What Happened This Year 1931

Born in 1931

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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Jan Johansson

Swedish pianist and jazz innovator
Born
1931 94 years ago
Died
November 9th, 1968 56 years ago — 37 years old

A Swedish pianist contributed significantly to jazz music, especially with a unique approach that integrated traditional Swedish folk melodies with jazz improvisation. The album 'Jazz på Svenska' featured interpretations of Swedish folk tunes and classical pieces, showcasing a blend of genres. Johansson's distinctive playing style and arrangements influenced both jazz musicians and folk artists, securing a lasting legacy in Swedish and jazz music.

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Guido de Marco

Maltese politician and former President
Born
1931 94 years ago
Died
August 12th, 2010 14 years ago — 79 years old

A lawyer and politician, served as the 6th President of Malta from 1999 to 2004. Held various governmental positions, including Minister of Foreign Affairs and Speaker of the House of Representatives. Contributed to Malta's accession to the European Union and played a significant role in shaping Malta's foreign policy. Advocated for democracy and human rights throughout the political career.

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Coşkun Özarı

Turkish footballer and coach
Born
1931 94 years ago
Died
June 22nd, 2011 13 years ago — 80 years old

Played as a forward for several clubs in Turkey, notably for Galatasaray. Transitioned into coaching, leading various teams including the Turkish National Team. Achieved recognition for contributions to Turkish football both as a player and as a coach in the domestic league.

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Frank Bolling

American baseball second baseman, All-Star
Born
1931 94 years ago
Died
July 11th, 2020 4 years ago — 89 years old

Played as a second baseman in Major League Baseball from 1952 to 1964. Primarily associated with the Detroit Tigers and Milwaukee Braves, contributed to team successes during his career. Selected to the All-Star team in 1964. Known for strong defensive skills and consistent batting.

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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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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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Red Bastien

Professional wrestler and promoter
Born
1931 94 years ago
Died
August 11th, 2012 12 years ago — 81 years old

A professional wrestler whose career spanned several decades. Renowned for contributions to the wrestling industry as both a performer and a promoter. Competed in various wrestling promotions, including the National Wrestling Alliance (NWA) and Championship Wrestling from Florida (CWF). Served as a trainer to numerous aspiring wrestlers, influencing the growth of the sport. He also became known for establishing and promoting wrestling events that showcased talent across the country. Contributed to the development of wrestling in the Midwest, including through the promotion of local talent.

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Maurice Meisner

American historian and author
Born
1931 94 years ago
Died
January 23rd, 2012 13 years ago — 81 years old

An influential historian and academic, contributed significantly to the study of Chinese history and the intellectual history of Marxism. Authored several important texts, including 'Marxism, Maoism, and the Chinese Revolution' and 'The Rise of Chinese Communism', providing critical insights into Chinese political movements and their historical context. Served as a professor at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, where the study of China became a central focus. His scholarship was recognized for its depth and expertise in addressing complex subjects within Chinese history and politics.

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