What Happened This Year 1931

Born in 1931

Marisa Del Frate

Italian actress and singer, La Tempesta
Born
1931 95 years ago
Died
February 5th, 2015 11 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

Lawrie Dring

Scout leader, founder of WFIS
Born
1931 95 years ago
Died
September 6th, 2012 13 years ago — 81 years old

A Scottish scout leader founded the World Federation of Independent Scouts. This organization aimed to unite independent scouting groups from various countries, emphasizing the importance of traditional scouting values. Under the leadership, the federation grew to include members worldwide, promoting outdoor skills and community service within scouting. Additionally, contributions to scouting in Scotland were made through local initiatives and development programs for youth.

Continue Reading

Makoto Ōoka

Japanese poet and literary critic
Born
1931 95 years ago
Died
April 5th, 2017 9 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

Richard Wirthlin

American religious leader and strategist
Born
1931 95 years ago
Died
March 16th, 2011 15 years ago — 80 years old

A prominent religious leader and strategist, contributed significantly to the Latter-day Saints movement. Developed strategies for church growth and outreach, focusing on the importance of understanding the audience's needs. Played a pivotal role in various church initiatives and programs aimed at strengthening community ties. His insights into religious culture and societal issues offered guidance to leaders within the church. In addition to religious service, Wirthlin also engaged in political consultancy, advising on campaign strategies and voter behavior analysis.

Continue Reading

Emily Nasrallah

Lebanese writer and women's rights activist
Born
1931 95 years ago
Died
March 13th, 2018 8 years ago — 87 years old

A prominent Lebanese writer and women's rights activist contributed significantly to literature and social advocacy. Authored multiple novels that explore themes of identity, exile, and gender. Her novel, 'The Tiller of Waters,' received recognition for its narrative on the hardships faced by women in traditional societies. Engaged in activism focused on women's rights and empowerment, frequently addressing issues of gender inequality in her works and public appearances. Actively participated in literary festivals and initiatives promoting women's voices in the Arab world.

Continue Reading

Geoff Edwards

Game show host and actor
Born
1931 95 years ago
Died
March 5th, 2014 12 years ago — 83 years old

An American actor and game show host, contributed significantly to television. Hosted popular game shows including 'Hollywood Squares', 'The Big Payoff', and 'Go'. Developed a recognizable presence in the entertainment industry over several decades, engaging audiences with charisma and wit. Also appeared in various television shows and films, showcasing versatile acting skills. Career spanned from the 1960s until the early 2010s, establishing a legacy in television history.

Continue Reading

Aldo Rossi

Italian architect, Bonnefanten Museum
Born
1931 95 years ago
Died
September 4th, 1997 28 years ago — 66 years old

An architect renowned for postmodern design, focused on the intersection of history and modernity. Designed multiple significant buildings including the Bonnefanten Museum in Maastricht and Teatro Carlo Felice in Genoa. Contributed to architectural theory with publications that articulated the importance of memory and context in design. Received the Pritzker Prize in 1990, cementing a legacy within architectural circles as a key figure in the Postmodern movement.

Continue Reading

Harold Bernard St. John

Barbadian lawyer and politician, Prime Minister
Born
1931 95 years ago
Died
February 29th, 2004 22 years ago — 73 years old

Served as the third Prime Minister of Barbados from 1986 to 1994. Played a significant role in advocating for national policies focused on economic development and social welfare. As a member of the Democratic Labour Party, participated in various legislative initiatives aimed at improving the lives of Barbadians. Contributed to the discussions around Caribbean integration and cooperation while in office.

Continue Reading

Dorothy Stang

Nun and Missionary in Brazil
Born
1931 95 years ago
Died
February 12th, 2005 21 years ago — 74 years old

A nun and missionary worked in the Brazilian Amazon, advocating for the rights of landless farmers and sustainable agricultural practices. Engaged in various initiatives to protect the rainforest and support local communities. Founded the Pastoral Land Commission, which focused on land reform and protection of the rights of marginalized groups. Her commitment to social justice led to significant recognition in both Brazil and internationally.

Continue Reading