What Happened This Year 1931

Born in 1931

Richie Powell

American jazz pianist and composer
Born
1931 94 years ago
Died
June 26th, 1956 69 years ago — 25 years old

A prominent jazz pianist, contributed significantly to the genre in the 1950s. Worked closely with various influential musicians during this time. Established a reputation for exceptional skills as an improviser and composer. Recorded several albums, showcasing original compositions and interpretations of jazz standards. Collaborated with renowned artists and became part of the innovative jazz scene in New York City. Powell's career was cut short when he died in an automobile accident at a young age, leaving behind a legacy of musical contributions.

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Jack Chambers

Canadian painter and director
Born
1931 94 years ago
Died
April 13th, 1978 47 years ago — 47 years old

A prominent Canadian painter and filmmaker, influenced by the modernist movement. Frequently explored themes of light and movement in artworks, contributing significantly to the Canadian art scene. Directed the acclaimed film 'The Foote Case', which examined complex narratives and visual storytelling. Exhibitions featured at major galleries showcased the transformation of everyday landscapes into vibrant expressions of color and form.

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Tom Wilson

American record producer, Zappa collaborator
Born
1931 94 years ago
Died
September 6th, 1978 47 years ago — 47 years old

A record producer contributed to the development of rock music during the 1960s and 1970s. Produced several influential albums for various artists, including Frank Zappa and The Mothers of Invention. Instrumental in the creation of the iconic album 'Freak Out!' which was one of the first double albums in rock history. Worked with notable labels and provided production expertise that helped shape the sound of the era.

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Krzysztof Kozłowski

Polish politician and journalist
Born
1931 94 years ago
Died
March 26th, 2013 12 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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Jackie McLean

Jazz saxophonist and composer
Born
1931 94 years ago
Died
March 31st, 2006 19 years ago — 75 years old

A prominent American jazz saxophonist and composer emerged as a leading figure in the hard bop era. McLean showed significant prowess on the alto saxophone and contributed to the development of modern jazz. He worked alongside notable musicians such as Charles Mingus and Miles Davis. Throughout a career spanning several decades, McLean recorded numerous albums, showcasing his innovative style and approach to jazz. His collaborations and compositions have left a lasting mark on the genre.

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David Hayes

Sculptor and painter with large-scale works
Born
1931 94 years ago
Died
April 9th, 2013 12 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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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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Mac Ahlberg

Director and cinematographer of 'Häxan'
Born
1931 94 years ago
Died
October 26th, 2012 13 years ago — 81 years old

Swedish-Italian director, screenwriter, and cinematographer began a career in film and television, contributing significantly to the horror and drama genres. Ahlberg directed numerous films and television series, with notable influence in the realm of cinematography. His work is recognized for its distinctive visual style and narrative strength. The director collaborated with various artists and filmmakers throughout his career, leaving a mark in the Swedish film industry as well as in international projects before his passing.

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Romeu Tuma

Brazilian police officer and politician
Born
1931 94 years ago
Died
October 26th, 2010 15 years ago — 79 years old

Served as a police officer in São Paulo and later held various political titles. Acted as a senator from 2003 until death in 2010. Was involved in law enforcement operations and legislative activities focused on public safety and corruption control. His career spanned multiple decades in law enforcement and politics, reflecting a commitment to the country's governance and security.

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