What Happened This Year 1931

Born in 1931

Hennadiy Udovenko

Ukrainian diplomat and politician
Born
1931 94 years ago
Died
February 12th, 2013 12 years ago — 82 years old

Served as the second Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine from 1994 to 1998. Held important positions in Ukrainian politics and diplomacy following Ukraine's independence in 1991. Played a role in shaping Ukraine's foreign policy and promoting international relations during a transformative period for the country. Engaged in various diplomatic missions and participated in international organizations, contributing to Ukraine's visibility on the global stage.

Continue Reading

Makoto Ōoka

Japanese poet and literary critic
Born
1931 94 years ago
Died
April 5th, 2017 8 years ago — 86 years old

A prominent figure in Japanese literature, contributed significantly to poetry and literary criticism. Ōoka published numerous collections of poetry that explored themes of nature, human emotion, and societal change. Worked as a literary critic, offering insightful analysis of contemporary literature and poetry. Served as a professor at several universities, influencing a generation of writers and scholars. His literary works are part of academic discussions on Japanese poetry.

Continue Reading

Jean-Jacques Marcel

French footballer with Marseille legacy
Born
1931 94 years ago
Died
October 3rd, 2014 11 years ago — 83 years old

A French footballer played primarily as a midfielder. He spent the majority of his career at Olympique de Marseille, contributing to the team's success during the late 1970s and early 1980s. Marcel participated in international competitions, representing France in various matches. His tenure at Marseille included notable performances that aided the team's prominence in French football. Marcel retired after a successful career on the pitch and transitioned into football management, sharing his experience with newer generations of players.

Continue Reading

Marisa Del Frate

Italian actress and singer, La Tempesta
Born
1931 94 years ago
Died
February 5th, 2015 10 years ago — 84 years old

An Italian actress and singer, rose to prominence in the 1950s and 1960s. Gained recognition for performances in Italian films and television series. Starred in productions including 'La Tempesta' and 'L'Assassino'. Worked extensively in both film and music, contributing to the cultural landscape of Italy during her career. Passed away in 2015.

Continue Reading

Cemal Süreya

Turkish poet and journalist
Born
1931 94 years ago
Died
January 9th, 1990 35 years ago — 59 years old

A prominent Turkish poet and journalist, contributions included literary works that explored themes of love, philosophy, and social issues. Involved in leftist politics, published critiques of the government, and played a significant role in modern Turkish literature. His poetry collections, such as 'Göçtü Gitti' and 'Yeniden', established a unique voice in contemporary poetry.

Continue Reading

Maxine Singer

American biologist and researcher
Born
1931 94 years ago
Died
July 9th, 2024 1 years ago — 93 years old

A prominent biologist contributed significantly to molecular biology and genetics. Served as president of the Carnegie Institution of Washington, guiding research in various scientific fields. Played a key role in understanding the structure and function of DNA, and made important advances in the development of recombinant DNA technology. Held several influential positions in scientific organizations and was actively involved in science policy discussions.

Continue Reading

Vincent Harding

Historian and civil rights scholar
Born
1931 94 years ago
Died
May 19th, 2014 11 years ago — 83 years old

Contributed significantly to the fields of history and religion, focusing on the civil rights movement and African American studies. Played a key role in developing educational curricula that highlighted the contributions of black Americans. Served as a professor at several institutions, including the Iliff School of Theology. Founded the Institute of the Black World's first national conference in 1970, which addressed the challenges of black culture and religion in America.

Continue Reading

Lala Mara

Fijian politician and leader
Born
1931 94 years ago
Died
July 20th, 2004 21 years ago — 73 years old

A prominent Fijian politician, served as a member of the Senate. Played a significant role in the Fijian government during the late 20th century. Contributed to the development and formulation of policies addressing social and economic issues in Fiji. Advocated for the rights of indigenous Fijians and participated actively in political dialogue.

Continue Reading

Ignatius Kutu Acheampong

Ghanaian General and Head of State
Born
1931 94 years ago
Died
June 16th, 1979 46 years ago — 48 years old

Served as the sixth Head of State of Ghana from 1972 to 1978 after leading a military coup. Implemented various policies aimed at promoting economic self-sufficiency and national development. His government faced criticisms and eventual opposition, leading to his overthrow in 1978. Following the coup, faced a court martial and was executed in 1979.

Continue Reading