What Happened This Year 1915

Born in 1915

Orazio Mariani

Italian sprinter and Olympic athlete
Born
January 21st, 1915 110 years ago
Died
1981 44 years ago — 66 years old

Born in Italy, a sprinter gained recognition in track and field events during the mid-20th century. Competed in various national and international competitions, showcasing sprinting prowess, notably in the 100 meters and 200 meters. Part of the Italian national team, participated in the 1936 Summer Olympics held in Berlin. Throughout the career, set personal records and contributed to Italy's presence in sprinting on the global stage.

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Heinrich Albertz

Theologian and Mayor of Berlin
Born
January 22nd, 1915 110 years ago
Died
1993 32 years ago — 78 years old

Contributed to theological discourse and political governance. Served as the Mayor of West Berlin from 1967 to 1968 during a critical period of Cold War tensions. Worked on various social policies and urban development programs while in office. Engaged in efforts for reunification and reconciliation in post-war Germany, advocating for peaceful dialogue between East and West Berlin.

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Potter Stewart

American lawyer and Supreme Court Justice
Born
January 23rd, 1915 110 years ago
Died
December 7th, 1985 39 years ago — 70 years old

Served as a Justice of the United States Supreme Court from 1958 to 1981. Appointed by President Dwight D. Eisenhower, contributed to significant cases regarding free speech, abortion, and the right to privacy. Before the Supreme Court, served as a federal judge on the United States Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit and held various positions in the federal judiciary. Advocacy for civil liberties was notable during tenure, and decisions reflected a moderate judicial philosophy. Retired from judicial duties in 1981.

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Herma Bauma

Austrian javelin thrower and handball player
Born
January 23rd, 1915 110 years ago
Died
2003 22 years ago — 88 years old

Competitions in javelin throwing occurred in the 1930s and 1940s, including participation in European championships. Excelled in handball and played for the Austrian national team. Achieved success in both sports during a time of limited opportunities for women in athletics and sports teams.

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W. Arthur Lewis

Economist, Nobel Prize laureate
Born
January 23rd, 1915 110 years ago
Died
1991 34 years ago — 76 years old

An economist and academic with significant contributions to development economics. Worked extensively on the economic problems of developing countries and proposed theories on dual economic structures. Became the first black person to receive a Nobel Prize in Economic Sciences in 1979 for pioneering research in the field. Held academic positions at institutions such as the University of Manchester and Princeton University. Additionally served as the Vice-Chancellor of the University of the West Indies.

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Vítězslava Kaprálová

Czech composer and conductor
Born
January 24th, 1915 110 years ago
Died
1940 85 years ago — 25 years old

A prominent composer and conductor emerged from Czechoslovakia. Studied at the Prague Conservatory and had works performed by reputable orchestras. Conducted orchestras, including the Czech Philharmonic. Contributed to classical music, with compositions that spanned various genres, including symphonic and choral works. Received recognition for innovative compositions during a period marked by the influence of Czech folk music.

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Ewan MacColl

Singer-songwriter and folk musician
Born
January 25th, 1915 110 years ago
Died
October 22nd, 1989 35 years ago — 74 years old

An influential figure in British folk music, contributions included songwriting, performing, and producing. Grew up in a working-class family and was immersed in music from an early age. Co-founded the influential Critics Group, which aimed to improve the performance and presentation of folk music. Played a key role in the folk revival of the 1950s and 1960s, promoting traditional songs while also writing original compositions. Wrote the classic folk song 'The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face,' later popularized by Roberta Flack. Also acted in various theater productions and made significant contributions to radio and television.

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William Hopper

American actor in 'Perry Mason'
Born
January 26th, 1915 110 years ago
Died
March 6th, 1970 55 years ago — 55 years old

An American actor gained acclaim for work in television and film. Prominent role in the series 'Perry Mason' as Paul Drake established a significant career in the entertainment industry. Additionally, acted in films such as 'Rear Window' and 'The Lady from Shanghai.' Developed a reputation in the crime and mystery genres, contributing to the popularity of legal dramas through engaging performances. His extensive career also included appearances in various other television series and movies throughout the mid-20th century.

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Jacques Hnizdovsky

Ukrainian-American painter and illustrator
Born
January 27th, 1915 110 years ago
Died
November 8th, 1985 39 years ago — 70 years old

Born in Ukraine, a painter and illustrator specialized in printmaking and became a prominent figure in American art in the mid-20th century. Emigrated to the United States in 1949, contributing to various exhibitions across the country. Often integrated traditional Ukrainian themes with modern artistic techniques, creating a unique style. Received numerous accolades for contributions to the art world, reflecting cultural heritage through visual arts.

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