What Happened This Year 1931

Born in 1931

Frank Torre

Baseball player and manager
Born
December 30th, 1931 93 years ago
Died
September 13th, 2014 10 years ago — 82 years old

Played as a catcher in Major League Baseball for teams including the Milwaukee Braves and the Philadelphia Phillies. Began a managerial career, eventually managing in the minor leagues. Notable for contributions to the game both as a player and a coach, leading teams in various capacities.

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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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Patricia Brown

American baseball player, All-American Girl
Born
1931 94 years ago
Died
June 17th, 2012 12 years ago — 81 years old

Played professional baseball as a member of the All-American Girls Professional Baseball League during the 1940s. Contributed to the growth of women's baseball through participation in the league, which highlighted female athletic talent during and after World War II. After the league's closure, continued to engage with baseball as a coach and supporter of women's sports. The league's legacy was later depicted in the film 'A League of Their Own'.

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Sándor Szokolay

Hungarian composer and academic
Born
1931 94 years ago
Died
December 8th, 2013 11 years ago — 82 years old

This individual contributed significantly to contemporary classical music, with a focus on orchestral and chamber works. Educated at the Franz Liszt Academy of Music, established a prominent career as both a composer and a teacher. Many compositions reflect influences from Hungarian folk music and traditional classical forms. Held academic positions in various institutions, mentoring a new generation of musicians.

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Yao Wenyuan

Chinese politician and writer
Born
1931 94 years ago
Died
December 23rd, 2005 19 years ago — 74 years old

A prominent figure in the Chinese Cultural Revolution, held a key role as a member of the Gang of Four. Worked as a political theorist and author, significantly contributing to revolutionary literature. Played a part in formulating cultural policies and critiquing artistic expressions. After the fall of the Gang of Four, faced arrest and was later convicted of counter-revolutionary activities.

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Lê Khả Phiêu

Vietnamese politician and military leader
Born
1931 94 years ago
Died
August 7th, 2020 4 years ago — 89 years old

A prominent figure in Vietnam's political landscape, dedicated service in the Communist Party shaped governance in the country. Held the position of General Secretary of the Communist Party from 1991 to 1997, overseeing significant political developments. Played a crucial role in economic reforms and party consolidation during the 1990s, which contributed to Vietnam's transition towards a socialist-oriented market economy. Engaged in military strategy and leadership, having risen through the ranks of the Vietnam People's Army, demonstrating commitment to national defense and party ideology.

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Anna Piaggi

Italian journalist and fashion writer
Born
1931 94 years ago
Died
August 7th, 2012 12 years ago — 81 years old

A prominent fashion journalist and author, contributed significantly to the fashion industry through insightful commentary and unique style. Served as an editor for Italian Vogue, where she influenced the publication's direction and aesthetic. Authored several books on fashion and style that reflected personal perspectives and historical contexts. Noted for her eccentric fashion sense, which became a subject of interest and admiration in the fashion community.

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Tom Wilson

American record producer, Zappa collaborator
Born
1931 94 years ago
Died
September 6th, 1978 46 years ago — 47 years old

A record producer contributed to the development of rock music during the 1960s and 1970s. Produced several influential albums for various artists, including Frank Zappa and The Mothers of Invention. Instrumental in the creation of the iconic album 'Freak Out!' which was one of the first double albums in rock history. Worked with notable labels and provided production expertise that helped shape the sound of the era.

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