What Happened This Year 1924

Born in 1924

Derek Shackleton

English cricketer and coach
Born
August 12th, 1924 100 years ago
Died
2007 18 years ago — 83 years old

Renowned English cricketer, coach, and umpire. Represented Sussex and Hampshire in first-class cricket. Played from 1947 to 1971, amassing over 2,000 runs and taking more than 1,800 wickets. Transitioned into coaching and umpiring after retirement. Contributed to cricketing circles through mentorship and officiating.

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Muhammad Zia-ul-Haq

Pakistani general and politician
Born
August 12th, 1924 100 years ago
Died
August 17th, 1988 36 years ago — 64 years old

Served as the sixth President of Pakistan from 1978 until his death in 1988. Initially took power through a military coup in 1977, establishing martial law and assuming the position of Chief Martial Law Administrator. Implemented policies that facilitated the Islamization of Pakistan's legal and societal structures. Oversaw significant political and economic changes, and his tenure was marked by efforts to increase the role of Islamic law in governance. Died in an airplane crash in 1988, which was highly controversial and led to various conspiracy theories.

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Georges Prêtre

Orchestral and opera conductor
Born
August 14th, 1924 100 years ago
Died
January 4th, 2017 8 years ago — 92 years old

An orchestral and opera conductor, conducted prestigious orchestras and opera houses around the world. Served as music director for the Paris Opera and led notable performances at La Scala, the Vienna State Opera, and the Metropolitan Opera. Recognized for conducting works by composers such as Verdi, Puccini, and Strauss. Received accolades for skillful interpretations and vibrant conducting style.

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Sverre Fehn

Architect, designed the Hedmark Museum
Born
August 14th, 1924 100 years ago
Died
2009 16 years ago — 85 years old

An architect from Norway focused on modernist design, contributed significantly to architectural thought and practice. Graduated from the Norwegian Institute of Technology in 1949. Established a reputation through innovative use of natural materials and integration of buildings into landscapes. The Hedmark Museum in Hamar exemplifies his philosophy of blending architecture with nature. Also engaged with various projects across Norway and abroad, incorporating cultural narratives within architectural frameworks.

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Robert Bolt

English dramatist, playwright, and screenwriter
Born
August 15th, 1924 100 years ago
Died
February 21st, 1995 30 years ago — 70 years old

A significant figure in British theatre, this dramatist wrote several acclaimed screenplays and stage plays. Major works include the screenplays for 'Lawrence of Arabia' and 'A Man for All Seasons.' The latter received the Academy Award for Best Adapted Screenplay in 1967. The playwright's works often explore themes of morality and political power, establishing a reputation as a leading voice in 20th century drama.

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Hedy Epstein

Holocaust survivor and activist
Born
August 15th, 1924 100 years ago
Died
May 26th, 2016 8 years ago — 91 years old

Born in Germany, relocated to the United States during World War II. Survived the Holocaust and became a prominent advocate for human rights and social justice. Actively opposed the Vietnam War and supported Palestinian rights. Participated in protests and campaigns highlighting issues of injustice, discrimination, and minority rights. Her experiences during the Holocaust shaped her commitment to activism for marginalized communities.

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Phyllis Schlafly

Political activist and writer
Born
August 15th, 1924 100 years ago
Died
September 5th, 2016 8 years ago — 92 years old

A lawyer and writer, this individual was prominent in the conservative movement in the United States. Played a pivotal role in opposing the Equal Rights Amendment during the 1970s. Founded the Eagle Forum, an organization advocating for conservative values and policy. Authored several books on politics, feminism, and family values, influencing public opinion on these issues.

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Fess Parker

Actor famous for Davy Crockett role
Born
August 16th, 1924 100 years ago
Died
March 18th, 2010 15 years ago — 85 years old

An American actor and businessman gained prominence in the 1950s for the portrayal of Davy Crockett in the Walt Disney television miniseries. The role contributed significantly to the popularity of the character, leading to a surge in merchandise and cultural interest in American frontier history. In addition to acting, engaged in successful business ventures, including founding a winery in California's Santa Barbara County. The winery became well-regarded for its quality wines. Continued to appear at various public events, often associated with his famous character and the legacy of the American frontier.

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Willard Boyle

Physicist, Nobel Prize in Physics recipient
Born
August 19th, 1924 100 years ago
Died
May 7th, 2011 13 years ago — 86 years old

A Canadian physicist and academic contributed significantly to the field of physics. In 1969, invented the charge-coupled device (CCD) alongside George E. Smith, which revolutionized electronic imaging. This technology is widely used in video cameras, digital cameras, and astronomical imaging. The scientific contributions were recognized by the Nobel Prize in Physics awarded in 2009. Boyle worked at Bell Laboratories for many years, and his research focused on the development of light-sensitive devices, solid-state physics, and optical technologies.

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