What Happened This Year 1957

People Who Died in 1957

Dorothy L. Sayers

English author and poet of detective fiction
Born
June 13th, 1893 131 years ago
Died
December 17th, 1957 67 years ago — 64 years old

An English author and poet, contributions spanned novels, plays, and essays. Achieved acclaim for the creation of the fictional detective Lord Peter Wimsey, debuting in 'Whose Body?' in 1923. Was also a respected playwright and translator, notably adapting Dante's 'Divine Comedy' into English. In addition to fiction, engaged in writing about theology and literary criticism. Pursued academic studies in modern languages and held diverse roles in the publishing field.

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Eric Coates

English viola player and composer
Born
1886 139 years ago
Died
December 21st, 1957 67 years ago — 71 years old

An English viola player and composer, focused on classical music throughout a prolific career. Coates composed numerous orchestral works and performed as a violist, garnering attention for contributions to the music community. Many compositions featured orchestral arrangements that became standards in concert repertoire. Coates maintained a significant presence in the music scene during the early to mid-20th century, creating works that resonated with audiences and musicians alike.

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Frank George Woollard

English engineer and inventor
Born
September 22nd, 1883 141 years ago
Died
December 22nd, 1957 67 years ago — 74 years old

An engineer reputed for contributions to mechanical engineering, specifically in the field of fluid dynamics. Developed significant innovations in the design of hydraulic machines. Played a crucial role in the enhancement of hydraulic systems which are essential in various engineering applications. Worked extensively with the British government during World War II, focusing on improving equipment for military purposes.

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Norma Talmadge

Silent film actress and producer
Born
May 2nd, 1894 130 years ago
Died
December 24th, 1957 67 years ago — 63 years old

Acclaimed as a prominent silent film actress, this individual gained recognition in the early 20th century cinema. Starring in films such as 'Smilin' Through' and 'The Eternal Flame', she captivated audiences with her performances. Beyond acting, ventured into film production, influencing the industry during her era. With a focus on romantic dramas, this actress became one of the leading figures of her time, establishing a successful career that spanned over two decades, until the advent of sound films reshaped the industry and led to her gradual withdrawal from acting.

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Charles Pathé

French record producer, founded Pathé Records
Born
1863 162 years ago
Died
December 25th, 1957 67 years ago — 94 years old

A significant figure in the music industry, established Pathé Records in the early 1900s, contributing to the growth of recorded music. Played a crucial role in the development of sound recording technology and was instrumental in the expansion of the phonograph market. Pathé Records produced numerous recordings that helped shape popular music during the early 20th century. The company engaged in various formats of recording and was a pioneer in the film industry as well.

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Harry McClintock

American singer-songwriter & poet
Born
October 8th, 1882 142 years ago
Died
1957 68 years ago — 75 years old

Born in 1882, this American singer-songwriter and poet became a significant figure in the folk music scene. Best recognized for the song 'Big Rock Candy Mountain,' which captured the spirit of wanderlust and the hobo culture during the Great Depression. McClintock's work often reflected the experiences and struggles of laborers and the disenfranchised. He traveled extensively, performing at various venues and festivals, contributing to the preservation and promotion of folk music.

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Dennis Brain

English horn player and orchestral musician
Born
May 17th, 1921 103 years ago
Died
1957 68 years ago — 36 years old

An accomplished English horn player, recognized for extraordinary performances in classical music. Gained prominence as a leading soloist during the mid-20th century. Played with prestigious ensembles, including the London Philharmonic Orchestra and the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra. Recorded several celebrated works and collaborated with famed composers and conductors. Contributed to the popularity of the English horn through recordings and live performances, showcasing its unique sound.

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Ralph Benatzky

Czech-Swiss composer of operettas
Born
June 5th, 1884 140 years ago
Died
1957 68 years ago — 73 years old

Born in 1884, a composer contributed significantly to the operetta genre. Studied in Prague, established a career in Vienna, and composed numerous works that gained popularity across Europe. His operettas were characterized by catchy melodies and engaging narratives. The work, 'Im weißen Rössl,' was particularly successful and remains a classic example of the genre, performed frequently in theaters. Throughout the 1920s and 1930s, produced several compositions that showcased the fusion of traditional operetta with modern musical elements, leading to widespread acclaim. Later years involved a move to Switzerland during World War II, where continued to compose until passing in 1957.

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Leslie Hore-Belisha

English politician, Secretary of State for War
Born
September 7th, 1893 131 years ago
Died
1957 68 years ago — 64 years old

Served as a British politician actively involved in the government during the late 1930s. Took on the role of Secretary of State for War from 1940 to 1941, overseeing military organization and reforms in preparation for World War II. Introduced the concept of the 'Belisha Beacon,' street safety measures for pedestrians, enhancing road safety across the UK. His term was characterized by efforts to modernize the British Army and improve facilities for troops.

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