What Happened This Year 1957

People Who Died in 1957

Heinrich Bär

German pilot and Luftwaffe colonel
Born
May 25th, 1913 111 years ago
Died
April 28th, 1957 67 years ago — 43 years old

Served as a colonel in the Luftwaffe during World War II. Achieved recognition as a fighter ace, credited with over 200 enemy aircraft kills. Participated prominently in the defense of Germany, engaging in numerous aerial battles. Bär flew the Messerschmitt Bf 109 and was part of several renowned units such as Jagdgeschwader 77. After the war, he faced denazification proceedings but later returned to aviation, working in various capacities within the airline industry.

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Joseph McCarthy

American politician and lawyer
Born
November 14th, 1908 116 years ago
Died
May 2nd, 1957 67 years ago — 48 years old

Served as a U.S. Senator from Wisconsin from 1947 to 1957. Gained prominence during the Red Scare for asserting that numerous communists were infiltrating the U.S. government and other institutions. His aggressive investigations and hearings, known as McCarthyism, were marked by accusations without proper evidence, leading to widespread fear and controversy. McCarthy faced opposition from various political figures and media. Eventually, the Senate conducted a censure against him in 1954, which significantly diminished his influence. Died on May 2, 1957.

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Leopold Löwenheim

Mathematician and logician
Born
June 26th, 1878 146 years ago
Died
May 5th, 1957 67 years ago — 78 years old

Contributed significantly to mathematical logic and model theory. Developed the Löwenheim-Skolem theorem, which establishes a relationship between formal languages and their models. Engaged in the foundations of mathematics and worked on a range of topics within mathematical logic throughout his career. His work helped to shape the understanding of the consistency and completeness of logical systems.

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Ezio Pinza

Italian-American operatic bass singer
Born
May 18th, 1892 132 years ago
Died
May 9th, 1957 67 years ago — 64 years old

Initially worked in Italy before moving to the United States, where a successful career in opera and Broadway evolved. Gained notable acclaim for performances in productions such as 'South Pacific.' Also achieved recognition as a recording artist, contributing to the popularity of operatic music in American culture during the mid-20th century.

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Ernest de Silva

Sri Lankan banker and businessman
Born
1887 138 years ago
Died
May 9th, 1957 67 years ago — 70 years old

Contributed significantly to the banking sector in Sri Lanka as a prominent banker and businessman. Played a major role in the establishment and growth of various financial institutions. Engaged in numerous entrepreneurial ventures, enhancing economic activities within the country. Active in philanthropic efforts, supporting education and welfare initiatives.

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Alfonso de Portago

Race car driver and bobsledder
Born
October 11th, 1928 96 years ago
Died
May 12th, 1957 67 years ago — 28 years old

Born in Spain in 1928, a prominent race car driver and bobsledder achieved notable recognition in motorsports. Competed in Formula One with Ferrari, making his debut at the 1956 French Grand Prix. Participated in the Mille Miglia, a famous road race, showcasing exceptional skill and bravery during a period of limited safety standards in racing. Tragically lost life during the 1957 Mille Miglia, marking a significant moment in racing history.

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Erich von Stroheim

Actor and director of silent films
Born
September 22nd, 1885 139 years ago
Died
May 12th, 1957 67 years ago — 71 years old

An influential figure in early cinema, one of the first filmmakers to achieve artistic acclaim. Directed and starred in films such as "Greed" and "The Wedding March", which showcased an innovative approach to storytelling and production techniques. Contributed to the development of cinematic language through meticulous attention to detail and realism. Worked in various capacities in the film industry, including roles as an actor in major silent films. His filmmaking style paved the way for future directors in Hollywood.

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Michael Fekete

Mathematician and academic in Hungary
Born
July 19th, 1886 138 years ago
Died
May 13th, 1957 67 years ago — 70 years old

Born in Hungary, contributed significantly to mathematical logic and set theory. Fekete pursued an academic career in both Hungary and Israel, where research focused on mathematical analysis and topology. He authored several influential papers in his field, shaping modern mathematical thought. Fekete was a professor at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem, fostering the development of mathematics in Israel.

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Marie Vassilieff

Russian-French painter and artist
Born
February 12th, 1884 141 years ago
Died
May 14th, 1957 67 years ago — 73 years old

Originated from Russia, developed a significant career in France as a painter. Vassilieff's work showcased elements of both Cubism and Fauvism. She became associated with the Montparnasse art scene and frequently exhibited at various galleries. In 1914, she participated in the Salon d'Automne, gaining recognition for her distinctive style. Vassilieff also contributed to the art community through teaching and was involved in the promotion of contemporary art.

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