What Happened This Year 1923

Born in 1923

James Stockdale

Admiral and Medal of Honor recipient
Born
December 23rd, 1923 101 years ago
Died
July 5th, 2005 19 years ago — 81 years old

A United States Navy admiral and aviator who served during the Vietnam War, received the Medal of Honor for extraordinary heroism as a prisoner of war. Stockdale spent over seven years in captivity, enduring severe hardships and torture. After his release, Stockdale became a prominent author and educator, and served as a Vice Presidential candidate in 1992. His leadership and resilience during captivity significantly contributed to the morale of fellow prisoners.

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Onofre Marimón

Argentinian race car driver
Born
December 23rd, 1923 101 years ago
Died
July 31st, 1954 70 years ago — 30 years old

Competed in Formula One in the early 1950s, participating in several Grands Prix. Achieved notable success in local and international races during the 1950s. Known for driving in the Maserati and Ferrari cars. Today, remembered for contributions to motorsport in Argentina.

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George Patton IV

American General and Military Leader
Born
December 24th, 1923 101 years ago
Died
June 27th, 2004 20 years ago — 80 years old

Born on December 24, 1923, served as a United States Army officer during the Vietnam War. Commanded the 2nd Armored Division and later served in various key roles, including Deputy Chief of Staff for Operations and Plans. Retired as a Major General in 1978, extending a legacy rooted in military leadership and strategic operations.

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William C. Schneider

Aerospace engineer and inventor
Born
December 24th, 1923 101 years ago
Died
December 24th, 1999 25 years ago — 76 years old

An aerospace engineer contributed significantly to the development of various aircraft and space systems. Played a key role in the design and implementation of advanced aerospace technologies. Engaged in numerous projects that advanced national defense capabilities and improved commercial aviation. Actively participated in research initiatives and collaborated with multiple organizations to enhance understanding of aerodynamics and propulsion systems.

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René Girard

Historian and philosopher of culture
Born
December 25th, 1923 101 years ago
Died
November 4th, 2015 9 years ago — 91 years old

Born in France, a historian and philosopher focused on the dynamics of human behavior, culture, and violence. Developed the concept of mimetic desire, exploring how imitation drives conflict and culture. This idea fundamentally influenced literary criticism, anthropology, and religious studies. Became a professor at Johns Hopkins University and later at Stanford University. Wrote several influential works, including 'Deceit, Desire, and the Novel' and 'Violence and the Sacred'. Emphasized the role of scapegoating in societal conflict and the relationship between violence and culture.

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Lucas Mangope

South African politician and leader
Born
December 27th, 1923 101 years ago
Died
2018 7 years ago — 95 years old

A prominent South African politician, played a significant role in the politics of the Bophuthatswana homeland. Served as the President of Bophuthatswana from 1977 to 1994, overseeing its governance during the apartheid era. His leadership was marked by efforts to establish a separate government for the Tswana people, often amid controversy regarding the legitimacy of his administration. During his presidency, he faced criticism for his collaboration with the apartheid regime and for the socio-economic conditions within Bophuthatswana. After the end of apartheid, his government was dissolved in favor of integration into South Africa.

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Dina Merrill

American actress and producer
Born
December 29th, 1923 101 years ago
Died
2017 8 years ago — 94 years old

An accomplished actress, gained recognition through performances in films such as 'Desk Set' and 'The Courtship of Eddie's Father'. Started career on Broadway with 'The Mermaids Singing', showing talent in both performance and production. Served as a panelist on the game show 'Password'. Additionally, engaged in business ventures, contributing to family businesses, and held positions on various boards and charities. Inherited significant wealth and maintained a high-profile social life.

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Shlomo Venezia

Greek-Italian Holocaust survivor and author
Born
December 29th, 1923 101 years ago
Died
October 1st, 2012 12 years ago — 88 years old

Born in Greece, a survivor of the Holocaust, documented experiences in Auschwitz and other camps. After the war, settled in Italy, where personal narratives highlighted the brutality faced during this period. Worked to educate others about the Holocaust, emphasizing the importance of remembrance and truth. Authored influential works that served to preserve the memory of the victims and the horrors endured. Contributed to various initiatives aimed at Holocaust education.

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Lily Ebert

Holocaust survivor and advocate
Born
December 29th, 1923 101 years ago
Died
October 9th, 2024 0 years ago — 100 years old

Born in Hungary, an individual survived the Holocaust and later moved to the United Kingdom. This individual shared personal experiences and testimonies about the Holocaust, contributing to education and awareness about the atrocities faced during World War II. Engaged in public speaking and outreach efforts, emphasized the importance of remembering history to prevent future atrocities. Active in various initiatives aimed at promoting tolerance and understanding.

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