What Happened This Year 1923

Born in 1923

Claude Piéplu

Actor in French cinema and theatre
Born
1923 102 years ago
Died
May 24th, 2006 19 years ago — 83 years old

An influential figure in French cinema and theatre, cultivated a rich career spanning several decades. Featured in a variety of films and plays, recognized for a distinct style and memorable performances. Often associated with the comedic roles, provided a significant contribution to French film culture. Collaborated with prominent directors and appeared in many popular productions.

Continue Reading

Reima Pietilä

Finnish architect, co-designer of Kaleva Church
Born
1923 102 years ago
Died
August 26th, 1993 31 years ago — 70 years old

An architect contributed significantly to Finnish architecture during the 20th century. Co-designed Kaleva Church in Oulu, Finland, alongside his wife, which became a landmark example of modern ecclesiastical architecture. Focused on integrating nature into architectural designs, utilizing innovative materials and forms. Held a strong personal philosophy on creating spaces that encouraged human interaction.

Continue Reading

Richard G. Hewlett

Historian and author on atomic energy
Born
1923 102 years ago
Died
September 1st, 2015 9 years ago — 92 years old

Focused on the history of atomic energy and its impact on society. Hewlett authored several influential works, including 'Atomic Energy and the Presidency' and 'Regulating the Atom'. His scholarship contributed to the understanding of nuclear policies and their historical context. Served as a historian for the American Institute of Physics, gathering and preserving significant historical documents related to nuclear science. Engaged in educational and outreach activities to raise awareness about the history of atomic energy.

Continue Reading

Miriam Schapiro

Painter and sculptor of feminist art
Born
1923 102 years ago
Died
June 20th, 2015 10 years ago — 92 years old

A Canadian-American artist contributed to the feminist art movement, utilizing techniques like fabric collage and assemblage. Schapiro co-founded the influential artist collective, the Womanhouse, which promoted women's roles in art. Utilization of domestic materials in works highlighted themes of femininity and identity. Contributions to the art world included teaching positions at institutions such as the University of California, Los Angeles, and the School of Visual Arts in New York. She engaged with various media, producing works that spanned painting, installation, and printmaking. Exhibited her works in major galleries and museums throughout her career.

Continue Reading

Don Lund

Baseball player and coach for Tigers
Born
1923 102 years ago
Died
December 10th, 2013 11 years ago — 90 years old

Played Major League Baseball as an outfielder and infielder from 1944 to 1953. Spent most of his career with the Detroit Tigers. After retiring as a player, transitioned into coaching and served as a coach for the Tigers. Contributed to the team's development and training.

Continue Reading

Henry Segerstrom

Businessman and philanthropist
Born
1923 102 years ago
Died
February 20th, 2015 10 years ago — 92 years old

A prominent businessman and philanthropist, contributed significantly to real estate development in Southern California. Founded the Segerstrom Center for the Arts, enhancing cultural engagement in the region. Served as president of the South Coast Plaza, one of the largest shopping centers in the United States, which became a key site for retail and arts in Orange County. His philanthropic efforts focused on the arts, education, and health care, supporting various organizations and initiatives.

Continue Reading

Ralph Giordano

German author and publicist
Born
1923 102 years ago
Died
December 10th, 2014 10 years ago — 91 years old

Born in 1923, one of the prominent German authors and publicists, contributed significantly to literature and public discourse in Germany. His works often focused on the themes of history, society, and culture, reflecting his experiences during World War II and his later life in post-war Germany. Wrote extensively on issues related to nationalism and identity, providing critical insights into contemporary German society. Authored several influential books that addressed the dark chapters of German history and advocated for open dialogue about the past. Not only worked as an author but also as a publicist, engaging in discussions and debates throughout Germany.

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

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