What Happened This Year 1931

People Who Died in 1931

Otto Wallach

Chemist, Nobel Prize laureate
Born
March 27th, 1847 177 years ago
Died
February 26th, 1931 94 years ago — 83 years old

A chemist and academic made significant contributions to the field of organic chemistry. The work focused extensively on terpenes and their derivatives. Conducted research that identified the structure and synthesis of various organic compounds. Earned the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1910 for these contributions to the study of alicyclic compounds.

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Chandra Shekhar Azad

Indian revolutionary leader
Born
July 23rd, 1906 118 years ago
Died
February 27th, 1931 94 years ago — 24 years old

A prominent leader in the Indian independence movement, played a critical role in the fight against British colonial rule. Involved with the Hindustan Socialist Republican Association, committed significant acts of resistance including the Kakori train robbery in 1925. Established a network of revolutionaries to promote armed struggle for freedom. Renowned for his slogan ‘Dilli Chalo’ and his determination to achieve independence through revolutionary means. Engaged in several confrontations with British authorities until death in a gunfight with police.

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Akseli Gallen-Kallela

Finnish painter and muralist
Born
April 26th, 1865 159 years ago
Died
March 7th, 1931 94 years ago — 65 years old

An artist active in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, created works inspired by Finnish mythology and nature. He gained recognition for contributions to the national identity of Finland through art. Gallen-Kallela participated in the 1900 Exposition Universelle in Paris, which solidified his reputation in Europe. His work often featured themes from the Kalevala, Finland's national epic. He also designed the mural for the Finnish Pavilion at the 1905 World Exposition in Liège, Belgium, showcasing Finnish culture.

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F. W. Murnau

Silent Film Director and 'Nosferatu' Creator
Born
December 28th, 1888 136 years ago
Died
March 11th, 1931 94 years ago — 42 years old

Born in Germany and later became a naturalized American, the individual was a groundbreaking filmmaker during the silent film era. Renowned for innovative techniques in cinematography and storytelling, this director significantly influenced the horror genre with the film 'Nosferatu' in 1922. Other notable works include 'Sunrise: A Song of Two Humans', which received critical acclaim and won an Academy Award for Best Unique and Artistic Picture. Murnau's collaboration with prominent actors and his unique visual style left a lasting legacy in film history. His career, although cut short by an untimely death, established a foundation for future filmmakers in both Germany and Hollywood.

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Hermann Müller

German politician and journalist, Chancellor
Born
May 18th, 1876 148 years ago
Died
March 20th, 1931 93 years ago — 54 years old

Served as the 12th Chancellor of Germany from 1920 to 1921, leading during a turbulent political period following World War I. Held various political offices, including Minister of Foreign Affairs. Played a key role in civil service reform and was involved in the Weimar Republic's government. Advocated for peaceful international relations and worked to stabilize the post-war economy.

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James Campbell

Irish lawyer and politician
Born
April 4th, 1851 173 years ago
Died
March 22nd, 1931 93 years ago — 79 years old

A prominent Irish lawyer and politician, served as a member of the British House of Lords. Contributed significantly to legal reforms and governance in Ireland during the early 20th century. Held the title of 1st Baron Glenavy, appointed due to substantial public service and advocacy in legal matters. Engaged actively in the political landscape of Ireland, especially during pivotal moments in its history.

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Sukhdev Thapar

Indian freedom fighter and activist
Born
May 15th, 1907 117 years ago
Died
March 23rd, 1931 93 years ago — 23 years old

A prominent figure in the Indian independence movement, advocacy for the rights of Indians under British rule marked this individual's contributions. Involvement in the revolutionary activities against colonial oppression took shape through association with the Hindustan Socialist Republican Association. Engaged in organizing protests and spreading political awareness among the youth, this individual played a pivotal role in galvanizing support for the independence movement. Executed alongside fellow freedom fighters, the sacrifice left a lasting legacy in the struggle for India's freedom.

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Bhagat Singh

Indian revolutionary and freedom fighter
Born
September 27th, 1907 117 years ago
Died
March 23rd, 1931 93 years ago — 23 years old

Born in 1907, this revolutionary emerged as a prominent figure in the Indian independence movement. Advocated for socialism and the rights of workers, aiming to liberate India from British rule. Engaged in several acts of protest, including the iconic assembly bombing in 1929, which led to his arrest. Despite being incarcerated, continued to influence the movement through writings and hunger strikes. Executed in 1931 at the age of 23, became a martyr for the cause of freedom in India.

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Shivaram Rajguru

Indian independence activist
Born
August 24th, 1908 116 years ago
Died
March 23rd, 1931 93 years ago — 22 years old

Involved in the Indian independence movement, took part in revolutionary activities against British rule. Associated with the Hindustan Socialist Republican Association, collaborated with other revolutionaries including Bhagat Singh. Participated in the assassination of a British police officer, which led to significant political repercussions. Captured and later executed for actions taken against colonial rule, becoming a martyr in the struggle for India's freedom.

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