Peter Benenson

Human rights lawyer, founded Amnesty International

Peter Benenson - Activists & Humanitarians born July 31st, 1921
Born
Died
Category

Activists & Humanitarians

Country

United Kingdom

Links & References

A lawyer initiated the founding of Amnesty International in 1961 to advocate for human rights globally. The organization focused on preventing and addressing cases of unjust imprisonment and torture. Through commitment to the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, efforts contributed to the awareness of political prisoners and abuses. The organization's campaigns led to the release of numerous individuals and shifted perspectives on state-sponsored violence.

Founded Amnesty International in 1961

Advocated for political prisoners' rights

Published 'The Forgotten Prisoners' article

Other People Born on July 31st

John Canton

English physicist and academic researcher
Born
July 31st, 1718 307 years ago
Died
March 22nd, 1772 253 years ago — 53 years old

An English physicist and academic contributed significantly to the field of experimental physics. Best remembered for inventing the electrometer, which measured electric charge and helped advance the understanding of electricity. Served as a professor at the Royal Academy, where teachings included topics on natural philosophy and electrical experiments. Conducted experiments on heat conduction and published numerous papers on the behavior of electrified bodies.

Continue Reading

Marion Talbot

Educator and advocate for women's education
Born
July 31st, 1858 167 years ago
Died
1948 77 years ago — 90 years old

Marion Talbot played a significant role in advancing women's education in the United States. She served as the first dean of women at the University of Chicago and contributed to the establishment of various educational institutions for women. Talbot was actively involved in national organizations that focused on education and women's rights. Her leadership helped shape policies that improved access to higher education for women, promoting the importance of academic advancement and professional opportunities.

Continue Reading

Curt Gowdy

American sportscaster and television host
Born
July 31st, 1919 106 years ago
Died
February 20th, 2006 19 years ago — 86 years old

A prominent sportscaster in the United States, played a significant role in the evolution of sports broadcasting. Served as the lead announcer for the Boston Red Sox from 1951 to 1965, bringing baseball to television audiences. Became known for broadcasting the Super Bowl and other major sports events. Worked with NBC Sports and ABC Sports, where coverage of the World Series and college football became notable. Received several accolades for contributions to sports broadcasting, including a Sports Emmy Award and induction into the National Sportscasters and Sportswriters Association Hall of Fame.

Continue Reading

Hank Bauer

Baseball player and manager, 1954 MVP
Born
July 31st, 1922 103 years ago
Died
February 9th, 2007 18 years ago — 84 years old

A Major League Baseball player and manager, this individual played primarily as an outfielder. His career in MLB began in 1948 and included several seasons with the New York Yankees. A member of the Yankees during their championship years, this player contributed to five World Series titles from 1949 to 1953. After his playing career, transitioned into management, leading the Baltimore Orioles and earning the American League Manager of the Year award in 1964. His career accomplishments include a well-regarded tenure as a manager, demonstrating success in both playing and managing capacities.

Continue Reading

Emperor Nijō of Japan

Emperor of Japan during Heian period
Born
July 31st, 1143 882 years ago
Died
1165 860 years ago — 22 years old

Ruled as the 75th emperor of Japan from 1158 to 1165. Son of Emperor Go-Shirakawa, ascended the throne at a young age. His reign coincided with the power struggles of the Fujiwara clan and the emergence of the samurai class. Known for political instability and influence from powerful regents, including the Fujiwara family. Sought to balance the traditional court practices with the rising military power, yet faced challenges during his reign. Abdicated in 1165 in favor of his son, continuing a lineage of power struggles in the imperial family.

Continue Reading

Will Penisini

Rugby league player for Parramatta Eels
Born
July 31st, 2002 23 years ago

Born in 2002, this Australian-Tongan rugby league player started his career in the NRL with the Parramatta Eels. Debuted in 2021 and played as a center. Gained attention for strong performances and development as a player. Contributed to the team's campaigns during the 2021 and 2022 seasons.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on February 25th

Daoguang Emperor

Emperor of China during the Qing Dynasty
Born
September 16th, 1782 243 years ago
Died
February 25th, 1850 175 years ago — 67 years old

Ruled China from 1820 to 1850, presiding over significant events such as the First Opium War and the internal rebellions like the Taiping Rebellion. The Daoguang Emperor focused on administrative reforms and efforts to modernize the military. His reign experienced challenges to imperial authority, leading to economic and social turmoil. Cultural pursuits flourished, including calligraphy and painting, reflecting the era's artistic developments. The emperor faced pressures from foreign powers while navigating internal strife, which impacted the Qing Dynasty's stability.

Continue Reading

Mário de Andrade

Brazilian author and modernist pioneer
Born
October 9th, 1893 132 years ago
Died
February 25th, 1945 80 years ago — 51 years old

A key figure in Brazilian modernism, contributed significantly to the development of Brazilian literature. Authored notable works including 'Macunaíma', a landmark novel that reflects Brazilian culture and folklore. Also engaged in music and was a prominent musicologist, promoting Brazilian folk music. His literary and musical efforts shaped the identity of Brazilian art in the 20th century.

Continue Reading

Tennessee Williams

American playwright and poet
Born
March 26th, 1911 114 years ago
Died
February 25th, 1983 42 years ago — 71 years old

A prominent playwright and poet, contributions to American theater included works that explored complex characters and human emotions. His plays, characterized by lyrical language and deep psychological insight, often depicted the struggles of individuals against societal constraints. Key works include 'A Streetcar Named Desire', which highlights the fragility of human relationships, and 'The Glass Menagerie', a memory play reflecting personal and familial conflicts. Received two Pulitzer Prizes for Drama, cementing a legacy as one of the twentieth century's most significant writers.

Continue Reading

A. R. Ammons

American poet and critic of acclaimed poetry
Born
1926 99 years ago
Died
February 25th, 2001 24 years ago — 75 years old

A prominent poet and critic contributed significantly to American literature. Early works displayed a deep fascination with nature and existential themes, melding personal reflection with a broader exploration of human experience. Key publications include 'Sphere: The Form of a Poem' and 'Garbage', which reflect innovative stylistic choices and thematic depth. Won the Pulitzer Prize for Poetry in 1973 for 'Nebraska'. Served as a professor at several universities, influencing generations of writers and poets.

Continue Reading

Albrecht von Wallenstein

Austrian general of the Thirty Years' War
Born
September 24th, 1583 442 years ago
Died
February 25th, 1634 391 years ago — 50 years old

A prominent military leader and politician during the Thirty Years' War, played a crucial role in the conflict by commanding the Imperial Army on behalf of the Holy Roman Empire. Achieved significant victories against the Protestant forces, particularly at the Battle of Lützen in 1632. Involved in complex political maneuvering within the Empire, secured substantial military resources and territory during his tenure. Eventually faced a downfall due to the political intrigue of the court and was assassinated in 1634.

Continue Reading

Otto Ludwig

German author and playwright
Born
February 11th, 1813 212 years ago
Died
February 25th, 1865 160 years ago — 52 years old

An influential author and playwright, contributed significantly to German literature in the 19th century. Wrote novels, essays, plays, and critiques focusing on realism and psychological themes. The works exhibit a profound understanding of human emotions and social dynamics. Notable plays include 'Das Mädchen von Pjöngjang' and 'Der Erbfall', which reflect the complexities of human relationships. Engaged critically with contemporary writers and movements, shaping literary discussions of the time. Worked extensively as a critic, promoting literary standards in Germany during his era.

Continue Reading