What Happened This Year 1914

Born in 1914

Fernando Alonso

Cuban ballet dancer and co-founder
Born
December 17th, 1914 110 years ago
Died
July 27th, 2013 11 years ago — 98 years old

A prominent Cuban ballet dancer, contributed significantly to the development of ballet in Cuba. Co-founded the Cuban National Ballet, playing a crucial role in shaping its artistic direction. His work in ballet promotes Cuban culture and encourages new generations of dancers. The establishment of the Cuban National Ballet helped to elevate the art form's status in the country and abroad.

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Mushtaq Ali

Indian cricketer and test player
Born
December 17th, 1914 110 years ago
Died
June 18th, 2005 19 years ago — 90 years old

Contributed significantly to Indian cricket as a prominent cricketer during the early 20th century. Played 11 Test matches for India from 1933 to 1952, primarily as a right-handed batsman. Represented the first Indian team to tour England in 1932, gaining recognition for exceptional batting skills. Influenced the development of cricket in India through domestic leagues and mentorship roles after retirement.

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Harry F. Byrd Jr.

American politician and newspaper publisher
Born
December 20th, 1914 110 years ago
Died
July 30th, 2013 11 years ago — 98 years old

Born in 1914, a prominent figure in Virginia politics, played a significant role in state and national governance. Served as a member of the U.S. Senate from 1965 to 1983. Prior to this, held various positions in state government including as the Secretary of the Commonwealth. Established a successful career in publishing, notably as the owner of the Winchester Star, a local newspaper. Advocated for fiscal conservatism and was involved in various state initiatives during his long political tenure.

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Frank Fenner

Microbiologist, contributed to eradication
Born
December 21st, 1914 110 years ago
Died
November 22nd, 2010 14 years ago — 95 years old

An Australian microbiologist and virologist, played a key role in the global effort to eradicate smallpox. Fenner’s research focused on the control and eradication of infectious diseases. He served as a director of the John Curtin School of Medical Research and contributed significantly to virology and immunology studies. His work included extensive research on poxviruses and the development of vaccines. Fenner also advised various international health organizations on disease eradication strategies and public health policies.

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Oscar Lewis

American anthropologist of Latin America
Born
December 25th, 1914 110 years ago
Died
December 16th, 1970 54 years ago — 55 years old

Contributed significantly to the field of anthropology with a focus on the lives and cultures of the poor in Latin America. Developed the concept of the 'culture of poverty' based on extensive fieldwork in Mexico and Puerto Rico. Spent much of his career studying the socio-economic conditions affecting marginalized communities and published numerous works that highlighted social conditions and human behavior.

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James Fletcher Jnr

New Zealand businessman and entrepreneur
Born
December 25th, 1914 110 years ago
Died
2007 18 years ago — 93 years old

A businessman in New Zealand, played a significant role in the development of the construction industry. Established Fletcher Holdings, which expanded into a large and influential enterprise. Oversaw numerous major projects, contributing to the infrastructure of New Zealand. Involved in various community and charitable initiatives, promoting economic growth and providing employment.

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Richard Widmark

American actor in films and television
Born
December 26th, 1914 110 years ago
Died
March 24th, 2008 16 years ago — 93 years old

An American actor, achieved recognition for performances in a range of film genres. Gained prominence with a debut role in the film 'Kiss of Death' (1947), where a chilling portrayal of a murderer earned an Academy Award nomination. Subsequently starred in other notable films including 'Judgment at Nuremberg' (1961) and 'The Alamo' (1960). Played leading roles in westerns, dramas, and thrillers throughout a long career. Also contributed to television, appearing in series like 'The West Wing' and 'The Fourth Angel'. His career spanned over six decades until retirement in the early 2000s.

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Pops Staples

American singer-songwriter and guitarist
Born
December 28th, 1914 110 years ago
Died
2000 25 years ago — 86 years old

A notable figure in American music, contributed significantly to the genre of gospel and rhythm and blues as the leader of The Staple Singers. Comprised of family members, the group blended spirituals with popular music, achieving widespread acclaim. The Staples gained recognition in the civil rights movement, often conveying messages of hope and resilience through music. Released many influential songs, including 'I'll Take You There', which became a Top 10 Pop hit in 1972. A skilled guitarist, played an instrumental role in shaping the sound and style of contemporary gospel.

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Bidia Dandaron

Russian author and educator
Born
December 28th, 1914 110 years ago
Died
October 26th, 1974 50 years ago — 59 years old

Contributed significantly to the field of literature and education in Russia. Focused on promoting the study of Buryat language and literature. Worked as a professor and held various academic positions, influencing generations of students. Authored works that delved into the spirituality and culture of the Buryat people, highlighting their traditions within Russian literature. Engaged in efforts to preserve Buryat culture and language through educational initiatives.

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