Shirley Jones
American actress and singer, The Partridge Family
Achieved prominence as an actress and singer, starring in the television series 'The Partridge Family' as Shirley Partridge. Also received acclaim for performances in films like 'Oklahoma!' and 'Elmer Gantry', winning an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress for the latter. Gained recognition for her work on Broadway, contributing significantly to musical theater. Transitioned into television, where her role in 'The Partridge Family' solidified her status in popular culture.
Won an Academy Award for 'Elmer Gantry'
Starred in 'The Partridge Family'
Performed in 'Oklahoma!' on screen and stage
Other People Born on March 31st
Octavio Paz
Mexican poet and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
March 31st, 1914 111 years ago
Died
April 19th, 1998 27 years ago — 84 years old
Born in 1914, a prominent Mexican poet and diplomat made significant contributions to literature and culture. His poetry often explored themes of solitude, identity, and love, reflecting the complexities of Mexican society. As a diplomat, served in various capacities, enhancing Mexico's cultural relations globally. Received the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1990, recognizing a lifetime of poetic exploration and prose that shaped contemporary literature. Authored several influential works, including 'The Labyrinth of Solitude' and 'Sunstone', establishing a unique voice in 20th-century literature.
Continue ReadingClemens Krauss
Conductor of the Vienna State Opera
Born
March 31st, 1893 132 years ago
Died
May 16th, 1954 71 years ago — 61 years old
Born in Austria, this conductor gained prominence in the early to mid-20th century, notably leading the Vienna State Opera and the Bavarian State Opera. Renowned for expertise in conducting operas, particularly those by Richard Strauss and Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. Worked extensively in both Germany and Austria, influencing the performances of many operatic masterpieces. Also served as a conductor for various orchestras across Europe, leaving a lasting legacy in classical music. Participated in conducting the first performance of Strauss's 'Ariadne auf Naxos' in 1916.
Continue ReadingJohn Ugelstad
Chemical engineer and inventor of microbeads
Born
March 31st, 1921 104 years ago
Died
April 3rd, 1997 28 years ago — 76 years old
A Norwegian chemical engineer and inventor contributed significantly to the field of polymer science. Pioneered the development of microbeads, which are utilized in various applications including drug delivery systems and environmental remediation. Worked extensively on the polymerization process, impacting the manufacturing of high-performance plastics. Served as a professor at the Norwegian University of Science and Technology, mentoring future engineers and scientists. Published numerous articles and patents related to polymer technology.
Continue ReadingEtta Baker
Blues guitarist and singer
Born
March 31st, 1913 112 years ago
Died
September 23rd, 2006 19 years ago — 93 years old
Born in 1913, a prominent African-American guitarist and singer, contributed significantly to the Piedmont blues genre. Began performing as a child and gained recognition in the 1960s after appearing on radio and television. Played at various venues, showcasing skillful fingerpicking style and unique vocal delivery. Recorded several albums and was respected by musicians and audiences alike for her authentic sound and storytelling ability. Continued to perform until the late 1990s, influencing numerous artists and preserving the tradition of blues music.
Continue ReadingFreddie Green
Guitarist in Count Basie's orchestra
Born
March 31st, 1911 114 years ago
Died
1987 39 years ago — 76 years old
An influential American guitarist, contributed significantly to the swing era through the use of rhythm guitar in big band jazz. Played with Count Basie's Orchestra for nearly five decades, helping to define the band's sound. Also recorded with other notable musicians, helping to popularize jazz guitar. Green's style was characterized by a steady rhythm and chord-picking technique that became a model for future guitarists.
Continue ReadingBenjamín G. Hill
Mexican Revolutionary General
Born
March 31st, 1874 151 years ago
Died
1920 106 years ago — 46 years old
A general during the Mexican Revolution, played a significant role in military operations in the northern regions of Mexico. Served as governor of Sonora and was influential in the political landscape during the early 20th century. Advocated for revolutionary ideals and implemented various reforms in Sonora. Engaged in conflicts with federal forces and contributed to the broader struggle for land and justice in Mexico.
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