William Stephenson
Canadian spy and intelligence leader
Born in Canada, a significant figure during World War II, served as a captain in the Royal Canadian Air Force. Established and led British Security Coordination in the Americas, facilitating intelligence operations between Canada, the United Kingdom, and the United States. Played a key role in coordinating espionage activities and securing essential resources for the war effort. His strategies and connections facilitated the exchange of information critical to Allied operations, which contributed to the eventual defeat of Axis powers. Authored a book detailing experiences in intelligence and espionage.
Led British Security Coordination
Facilitated intelligence operations in WWII
Other People Born on January 23rd
Olga Danilović
Serbian tennis player and tournament champion
Born
January 23rd, 2001 24 years ago
Competitions on the WTA Tour marked the career. Secured the title at the 2017 Australian Open in the girls' singles category. Achieved a career-high singles ranking of No. 74 in February 2020. Participated in professional events, demonstrating skills in both singles and doubles formats. Represented Serbia in several international competitions.
Continue ReadingErnst Abbe
German physicist and engineer; optics pioneer
Born
January 23rd, 1840 185 years ago
Died
January 14th, 1905 120 years ago — 64 years old
Contributed significantly to the field of optics and microscopy. Worked closely with Carl Zeiss to develop high-quality optical instruments. Formulated the Abbe Sine Condition, which describes the conditions for achieving optimal resolution in microscopes. Played a crucial role in the establishment of the Carl Zeiss AG company, transforming it into a leading manufacturer of optical products. Advocated for the rights of workers and contributed to social reforms in Jena, Germany.
Continue ReadingÉdouard Manet
French painter of modern life artworks
Born
January 23rd, 1832 193 years ago
Died
April 30th, 1883 142 years ago — 51 years old
Born in 1832, a prominent figure in the transition from Realism to Impressionism. Engaged with contemporary themes and rejected academic standards, which prompted debates within the art community. Key works include 'Olympia' and 'Luncheon on the Grass', showcasing innovative techniques and subjects that challenged traditional norms. Played a crucial role in the development of modern art and influenced many future artists.
Continue ReadingAlf Hall
Cricketer; played for England
Born
January 23rd, 1896 129 years ago
Died
1964 61 years ago — 68 years old
Born in England, this cricketer represented Sussex in first-class cricket and played for the England national team. Debut for England occurred in 1921, participating in Test matches until 1924. In his cricket career, he achieved notable bowling figures and contributed to various matches during the early 20th century.
Continue ReadingOtto Diels
German chemist; Nobel Prize winner
Born
January 23rd, 1876 149 years ago
Died
March 7th, 1954 71 years ago — 78 years old
Significant contributions to organic chemistry were made, particularly through the development of the Diels-Alder reaction, a method for synthesizing cyclic compounds. Served in academic positions, including a professorship at the University of Kiel. In 1950, received the Nobel Prize in Chemistry for work in the field of chemical bonding and reaction mechanisms. The Diels-Alder reaction remains a fundamental tool in organic synthesis and has widespread applications in chemical research.
Continue ReadingAlban Lafont
French football goalkeeper
Born
January 23rd, 1999 26 years ago
Played as a goalkeeper, starting professional career at Toulouse FC before moving to Fiorentina. Achieved recognition in Ligue 1 and Serie A, noted for strong performances and shot-stopping abilities. Contributed to club successes and participated in international youth competitions representing France.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on January 31st
Evert Taube
Swedish author and composer of folk music
Born
March 12th, 1890 135 years ago
Died
January 31st, 1976 49 years ago — 85 years old
Contributed significantly to Swedish music and literature. An influential figure in Swedish culture, produced a large body of work that includes poems, songs, and prose. His music drew inspiration from Swedish folk traditions and the sea, often highlighting themes of nature and Swedish heritage. Active primarily during the early to mid-20th century, he became a beloved figure through his works that resonated with the Swedish populace. Continued to influence musicians and writers long after his death.
Continue ReadingHenri Gatien Bertrand
French general during the Napoleonic Wars
Born
1773 252 years ago
Died
January 31st, 1844 181 years ago — 71 years old
Served as a general in the French army during the Napoleonic Wars. Bertrand played a significant role in several key battles and was a close confidant of Napoleon Bonaparte. Participated in the Russian Campaign of 1812 and the Battle of Waterloo in 1815. Following Napoleon's defeat, went into exile with him on the island of Saint Helena, where Bertrand remained loyal until Napoleon's death.
Continue ReadingHassan Habibi
Iranian lawyer and politician, 1st Vice President
Born
1937 88 years ago
Died
January 31st, 2013 12 years ago — 76 years old
A lawyer and politician held the position of 1st Vice President of Iran from 1981 to 1985. Served as a prominent member of the Iranian government following the 1979 revolution. Played a significant role in shaping post-revolutionary Iran's legal and political landscape. Contributed to constitutional reforms and was instrumental in assisting the establishment of the government during the early years of the Islamic Republic.
Continue ReadingAlexander Ypsilantis
Greek general and revolutionary leader
Born
1792 233 years ago
Died
January 31st, 1828 197 years ago — 36 years old
Served as a key figure in the Greek War of Independence against Ottoman rule. Led the Filiki Eteria, a secret organization that aimed for the liberation of Greece. In 1821, took command of Greek forces in the campaign to liberate the Peloponnese. Although faced with various challenges and ultimately defeated, played a significant role in inspiring widespread support for Greek independence.
Continue ReadingYves Allégret
French film director and screenwriter
Born
October 13th, 1905 120 years ago
Died
January 31st, 1987 38 years ago — 81 years old
A prominent figure in French cinema, directed films during the 1940s to 1960s. Contributed significantly to the post-war film movement and was a key part of the French New Wave. Established a distinct style blending realism with narrative innovation. Collaborated with notable actors, creating works that explored complex human emotions and societal issues.
Continue ReadingMani Ram Bagri
Indian lawyer and politician
Born
1920 105 years ago
Died
January 31st, 2012 13 years ago — 92 years old
Started a legal career before entering politics, focusing on public service and community issues. Served as a member of the Lok Sabha, representing the Bikaner constituency in Rajasthan. Played a significant role in advocating for various social issues, particularly those affecting rural communities. Engaged in various social welfare initiatives aimed at improving the lives of the underprivileged. Represented his party in numerous legislative debates and discussions throughout his tenure.
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