Thomas McKean Thompson McKennan
American lawyer and Secretary of the Interior
Born
Died
Category
Leaders & Politicians
Country
United States
Links & References
Served as the 2nd United States Secretary of the Interior from 1849 to 1850. Participated in the establishment of policies regarding land management and Native American affairs in the early years of the department. Before this role, engaged in various legal practices and held significant positions within the government of Pennsylvania, contributing to state legislation and the justice system.
Served as the 2nd United States Secretary of the Interior
Contributed to land management policies
Other People Born on March 31st
John Fowles
English Novelist, author of 'The French Lieutenant's Woman'
Born
March 31st, 1926 100 years ago
Died
November 5th, 2005 20 years ago — 79 years old
An English novelist, Fowles gained prominence with his literary contributions in the mid to late 20th century. His breakthrough work, 'The French Lieutenant's Woman', published in 1969, blended historical fiction with existential themes. Fowles explored the intersections of freedom and fate, often challenging narrative conventions. Other notable works include 'The Collector', his debut novel released in 1963, which delved into psychological themes of obsession and power. Fowles also published essays and nonfiction, including explorations of literature and philosophy, further establishing his reputation as a significant literary figure.
Continue ReadingPrince Henry
Duke of Gloucester and soldier
Born
March 31st, 1900 126 years ago
Died
June 10th, 1974 52 years ago — 74 years old
Born in 1900, this individual served as a member of the British royal family and held the title of Duke of Gloucester. His military career included service in the British Army during World War II, where he achieved the rank of major-general. Active in various charitable organizations, he worked on behalf of numerous causes during his life. A significant figure in royal duties and related public engagements, he participated in numerous ceremonial functions and events as part of the royal family.
Continue ReadingAshikaga Yoshiteru
Japanese shōgun during the Sengoku period
Born
March 31st, 1536 490 years ago
Died
June 17th, 1565 461 years ago — 29 years old
Born in 1536, served as the 13th shōgun of the Ashikaga shogunate during a tumultuous period in Japanese history known as the Sengoku period. Yoshiteru ascended to power at a young age amidst ongoing conflicts and instability among feudal lords. His reign was marked by efforts to consolidate power and control among the factions vying for dominance. Despite initial support, faced significant opposition, leading to his eventual downfall. His time in power included attempts to align major clans through diplomacy, but these efforts were often undermined by betrayal and shifting alliances. Yoshiteru's life came to an end in 1549, greatly influencing the power dynamics of the era.
Continue ReadingMaren Lutz
Canoeist medalist in international competitions
Born
March 31st, 1999 27 years ago
Competed in canoe sprint events and achieved recognition in international competitions. Participated in the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, representing Germany. Demonstrated exceptional skill and athleticism in the canoeing discipline, contributing to notable finishes in various championships.
Continue ReadingEvan Williams
Businessman, co-founder of Twitter
Born
March 31st, 1972 54 years ago
American businessman co-founded Pyra Labs, which developed Blogger, a widely used blog publishing platform. Later co-founded Twitter, a popular social media platform that revolutionized online communication. Williams served as CEO during the platform's early development and subsequent growth, facilitating significant increases in user engagement and media presence.
Continue ReadingZviad Gamsakhurdia
Georgian politician, 1st President of Georgia
Born
March 31st, 1939 87 years ago
Died
December 31st, 1993 32 years ago — 54 years old
Gamsakhurdia served as the first president of Georgia following its independence from the Soviet Union. An anthropologist by training, contributions included advocating for the preservation of Georgian culture and identity. Elected president in 1991, his tenure faced numerous challenges, including political turmoil and civil unrest. In 1992, Gamsakhurdia was deposed in a coup and spent time in exile before returning to Georgia. His leadership style sparked controversy and divided the public, ultimately leading to a significant political crisis in the country. Gamsakhurdia's political legacy encompasses his efforts to establish a democratic government and promote national sovereignty for Georgia.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on July 9th
Bill Mosienko
Ice hockey player; set scoring record
Born
November 2nd, 1921 104 years ago
Died
July 9th, 1994 31 years ago — 72 years old
Played for the Chicago Blackhawks in the National Hockey League. Achieved notoriety for scoring three goals in just 21 seconds during a single game against the New York Rangers on March 23, 1952. Also contributed as a coach after retiring from playing. Represented Canada in international competitions, including the World Championships.
Continue ReadingEdmund Burke
Philosopher and politician in Parliament
Born
January 12th, 1729 297 years ago
Died
July 9th, 1797 228 years ago — 68 years old
An influential philosopher and politician who became a prominent Member of Parliament in the late 18th century. Focused on issues such as governance, political theory, and the rights of individuals, emphasizing tradition and the importance of gradual change. Authored significant works, including 'Reflections on the Revolution in France,' which criticized the excesses of the French Revolution and highlighted the value of established institutions. Argued against radical change and advocated for the principles of conservatism.
Continue ReadingBáb
Persian religious leader, founder of Bábism
Born
1819 207 years ago
Died
July 9th, 1850 175 years ago — 31 years old
Established Bábism in the mid-19th century as a religious movement that introduced new spiritual teachings. Bábism emphasized the arrival of a new prophet and promoted the principles of unity and equality. The movement gained followers throughout Persia and influenced later religious developments. Faced opposition from both political and religious authorities, which resulted in the eventual execution, concluding a significant chapter in Persian religious history. The teachings of Báb inspired many and laid the groundwork for the Bahá'í Faith.
Continue ReadingKing Camp Gillette
Businessman and founder of Gillette
Born
January 5th, 1855 171 years ago
Died
July 9th, 1932 93 years ago — 77 years old
Born in 1855, established the Gillette razor company in 1901, revolutionizing personal grooming with safety razors. Introduced the concept of razor blade cartridges, changing the industry standard and market dynamics. The affordability and convenience of the product made shaving accessible to a broader audience, leading to widespread adoption. Expanded the brand significantly, making it a household name in the United States and globally.
Continue ReadingVinicius de Moraes
Brazilian poet and bossa nova composer
Born
October 19th, 1913 112 years ago
Died
July 9th, 1980 45 years ago — 66 years old
A Brazilian poet, playwright, and composer, contributed significantly to the bossa nova music movement. Wrote the lyrics for 'Garota de Ipanema', a classic bossa nova song that gained international popularity. His works often reflect themes of love and Brazilian culture. In addition to music, authored numerous poems and plays that explored human emotions and social issues, shaping Brazilian literature.
Continue ReadingEileen Ford
Co-founder of Ford Models agency
Born
March 25th, 1922 104 years ago
Died
July 9th, 2014 11 years ago — 92 years old
Co-founded Ford Models in 1946, establishing it as one of the premier modeling agencies in the world. Played a significant role in shaping the modeling industry by emphasizing personality and talent over traditional beauty standards. Fostered numerous successful careers for models and contributed to the professionalization of modeling as a legitimate career path. Continued to be a prominent figure in the fashion world until her passing in 2014.
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