What Happened This Year 1916

Born in 1916

Frank Hyde

Rugby league player and sportscaster
Born
February 7th, 1916 109 years ago
Died
2007 18 years ago — 91 years old

Played rugby league for Balmain Tigers and New South Wales in the 1930s and 1940s. Served as coach for the Sydney Roosters and Western Suburbs Magpies. Transitioned to sportscasting, where contributed to rugby league broadcasts for over three decades. Inducted into the Australian Rugby League Hall of Fame for contributions to the sport.

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Tex Hughson

Baseball player and All-Star pitcher
Born
February 9th, 1916 109 years ago
Died
August 6th, 1993 31 years ago — 77 years old

This individual played as a pitcher in Major League Baseball from 1941 to 1945, primarily with the Boston Red Sox. Notable for his strong pitching arm, achieved an All-Star selection in 1945. Pitched a career-high of 20 wins in the 1944 season. After his playing days, transitioned into coaching and continued involvement in baseball.

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Joseph Alioto

American politician and lawyer
Born
February 12th, 1916 109 years ago
Died
1998 27 years ago — 82 years old

Elected as the 36th Mayor of San Francisco from 1968 to 1976, focused on urban renewal and civil rights issues. Played a significant role in the development of the San Francisco International Airport and the construction of the Moscone Center. Advocated for a variety of social programs, aimed at improving the city’s infrastructure and housing conditions. Served on various municipal commissions after leaving office, continuing engagement in public service and civic affairs.

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Dorothy Bliss

Invertebrate Zoologist & Researcher
Born
February 13th, 1916 109 years ago
Died
December 26th, 1987 37 years ago — 71 years old

An American invertebrate zoologist specialized in the study of various marine species. Conducted significant research on the ecology and biology of marine invertebrates. Contributed to the understanding of coral reef ecosystems and the role of invertebrates within those habitats. Served in various academic and research institutions, mentoring upcoming scientists in the field.

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Edward Platt

American actor, The Outer Limits
Born
February 14th, 1916 109 years ago
Died
1974 51 years ago — 58 years old

An American actor contributed significantly to the entertainment industry during the mid-20th century. Platt gained recognition for portraying the Control Room Chief in the television series 'Get Smart', which aired from 1965 to 1970. His distinctive voice and expressive performances earned a loyal following. In addition to television, Platt appeared in various films and radio programs, displaying versatility across multiple media platforms. The role in 'Get Smart' became a defining aspect of his career, showcasing his comedic talent and ability to engage audiences.

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Masaki Kobayashi

Japanese film director and producer
Born
February 14th, 1916 109 years ago
Died
1996 29 years ago — 80 years old

An influential Japanese director and producer created significant works in cinema, primarily during the mid-20th century. Kobayashi is celebrated for directing films that examine human nature and moral conflicts, notably during post-war Japan. The acclaimed 'The Human Condition' trilogy stands as one of his most recognized works, portraying the struggles of a man during wartime. Other notable films include 'Harakiri' and 'Kiri no Hana', both of which garnered critical acclaim and multiple awards. His storytelling often reflected on themes of war and the human experience, earning a permanent place in film history.

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Marcel Bigeard

French military general and strategist
Born
February 14th, 1916 109 years ago
Died
2010 15 years ago — 94 years old

Born in 1916, a French military general served in World War II and the Indochina War. Bigeard was instrumental in the Algerian War and commanded French troops during key operations. His strategic approaches contributed to paratrooper tactics and counterinsurgency warfare. After military service, Bigeard became a prominent figure in French defense policy debates.

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Mary Jane Croft

American actress in radio and television
Born
February 15th, 1916 109 years ago
Died
August 24th, 1999 25 years ago — 83 years old

An American actress, notable work included television and radio series. Gained recognition for roles in the radio program 'The Adventures of Sam Spade' and the sitcom 'I Love Lucy' where portrayed various characters, adding depth to the show's humor. Made significant contributions to the radio landscape during the golden age of radio, showcasing versatility in different roles across genres. Appeared in several television series throughout the 1950s and 1960s, solidifying a career in entertainment that spanned decades.

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Bill Doggett

Pianist and composer of R&B music
Born
February 16th, 1916 109 years ago
Died
November 13th, 1996 28 years ago — 80 years old

A pianist and composer gained recognition for contributions to rhythm and blues music. Played with various orchestras and bands, including the iconic swing era ensemble of Count Basie. Composed the song "Honky Tonk," which became a significant hit in the 1950s and cemented a lasting legacy in the genre. Later reinvented the sound of the electric organ, popularizing its use in popular music throughout the 1960s.

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