What Happened This Year 1931
People Who Died in 1931
Henri Mathias Berthelot
Served as a French general during World War I, Berthelot played a crucial role in several key battles on the Western Front. He was instrumental in the planning and execution of military strategies that contributed to the Allied victory. His leadership skills were particularly evident during the Battle of Verdun, where he oversaw the operations that helped stabilize the French front. In recognition of his contributions, he received numerous accolades and was promoted to higher command positions throughout the war.
Continue ReadingThomas Edison
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.
Continue ReadingLegs Diamond
A prominent gangster during the Prohibition era, engaged in bootlegging and organized crime activities in New York City. Associated with the Irish-American criminal underworld, became a rival of other gangsters and was involved in various violent confrontations. Established a reputation for his flamboyant style and resilience against assassination attempts. Operated various illegal enterprises, including the distribution of alcohol and gambling establishments. Murdered in 1931, becoming a figure of notoriety in the history of American organized crime.
Continue ReadingMilan Šufflay
Contributed to Croatian historiography and politics during the early 20th century. Focused on the history and cultural development of Croatia, emphasizing the importance of national identity. Served as a member of the Croatian Parliament. Expressed strong views against annexation and promoted Croatian autonomy within the Austro-Hungarian Empire. Worked on various historical writings that highlighted the role of Croatia in the broader context of European history.
Continue ReadingHenrietta Edwards
An activist and author, contributed significantly to the women's rights movement in Canada. Co-founded the National Council of Women of Canada in 1893 and served as its first president. Played a crucial role in advocating for legal rights for women and was involved in several initiatives aimed at improving women's status in society. Authored various works, including a biography of one of Canada’s early feminist figures. Focused on issues such as suffrage, property rights, and labor conditions for women.
Continue ReadingTheo van Doesburg
This individual was a pioneering Dutch artist and architectural designer, significantly contributing to the De Stijl movement alongside Piet Mondrian. Active in the early 20th century, the individual explored abstraction and geometric form, emphasizing the use of primary colors. As a founder of De Stijl, he promoted a new aesthetic that influenced various fields, including architecture, painting, and typography. The individual also engaged in design and wrote extensively about art and philosophy, further pioneering ideas that bridged visual art with modernism. The involvement with various publications and exhibitions helped spread the principles of the movement across Europe.
Continue ReadingCosmo Duff-Gordon
Born in 1862, a prominent Scottish fencer achieved notable success in the sport. Competed at the 1908 London Olympics, securing a gold medal in the men's team foil event. A member of the Edinburgh fencing club, he contributed to the sport's development in Scotland and the broader United Kingdom. Actively participated in national championships and various international competitions, earning recognition as one of the leading fencers of his time.
Continue ReadingWilliam Dobinson Halliburton
Contributions to the field of biochemistry included work on protein structure and function. Served as a professor at King's College London and was instrumental in establishing the discipline of biochemistry in Britain. His research advanced the understanding of digestive enzymes and the role of proteins in biological processes. Halliburton also held a significant role at the Royal Society and contributed to academic literature on medical science.
Continue ReadingAugust Herrmann
Served as an influential executive in Major League Baseball during the early 20th century. Held the position of president of the Cincinnati Reds, contributing to the team's operations and management. Played a significant role in the establishment of the National League's rules and regulations, which shaped the game of baseball. Instrumental in promoting baseball as a major American sport and enhancing its organizational structure.
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