What Happened This Year 1915

Born in 1915

Werner von Trapp

Austrian-American singer in The Sound of Music
Born
1915 111 years ago
Died
October 11th, 2007 18 years ago — 92 years old

Born into a prominent musical family in Austria, a member of the Trapp Family Singers achieved fame through performances in Europe and the United States. The family's story inspired the Broadway musical and film, The Sound of Music. Following World War II, they emigrated to the U.S., where they continued to perform and promote their music. The group became known for their choral arrangements of traditional Austrian and German folk songs. They toured extensively, bringing their music to a wide audience until their eventual retirement in the 1950s.

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Tex Hill

General and World War II pilot
Born
1915 111 years ago
Died
October 11th, 2007 18 years ago — 92 years old

A South Korean-American general and pilot, significant contributions were made during World War II as a member of the Flying Tigers, a volunteer group of pilots fighting against Japanese forces. After the war, served in various capacities, including as a general in the U.S. Air Force, where leadership impacted military aviation strategy.

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Ruth Stone

American poet and recipient of Pulitzer Prize
Born
1915 111 years ago
Died
November 19th, 2011 14 years ago — 96 years old

A significant figure in American poetry, this poet gained prominence for an evocative style and deep emotional resonance. Stone published numerous poetry collections, with her works often reflecting personal experiences and broader human themes. Her career included teaching at various institutions and inspiring students with her passion for language and expression. The poet received the Pulitzer Prize for Poetry in 2009 for her collection 'What Love Comes To: New and Selected Poems,' which underscored her lasting influence and artistic contribution to the literary world.

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Robert Hofstadter

American physicist and Nobel laureate
Born
1915 111 years ago
Died
November 17th, 1990 35 years ago — 75 years old

A physicist conducted pioneering research in the structure of nucleons through electron scattering experiments. Contributed significantly to the field of quantum electrodynamics and understanding of strong interactions. Received the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1961 for his work in measuring the charge distribution within the proton and neutron, which advanced knowledge in particle physics. Held academic positions at Stanford University, influencing the next generation of physicists.

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Achille Zavatta

French clown and circus performer
Born
1915 111 years ago
Died
November 16th, 1993 32 years ago — 78 years old

Born in Tunisia, achieved prominence as a circus clown and performer. Started performing at a young age, gained recognition in France and internationally. Developed a unique style combining humor and acrobatics. Became a staple in various circuses, captivating audiences with elaborate performances and charm. Also ventured into television, showcasing talents in various shows. Left a lasting legacy in the world of circus and entertainment.

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Billo Frómeta

Dominican conductor and composer
Born
1915 111 years ago
Died
November 15th, 1988 37 years ago — 73 years old

A prominent Dominican conductor and composer, significant contributions were made to merengue music. Established Billo's Caracas Boys, a popular band that helped popularize merengue in the mid-20th century. Conducted numerous performances across Latin America and the Caribbean, influencing the genre's development. Composed various merengue pieces that became staples in the music repertoire of the Dominican Republic.

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Dennis Price

English actor and film star
Born
1915 111 years ago
Died
October 6th, 1973 52 years ago — 58 years old

An English actor gained recognition in the film industry during the mid-20th century. His career included significant roles in movies such as 'Kind Hearts and Coronets' and 'The Moonraker'. Price's work spanned across theatre and television, demonstrating versatility in various genres. He became a prominent figure in British cinema and contributed to several classic films during his lifetime. Price's performances were characterized by a distinct style that left a mark on the film landscape.

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Lettice Curtis

Engineer and pilot, Air Transport Auxiliary
Born
1915 111 years ago
Died
July 21st, 2014 11 years ago — 99 years old

An English engineer and pilot, contributions included work as a test pilot and a member of the Air Transport Auxiliary during World War II. In this role, delivered aircraft from factories to Royal Air Force stations. Became one of the first female pilots in the United Kingdom to qualify for a commercial pilot's license. After the war, continued to promote aviation and women's participation in the field through various initiatives and organizations.

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Tippy Dye

American basketball player and coach
Born
1915 111 years ago
Died
April 11th, 2012 13 years ago — 97 years old

Played collegiate basketball at the University of Washington. Coached multiple teams in the NCAA. Head coach at the University of Delaware, leading the team to notable success. Inducted into the Delaware Sports Hall of Fame.

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