What Happened This Year 1931

Born in 1931

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.

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Kenneth Cope

British actor known for 'Softly, Softly'
Born
1931 94 years ago
Died
September 11th, 2024 0 years ago — 93 years old

Cope achieved recognition as an actor in British television and film. Had notable roles in the series 'Z-Cars' and 'Softly, Softly'. Appeared in various other shows and films throughout a career spanning several decades. Cope's performances earned him a place in the pantheon of British actors active during the mid to late 20th century.

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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.

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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.

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Koichi Sugiyama

Japanese composer of video game music
Born
1931 94 years ago
Died
September 30th, 2021 3 years ago — 90 years old

A prominent composer and orchestrator, contributed extensively to the music of the Dragon Quest video game series. Began career in the 1980s and became recognized for combining orchestral and electronic music. Served as the principal composer for the Dragon Quest franchise, creating memorable themes and soundtracks that enhanced the gaming experience. Established the Tokyo Metropolitan Orchestra and held various conducting roles throughout career. Received multiple awards for contributions to music in video games, elevating the artistic value of the medium.

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Maxwell R. Thurman

American general and military leader
Born
1931 94 years ago
Died
December 1st, 1995 29 years ago — 64 years old

A general in the United States Army, played a pivotal role in the modernization of the Army through various leadership positions. Served as the commanding general of the United States Army Training and Doctrine Command (TRADOC). Contributed significantly to military operations during the Cold War and was instrumental in the development of military strategies and tactics. Provided leadership in the Gulf War and held various senior military roles throughout his career. Retired as a four-star general, representing a notable figure in the U.S. military history until passing in 1995.

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Larry Keith

American actor known for soap operas
Born
1931 94 years ago
Died
July 17th, 2010 14 years ago — 79 years old

This actor had a significant career in television, particularly recognized for roles in soap operas. One of the most notable performances occurred in the soap opera 'All My Children', where a memorable role was portrayed. Another prominent series was 'The Edge of Night', further solidifying a reputation in the genre. The actor also made guest appearances in various prime-time television shows and plays, showcasing a versatility in performance across different platforms.

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Gonzalo Anes

Economist and historian of Spain
Born
1931 94 years ago
Died
March 31st, 2014 11 years ago — 83 years old

An economist and historian contributed significantly to the fields of economics and historical research in Spain. Focused primarily on the economic history and contemporary economic issues, engaged in academia for many years. Served as the director of the Economic and Social History Department at the University of Barcelona. Made substantial contributions to studies regarding the economic structures and policies of the Spanish economy, particularly during the 20th century. Involved in various research projects and published multiple works that analyzed Spain's economic development and historical context.

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Donald N. Levine

Sociologist and academic author
Born
1931 94 years ago
Died
April 4th, 2015 10 years ago — 84 years old

An American sociologist and academic focused on social theory and cultural sociology. Served as a professor at the University of Chicago, contributing to the understanding of sociology in the context of modernity and cultural development. Authored several influential texts, including 'The Flight from Ambivalence', which explores cultural dynamics and social relationships. Engaged deeply with the sociological implications of cultural phenomena and modern social issues. His scholarship emphasized the importance of cultural narratives in shaping societal structures and individual experiences.

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