What Happened This Year 1931

Born in 1931

Skeeter Davis

American Country Music Singer-Songwriter
Born
December 30th, 1931 93 years ago
Died
September 19th, 2004 20 years ago — 72 years old

Emergence in the 1950s brought national attention with a unique blend of country and pop music. Best recognized for the hit single "The End of the World" which reached the top of the country charts and crossed over to pop music success. Released several albums throughout the 1960s and 1970s, contributing to the popularity of the Nashville sound. Collaborated with fellow artists and was a prominent figure in the Grand Ole Opry, showcasing significant talent in live performances.

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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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Robert B. Oakley

American diplomat, 19th US Ambassador to Pakistan
Born
1931 94 years ago
Died
December 10th, 2014 10 years ago — 83 years old

Served as a diplomat with a significant focus on US-Pakistan relations. Held the position of the 19th United States Ambassador to Pakistan from 1988 to 1991. Contributed to discussions and negotiations regarding regional stability and cooperation between the two nations. Worked in various capacities within the State Department throughout a lengthy career, emphasizing diplomatic efforts and bilateral engagements during critical periods, including the Cold War.

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Dick Gautier

American actor and comedian
Born
1931 94 years ago
Died
January 13th, 2017 8 years ago — 86 years old

An actor and comedian, achieved fame for roles in television and film during the 1960s and 1970s. Best remembered for playing Hymie the Robot in the series 'Get Smart'. Also had a successful stage career and contributed to the creation of character voices in various animated shows. Engaged in various television shows throughout a long career.

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Subhash Mukherjee

Scientist who pioneered IVF in India
Born
1931 94 years ago
Died
June 19th, 1981 43 years ago — 50 years old

An Indian scientist and physician, contributed significantly to reproductive medicine by creating India's first child using in-vitro fertilisation. This achievement marked a pivotal moment in the field, making India one of the early countries to adopt this technology. The groundbreaking work took place during a time when assisted reproductive techniques were still new around the world. The research and application of in-vitro fertilisation not only opened new avenues for fertility treatments in India but also established a framework for future advancements in reproductive health. Mukherjee's contributions remain influential in the medical community and the practice of assisted reproduction.

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Dervla Murphy

Irish touring cyclist and author
Born
1931 94 years ago
Died
May 22nd, 2022 2 years ago — 91 years old

An Irish touring cyclist and author, contributed extensively to travel literature through personal explorations. Undertook a significant journey cycling from Ireland to India in 1963, which culminated in the book 'Full Tilt: Ireland to India with a Bicycle'. Highlighted various cultures and landscapes, enhancing public understanding of global cycling adventures. Authored numerous books detailing travels in various countries, emphasizing the joy and challenges of long-distance cycling.

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Hamid Samandarian

Iranian director and playwright
Born
1931 94 years ago
Died
July 12th, 2012 12 years ago — 81 years old

Significant contributions to Iranian theatre occurred. Directed numerous productions that highlighted social and political issues. Established a reputation for innovative staging and dramatic techniques. Over the years, worked with various theatre companies and influenced a generation of actors and playwrights through mentorship and collaboration.

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Ted Marchibroda

American football coach and player
Born
1931 94 years ago
Died
January 16th, 2016 9 years ago — 85 years old

Played as a quarterback in the National Football League (NFL) for the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Baltimore Colts. Transitioned to coaching, serving as the head coach for multiple teams including the Baltimore Colts and the Indianapolis Colts. Led the Colts to multiple playoff appearances during the 1990s. Developed a reputation for fostering young talent and contributed to the growth of various quarterbacks throughout his career.

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