What Happened This Year 1913

Born in 1913

Klaus Barbie

German SS captain, 'Butcher of Lyon'
Born
1913 112 years ago
Died
September 25th, 1991 34 years ago — 78 years old

Served as an SS captain during World War II, overseeing the Nazi regime's operations in Lyon, France. Engaged in the arrest and deportation of numerous individuals, including members of the French Resistance and Jewish citizens. After the war, fled to South America and lived in Bolivia under various aliases. Ultimately captured, he was extradited to France, where he faced trial for crimes against humanity.

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John Facenda

American sportscaster and voiceover artist
Born
1913 112 years ago
Died
September 26th, 1984 41 years ago — 71 years old

Was a prominent sportscaster known for his deep, authoritative voice that became synonymous with NFL Films. Joined NFL Films in the late 1960s and contributed significantly to its growth as a leader in sports documentary filmmaking. Provided narration for many classic NFL highlight films, effectively capturing the drama and excitement of football. Before his career in sports broadcasting, worked as a news anchor and reporter in Philadelphia, gaining initial recognition for his journalistic skills. His distinctive voice and storytelling ability played a crucial role in shaping the presentation of sports in America.

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Theo Helfrich

German race car driver
Born
1913 112 years ago
Died
April 29th, 1978 47 years ago — 65 years old

Established a career in auto racing, competing in various prestigious events throughout the 1950s and 1960s. Garnered attention within the motorsport community for participation in the 24 Hours of Le Mans, showcasing driving skill and endurance. Competed with multiple teams, including Formula Junior and various sports car manufacturers. Contributed to the growth of German motorsport during the post-war era.

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Lester Sumrall

American minister, founded LeSEA
Born
1913 112 years ago
Died
April 28th, 1996 29 years ago — 83 years old

An American minister established the LeSEA (Lester Sumrall Evangelistic Association) in 1957, focusing on worldwide missionary activities and broadcasting. This organization expanded to include a television network that spread Christian teachings. Sumrall wrote numerous books on faith and spirituality, contributing to Christian literature. He also founded several churches, promoting evangelism and humanitarian efforts in different regions.

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Clara Stanton Jones

American librarian and author
Born
1913 112 years ago
Died
September 30th, 2012 13 years ago — 99 years old

A significant figure in American librarianship, contributed to the profession through education and advocacy. Served as the first African American president of the American Library Association (ALA) from 1976 to 1977. Advocated for equity in library services and was influential in promoting library services for diverse communities. Authored several publications on librarianship and racial equity in the profession.

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Walter Susskind

Conductor and educator with orchestras
Born
1913 112 years ago
Died
March 25th, 1980 45 years ago — 67 years old

Conducted major orchestras including the London Philharmonic Orchestra and the Czech Philharmonic Orchestra. Played a significant role in music education and served as a professor at various institutions. Assisted in shaping the careers of many musicians through teaching and conducting. Renowned for interpretation of classical and contemporary compositions.

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Charles Houston

Physician and mountaineer, Everest expeditions
Born
1913 112 years ago
Died
September 27th, 2009 16 years ago — 96 years old

Contributed significantly to the fields of medicine and mountaineering. Became a prominent figure in high-altitude medicine and played a critical role in the U.S. expedition to Mount Everest in 1963. Advocated for climber safety and health research in extreme environments. Published numerous papers on the physiological effects of high altitude. Worked as a professor and served as the chief of the Division of Environmental Medicine and Global Health.

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Richard Beeching

English physicist and engineer
Born
1913 112 years ago
Died
March 23rd, 1985 40 years ago — 72 years old

An English physicist and engineer contributed to the modernization of the British railway system. Served as Chairman of British Railways from 1961 to 1965. Oversaw the controversial Beeching cuts, which involved the closure of numerous underused railway lines. These decisions aimed to make the rail system more efficient and financially viable. Published reports that detailed recommendations for the restructuring of the British rail network.

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Ben Goldfaden

American basketball player and educator
Born
1913 112 years ago
Died
March 25th, 2013 12 years ago — 100 years old

Played professional basketball primarily during the 1940s and 1950s. Goldfaden had a significant role on several teams in the American Basketball League. After retiring from professional play, transitioned into education, influencing future generations of athletes through coaching and mentorship. Contributed to the development of basketball programs in educational institutions.

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