What Happened This Year 1924

Born in 1924

Consuelo Velázquez

Pianist and songwriter of Bésame Mucho
Born
August 21st, 1916 108 years ago
Died
January 22nd, 2005 20 years ago — 88 years old

Began composing music at a young age. Gained recognition as a pianist and songwriter, with much of the work centered in Mexico. Created the iconic bolero 'Bésame Mucho' in 1940, which became a standard in Latin music and was covered by numerous artists globally. Other songs contributed to the music scene, showcasing a blend of classical and popular styles. Her work significantly influenced Latin American music, and she received various awards in recognition of her contributions. Continued to perform and compose throughout her life, leaving a lasting legacy in the music community.

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Francisco Macías Nguema

Equatorial Guinean politician, 1st President
Born
January 1st, 1924 101 years ago
Died
September 29th, 1979 45 years ago — 55 years old

Became the first president of Equatorial Guinea after the country’s independence from Spain in 1968. Established a one-party state and ruled with an authoritarian style, promoting his regime's ideology under a philosophy called 'Marxism-Leninism'. Oversaw significant changes in governance, including nationalization of industries and land reform. His presidency was marked by widespread political repression and human rights abuses, leading to a deep national unrest. A military coup in 1979 resulted in his removal from power and subsequent execution.

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André Franquin

Comic artist and illustrator of Gaston
Born
January 3rd, 1924 101 years ago
Died
January 5th, 1997 28 years ago — 73 years old

A Belgian author and illustrator, this individual specialized in comic art and was a significant figure in the Franco-Belgian comic scene. Franquin created the comic series 'Gaston Lagaffe,' which introduced the character Gaston, a bumbling office worker known for his mischief. Additionally, Franquin contributed to the 'Spirou et Fantasio' series, where he developed iconic characters such as Marsupilami. His work is characterized by dynamic visuals and humorous storytelling, making a notable impact on the medium of comics.

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Nell Rankin

American soprano and educator
Born
January 3rd, 1924 101 years ago
Died
January 13th, 2005 20 years ago — 81 years old

Born in 1924, this soprano gained recognition for a significant career in opera and education. Training at prestigious institutes, she excelled in a variety of roles within prominent operatic works. In addition to performing, she dedicated time to teaching voice, influencing the next generation of singers. Equity in arts education was a cornerstone of her philosophy, contributing to her role as an educator. Engagements at various opera houses included performances in operas such as 'Aida' and 'Carmen.' The commitment to both performance and teaching underscored a multifaceted career in the performing arts.

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Otto Beisheim

Businessman and founder of Metro AG
Born
January 3rd, 1924 101 years ago
Died
2013 12 years ago — 89 years old

A businessman established a prominent wholesale cash-and-carry business model in Europe by founding Metro AG in 1964. The company became a leader in the global wholesale trade, operating various store formats across multiple countries. Beyond business, significant philanthropic efforts focused on health and education through the Beisheim Foundation, positively influencing various social projects.

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Marianne Werner

German shot putter Olympic medalist
Born
January 4th, 1924 101 years ago
Died
2023 2 years ago — 99 years old

Competed in shot put at the international level. Achieved significant success during the mid-20th century. Competed at the 1952 Helsinki Olympics, securing a bronze medal. Active in athletics throughout the 1940s and 1950s, contributing to the development of women’s athletics in Germany.

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Earl Scruggs

Banjo player and bluegrass musician
Born
January 6th, 1924 101 years ago
Died
2012 13 years ago — 88 years old

Born in 1924, a banjo player, played a crucial role in popularizing bluegrass music. Developed a three-finger picking style that revolutionized the instrument's playing technique. Formed a prominent duo with guitarist Lester Flatt, creating influential music in the genre. Their band, The Foggy Mountain Boys, produced iconic recordings, including the instrumental 'Foggy Mountain Breakdown,' which gained significant acclaim and was featured in the film 'Bonnie and Clyde.' Scruggs also contributed to the creation of the Earl Scruggs Revue, which blended bluegrass with rock and folk music. Throughout a long career, received several accolades, including multiple Grammy Awards and induction into the International Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame.

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Kim Dae-jung

Politician and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
January 6th, 1924 101 years ago
Died
August 18th, 2009 15 years ago — 85 years old

Served as the 8th President of South Korea from 1998 to 2003. Played a significant role in promoting democracy and human rights in South Korea. Advocated for a policy of engagement with North Korea, known as the 'Sunshine Policy'. Was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2000 for efforts to foster peace and reconciliation on the Korean Peninsula.

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Geoffrey Bayldon

English actor in 'Catweazle'
Born
January 7th, 1924 101 years ago
Died
2017 8 years ago — 93 years old

An English actor, significant contributions to television and film occurred throughout a prolific career. Prominent roles included the character Catweazle in the children's television series 'Catweazle,' which aired from 1970 to 1971. This performance captured the charm of the titular character, a wizard from the Middle Ages who finds himself in the modern world. Other noteworthy appearances included roles in 'The Black Adder' and 'The Phantom of the Opera.' In addition to television, contributions to theatre and film enriched the performing arts landscape.

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