What Happened This Year 1915

Born in 1915

Arthur Miller

American playwright and essayist
Born
October 17th, 1915 109 years ago
Died
February 10th, 2005 20 years ago — 89 years old

An influential American playwright and essayist, contributed significantly to the theatrical landscape of the 20th century. Explored themes of identity, morality, and societal pressures in works. 'Death of a Salesman' received the Pulitzer Prize for Drama in 1949 and remains a staple of American theatre. 'The Crucible', written during the McCarthy era, critiqued the hysteria surrounding communism and won critical acclaim. Authored several essays and non-fiction works highlighting social issues and the role of the playwright in society.

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Victor Sen Yung

American actor in 'Bonanza'
Born
October 18th, 1915 109 years ago
Died
1980 45 years ago — 65 years old

An American actor prominent in the mid-20th century, best recognized for his role as Hop Sing in the television series 'Bonanza'. His career spanned several decades, during which he appeared in numerous films and television shows, often portraying characters of Asian descent. In addition to his acting, he had notable engagements in the film industry, which included roles in classic movies such as 'The Hatchet Man' and 'The Good Earth'. He also appeared in various other television series that showcased his versatility as a performer.

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Yitzhak Shamir

Israeli Prime Minister and political leader
Born
October 22nd, 1915 109 years ago
Died
June 30th, 2012 12 years ago — 96 years old

Born in Belarus, served as a civil servant and politician, rising to the position of 7th Prime Minister of Israel. Held office from 1983 to 1984 and again from 1986 to 1992. His leadership during a turbulent period in Israeli history included significant security and diplomatic challenges. Played a key role in the establishment of Likud party policy and was involved in various negotiations concerning the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and relations with other nations.

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Simo Puupponen

Finnish writer and poet
Born
October 23rd, 1915 109 years ago
Died
1967 58 years ago — 52 years old

Born in 1915, a Finnish writer contributed significantly to literature through poetry and novels. Wrote in the Finnish language, exploring themes of nature, identity, and the human experience. Published several notable works that resonated with the Finnish literary community. Engaged in literary circles, promoting Finnish culture and literature.

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Bob Kane

Comic book creator and illustrator of Batman
Born
October 24th, 1915 109 years ago
Died
1998 27 years ago — 83 years old

An American author and illustrator co-created the iconic comic book character Batman in 1939. The character first appeared in Detective Comics #27, leading to the establishment of a significant franchise in comic books, television, and film. Contributed to the Golden Age of Comic Books, significantly influencing the superhero genre. Also worked on other characters and stories in the DC Comics universe and was credited with numerous comic book covers throughout his career.

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Marghanita Laski

Journalist and author of 'The Victorian Chaise-longue'
Born
October 24th, 1915 109 years ago
Died
1988 37 years ago — 73 years old

An English journalist and author active in the mid-20th century, contributed significantly to literature and journalism. Wrote extensively for various publications, developing a reputation for sharp social commentary. Authored several novels, with 'The Victorian Chaise-longue' considered a notable work exploring themes of identity and consciousness. Also engaged in broadcasting and worked as a literary critic, providing insights on contemporary writers and cultural issues.

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Ivan M. Niven

Mathematician and academic author
Born
October 25th, 1915 109 years ago
Died
1999 26 years ago — 84 years old

Contributions included significant work in number theory and combinatorial mathematics. Authored several influential textbooks used in higher education. Served as a professor at the University of Oregon and contributed to the Mathematical Association of America. Conducted research on magic squares and provided insights on Fermat's Last Theorem. Focused on the application of number theory to various mathematical problems.

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Ray Crawford

Race car driver and businessman
Born
October 26th, 1915 109 years ago
Died
February 1st, 1996 29 years ago — 80 years old

A race car driver and businessman, significant achievements include participating in the Indianapolis 500 and operating successful car dealerships. As a pilot, contributed to aviation as well as motorsports. Career spanned multiple decades with numerous race entries.

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Harry Saltzman

Film producer of the James Bond series
Born
October 27th, 1915 109 years ago
Died
September 28th, 1994 30 years ago — 78 years old

Born in Canada and raised in France, a production manager and film producer became prominent in the film industry. Co-founded Eon Productions and produced many iconic films, particularly in the James Bond franchise. Contributed significantly to the early success of the series, producing films such as 'Dr. No' and 'Goldfinger'. His work helped establish the bond character as an enduring figure in popular culture.

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