What Happened This Year 1931

Born in 1931

John T. Houghton

Welsh physicist and climate scientist
Born
December 30th, 1931 93 years ago
Died
2020 5 years ago — 89 years old

A prominent physicist involved in climate research. Played a key role in the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) as co-chair of Working Group I. Authored multiple pivotal scientific reports that evaluated the state of climate change and its impacts. Contributed significantly to raising awareness about the science of climate change and advocated for policy measures to address it. Wrote various publications including 'Global Warming: The Complete Briefing', providing insights into climate science and policy.

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David Hartman

Rabbi and philosopher, Shalom Hartman Institute
Born
May 19th, 1935 89 years ago
Died
February 10th, 2013 12 years ago — 77 years old

An American-Israeli rabbi and philosopher, contributed significantly to Jewish thought and education. Founded the Shalom Hartman Institute in Jerusalem, which has played a vital role in Jewish scholarship and community engagement. Advocated for pluralism in Judaism and engaged in interfaith dialogue, promoting understanding between different religions. Authored several books on Jewish philosophy and theology, influencing both scholars and laypeople.

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Alex Webster

American football player and coach
Born
October 25th, 1969 55 years ago
Died
March 3rd, 2012 13 years ago — 42 years old

Played as a fullback in the National Football League for the New York Giants from 1955 to 1964. After retirement, transitioned to coaching, serving as head coach for the Giants from 1973 to 1974. Led the team to notable performances during his coaching tenure. Inducted into the New York Giants Ring of Honor, recognizing contributions to the franchise.

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Ilarion Ciobanu

Rugby player and film actor
Born
1931 94 years ago
Died
September 7th, 2008 16 years ago — 77 years old

A Romanian rugby player and actor, Ciobanu excelled in both fields. He played as a forward for the Romanian national rugby team and participated in several international competitions. His transition to acting led to roles in various films, showcasing his versatility. Ciobanu's contributions to rugby were significant during his athletic career, while his on-screen performances gained recognition in Romanian cinema.

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David Hayes

Sculptor and painter with large-scale works
Born
1931 94 years ago
Died
April 9th, 2013 11 years ago — 82 years old

An American sculptor and painter specialized in large-scale outdoor installations. Works prominently featured in public and private collections across the United States. Focused on creating art that engaged with the surrounding environment, blending sculpture with landscape. Collaborated with various institutions and participated in numerous exhibitions throughout the career. Continued to influence the sculptural landscape in America until death in 2013.

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Rollin King

Businessman, co-founded Southwest Airlines
Born
1931 94 years ago
Died
June 26th, 2014 10 years ago — 83 years old

Co-founded Southwest Airlines, a major U.S. low-cost airline, alongside Herb Kelleher. Instrumental in developing the airline's unique business model and operational strategy that emphasized low fares and quick turnaround times. Served on the board of directors and contributed to the company's early success. His vision for air travel transformed the airline industry, making it more accessible to the general public.

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Richie Powell

American jazz pianist and composer
Born
1931 94 years ago
Died
June 26th, 1956 68 years ago — 25 years old

A prominent jazz pianist, contributed significantly to the genre in the 1950s. Worked closely with various influential musicians during this time. Established a reputation for exceptional skills as an improviser and composer. Recorded several albums, showcasing original compositions and interpretations of jazz standards. Collaborated with renowned artists and became part of the innovative jazz scene in New York City. Powell's career was cut short when he died in an automobile accident at a young age, leaving behind a legacy of musical contributions.

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Krzysztof Kozłowski

Polish politician and journalist
Born
1931 94 years ago
Died
March 26th, 2013 11 years ago — 82 years old

A prominent figure in Polish politics and journalism, served as the Polish Minister of Interior. Played a significant role in shaping internal policies during his tenure. Engaged in various political activities that influenced public discourse and governance in Poland.

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Shuntarō Tanikawa

Japanese poet and translator
Born
1931 94 years ago
Died
November 13th, 2024 0 years ago — 93 years old

Born in 1931, a prominent figure in contemporary Japanese poetry, contributed significantly to literature through original works and translations. His poetry reflects a deep engagement with modern existential themes, often incorporating elements of daily life and the natural world. Notably, received the 1971 Takamura Koji Prize and the 1985 Yomiuri Literary Prize. Tanikawa's work has been translated into multiple languages, enabling a wider audience to appreciate his literary contributions.

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