What Happened This Year 1923

Born in 1923

Otar Korkia

Georgian Basketball Player
Born
1923 102 years ago
Died
March 15th, 2005 20 years ago — 82 years old

A prominent basketball player from Georgia, contributed significantly to the sport during the mid-20th century. Played for the Soviet national team and participated in numerous international competitions. Achieved accolade as a member of the team that secured a gold medal at the 1980 Summer Olympics in Moscow. His skills on the court exemplified the dedication and passion for basketball, and he left a legacy that continues to inspire future generations of athletes.

Continue Reading

Norman Smith

English drummer and producer of pop music
Born
1923 102 years ago
Died
March 3rd, 2008 17 years ago — 85 years old

A prominent English drummer and record producer, contributed to the UK music scene from the 1960s. Played drums on iconic Beatles tracks such as 'Please Please Me' and 'She Loves You'. Transitioned to a successful career as a producer, working with notable artists like Pink Floyd and directing their early albums. Notably produced the acclaimed album 'The Piper at the Gates of Dawn'.

Continue Reading

Fahd of Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabian King and statesman
Born
1923 102 years ago
Died
August 1st, 2005 19 years ago — 82 years old

Ascended to the throne in 1982, led Saudi Arabia through a significant period of modernization and economic growth. Implemented numerous social reforms and infrastructure projects. Oversaw the country's policies during the Gulf War in 1990-1991, contributing to the coalition that liberated Kuwait. Promoted the establishment of educational institutions and healthcare systems, enhancing the quality of life in the kingdom. Strengthened Saudi Arabia’s relations with the United States and other Western nations.

Continue Reading

Alan Dugan

American soldier and poet
Born
1923 102 years ago
Died
September 3rd, 2003 21 years ago — 80 years old

Served in the United States Army during World War II, participating in significant military operations. After the war, transitioned into a writing career, focusing on poetry that explored themes of war, humanity, and personal experience. Published several collections, gaining recognition for the ability to merge military experience with literary craft. Received prestigious awards, including the Pulitzer Prize for Poetry in 1961 for the collection "Poems."

Continue Reading

Melvin Day

New Zealand painter and historian
Born
1923 102 years ago
Died
January 17th, 2016 9 years ago — 93 years old

An accomplished painter and historian focused on New Zealand's artistic landscape. Specialization in traditional Māori art and contemporary New Zealand painting marked significant contributions. Worked as a lecturer in the School of Fine Arts at the University of Canterbury, influencing a generation of artists. Published various texts on art history and its context in New Zealand, enriching the understanding of the country's cultural identity.

Continue Reading

José Ramón Fernández

Cuban revolution leader
Born
1923 102 years ago
Died
January 6th, 2019 6 years ago — 96 years old

Involvement in the Cuban Revolution led to significant changes in Cuba's political landscape. Played a key role in the 1959 overthrow of the Batista regime, contributing to the establishment of the socialist state under Fidel Castro. Held various governmental positions post-revolution, including Minister of Education, where efforts focused on literacy and educational reform. Served in numerous capacities in the Cuban Communist Party, leading initiatives aimed at consolidating power and influence in the region. Engaged in international diplomacy and solidarity missions across Latin America, advocating for revolutionary movements.

Continue Reading

Basil John Mason

Meteorologist and academic author
Born
1923 102 years ago
Died
January 6th, 2015 10 years ago — 92 years old

Contributed extensively to the field of meteorology, particularly in atmospheric dynamics and weather prediction. Served as a professor at the University of Reading, where research on weather patterns and statistical methods advanced the understanding of meteorological phenomena. Published numerous papers and books, including texts on computer models for weather forecasting. Worked with various meteorological organizations, influencing both academic and practical applications of weather science.

Continue Reading

Ruth Goldbloom

Canadian philanthropist and academic leader
Born
1923 102 years ago
Died
August 29th, 2012 12 years ago — 89 years old

A prominent Canadian academic and philanthropist, contributed significantly to the development of cultural and educational organizations. Co-founded Pier 21, a national historic site in Halifax, celebrating Canada's immigration story. Played a vital role in advancing education and community engagement through various initiatives and organizations. Advocated for the importance of preserving Canadian heritage.

Continue Reading

Brigitte Askonas

Immunologist with vaccine research
Born
1923 102 years ago
Died
January 9th, 2013 12 years ago — 90 years old

An immunologist and academic made significant contributions to the field of immunology, particularly in vaccine development. Work included research on the immune response and the mechanisms of autoimmune diseases. Collaborated with prominent scientists and institutions on various research projects. Served as a professor and held important academic positions throughout a career spent in both Austria and the United Kingdom.

Continue Reading