Birthdays occurring on December, 31

1869

Henri Matisse was born on December 31, 1869 Artist regarded as the most important French painter and artist of the 20th century, 1869-1954 There are always flowers for those who want to see them. More quotations from Henri Matisse

1880

General George Catlett Marshall was born on December 31, 1880 American military commander during WWII 1880-1959 We are determined that before the sun sets on this terrible struggle, our flag will be recognized throughout the world as a symbol of freedom on the one hand and of overwhelming force on the other. More quotations from General George Catlett Marshall

1908

Simon Wiesenthal was born on December 31, 1908 Ukrainian born Austrian activist, 1908-2005 Violence is like a weed - it does not die even in the greatest drought. More quotations from Simon Wiesenthal

Deaths occurring on December, 31

1969

Theodor Reik died on December 31, 1969 American psychoanalyst and author, 1888-1969 In our civilization, men are afraid that they will not be men enough and women are afraid that they might be considered only women. More quotations from Theodor Reik

1972

Roberto Clemente died on December 31, 1972 "Any time you have an opportunity to make a difference in this world and you don't, then you are wasting your time on Earth". More quotations from Roberto Clemente

1980

Marshall McLuhan died on December 31, 1980 Canadian communications theorist educator, writer and social reformer, 1911-1980 Politics will eventually be replaced by imagery. The politician will be only too happy to abdicate in favor of his image, because the image will be much more powerful than he could ever be. More quotations from Marshall McLuhan