What Happened This Year 1943

Historical Events from This Year 1943 (View all 181)

Politics & Government

New Equal Treaties Signed by Republic of China

January 11th, 1943 82 years ago

The Republic of China agreed to the Sino-British and Sino-American New Equal Treaties, marking a significant moment in international relations during World War II. These agreements aimed to update and equalize previous treaties that had been perceived as unequal, enhancing China's sovereignty and rights in dealings with Britain and the United States. The negotiations highlighted the changing geopolitical landscape as China sought to establish itself more robustly post-imperial influences.

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Crime & Law

Assassination of Carlo Tresca in New York City

January 11th, 1943 82 years ago

Carlo Tresca, an Italian-American anarchist, was assassinated outside a New York City bar. Known for his fierce opposition to fascism and advocacy for workers' rights, Tresca's assassination was attributed to organized crime influences. The incident shocked the political community, highlighting tensions between social movements and mob elements. He was shot multiple times as he left the bar, marking a significant moment in radical politics during World War II.

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Military & Warfare

Japan Evacuates Forces from Guadalcanal

January 14th, 1943 82 years ago

Operation Ke was launched by Japan to withdraw its troops from Guadalcanal in January 1943. The operation involved extensive naval support and was critical for the retreating soldiers as they faced increasing losses and logistical difficulties. Japanese forces utilized destroyers and submarines to conduct the operation, aiming to maximize their operational capacities while minimizing casualties amid intense Allied pressure. The successful evacuation demonstrated Japan's strategic flexibility, albeit at the cost of losing ground to Allied forces in the Solomon Islands.

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Military & Warfare

Roosevelt and Churchill Begin Casablanca Conference

January 14th, 1943 82 years ago

Franklin D. Roosevelt and Winston Churchill convened in Casablanca, Morocco, to strategize about the next phase of World War II. The conference lasted from January 14 to January 24, 1943, bringing together military and political leaders to discuss key issues concerning the European theater. A focal point was the decision to pursue the unconditional surrender of Axis powers, a resolution that aimed to solidify Allied unity and deter any negotiated peace that could allow fascist regimes to persist.

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Military & Warfare

Soviet Forces Launch Voronezh Counter-Offensive

January 15th, 1943 82 years ago

In mid-January 1943, Soviet forces initiated a significant counter-offensive against German positions near Voronezh. This operation aimed to recover territory lost during earlier offensives and to weaken the German Army's hold on the Eastern Front. The attack involved a coordinated assault utilizing infantry, armor, and artillery support. Over several weeks, the Soviets aimed to consolidate their gains and create a strategic advantage as they continued to push back against the Axis forces.

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Politics & Government

Dedication of The Pentagon Building

January 15th, 1943 82 years ago

The Pentagon was dedicated as the headquarters of the United States Department of Defense. Located in Arlington County, Virginia, it was designed by architect George Bergstrom and constructed during World War II to accommodate the rapid expansion of the military. The ceremony was attended by military leaders, government officials, and dignitaries. The building features five sides and was completed ahead of schedule, symbolizing American resilience and commitment during wartime. It has since become a recognizable emblem of the U.S. military.

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Born in 1943 (View all 674)

Tom King

Guitarist and songwriter for The Kingsmen
Born
June 13th, 1933 91 years ago
Died
April 23rd, 2011 13 years ago — 77 years old

An American guitarist and songwriter contributed significantly to music in the 1960s. Played rhythm guitar for The Kingsmen, a rock band best recognized for their hit single 'Louie Louie'. The song achieved immense popularity and is often regarded as a classic in the garage rock genre. The Kingsmen's energetic performances and raw sound helped catalyze the garage rock and punk rock movements. Additionally, served as a songwriter for other artists in the rock and roll scene.

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Tony Knowles

Politician and 7th Governor of Alaska
Born
January 1st, 1943 82 years ago

Born in 1943, this American soldier served in the Vietnam War before entering politics. Elected as the 7th Governor of Alaska, served from 1994 to 2002. Focused on economic development, environmental protection, and education reform during the governorship. Before taking office, held positions as a mayor and a businessman, demonstrating a commitment to community improvement. Ran for various offices, including a bid for U.S. Senate.

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Don Novello

Comedian and screenwriter for SNL
Born
January 1st, 1943 82 years ago

An American comedian, screenwriter, and producer, this individual gained prominence through work on the television show 'Saturday Night Live' during the 1970s and 1980s. Characterized by a unique brand of humor, became widely recognized for portraying the character of Father Guido Sarducci. The comedian also contributed to projects beyond SNL, showcasing a varied ability in both writing and performance. In addition to television, involvement in feature films and other media further cemented this individual's position in comedy culture.

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Vladimir Šeks

Croatian politician and lawyer
Born
January 1st, 1943 82 years ago

A prominent Croatian lawyer and politician, served as the 16th Speaker of the Croatian Parliament. Active in politics since the early 1990s, played a significant role in the legislative process during the establishment of Croatia's independence. Contributed to the drafting of key legal frameworks and policies in post-war Croatia. Involved in various political parties and held several important positions in government, influencing the evolution of Croatia's political landscape.

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Janet Akyüz Mattei

Astronomer and leader in stellar research
Born
January 2nd, 1943 82 years ago
Died
March 22nd, 2004 20 years ago — 61 years old

An accomplished astronomer with significant contributions to the field of astronomy, particularly in the study of variable stars. Served as the director of the AAVSO (American Association of Variable Star Observers), fostering international collaboration and data collection in the observation of variable stars. Authored numerous publications that advanced the understanding of stellar variability and worked extensively on public outreach to promote amateur astronomy. Advocated for the inclusion of women in science throughout a career that spanned several decades until passing in 2004.

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Van Dyke Parks

Singer-songwriter and composer, 'Song Cycle'
Born
January 3rd, 1943 82 years ago

A celebrated singer-songwriter and composer, contributed significantly to the American music landscape. Gained prominence for the album 'Song Cycle', considered one of the earliest examples of art rock. Worked extensively with The Beach Boys on the unfinished 'Smile' project, and collaborated with various artists across genres. Also ventured into film and television as a composer and actor, showcasing a distinct style that blends pop, folk, and orchestral elements.

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People Who Died in 1943 (View all 184)

Bobby Peel

Cricketer and coach with Yorkshire
Born
February 12th, 1857 168 years ago
Died
August 12th, 1941 83 years ago — 84 years old

Played first-class cricket primarily for Yorkshire from 1875 to 1899. Notable for being a leading left-arm spinner, accumulated over 1,800 wickets during career. Contributed to the development of cricket as a coach after retirement from playing. Helped promote the game and trained several players in Yorkshire.

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Jenő Rejtő

Hungarian journalist and writer
Born
1905 120 years ago
Died
January 1st, 1943 82 years ago — 38 years old

Contributions primarily focused on the genre of humorous and adventurous literature. Published under several pseudonyms, which included popular works blending wit and adventure. Notable for writing satirical pieces and novels that addressed social issues in Hungary during the interwar period. Gained a reputation for a unique style that combined humor with critical observation of society. Works continued to be appreciated and enjoyed posthumously.

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Walter James

Australian politician, 5th Premier of Western Australia
Born
March 29th, 1863 161 years ago
Died
January 3rd, 1943 82 years ago — 79 years old

A prominent figure in Australian politics, served as the 5th Premier of Western Australia from 1924 to 1926. His tenure focused on significant reforms in governance and infrastructure development. Involved in various legal and legislative initiatives, contributing to the shaping of state policy during the interwar period. As a member of the Nationalist Party, worked towards economic recovery and addressed issues related to unemployment and land reforms. Also played a role in local government and public service before rising to the premiership.

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Marina Raskova

Russian pilot and navigator in WWII
Born
March 28th, 1912 112 years ago
Died
January 4th, 1943 82 years ago — 30 years old

A pioneer in aviation, a prominent pilot and navigator served in the Soviet Air Force during World War II. Achieved distinction as the first female pilot to receive the title of Hero of the Soviet Union. Instrumental in the creation of three all-female aviation regiments, including the 588th Night Bomber Regiment, which conducted numerous successful missions against enemy targets. Contributed to the training and organization of female pilots in a time when combat roles were predominantly male. Published memoirs detailing experiences in the war, enhancing understanding of women's contributions to military aviation.

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Jerzy Iwanow-Szajnowicz

Swimmer and water polo player
Born
December 14th, 1911 113 years ago
Died
January 4th, 1943 82 years ago — 31 years old

Greek-Polish athlete specialized in swimming and water polo. Competed in the 1936 Summer Olympics representing Poland in swimming events. Played for the Polish national water polo team, contributing to its development during the late 1930s. Engaged in training future athletes and promoted aquatic sports in Poland. His career was cut short due to the circumstances of World War II, resulting in his passing in 1943.

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George Washington Carver

Botanist, educator, and inventor
Born
1864 161 years ago
Died
January 5th, 1943 82 years ago — 79 years old

A prominent American botanist and educator, contributions included advancements in agricultural science. Focused on crop rotation and the use of peanuts, sweet potatoes, and other alternative crops to improve soil fertility. Developed numerous products derived from these plants, enhancing the economic viability of farming in the South. Served as a faculty member at Tuskegee Institute, where education and agricultural research were priorities.

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