What Happened This Year 1931

Born in 1931

Don Zimmer

Baseball manager and coach
Born
January 17th, 1931 94 years ago
Died
June 4th, 2014 10 years ago — 83 years old

A baseball player, coach, and manager, contributed significantly to Major League Baseball over several decades. Played as an infielder for teams including the Brooklyn Dodgers, Chicago Cubs, and New York Mets. Transitioned to coaching and managing, leading teams such as the Chicago Cubs and New York Yankees during various periods. Served as an important figure within the Yankees organization, particularly during the late 1990s when the team won multiple World Series titles.

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James Earl Jones

American actor and voice artist
Born
January 17th, 1931 94 years ago
Died
September 9th, 2024 0 years ago — 93 years old

A prominent American actor and voice artist, acclaimed for a versatile career spanning several decades. Key performances include the voice of Darth Vader in the 'Star Wars' franchise and the lead role in 'The Great White Hope', which earned critical praise. Additionally, contributed to the stage with significant performances in productions such as 'Fences' and 'Othello'. Also, provided the narration for notable documentaries and projects, showcasing a powerful vocal presence.

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Chun Doo-hwan

South Korean general and politician
Born
January 18th, 1931 94 years ago
Died
2021 4 years ago — 90 years old

A military general and politician, served as the 5th President of South Korea from 1980 to 1988. Initially gained power through a coup in 1979, becoming the de facto leader followed by an official presidency. Emphasized economic development during the presidency, leading to significant growth despite enduring criticism for human rights abuses and suppression of dissent. Oversaw the June Democracy Movement which called for democratic reforms and political freedoms.

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Robert MacNeil

Journalist and author of 'The MacNeil/Lehrer Report'
Born
January 19th, 1931 94 years ago
Died
April 12th, 2024 0 years ago — 93 years old

A Canadian-American journalist and author, contributed significantly to television journalism. Co-founded PBS’s 'The MacNeil/Lehrer NewsHour', which set a standard for news broadcasting with its in-depth analysis. Also worked with the CBC before moving to the U.S. and has authored several books, including a historical narrative about the Vietnam War. His career spanned several decades, earning numerous accolades for journalistic excellence.

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David Lee

Physicist and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
January 20th, 1931 94 years ago

A physicist and academic, recognized for significant contributions in the field of condensed matter physics. Achieved the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1996, awarded jointly for discoveries regarding the superfluidity of liquid helium. The work focused on the behavior of quantum fluids, leading to advancements in understanding physical properties at low temperatures.

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Yoshiko Kuga

Japanese actress for 'Tokyo Story'
Born
January 21st, 1931 94 years ago
Died
2024 1 years ago — 93 years old

An actress had a significant career in Japanese cinema, starting in the mid-20th century. Gained prominence through performances in films, particularly in 'Tokyo Story' directed by Yasujirō Ozu, which became a classic of world cinema. Worked extensively with Shochiku studio and appeared in numerous films throughout the 1950s and 1960s. Transitioned to television in later years, participating in various TV dramas and series, further solidifying a presence in Japanese entertainment.

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Galina Zybina

Shot Putter and Javelin Thrower
Born
January 22nd, 1931 94 years ago
Died
2024 1 years ago — 93 years old

This athlete achieved remarkable success in track and field, particularly in shot put and javelin throw. Competed in multiple Olympic Games during the 1950s and 1960s. Won gold medals at the 1956 Melbourne Olympics in shot put and at the 1960 Rome Olympics in both shot put and javelin throw. Secured numerous national championships and set multiple world records throughout the career in these events.

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Sam Cooke

American singer-songwriter, 'A Change Is Gonna Come'
Born
January 22nd, 1931 94 years ago
Died
December 11th, 1964 60 years ago — 33 years old

Born in 1931, a prominent figure in the music industry, particularly in the genres of soul and R&B. Began a career in gospel music before transitioning to secular music. Rose to fame in the 1950s and 1960s, characterized by a smooth vocal style and socially conscious lyrics. Released several hit songs, including 'You Send Me' and 'Chain Gang.' His work addressed social issues and showcased the struggles of African Americans during the Civil Rights Movement. Tragically, Cooke's life ended in 1964 under controversial circumstances, leaving behind a lasting legacy in music.

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Lars Hörmander

Mathematician, recipient of the Fields Medal
Born
January 24th, 1931 94 years ago
Died
November 25th, 2012 12 years ago — 81 years old

A prominent mathematician, contributions focused on partial differential equations and analysis. Made significant advances in the field of distribution theory. Served as a professor at various universities and published numerous influential papers and books. Received the Fields Medal in 1962 for work on linear partial differential equations. This recognition solidified a notable position in the mathematical community and influenced future research directions.

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