What Happened This Year 1931

Born in 1931

Ken Takakura

Japanese actor and singer known for films
Born
February 16th, 1931 94 years ago
Died
2014 11 years ago — 83 years old

A prominent figure in Japanese cinema, this actor began his career in small roles before gaining recognition in the late 1960s. He starred in numerous films, particularly focusing on crime dramas and the yakuza genre. Highlights include roles in 'The Last Samurai' and 'Branded to Kill,' which solidified a reputation for intense portrayals. Aside from acting, this individual was also a skilled singer, contributing to his multifaceted career. The body of work spans several decades, marking a significant influence in Japan's film history.

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Otis Blackwell

Singer-songwriter and pianist
Born
February 16th, 1931 94 years ago
Died
May 6th, 2002 22 years ago — 71 years old

Developed a successful career as a singer-songwriter and pianist, contributing significantly to the music industry. Gained recognition for writing hit songs in the 1950s for various artists. Collaborated with prominent musicians, enhancing the sound of rock and roll during its formative years. Worked with artists such as Elvis Presley, contributing to the creation of several iconic tracks.

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Jiřina Jirásková

Czech actress and singer in theatre
Born
February 17th, 1931 94 years ago
Died
2013 12 years ago — 82 years old

An accomplished Czech actress and singer, played leading roles in various theatrical productions. Gained recognition for performances at the National Theatre in Prague. Her contributions to Czech culture through acting and singing left a lasting legacy. Received numerous awards throughout her career, including the Thalia Award for her outstanding performances.

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Buddy Ryan

American football coach and innovator
Born
February 17th, 1931 94 years ago
Died
June 28th, 2016 8 years ago — 85 years old

A prominent American football coach, shaped defensive strategies in the NFL throughout a notable career. Served as a coordinator for the New York Jets during their Super Bowl III victory. Later, as the head coach of the Philadelphia Eagles, developed the famed 46 Defense, which revolutionized defensive football. His coaching style and approach influenced many future coaches and players. After his tenure with the Eagles, worked with the Arizona Cardinals, contributing to their defensive schemes. Left a lasting legacy in the world of professional football.

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Toni Morrison

American novelist and Nobel Prize winner
Born
February 18th, 1931 94 years ago
Died
August 5th, 2019 5 years ago — 88 years old

An influential novelist and editor, this individual produced significant works that explore African American culture and identity. The first black woman to win the Nobel Prize in Literature, contributions include celebrated novels that delve into themes of race, history, and personal struggle. Notable works include 'Beloved', 'Song of Solomon', and 'The Bluest Eye'. Besides writing, this individual worked as an editor for Random House, helping to promote and support other African American writers within the literary community. The literary career spanned several decades, culminating in numerous awards and honors.

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Johnny Hart

Cartoonist, co-creator of The Wizard of Id
Born
February 18th, 1931 94 years ago
Died
April 7th, 2007 17 years ago — 76 years old

A cartoonist co-created the comic strip The Wizard of Id in 1964, which gained popularity for its satirical take on medieval life and humor. The strip became known for its clever wordplay and distinctive style, running for over five decades and appearing in numerous newspapers across the United States. Alongside The Wizard of Id, also created the long-running comic strip BC, first published in 1958, which humorously depicted the lives of prehistoric characters. His work contributed significantly to the landscape of American comic art and syndicated newspaper comics.

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John Milnor

Mathematician and Fields Medal recipient
Born
February 20th, 1931 94 years ago

An American mathematician and academic contributed significantly to topology, differential topology, and geometric topology. Milnor's work on the theory of differentiable manifolds and the discovery of exotic spheres advanced mathematical understanding. He served as a professor at Princeton University and later at the Institute for Advanced Study. The Fields Medal was awarded in 1962 for groundbreaking contributions to the field of mathematics.

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Tom Wesselmann

American painter of pop art
Born
February 23rd, 1931 94 years ago
Died
December 17th, 2004 20 years ago — 73 years old

An influential American painter and sculptor, this artist was a prominent figure in the pop art movement, known for incorporating elements of commercial culture in artwork. The series Great American Nude features bold colors and simplified forms, directly addressing themes of consumerism and sexuality. Throughout a career spanning several decades, the artist explored the intersection of fine art and everyday life, often utilizing assemblage techniques. The artwork reflected modern American culture, tackling subjects from advertising to personal desire. This artist's work has been important in establishing a narrative around consumer culture in the 20th century.

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Brian Close

Cricketer and coach, England Test captain
Born
February 24th, 1931 94 years ago
Died
September 13th, 2015 9 years ago — 84 years old

An English cricketer and coach, played primarily for Yorkshire and earned 22 Test caps for England. Served as England's Test captain in the 1960s. Notably known for his aggressive style as a batsman and fielder. After retiring from playing, transitioned into coaching and continued to contribute to cricket until the late stages of his life.

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