What Happened This Year 1957

People Who Died in 1957

Aga Khan III

48th Shia Imam, spiritual leader
Born
November 2nd, 1877 147 years ago
Died
1957 68 years ago — 80 years old

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.

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Tomitaro Makino

Japanese botanist and plant taxonomist
Born
April 24th, 1862 162 years ago
Died
1957 68 years ago — 95 years old

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.

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Christopher Morley

Journalist and author of 'Parnassus on Wheels'
Born
May 5th, 1890 134 years ago
Died
1957 68 years ago — 67 years old

A journalist and author contributed significantly to American literature in the early 20th century. Best recognized for the novel 'Parnassus on Wheels', which humorously explored the life of a traveling bookseller, this writer gained prominence through a series of popular works and essays. In addition to fiction, significant contributions to journalism were made, particularly through the establishment of the literary magazine 'The Bookman'. This figure also played a crucial role in the promotion of literary culture during the 1920s and 1930s, with many writings reflecting a deep appreciation for literature and books.

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Gilbert Murray

Playwright and scholar of ancient Greece
Born
January 2nd, 1866 159 years ago
Died
1957 68 years ago — 91 years old

An Australian-English playwright and scholar specialized in classical studies and the translation of Greek plays. Significant contributions include translating works of Aeschylus and Euripides, making ancient Greek literature accessible to a wider audience. Held the position of Regius Professor of Greek at the University of Oxford between 1908 and 1936. Actively engaged in promoting the peace movement during and after World War I. His translations played a key role in reviving interest in Greek tragedies in the early 20th century.

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John Middleton Murry

English poet and author of literary essays
Born
August 6th, 1889 135 years ago
Died
1957 68 years ago — 68 years old

An English poet and author, contributions span poetry and literary criticism. Published several volumes of poetry, including 'The New Poems.' Served as editor of 'The Athenaeum' and wrote extensively on various literary topics. Known for essays that explored the works of prominent writers and philosophers. Offered insights into the lives of contemporaries such as D.H. Lawrence, with whom he had a close relationship. Also contributed to the establishment of important literary journals, promoting new writers and ideas. Engaged actively in discussions on culture and society through writing and lectures.

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Dudley Benjafield

English racing driver and Le Mans winner
Born
August 6th, 1887 137 years ago
Died
1957 68 years ago — 70 years old

A prominent racing driver, excelled in the early 20th century. Competed successfully in the 24 Hours of Le Mans, driving for Bentley. Contributed to the popularity of endurance racing in the UK during that time. Participated in various racing events and gained recognition for skill and speed on the track.

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Heinrich Hoffmann

German photographer and art dealer
Born
September 12th, 1885 139 years ago
Died
1957 68 years ago — 72 years old

A photographer and art dealer, contributed significantly to the visual documentation of Nazi Germany, operating a photography studio in Berlin. Worked as the official photographer for the National Socialist German Workers' Party, capturing many portraits of Adolf Hitler. Published photographic works that included propaganda materials and art catalogs which supported the political regime during the 1930s and 1940s.

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Eugenio Castellotti

Italian race car driver, Mille Miglia winner
Born
October 10th, 1930 94 years ago
Died
1957 68 years ago — 27 years old

Active in the 1950s, this race car driver achieved notable success in the sport, particularly with Ferrari. Competing in the Mille Miglia, won the event in 1954, showcasing speed and skill. Participated in several Formula One races during the early years of the championship, driving for Ferrari and Maserati. Tragically, a fatal accident occurred during a race in 1957, ending a promising career at a young age.

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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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