What Happened This Year 1957
People Who Died in 1957
Tomitaro Makino
A prominent Japanese botanist contributed significantly to the field of plant taxonomy and botany. Engaged in extensive research of Japan's flora, identified and described numerous plant species, many of which are endemic to Japan. His work on plant classification laid foundational contributions to botany in the country. Established the Makino Botanical Garden in Kōchi, which showcases native plants and serves as a center for botanical studies.
Continue ReadingAga Khan III
Served as the 48th Imam of the Shia Ismaili Muslims from 1885 until death in 1957. Established the Aga Khan Education Service to provide educational opportunities and improve standards in education for Muslim communities. Promoted various social and economic initiatives through the Aga Khan Development Network, focusing on poverty alleviation and community development. Advocated for better understanding among cultures and religions throughout the 20th century.
Continue ReadingShigeyasu Suzuki
A general in the Imperial Japanese Army during World War II, contributed to the defense strategies in the Pacific Theater. Commanded the Japanese forces during the Battle of the Philippines in 1944. Involved in planning military operations against Allied forces, particularly in the Philippines campaign. Captured during the war and later faced war crime charges.
Continue ReadingOldřich Duras
A prominent chess player and composer, contributions included multiple works in chess literature and creation of unique chess problems. Competed in various national and international tournaments, achieving notable results. Served as an influential figure within the Czech chess community, participating in the development and promotion of the game during the early 20th century.
Continue ReadingJohnny Torrio
An influential figure in the early 20th-century American organized crime scene. Played a significant role in establishing the Chicago Outfit. Oversaw various illegal activities including bootlegging during Prohibition. Relocated from New York to Chicago, where partnerships with other crime figures solidified control over the city's underworld. Mentored Al Capone, who rose to prominence under Torrio's guidance before taking over leadership. Retired from organized crime and moved to Italy, avoiding law enforcement attention.
Continue ReadingO. G. S. Crawford
An influential archaeologist, contributed significantly to the development of archaeology as a scientific discipline. An early adopter of aerial photography in archaeological surveys, documented sites and landscapes in ways that had not been done previously. Played a key role in the establishment of the British Institute of Archaeology at Ankara. Authored several important works on archaeology, including significant texts that shaped future studies in the field.
Continue ReadingHenry Norris Russell
An astronomer significantly contributed to the understanding of stellar evolution and classification of stars. Developed the Russell-Vogt theorem, which relates a star's mass and evolutionary stage. Explored the Hertzsprung-Russell diagram, aiding in the classification and understanding of stellar properties. Served as the director of Princeton University Observatory and published numerous papers in the field. His research laid foundational aspects of modern astrophysics.
Continue ReadingBill Meanix
An accomplished hurdler, achievements included competing in the 1920 Summer Olympics. Served as a coach for track and field, contributing to the development of future athletes. Helped elevate the profile of the hurdles through coaching and mentoring.
Continue ReadingJože Plečnik
An architect associated with the Slovenian architectural movement, contributed significantly to the design and aesthetics of Ljubljana. Created iconic structures reflecting a blend of classical and modernist styles. Established a reputation for innovative urban planning, particularly through designs of public buildings and landscapes that emphasized functional beauty. Worked extensively on the National and University Library of Slovenia and the Plečnik House. Contributions influenced modern architecture in Slovenia and beyond.
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