What Happened This Year 1924

Born in 1924

Kenneth Noland

American painter of Color Field artworks
Born
April 10th, 1924 100 years ago
Died
January 5th, 2010 15 years ago — 85 years old

An influential American painter, this artist emerged as a key figure in the Color Field painting movement. Active primarily during the mid-20th century, he developed a style characterized by flat, vibrant colors and geometric shapes. He experimented with various techniques and mediums, contributing to the evolution of abstract art. Significant solo exhibitions took place, showcasing a range of works that demonstrated a commitment to exploring color dynamics. Major museum exhibitions facilitated wider recognition of the artist's contributions to modern art, leading to critical acclaim and influence in the art community.

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Curtis Turner

Race car driver, National 500 champion
Born
April 12th, 1924 100 years ago
Died
1970 55 years ago — 46 years old

An accomplished race car driver who gained prominence in the 1950s and 1960s. Competed in NASCAR and participated in numerous events, winning a total of 17 races. Notable for his skill on the track and being a trailblazer in the sport during a formative period. Played a significant role in promoting stock car racing and was one of the first drivers to become a celebrity through the sport. His career was marked by both triumph and challenges, including a ban from racing that influenced the landscape of the sport. Inducted into the NASCAR Hall of Fame in recognition of contributions to auto racing.

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Raymond Barre

Economist and Prime Minister of France
Born
April 12th, 1924 100 years ago
Died
2007 18 years ago — 83 years old

An economist and politician who served as Prime Minister of France from 1976 to 1977. Played a significant role in shaping economic policies during the 1970s. Held various ministerial positions, including Minister of Finance and Economic Affairs. Contributed to the development of the European integration process. Served as a Member of the European Parliament after his tenure as Prime Minister.

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Peter Safar

Austrian physician and resuscitation pioneer
Born
April 12th, 1924 100 years ago
Died
August 2nd, 2003 21 years ago — 79 years old

Contributions to the field of medicine emphasized the importance of resuscitation techniques. Developed the concept of Basic Life Support, which has been integrated into CPR courses worldwide. Established the first intensive care unit and introduced innovative strategies for patient care. His work laid the foundation for modern cardiopulmonary resuscitation practices, significantly influencing emergency medicine protocols.

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Jack T. Chick

Author of religious comics and tracts
Born
April 13th, 1924 100 years ago
Died
2016 9 years ago — 92 years old

An author and illustrator, focused on creating religious tracts and comics. Espoused fundamentalist Christian views through a series of comic book-style publications. Founded Chick Publications in 1974, which became known for its controversial themes and distribution of thousands of comic book tracts. Produced a large volume of work, with many titles sold worldwide, gaining a dedicated audience among certain religious groups.

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John T. Biggers

American painter of African heritage
Born
April 13th, 1924 100 years ago
Died
2001 24 years ago — 77 years old

An influential American painter specialized in representing African American culture and history through fine art. Played a significant role in the development of the African American artistic community, blending elements of social justice themes within artworks. Contributed greatly to various educational institutions and served as a professor at Texas Southern University, where he mentored future artists. Received several awards recognizing contributions to the art world and was instrumental in promoting the value of African heritage in the visual arts.

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Stanley Donen

Film director of 'Singin' in the Rain'
Born
April 13th, 1924 100 years ago
Died
February 21st, 2019 6 years ago — 94 years old

A prominent film director, contributed significantly to the musical genre in cinema. Directed classics such as 'Singin' in the Rain' and 'On the Town'. Worked in collaboration with notable figures in the industry, merging dance and storytelling in innovative ways. The use of vibrant choreography and memorable scores established a unique style that has been influential across generations.

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Mary Warnock

Philosopher and author of ethics
Born
April 14th, 1924 100 years ago
Died
March 20th, 2019 5 years ago — 94 years old

A prominent philosopher and writer from England, contributed significantly to discussions on ethics and education. Authored several influential books, including 'The Uses of Philosophy' and 'A Philosophical Approach to Teaching'. Played a vital role in the development of educational policy, particularly in special education, serving as chair of the committee that led to the Warnock Report in 1978, which transformed educational practices around the inclusion of children with special needs.

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Shorty Rogers

American jazz trumpet player and composer
Born
April 14th, 1924 100 years ago
Died
November 7th, 1994 30 years ago — 70 years old

A prominent figure in the jazz genre during the mid-20th century. Began musical career in the 1940s, performing with leading orchestras, including Lionel Hampton's and Woody Herman's bands. Developed a unique style that blended bebop with the West Coast jazz scene. Composed and arranged music, contributing to the sound and direction of jazz during this period. Created several influential albums, showcasing innovative approaches to composition and improvisation.

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