What Happened This Year 1931

People Who Died in 1931

Thomas Edison

Engineer and inventor of the light bulb
Born
February 11th, 1847 178 years ago
Died
1931 94 years ago — 84 years old

An American engineer and businessman, created the practical incandescent light bulb and the phonograph. Founded General Electric, one of the largest and most diversified industrial corporations in the world. Contributed to the development of various technologies including the motion picture camera and an early version of the alkaline battery. Held over 1,000 patents in the U.S. for his inventions, demonstrating a significant contribution to the electrical and technological landscape.

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Louise McKinney

Canadian educator and politician
Born
September 22nd, 1868 156 years ago
Died
1931 94 years ago — 63 years old

An educator and politician, served as a prominent figure in women's rights in Canada. Played a significant role in the movement for women's suffrage in Alberta. Contributed to social reforms and the advancement of education for women. Elected as the first woman to the Alberta Legislature in 1917, advocating for various social issues including education and health.

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Charles Algernon Parsons

Engineer and inventor of the steam turbine
Born
June 13th, 1854 171 years ago
Died
1931 94 years ago — 77 years old

An English engineer developed the steam turbine, a pivotal component in power generation. Established C. A. Parsons and Company, which became a prominent manufacturer of steam turbines. Conducted significant research in turbine design and efficiency. Work contributed extensively to marine propulsion and power stations. Engaged with various engineering organizations throughout a prolific career.

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José Figueroa Alcorta

President of Argentina
Born
November 20th, 1860 164 years ago
Died
1931 94 years ago — 71 years old

Served as the 24th President of Argentina from 1906 to 1910. His presidency focused on stability and modernization. Oversaw economic policies that aimed to boost agricultural exports. Strengthened diplomatic relations, particularly with the United States and Europe, paving the way for foreign investments. Advocated for infrastructure development during his term.

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Saya San

Burmese monk and activist
Born
October 24th, 1876 148 years ago
Died
1931 94 years ago — 55 years old

An influential figure in the early 20th century Burma, played a significant role in the country's independence movement. Advocated for social and political reforms while leading the monk-led movement against British colonial rule. Established a religious organization that aimed to unify Buddhist monks and promote nationalism among the Burmese populace. Engaged in peaceful protests and mobilization of the community against colonial oppression before experiencing imprisonment for his activities.

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Sigbert Josef Maria Ganser

Psychiatrist and advocate of psychoanalysis
Born
January 24th, 1853 172 years ago
Died
1931 94 years ago — 78 years old

A German psychiatrist contributed to the field of psychoanalysis and developed various therapeutic approaches. Ganser was involved in the study of different psychological phenomena, particularly in relation to dissociative disorders. He proposed the concept of the 'Ganser syndrome,' which encompassed confusion and amnesia. Through his clinical work, he sought to understand the complexities of mental illness and its manifestations. His research laid the groundwork for further exploration into the intricacies of the human psyche, influencing subsequent psychiatric practices.

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Jacques Herbrand

Mathematician and philosopher; Herbrand's theorem
Born
February 12th, 1908 117 years ago
Died
1931 94 years ago — 23 years old

Contributed to mathematical logic and foundations. Worked on the development of proof theory and the foundations of mathematics. Herbrand's theorem established the connection between logic and computation. Engaged with the philosophical implications of mathematics. Tragically, his life ended in 1940 during World War II.

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Kinue Hitomi

Japanese sprinter and long jumper
Born
January 1st, 1907 118 years ago
Died
1931 94 years ago — 24 years old

Competed in athletics, specializing in sprinting and long jumping. Achieved significant success at the 1932 Los Angeles Olympics, winning a bronze medal in the 800 meters. Also set multiple national records during her athletic career and became one of Japan's first female Olympic medalists. Participated in various national competitions and contributed to the development of women's athletics in Japan.

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Dugald Campbell Patterson

Canadian engineer and inventor
Born
January 2nd, 1860 165 years ago
Died
1931 94 years ago — 71 years old

An engineer and inventor, this individual made significant contributions to the field of electrical engineering. Graduated from the University of Toronto and worked extensively with various companies, focusing on machinery and electrical systems. Developed innovative systems that improved efficiency in industrial processes. Played a pivotal role in electrification initiatives that transformed Canada's energy landscape, particularly in Quebec. Actively engaged in engineering societies, promoting advancements in engineering education and practices.

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