What Happened This Year 1958

People Who Died in 1958

Clinton Davisson

American physicist, Nobel Prize laureate
Born
October 22nd, 1881 143 years ago
Died
February 1st, 1958 67 years ago — 76 years old

An American physicist contributed to the field of quantum mechanics and wave-particle duality. His work led to the experimental confirmation of de Broglie's hypothesis regarding the wave nature of electrons. Davisson shared the 1937 Nobel Prize in Physics with George Paget Thomson for their discovery of electron diffraction. This groundbreaking research advanced the understanding of the behavior of particles at the quantum level, influencing further developments in quantum physics and material science. Beyond his Nobel work, Davisson held academic positions, impacting the education and training of future physicists.

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Henry Kuttner

Author of influential sci-fi works
Born
April 7th, 1915 109 years ago
Died
February 4th, 1958 67 years ago — 42 years old

A prominent American author and screenwriter, focused on science fiction and fantasy genres. Kuttner collaborated extensively with his wife, contributing significantly to pulp magazines in the 1940s. Formed a notable partnership with C.L. Moore, co-writing several works. His stories often explored psychological themes and featured complex characters. Kuttner's influence extended to television and film adaptations of his works, affecting the sci-fi landscape. Pioneering the use of the pseudonym Lewis Padgett, he produced memorable stories that continue to resonate in literary discussions.

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Ernest Jones

Welsh neurologist and psychoanalyst
Born
1879 146 years ago
Died
February 11th, 1958 67 years ago — 79 years old

Contributed significantly to the field of psychoanalysis, particularly through the promotion of Freudian theory. Held notable positions in various psychoanalytical societies. Played a crucial role in introducing psychoanalysis to the United Kingdom and establishing it within medical practice. Published several works which included extensive studies on the life and theories of Sigmund Freud, as well as explorations into the connections between neurology and psychology.

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Douglas Hartree

Mathematician and physicist, Hartree method
Born
March 27th, 1897 127 years ago
Died
February 12th, 1958 67 years ago — 60 years old

Contributed significantly to applied mathematics and physics. Developed the Hartree method, a pioneering approach in quantum mechanics for solving many-body problems. Held a position as a professor of applied mathematics at the University of Manchester. His work laid the groundwork for advancements in computational methods in physics and chemistry. Published numerous papers and collaborated with several notable scientists throughout his career.

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Christabel Pankhurst

English women's rights activist
Born
September 22nd, 1880 144 years ago
Died
February 13th, 1958 67 years ago — 77 years old

An influential activist focused on women's suffrage. Co-founded the Women's Social and Political Union (WSPU) in 1903, which employed more militant tactics to advocate for women's voting rights in the United Kingdom. Played a significant role in organizing events, rallies, and campaigns to raise awareness of women's issues. Participated in numerous hunger strikes while imprisoned for activism, drawing attention to the suffrage movement's cause. Advocated for women's rights throughout her life, even after the passage of the Representation of the People Act in 1918, which granted some women the right to vote.

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Georges Rouault

French painter and illustrator, Fauvism
Born
May 27th, 1871 153 years ago
Died
February 13th, 1958 67 years ago — 86 years old

A prominent French painter and illustrator, this artist gained recognition for a unique style that blended expressionism and Fauvism. Working primarily in oil paintings, he created compelling works that often reflected themes of suffering and spirituality. During early career, involvement in the Paris art scene led to exhibitions at the Salon d'Automne and other notable venues. Rouault's most famous series, 'Miserere et Guerre', was produced during and after World War I, showcasing both the tragedy of war and the quest for redemption. The artist's later works continued to explore human emotion through the themes of faith and suffering, establishing a legacy in modern art.

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Abdur Rab Nishtar

Pakistani politician, 2nd Governor of Punjab
Born
1899 126 years ago
Died
February 14th, 1958 67 years ago — 59 years old

A prominent politician in Pakistan, served as the 2nd Governor of Punjab from 1947 until 1951. Played a significant role in the early years of the country's political landscape after independence. Held various positions within the All-India Muslim League and contributed to the formation of Pakistan. Also served as a member of the national assembly and was an influential leader in the region. Advocated for economic and social development during his tenure and actively participated in discussions that shaped policies in Punjab.

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Duncan Edwards

English footballer and Manchester United star
Born
October 1st, 1936 88 years ago
Died
February 21st, 1958 67 years ago — 21 years old

One of the most talented footballers of his time, played as a midfielder for Manchester United. Joined the club at a young age and quickly established himself as a key player. Contributed to Manchester United's success in the FA Cup and showcased exceptional skill and strength on the field. Tragically lost life in a plane crash in 1958 at the age of 21, which also claimed many of his teammates. Left a legacy within the club and is remembered as one of the club's greatest players.

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Abul Kalam Azad

Indian scholar and Minister of Education
Born
November 11th, 1888 136 years ago
Died
February 22nd, 1958 67 years ago — 69 years old

A prominent scholar and politician, held the position of Minister of Education in India from 1947 to 1958. Played a significant role in establishing educational policies and institutions in post-independence India. Contributed to the promotion of science and technology in the education system. Was a close associate of Mahatma Gandhi and worked towards the upliftment of the Muslim community while advocating for a united India.

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