What Happened This Year 1931

People Who Died in 1931

Haraprasad Shastri

Historian and scholar of Indian antiquity
Born
December 6th, 1853 172 years ago
Died
1931 94 years ago — 78 years old

Contributed significantly to the study of ancient Indian history and literature. Played a key role in deciphering ancient texts and manuscripts, which revitalized interest in Sanskrit literature. Engaged with various historical sources to establish a comprehensive understanding of India's past. Worked on the editing and publication of several pivotal works on Indian history, culture, and language.

Continue Reading

Samuel Morris

Australian cricketer with Test match appearances
Born
June 22nd, 1855 170 years ago
Died
1931 94 years ago — 76 years old

Born in 1855, this cricketer played for Australia during the late 19th century. Renowned for his contributions as a player, he participated in the early days of Test cricket, a format that began in 1877. The cricketer's primary role was as a fast bowler and he represented Australia in several matches against England, helping to lay the groundwork for future competitions between the two nations. His involvement came during a pivotal time in the evolution of the sport, contributing to the development of cricket in Australia. After retiring from professional play, he remained involved in the cricketing community.

Continue Reading

Johannes Kotze

South African cricketer and Test player
Born
August 7th, 1879 146 years ago
Died
1931 94 years ago — 52 years old

Born in South Africa in 1879, a cricketer represented South Africa in the early years of Test cricket. Debuted in 1906 and played a total of 4 Test matches until 1907. Primarily played as a right-arm fast bowler and a right-handed batsman. Contributed to the team with crucial performances in his limited appearances, helping establish South Africa as a competitive force in international cricket during its formative years.

Continue Reading

Henri Mathias Berthelot

French general during World War I
Born
December 7th, 1861 164 years ago
Died
1931 94 years ago — 70 years old

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 Reading

Legs Diamond

American gangster during Prohibition era
Born
July 10th, 1897 128 years ago
Died
1931 94 years ago — 34 years old

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 Reading

Milan Šufflay

Croatian historian and politician
Born
November 9th, 1879 146 years ago
Died
1931 94 years ago — 52 years old

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 Reading

Theo van Doesburg

Dutch artist and De Stijl founder
Born
August 30th, 1883 142 years ago
Died
1931 94 years ago — 48 years old

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 Reading

Cosmo Duff-Gordon

Scottish fencer, Olympic medalist
Born
July 22nd, 1862 163 years ago
Died
1931 94 years ago — 69 years old

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 Reading

Francis Bellamy

American minister and author of the Pledge
Born
May 18th, 1855 170 years ago
Died
1931 94 years ago — 76 years old

A minister and author, created the original version of the Pledge of Allegiance in 1892. The pledge was first published in a magazine called The Youth's Companion, intended to promote patriotism among schoolchildren. Bellamy aimed to instill a sense of national loyalty and shared identity through this recitation. He also contributed significantly to the development of the American flag's salute, linking it to civic responsibility and unity. Additionally, Bellamy participated in the field of Christian socialism, advocating for social reforms aligned with his religious beliefs.

Continue Reading