What Happened This Year 1959

People Who Died in 1959

Elisabeth Moore

American tennis player and champion
Born
March 5th, 1876 149 years ago
Died
1959 66 years ago — 83 years old

Competed in the early 20th century, achieving notable success in women's tennis. Won multiple championships, including the U.S. National Championships in 1907 and 1908. Played at a time when women's participation in sports was increasing, paving the way for future generations. Contributed to the popularization of tennis in the United States.

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Rhea Silberta

Yiddish songwriter and singing teacher
Born
April 19th, 1900 124 years ago
Died
1959 66 years ago — 59 years old

A significant figure in Yiddish music, contributed numerous songs that highlighted cultural themes and human experiences. Served as a singing teacher, influencing many students in the realms of Yiddish culture and music. Actively participated in the preservation and promotion of Yiddish song through performances and educational efforts. Engaged in the broader Yiddish cultural movement during the 20th century, amplifying the voices and stories of the community through art and teaching.

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Ki Hajar Dewantara

Indonesian education reformer and politician
Born
May 2nd, 1889 135 years ago
Died
1959 66 years ago — 70 years old

An influential figure in Indonesian education, played a crucial role in the development of the national education system. Founded the Taman Siswa school system in 1922, which promoted cultural independence and national pride. Advocated for educational reforms during the Dutch colonial period, emphasizing the importance of education in fostering national identity. Involved in the movement for Indonesian independence and served as the first Minister of Education, Teaching, and Culture in the post-independence government.

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Jacob Epstein

Sculptor, installation of 'Eve and the Serpent'
Born
November 10th, 1880 144 years ago
Died
1959 66 years ago — 79 years old

Born in 1880, this American-English sculptor trained in Paris and became a significant figure in modern sculpture. Early works were heavily influenced by the naturalistic style but gradually evolved towards abstraction. Notable works include 'Eve and the Serpent', a powerful representation of biblical themes, and various public monuments, such as the Holborn Viaduct memorial in London. Epstein's style often combined elements of the human form with expressionist tendencies, creating pieces noted for their emotional depth. Later in life, he produced numerous busts and reliefs, including portraits of famous personalities. He also played a role in the artistic community in both the United States and the United Kingdom.

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Martha Brookes Hutcheson

Landscaper and author of gardening books
Born
October 2nd, 1871 153 years ago
Died
1959 66 years ago — 88 years old

A prominent landscaper and author, contributed significantly to early 20th-century landscape design in America. Worked on various notable projects, emphasizing the integration of native plant species into garden design. Authored several influential books on horticulture and landscape architecture, designed to educate both professionals and gardening enthusiasts. Championed sustainable and organic gardening practices, leaving a lasting legacy through her writing and workshops. Continued efforts to promote gardening as a form of art and a means to enhance home environments.

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Molla Mallory

Tennis player; six-time US National Champion
Born
March 6th, 1884 141 years ago
Died
1959 66 years ago — 75 years old

Molla Mallory was a Norwegian-American tennis player who achieved considerable success in the early 20th century. She immigrated to the United States in 1903 and quickly established herself as a dominant force in women's tennis. Mallory played in the US National Championships, where she secured six singles titles between 1915 and 1926. In addition to her singles success, she was also a skilled doubles player, capturing multiple championship titles alongside various partners. Her aggressive playing style and strong baseline game were hallmarks of her competition. Over the course of her career, Mallory contributed significantly to the growth of women's tennis and remained an influential figure in the sport until her retirement.

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Collie Smith

Jamaican cricketer with Test match success
Born
May 5th, 1933 91 years ago
Died
1959 66 years ago — 26 years old

A cricketer represented Jamaica and the West Indies in international matches. Made a notable impact in Test cricket during the 1950s. Achieved significant success as a fast bowler and middle-order batsman. Played in 12 Test matches from 1955 to 1963, contributing to the team's competitive edge during that era. Recorded impressive performances against various international teams, solidifying a reputation as a skilled player in the sport.

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Jean Grémillon

French director and screenwriter
Born
October 3rd, 1901 123 years ago
Died
1959 66 years ago — 58 years old

Born in France, focused on filmmaking in the 20th century. Directed notable films including 'Lumière d'été' and 'Le ciel est à vous'. Worked in various capacities in the French film industry as a director, composer, and screenwriter. Contributed significantly to the development of French cinema during and after World War II. Influenced later generations of filmmakers with innovative narrative techniques and visual style.

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Kafū Nagai

Japanese author and playwright
Born
December 3rd, 1879 145 years ago
Died
1959 66 years ago — 80 years old

An author and playwright contributed significantly to Japanese literature during the early 20th century. Involved in the literary movement of the Taishō period, focused on the themes of modernity and urban life in Tokyo. Works often explored complex human emotions and the tension between tradition and modernity. His writing style was characterized by its poetic language and detailed observations of urban society. Authored several acclaimed novels and plays, with a notable emphasis on the lives of individuals navigating the changing societal landscape of Japan.

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