What Happened This Year 1915

Born in 1915

Dan Dailey

American dancer and actor in musicals
Born
December 14th, 1915 109 years ago
Died
October 16th, 1978 46 years ago — 62 years old

A prominent dancer and actor, contributions to the film industry included performances in musicals during the mid-20th century. Achieved significant recognition through work in films like 'A Connecticut Yankee in King Arthur's Court' and 'Good News'. Engaged in various stage performances and television shows, showcasing versatility and talent. Received accolades for a career spanning several decades in entertainment, influencing the genre of musical film.

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Claudia Testoni

Italian hurdler and long jumper
Born
December 19th, 1915 109 years ago
Died
1998 27 years ago — 83 years old

Competed in athletics, specializing in hurdles, sprints, and long jump. Represented Italy in multiple international competitions during the mid-20th century. Participated in the 1936 Berlin Olympics, competing in the women's 80 meters hurdles. Achieved several national titles in her events, contributing to Italy's presence in athletics during this era.

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Édith Piaf

French singer-songwriter and actress
Born
December 19th, 1915 109 years ago
Died
October 10th, 1963 61 years ago — 47 years old

A prominent figure in French music, recognized for a powerful and emotive vocal style. Gained fame in the 1940s and 1950s with popular songs exploring love and loss. Achieved international acclaim through performances in Paris and abroad, especially in the United States. Piaf's music often reflected her tumultuous life, including themes of heartbreak and resilience. The signature song, 'La Vie en rose,' became emblematic of her career and has remained influential in popular culture. Additionally, starred in films that showcased her talent and charisma.

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Aziz Nesin

Turkish author and humorist
Born
December 20th, 1915 109 years ago
Died
July 6th, 1995 29 years ago — 79 years old

A prolific Turkish author and humorist. Authored over 100 books including novels, short stories, and plays. Established the Nesin Foundation to support and promote education and literacy in Turkey. Often employed satire to critique social issues, reflecting personal beliefs and observations. Contributed significantly to Turkish literature, particularly in the genre of humor.

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Barbara Billingsley

Actress in sitcom Leave It to Beaver
Born
December 22nd, 1915 109 years ago
Died
October 16th, 2010 14 years ago — 94 years old

An American actress gained recognition for the role of June Cleaver in the television series Leave It to Beaver, which aired from 1957 to 1963. The character became a symbol of the ideal suburban housewife. Billingsley also made appearances in other television shows and films, including The Care Bears Movie and various game shows. Her work extended into voice acting, where she voiced characters in animated series. Despite numerous roles, the iconic character of June Cleaver remained the most significant in defining her career.

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Phillip Glasier

English author and academic
Born
December 22nd, 1915 109 years ago
Died
2000 25 years ago — 85 years old

Contributed significantly to the field of education through writings and theoretical frameworks. Focused on the role of education in society and explored various educational methodologies. Published numerous works that influenced academic discourse and practice. Engaged in teaching and development of educational programs, placing emphasis on innovative approaches.

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Pete Rugolo

Composer and conductor of jazz music
Born
December 25th, 1915 109 years ago
Died
2011 14 years ago — 96 years old

An Italian-American composer and producer contributed significantly to the jazz genre, particularly through work in the 1940s and 1950s. Collaborated with notable artists and orchestras, creating unique arrangements that blended orchestral elements with jazz. Worked extensively with the Modernaires and the Stan Kenton Orchestra, playing a key role in defining the 'West Coast Sound.' Also composed for television and film, expanding the influence of jazz into popular media. Rugolo's techniques and exploration of jazz forms left a lasting legacy in the music industry.

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Rolf Botvid

Swedish actor and screenwriter
Born
December 26th, 1915 109 years ago
Died
1998 27 years ago — 83 years old

Born in Sweden in 1915, a prominent actor and screenwriter emerged in the film industry. This individual gained recognition for performances in the 1950 films 'Kopps' and 'Kungen av Dalarna'. Contributions to Swedish cinema extended beyond acting, as writing and directing played significant roles in a career spanning several decades. Work within Scandinavian film contributed to the narrative and technical development of local cinema, highlighting various social themes and character studies. This figure's influence persisted until death in 1998.

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Gyula Zsengellér

Footballer and manager with notable impact
Born
December 27th, 1915 109 years ago
Died
1999 26 years ago — 84 years old

A Hungarian-Cypriot footballer and manager, earned recognition primarily for contributions in club football and coaching. Played as a forward and was part of the legendary Honvéd Budapest team during the 1950s. Transitioned to coaching and led teams in Cyprus, notably AEL Limassol, helping to develop the local football scene.

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