What Happened This Year 1924

Born in 1924

Speedy West

Guitarist and producer in country music
Born
January 25th, 1924 101 years ago
Died
November 15th, 2003 21 years ago — 79 years old

A prominent figure in the country music scene, contributed significantly as a steel guitarist and producer. Played on numerous recordings throughout the 1940s and 1950s, helping to shape the sound of Western swing and honky-tonk music. Worked with various notable artists, enhancing their recordings with unique steel guitar tones. Produced tracks that showcased the versatility and richness of country music instrumentation.

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Anahid Ajemian

American violinist and chamber musician
Born
January 26th, 1924 101 years ago
Died
2016 9 years ago — 92 years old

Born in 1924, this American violinist gained recognition for performances both as a soloist and as a chamber musician. Studied at the Juilliard School and participated in several prestigious music festivals. Collaborated with prominent artists and ensembles, contributing to the classical music landscape. Recorded works of various composers and participated in notable world premieres.

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Alice Babs

Swedish singer and actress in musicals
Born
January 26th, 1924 101 years ago
Died
February 11th, 2014 11 years ago — 90 years old

Became a prominent figure in Swedish music and acting during the 20th century. Rose to fame as a singer and starred in several notable films and stage productions. Participated in the Eurovision Song Contest in 1958, representing Sweden. Worked with numerous artists and contributed to the cultural scene in Sweden through performances in various genres, including jazz and folk music.

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Annette Strauss

Philanthropist and Mayor of Dallas
Born
January 26th, 1924 101 years ago
Died
December 14th, 1998 26 years ago — 74 years old

A prominent philanthropist and politician, served as the first female mayor of Dallas from 1987 to 1991. Instrumental in various community initiatives and urban development projects. Advocated for women's rights and education throughout her career. Played a critical role in the establishment of numerous charitable organizations and initiatives in Dallas.

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Rauf Denktaş

Turkish-Cypriot politician and lawyer
Born
January 27th, 1924 101 years ago
Died
January 13th, 2012 13 years ago — 87 years old

A lawyer and politician, served as the first President of Northern Cyprus from 1983 until 2005. Played a significant role in the politics of the island, particularly regarding the ongoing division between the Turkish and Greek Cypriots. Actively engaged in negotiations over the Cyprus issue and advocated for Turkish Cypriot rights on the international stage. His leadership during a critical period in Northern Cyprus's history shaped its political landscape.

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Brian Rix

Actor and producer in British theater
Born
January 27th, 1924 101 years ago
Died
2016 9 years ago — 92 years old

An actor and producer, recognized for contributions to the British theater scene. Established a successful career in light entertainment, particularly through the farces and comedies staged at the Whitehall Theatre. Transitioned into politics, serving as a member of the House of Lords. Promoted theater accessibility and contributed to various charitable causes. His work maintained a focus on increasing awareness around issues of learning disabilities.

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Harvey Shapiro

American poet and author of 'The Lost Poem'
Born
January 27th, 1924 101 years ago
Died
2013 12 years ago — 89 years old

Born in 1924, this American poet contributed significantly to contemporary poetry. Educated at the University of Pittsburgh and New York University, the poet published numerous collections throughout a career that spanned decades. Themes in the work often reflect personal experience, memory, and the passage of time. Work included the poem collection 'The Lost Poem'. The poet also worked as an editor and was active in literary circles, fostering the development of emerging poets and advocating for poetry as a vital art form.

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Marcel Broodthaers

Belgian painter and poet with installation art
Born
January 28th, 1924 101 years ago
Died
January 28th, 1976 49 years ago — 52 years old

A painter and poet, this individual emerged as a significant figure in the art world during the 20th century. Initially involved in poetry, he transitioned to visual art, creating innovative installations that challenged traditional boundaries of artistic expression. His work often addressed themes of language, politics, and identity. The conceptual art movement greatly influenced his practice, leading to the establishment of a unique blend of text and visual elements. Through exhibitions across Europe and America, this individual gained recognition in avant-garde circles, contributing to discussions around the nature of art itself.

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Ernie Calverley

Basketball player and coach, NBA champion
Born
January 30th, 1924 101 years ago
Died
2003 22 years ago — 79 years old

Achieved success as a basketball player and coach. Played for the Providence Steamrollers and the Boston Celtics. Contributed to the Celtics' 1957 NBA Championship win. Transitioned into coaching after retirement, leading various collegiate teams. His coaching career included time at the University of Rhode Island.

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