On January 31st:

 1606  Guy Fawkes is Executed for His Role in the Gunpowder Plot

On January 31st, 1606, the infamous conspirator Guy Fawkes was executed for his role in the Gunpowder Plot, an event that has left an enduring mark on British history and culture.

 1865   The United States Congress Passes the 13th Amendment, Abolishing Slavery

A monumental moment in American history occurred on January 31st, 1865, as the United States Congress passed the 13th Amendment to the Constitution, officially abolishing slavery.

1950  President Harry S. Truman Orders the Development of the Hydrogen Bomb

On this day in 1950, President Harry S. Truman announced the decision to proceed with the development of the hydrogen bomb, marking a significant and controversial step in the history of nuclear weapons.