What Happened This Year 1959

People Who Died in 1959

Tochigiyama Moriya

Japanese sumo wrestler, 27th Yokozuna
Born
February 2nd, 1892 133 years ago
Died
1959 66 years ago — 67 years old

Born in Japan, this sumo wrestler achieved the prestigious rank of Yokozuna, the highest in the sport. Competing during the early 20th century, this athlete earned recognition for his skill and power in the ring. With a career that spanned over a decade, he showcased his abilities and contributed to the popularity of sumo wrestling in Japan. His style and technique provided a template for future wrestlers in the sport.

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Carl Rungius

Painter of North American wildlife scenes
Born
August 18th, 1869 156 years ago
Died
1959 66 years ago — 90 years old

Born in Germany, this painter immigrated to the United States in the late 19th century. Rungius specialized in the depiction of North American wildlife and landscapes, emphasizing accuracy and detail. His work contributed significantly to the field of wildlife art, and he became recognized for portraying various species in their natural habitats. In addition to creating paintings, Rungius was also an educator who influenced many aspiring artists. He held exhibitions in galleries and museums across the United States, showcasing his artistic achievements and passion for nature.

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Claude Grahame-White

English pilot and aviation pioneer
Born
August 21st, 1879 146 years ago
Died
1959 66 years ago — 80 years old

An aviation pioneer and engineer, contributions to early flight technology included designing and building pioneering aircraft. Played a key role in the promotion of aviation during the early 20th century. Achievements included participating in the first aircraft flight across the English Channel. Founded the first aviation company in Britain and established the first British flying school.

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Klawdziy Duzh-Dushewski

Architect and creator of the Flag of Belarus
Born
March 27th, 1891 134 years ago
Died
1959 66 years ago — 68 years old

A Belarusian-Lithuanian architect, journalist, and diplomat, contributed significantly to national identity through architecture and design. Designed the Flag of Belarus, symbolizing the aspirations of the Belarusian people. Held various diplomatic positions, promoting Lithuanian and Belarusian interests in international forums. Engaged in journalism, providing insight into the socio-political landscape of Eastern Europe during the early 20th century.

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Ross Granville Harrison

American biologist and anatomist
Born
January 13th, 1870 155 years ago
Died
1959 66 years ago — 89 years old

Contributed significantly to the field of embryology and tissue culture. Developed techniques for culturing living tissues outside of the body, which laid the foundation for future research in cell biology and regenerative medicine. Conducted pioneering work on the embryonic development of amphibians, particularly the frog. Published multiple influential studies, advancing the understanding of cellular and tissue development.

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Rosa Lemberg

Choral conductor and teacher
Born
August 31st, 1875 150 years ago
Died
1959 66 years ago — 84 years old

Born in Namibia and later relocating to the United States, this individual made significant contributions to music education and choral conducting. After establishing a career in Finland, she settled in America, where participation in various cultural and educational initiatives helped to promote choral music. As a teacher, she influenced numerous students in her community, fostering a love for music and performance. Many of her choirs performed throughout the region, showcasing classical and contemporary works.

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István Medgyaszay

Hungarian architect and academic
Born
August 23rd, 1877 148 years ago
Died
1959 66 years ago — 82 years old

Graduated from the Budapest University of Technology and Economics. Contributed to the Hungarian architectural scene in the early 20th century. Played a significant role in the promotion of the Hungarian national style in architecture. Wrote multiple publications on architecture and design, influencing subsequent generations of architects. Served as a professor at the Technical University of Budapest, shaping the curriculum and fostering a new wave of architectural thought.

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Alexander Rummler

American painter with notable landscapes
Born
July 25th, 1867 158 years ago
Died
1959 66 years ago — 92 years old

An American painter active in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, focused primarily on landscapes. Participated in various exhibitions, showcasing works that captured rural and natural scenes. Developed a distinctive style that combined impressionistic techniques with a keen observation of light and color. His contributions to the art community in the United States helped define landscape painting during this period.

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Sam M. Lewis

American singer and lyricist for popular songs
Born
October 25th, 1885 139 years ago
Died
1959 66 years ago — 74 years old

Born in 1885, this individual became a prominent figure in American music, particularly in the realm of songwriting and lyricism. Collaborated with various composers including the well-known songwriting team of Lewis and his partners. Contributed to the popular music scene during the early to mid-20th century, writing lyrics for many standards that defined the era. His works have been performed by numerous artists and continue to be celebrated in American musical history.

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