What Happened This Year 1924

Born in 1924

Masao Horiba

Businessman, founder of Horiba Corporation
Born
December 1st, 1924 100 years ago
Died
2015 10 years ago — 91 years old

Founded Horiba, a company specializing in measurements and analysis equipment. Under leadership, Horiba expanded globally, focusing on automotive test equipment and various other scientific instruments. The company became a significant player in the fields of environmental, medical, and semiconductor industries. Developed innovative technologies that advanced measurement capabilities in laboratories and industries worldwide.

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Alexander Haig

American general and Secretary of State
Born
December 2nd, 1924 100 years ago
Died
February 20th, 2010 15 years ago — 85 years old

A career military officer and politician, held the position of 59th United States Secretary of State from 1981 to 1982 under President Ronald Reagan. Participated in key Cold War events and emphasized a strong military posture. Served as the Supreme Allied Commander Europe of NATO from 1974 to 1979, playing a crucial role in military strategy and defense policies. Joined the White House staff as Chief of Staff, contributing to the management of top-level meetings and decisions. His tenure in government followed a distinguished military career, including service in the Korean and Vietnam Wars.

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Else Marie Pade

Danish composer and electronic music pioneer
Born
December 2nd, 1924 100 years ago
Died
2016 9 years ago — 92 years old

A prominent composer, contributions spanned both traditional and electronic music realms. Studied at the Royal Danish Academy of Music, where foundational skills in composition were developed. Pade's work included pioneering efforts in electronic music, utilizing various technologies to create innovative soundscapes. Collaborated with the Danish Radio and participated in the development of electronic music in Denmark. Several compositions integrated nature and movement into sound, showcasing unique blending of the acoustic and electronic domains.

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Jonathan Frid

Canadian actor in Dark Shadows
Born
December 2nd, 1924 100 years ago
Died
April 14th, 2012 12 years ago — 87 years old

An actor associated with the gothic soap opera Dark Shadows, achieved notable recognition for the portrayal of the character Barnabas Collins. The series aired from 1966 to 1971 and gained a cult following. Frid's performance contributed to the show's success and has had a lasting influence on vampire fiction in popular culture. In addition to television, he had a career in theater, performing in various stage productions and continuing to participate in fan conventions even after the show’s conclusion.

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Vilgot Sjöman

Swedish director and screenwriter
Born
December 2nd, 1924 100 years ago
Died
April 9th, 2006 18 years ago — 81 years old

This individual was a prominent Swedish director and screenwriter, contributing significantly to cinema in the 1960s and 1970s. The work spanned several genres, but the most defining piece remains the film 'I Am Curious (Yellow)', which explored themes of politics and sexuality. The controversial nature of this film led to extensive discussions about censorship and artistic expression in Sweden and beyond. The director's style was marked by a blend of documentary and narrative techniques, creating a unique voice in Swedish film culture. Several other films further established a legacy in cinema, showcasing distinct narratives and thoughtful commentary on society.

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Roberto Mieres

Argentinian race car driver and champion
Born
December 3rd, 1924 100 years ago
Died
January 26th, 2012 13 years ago — 87 years old

A prominent race car driver, this individual achieved notable success in the early years of the Argentine motorsport scene. Competed in the Turismo Carretera, which is one of the most prestigious racing series in Argentina. Secured multiple victories and became a respected figure in the motorsport community. His career spanned several decades, with a focus on both driving and developing racing vehicles.

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Wiel Coerver

Football manager and player, Coerver Method
Born
December 3rd, 1924 100 years ago
Died
2011 14 years ago — 87 years old

A Dutch football player and manager, recognized for developing the Coerver Method, a technique focused on improving individual skills and ball control. Played as a midfielder during the 1940s and 1950s. Transitioned into coaching, where he implemented the Coerver Method to train players and teams. His coaching influenced many football academies and trainers worldwide, emphasizing skill development through structured training sessions. Worked with various clubs and national teams, contributing to the growth of young talent in football.

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F. Sionil José

Filipino writer and journalist
Born
December 3rd, 1924 100 years ago
Died
2022 3 years ago — 98 years old

A prominent journalist and author, recognized for contributions to Philippine literature. Authored the Rosales Saga, a series of novels reflecting the social and political landscape of the Philippines. Engaged in various literary and cultural initiatives aimed at elevating Filipino literature. Received numerous accolades for literary achievements, including the Commonwealth Literary Award.

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Robert Sobukwe

South African politician and activist
Born
December 5th, 1924 100 years ago
Died
1978 47 years ago — 54 years old

Born in 1924, played a significant role in South Africa's anti-apartheid movement. Initially a member of the African National Congress, later founded the Pan Africanist Congress in 1959. Advocated for African nationalism and land reform, opposing the apartheid government's racial policies. Arrested in 1960 following the Sharpeville massacre and subjected to political detention without trial. Maintained political activism despite government restrictions and censorship until his death in 1978.

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