What Happened This Year 1959

People Who Died in 1959

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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Adolf Otto Reinhold Windaus

German chemist and Nobel Prize winner
Born
December 25th, 1876 148 years ago
Died
1959 66 years ago — 83 years old

A chemist and academic, contributions focused on sterols and vitamins. Windaus developed methods for determining structures of several steroids, significantly advancing the field of organic chemistry. Research on cholesterol led to insights in biochemistry, influencing studies related to human health. In 1928, awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry for investigations of steroid compounds.

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Otto Frederick Hunziker

Agriculturalist and educator, wrote textbooks
Born
December 25th, 1873 151 years ago
Died
1959 66 years ago — 86 years old

This individual contributed significantly to agricultural education in the United States. Held positions at several educational institutions, emphasizing the importance of practical agricultural practices alongside theoretical knowledge. Authored authoritative textbooks that became standard references in the field of agriculture, influencing the curriculum at various colleges and universities. Promoted vocational agriculture and supported the development of agricultural programs across the country.

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Albert Peyriguère

French priest and ethnologist
Born
September 28th, 1883 141 years ago
Died
1959 66 years ago — 76 years old

A French priest and hermit, dedicated much of life to ethnology and the study of religious practices. Established a hermitage in the Pyrénées region where spiritual practices and ethnological studies merged. Conducted extensive research on local cultures and traditions, which contributed to a greater understanding of the social dynamics of the region. Authored several works, analyzing the intersection of faith and culture, and emphasized the importance of preserving the heritage of rural communities.

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Curt Sachs

Composer and musicologist
Born
June 29th, 1881 144 years ago
Died
1959 66 years ago — 78 years old

Born in Germany, this individual became a significant figure in musicology and the study of musical instruments. Emigrating to the United States, contributions included extensive research and publications on the history and development of various musical forms and instruments. A pivotal work, 'The History of Musical Instruments,' offered comprehensive insights into the evolution of music. Involved in the establishment of modern musicology as an academic discipline, played a key role in editing and contributing to the field's early literature. Additionally, this individual engaged in teaching, sharing knowledge with future generations of musicians and scholars.

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José Nepomuceno

Filipino filmmaker and cinema pioneer
Born
May 15th, 1893 132 years ago
Died
1959 66 years ago — 66 years old

Contributed significantly to the growth of Philippine cinema in the early 20th century. Founded the first Filipino film production company, Malayan Pictures, and produced films that catered to local audiences. Directed and produced the first Filipino silent film, 'Dalagang Bukid', which was released in 1919. Established guidelines for filmmaking in the Philippines and laid the groundwork for future filmmakers.

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Stanley Spencer

English painter of religious themes
Born
June 30th, 1891 134 years ago
Died
1959 66 years ago — 68 years old

An English painter, recognized for unique depictions of biblical themes intertwined with the landscapes of Cookham, a village in Berkshire. Spencer's work blends personal and collective experiences, reflecting a distinct vision of spirituality and humanity. Influenced by his upbringing and World War I experiences, he created significant pieces during his career. His approach to composition, color, and form set him apart in the British art scene. Major works include 'The Resurrection, Cookham' and 'The Lovers', showcasing a connection between the divine and quotidian life. Spencer's legacy includes a lasting influence on contemporary religious art.

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Irakli Tsereteli

Georgian politician and revolutionary leader
Born
November 20th, 1881 143 years ago
Died
1959 66 years ago — 78 years old

A prominent politician in Georgia, significant involvement in the country's struggle for independence from Russian Empire. Played a central role in the establishment of the Democratic Republic of Georgia in 1918 and served as a member of its parliament. Advocated for social democratic policies and the rights of the Georgian people during tumultuous times. Exiled after the Soviet invasion in 1921, continued activism for Georgian independence from abroad. Contributed to various political organizations promoting national self-determination.

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