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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O. N. V. Kurup

Indian poet and academic with a Sahitya Akademi award
Born
1931 94 years ago
Died
February 13th, 2016 9 years ago — 85 years old

A prominent figure in Malayalam literature, this poet significantly contributed to poetry and academics in India. With a career spanning several decades, this individual composed numerous poems that explored themes of humanity and nature. The work encompassed various forms, including lyrical poetry and children's literature. An academic, this individual served as a professor and held various educational positions, influencing many students and writers. Recognition includes winning the prestigious Sahitya Akademi Award and the Kerala Sahitya Akademi Award, solidifying a legacy within literary circles.

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K. C. Pant

Indian politician, former Defence Minister
Born
1931 94 years ago
Died
November 15th, 2012 12 years ago — 81 years old

Served as the 18th Minister of Defence in India from 1989 to 1990. Held various government positions, including being a member of the Rajya Sabha, the upper house of India's Parliament. Contributed to defense policy and national security initiatives during a critical period in Indian history. Also engaged in social and developmental issues, working on various committees focusing on economic reforms and rural development. After retirement, continued to participate in public discourse and contributed to various think tanks.

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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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George E. Sangmeister

American lawyer and politician
Born
1931 94 years ago
Died
October 7th, 2007 17 years ago — 76 years old

Served as a U.S. Representative from Illinois from 1983 to 1995. Participated in numerous legislative initiatives during tenure, focusing on education, health care, and infrastructure development. Engaged in local and state politics prior to national office, contributing to community and policy development. Pursued a career in law, significantly influencing public service in the 20th century.

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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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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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