League (NFL) for teams including the Detroit Lions, Miami Dolphins, and Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Achieved multiple Pro Bowl selections and was named a First-team All-Pro in 2010. Contributed to the Buccaneers' victory in Super Bowl LV. Played college football at the University of Nebraska, where he won the Jim Thorpe Award and the Outland Trophy in 2009.

Continue Reading

James Madison Porter

American lawyer and Secretary of War
Born
January 6th, 1793 232 years ago
Died
November 11th, 1862 162 years ago — 69 years old

Served as the 18th Secretary of War from 1841 to 1843. Held various political positions including serving as a member of the Pennsylvania House of Representatives. Contributed to military and defense policies during a time of national expansion and challenges. Played a significant role in the American political landscape during the early 19th century.

Continue Reading

Mickey Hargitay

Bodybuilder and actor in 'Hercules'
Born
January 6th, 1926 99 years ago
Died
September 14th, 2006 18 years ago — 80 years old

Born in Hungary, a career began in bodybuilding, achieving titles in the 1950s before transitioning to acting. Became prominent in Hollywood, frequently appearing in films and television. Gained recognition for the role of Hercules in the movie 'Hercules in the Haunted World' and for appearances in various television series during the 1960s and 1970s.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on August 31st

Georges Gauthier

Canadian Archbishop and spiritual leader
Born
October 9th, 1871 153 years ago
Died
August 31st, 1940 84 years ago — 68 years old

Born in 1871, served as Archbishop of Ottawa from 1930 to 1950. Played a significant role in the Catholic Church in Canada during a time of considerable change. Contributed to various religious and social issues, fostering community relations and promoting education within the church. Engaged in ecumenical work and interfaith dialogue, establishing a framework for cooperation among different Christian denominations.

Continue Reading

Sergey Sokolov

Soviet Minister of Defence and Marshal
Born
July 1st, 1911 113 years ago
Died
August 31st, 2012 12 years ago — 101 years old

A prominent Soviet military leader and politician, held significant roles within the Soviet Armed Forces. Played a crucial part in military operations during the Cold War. As Minister of Defence from 1970 to 1971, contributed to the restructuring of military forces. Engaged in the development of key defense strategies and policies during a pivotal period in Soviet history.

Continue Reading

Tom Seaver

Baseball pitcher, 3-time Cy Young Award winner
Born
November 17th, 1944 80 years ago
Died
August 31st, 2020 4 years ago — 75 years old

Esteemed as one of the greatest pitchers in baseball history, this individual played primarily for the New York Mets and the Cincinnati Reds. A prominent figure in Major League Baseball, he made his debut in 1967 and quickly established a reputation for his exceptional skills on the mound. Achieving multiple All-Star selections, this player was instrumental in leading the Mets to their first World Series championship in 1969. Over a career spanning more than two decades, he also garnered three Cy Young Awards for his outstanding performance. After retirement, he continued to contribute to the sport as a broadcaster and mentor to young players.

Continue Reading

Francesco Morini

Italian footballer and defender
Born
1944 81 years ago
Died
August 31st, 2021 3 years ago — 77 years old

Played as a central defender in professional football, primarily for Sampdoria and Juventus. Won multiple Serie A titles and was part of the Juventus team that secured victory in the 1973 Coppa Italia. Represented the Italy national team, contributing to their defense during the 1970 FIFA World Cup. Transitioned into coaching after retirement from professional play, contributing to youth development in football.

Continue Reading

Andranik

Armenian general and military leader
Born
February 25th, 1865 160 years ago
Died
August 31st, 1927 97 years ago — 62 years old

Born in 1865, Andranik played a significant role in the Armenian national liberation movement during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. He became a general in the Armenian Revolutionary Army and was a key figure in the struggle for Armenian rights against Ottoman rule. He led various military operations to defend Armenian communities and contributed to the establishment of the First Republic of Armenia in 1918. His leadership helped in organizing defense against external threats and shaping the armed forces of the new republic. After the fall of the First Republic, he continued to fight for Armenian independence and was active in various military campaigns until his death.

Continue Reading

Sir John Duckworth

English admiral and governor of Newfoundland
Born
February 9th, 1748 277 years ago
Died
August 31st, 1817 207 years ago — 69 years old

Born in 1748, an English admiral and politician served as the Commodore Governor of Newfoundland. Held leadership roles in various naval operations during the French Revolutionary and Napoleonic Wars. Managed the colony of Newfoundland, dealing with both military and civil affairs. Additionally, participated in naval engagements that contributed to British victories at sea.

Continue Reading