William Weld
Lawyer and politician, 68th Governor
Served as the 68th Governor of Massachusetts from 1991 to 1997. Weld was the first Republican governor of Massachusetts in over 20 years. Focused on reducing the state's budget deficit and cutting taxes during tenure. Worked as an attorney after leaving office, including a position at a prominent law firm. In 2016, announced candidacy for President of the United States under the Libertarian Party.
Governor of Massachusetts from 1991 to 1997
First Republican governor of Massachusetts in over 20 years
Other People Born on July 31st
Peter Benenson
Human rights lawyer, founded Amnesty International
Born
July 31st, 1921 105 years ago
Died
February 25th, 2005 21 years ago — 83 years old
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.
Continue ReadingJosé Fernández
Cuban-American baseball pitcher
Born
July 31st, 1992 34 years ago
Died
September 25th, 2016 9 years ago — 24 years old
Played Major League Baseball for the Miami Marlins. Achieved significant success as a starting pitcher, winning the National League Rookie of the Year Award in 2013. Earned selections to the MLB All-Star Game during his career. Born in Cuba, defected to the United States, and quickly made a name in baseball with strong performances on the mound. Tragically passed away in a boating accident in 2016 at a young age, leaving behind a promising career cut short.
Continue ReadingJohn Canton
English physicist and academic researcher
Born
July 31st, 1718 308 years ago
Died
March 22nd, 1772 254 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 ReadingCurt Gowdy
American sportscaster and television host
Born
July 31st, 1919 107 years ago
Died
February 20th, 2006 20 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 ReadingDale Hunter
Ice hockey player and head coach
Born
July 31st, 1960 66 years ago
Played in the National Hockey League from 1979 to 1999, primarily as a center. Won a Stanley Cup with the New York Islanders in 1980. Coached the major junior team, the London Knights, achieving significant success. Hall of Fame inductee recognized for leadership on and off the ice.
Continue ReadingJohn Ericsson
Swedish-American engineer and inventor
Born
July 31st, 1803 223 years ago
Died
March 8th, 1889 137 years ago — 85 years old
Swedish-American engineer and inventor contributed significantly to naval engineering and mechanical design. Developed the first practical marine screw propeller, which transformed naval architecture. Engineered the ironclad warship USS Monitor during the American Civil War, notable for its battle against the CSS Virginia. His work in steam power included the design of various ships and improvements in engine efficiency.
Continue Reading