What Happened This Year 1958

People Who Died in 1958

Willie Applegarth

English-American sprinter Olympic medalist
Born
May 11th, 1890 134 years ago
Died
1958 67 years ago — 68 years old

Competed in sprinting events during the early 20th century, achieving significant acclaim. Participated in the 1912 Stockholm Olympics, where earned a medal. His performance in the 100 meters and 200 meters events established a reputation in track and field. Also excelled at national competitions in the United States, securing several titles.

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Ruth Smith

Faroese artist and painter
Born
April 5th, 1913 111 years ago
Died
1958 67 years ago — 45 years old

Born in the Faroe Islands, this artist contributed significantly to the regional art scene throughout the 20th century. She was part of a generation that sought to explore and express indigenous Faroese culture through visual arts. The artist's work often reflected the landscapes and traditions of the Faroe Islands, blending modern artistic styles with local themes. Her paintings have been featured in various exhibitions, showcasing the natural beauty and cultural heritage of her homeland. She played a vital role in promoting Faroese art both locally and internationally.

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Virginia Pearson

American Actress in Silent Films
Born
March 7th, 1886 139 years ago
Died
1958 67 years ago — 72 years old

Born in 1886, an American actress became prominent during the silent film era. She began her career in the early 1900s and appeared in numerous films throughout the 1910s and 1920s. Notable works include 'The Girl in the Show' and 'The Black Spider.' Her performances showcased talent in both drama and comedy, leading to significant recognition in the industry. Transitioning into sound films, her later career focused less on major roles but retained influence in early American cinema until retirement.

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Alexandre Tuffère

Greek-French triple jumper Olympic medalist
Born
June 8th, 1876 148 years ago
Died
1958 67 years ago — 82 years old

Competed in the triple jump and represented France in international athletics. Achieved significant success, securing a silver medal at the 1900 Summer Olympics in Paris. Contributed to the popularity of the sport during the early 20th century. Was active in the athletics community and helped to promote events.

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Mary Ritter Beard

Historian and women's rights activist
Born
August 5th, 1876 148 years ago
Died
1958 67 years ago — 82 years old

Contributed significantly to the field of history and was an advocate for women's rights. Co-authored 'America Through Women's Eyes' which highlighted women's experiences in American history. Played a crucial role in the formation of the American Association of University Women, promoting educational opportunities for women. Established the Women's National Historical Park, which focused on the contributions of women in American history.

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André Bazin

Film critic and theorist, founded Cahiers du Cinéma
Born
April 18th, 1918 106 years ago
Died
1958 67 years ago — 40 years old

A prominent film critic and theorist, this individual significantly contributed to film criticism and theory through writing and teaching. Established the influential film magazine Cahiers du Cinéma, which became a foundational source of film theory in the mid-20th century. Advocated for realism in cinema and analyzed the works of various filmmakers. His essays and critiques inspired the French New Wave and shaped modern film criticism.

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Clarence DeMar

Runner and Boston Marathon champion
Born
June 7th, 1888 136 years ago
Died
1958 67 years ago — 70 years old

Achieved prominence in long-distance running during the early 20th century. Won the Boston Marathon seven times between 1910 and 1930. Excelled in the marathon distance and set multiple course records. Also contributed to the sport as a coach and educator, influencing future generations of runners through teaching and mentorship.

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Karl Lashley

Psychologist and behaviorist, engram theory
Born
June 7th, 1890 134 years ago
Died
1958 67 years ago — 68 years old

Contributions focused on understanding the neurological basis of learning and memory. Formulated the concept of engrams, which are physical traces of memory in the brain. Conducted research on brain lesions and their effects on behavior. Proposed that memories are not located in specific areas but distributed across multiple regions of the brain. His work laid foundational aspects for future studies in neuropsychology and behaviorism.

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Rudolf Rocker

German-American author and activist
Born
March 25th, 1873 151 years ago
Died
1958 67 years ago — 85 years old

Born in Germany, an influential author and activist significantly contributed to anarchist thought and labor movements. Emigrated to the United States where engaged in numerous social causes and labor rights initiatives. Wrote extensively on topics such as anarchism and socialism. The book 'Anarcho-Syndicalism' became a seminal text in the fields of labor and social theory. Actively participated in various labor movements, advocating for workers' rights and social justice throughout his life.

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