Whitney Young
American civil rights activist
A prominent civil rights leader, played a crucial role in advancing social justice and equality through the Urban League. Focused on expanding economic opportunities for African Americans, emphasized the importance of economic empowerment as a means to achieve civil rights. Worked closely with various organizations and governmental entities to influence policy. Made significant efforts in desegregating schools and workplaces, advocating for fair housing and employment practices. His leadership in the civil rights movement contributed to legislative advancements.
Played a key role in the Urban League as Executive Director
Advocated for economic equality and civil rights
Influenced policies through collaboration with leaders
Other People Born on July 31st
Victoria Azarenka
Belarusian tennis player, two-time Grand Slam champion
Born
July 31st, 1989 36 years ago
This Belarusian tennis player achieved significant success in women's singles tennis. Azarenka won the Australian Open in 2012 and 2013, becoming the first Belarusian player to win a Grand Slam title. Consistent performances propelled her to the world No. 1 ranking in 2012. Additional achievements include reaching the finals of the US Open in 2009 and 2015. Azarenka also played a pivotal role in Belarus's national team during the Fed Cup competition, contributing to their remarkable performances.
Continue ReadingRéka Luca Jani
Hungarian tennis player and competitor
Born
July 31st, 1991 34 years ago
Competed on the professional tennis circuit primarily in singles and doubles events. Achieved a career-high singles ranking of World No. 70 in August 2015. Participated in major tournaments such as the Australian Open, French Open, Wimbledon, and US Open. Excelled in doubles, with a highest ranking of World No. 82. Represented Hungary in international competitions including the Fed Cup.
Continue ReadingAlan Autry
Football player and Mayor of Fresno
Born
July 31st, 1952 73 years ago
Played quarterback in the National Football League for the Green Bay Packers and the Buffalo Bills. Transitioned to acting with a prominent role in the CBS series 'In the Heat of the Night'. Served as the 23rd Mayor of Fresno, California from 2001 to 2009. Engaged in various community projects and initiatives during tenure as mayor.
Continue ReadingRobert C. Merton
Economist and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
July 31st, 1944 81 years ago
Significant contributions to financial economics. Developed the Black-Scholes model for option pricing alongside Fischer Black and Myron Scholes, earning a Nobel Prize in Economic Sciences in 1997. Contributed to the development of risk management techniques and dynamic asset allocation strategies. Held academic positions at renowned institutions, including Massachusetts Institute of Technology and Harvard University. Published numerous influential papers and books in finance, shaping the understanding of derivative instruments and market behavior.
Continue ReadingEvgeni Malkin
Professional ice hockey player, NHL star
Born
July 31st, 1986 39 years ago
Born in 1986, a prominent ice hockey player emerged, playing for the Pittsburgh Penguins in the National Hockey League (NHL). Debuted in the NHL in 2006, contributing to the Penguins' successes. Achieved significant milestones throughout the career, including winning the Stanley Cup and earning the Hart Memorial Trophy as the league's most valuable player in the 2011 season. Known for exceptional skills, combining size and speed, making a substantial impact in each game played.
Continue ReadingMichael Bradley
Soccer player for USA national team
Born
July 31st, 1987 38 years ago
Played professional soccer primarily as a midfielder. Began career in Major League Soccer with the MetroStars before moving to Europe, where stints included clubs like Heerenveen, Aston Villa, and Roma. Returned to MLS to play for Toronto FC, winning multiple league titles. Served as a key player for the USA national team, participating in the FIFA World Cup tournaments in 2010, 2014, and 2018. Key figure in the national team's midfield for a decade.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on March 11th
George McDuffie
American lawyer and South Carolina Governor
Born
1790 236 years ago
Died
March 11th, 1851 174 years ago — 61 years old
Born in South Carolina, served as a lawyer and politician during the 19th century. Elected as the 55th Governor of South Carolina, holding office from 1840 to 1842. Known for his involvement in state issues and his role in the wider political landscape of the time. Worked on issues related to economic development and state governance, contributing to the legal and political framework of South Carolina. Also had a notable career within the U.S. House of Representatives, serving South Carolina's interests at the federal level.
Continue ReadingJohn Forbes
Scottish general during the 18th century
Born
1707 319 years ago
Died
March 11th, 1759 266 years ago — 52 years old
A significant figure in the British military, served during the Seven Years' War. Commanded forces in North America and participated in campaigns against French forces. Played a crucial role in the Capture of Fort Duquesne in 1758, which was pivotal for British military strategy in the region. His leadership and tactical planning contributed to the success of the campaign. Died of disease in 1759 while still in service.
Continue ReadingRupiah Banda
President of Zambia
Born
1937 89 years ago
Died
March 11th, 2022 3 years ago — 85 years old
Served as the fourth President of Zambia from 2008 to 2011 following the death of Levy Mwanawasa. Prior to the presidency, held the position of Vice President from 2006 to 2008. Focused on economic growth, infrastructure development, and regional stability during the presidency. Contributed to the promotion of tourism and agriculture in Zambia, and played a role in the Southern African Development Community during his tenure.
Continue ReadingRichard E. Byrd
Admiral and Polar Explorer
Born
October 25th, 1888 137 years ago
Died
March 11th, 1957 68 years ago — 68 years old
An American admiral and explorer, made significant contributions to polar exploration in the early 20th century. Led expeditions to Antarctica and the North Pole, utilizing advanced technologies and methodologies in these explorations. Established several research stations in Antarctica, which laid foundational work for future scientific research in the region. His polar expeditions were among the first to use airplanes and other mechanized methods for reaching remote areas. Byrd's efforts in the field of aviation also included advocating for the use of aircraft in exploratory missions. Authored books about his experiences, including 'Alone' and 'Little America'.
Continue ReadingGeraldine Farrar
American soprano and actress in opera
Born
1882 144 years ago
Died
March 11th, 1967 58 years ago — 85 years old
An accomplished soprano and actress, she gained recognition in the early 20th century for performances in operas. She performed leading roles in noted productions such as 'Carmen' and 'Madama Butterfly'. In addition to her significant contributions to opera, she ventured into silent films, appearing in cinematic adaptations of operas, thus bridging the gap between stage and screen. Her talent garnered both critical acclaim and a devoted fanbase.
Continue ReadingClaude François
Singer-songwriter and dancer
Born
February 1st, 1939 87 years ago
Died
March 11th, 1978 47 years ago — 39 years old
Born in Egypt and later based in France, this individual gained prominence in the music scene during the 1960s. His style blended pop and rock with elements of traditional French chanson. He reached significant success with popular songs, including 'Comme d'habitude', which was later adapted into 'My Way' by Frank Sinatra. This artist also made contributions as a dancer and producer, shaping the live music experience in his performances. His career was marked by both chart-topping hits and energetic stage presence, leading to a lasting influence on the French music industry.
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