What Happened This Year 1959

People Who Died in 1959

Apsley Cherry-Garrard

English explorer and Antarctic author
Born
January 2nd, 1886 139 years ago
Died
1959 66 years ago — 73 years old

An explorer and author, he participated in the Terra Nova Expedition of 1910-1913 led by Robert Falcon Scott. Developed an interest in Antarctic wildlife, particularly the Emperor penguin. Authored the book 'The Worst Journey in the World', which details the experiences during the expedition. The account is notable for its vivid portrayal of the harsh conditions encountered and the struggles faced by the expedition team.

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Marshall Teague

Race car driver and NASCAR pioneer
Born
February 22nd, 1921 104 years ago
Died
1959 66 years ago — 38 years old

A prominent figure in American motorsports, Teague was a competitive race car driver in the early years of NASCAR. He achieved significant recognition for his performance in the 1952 NASCAR Grand National series, where he finished third overall in points. Teague drove for several teams, including the famous Hudson Hornet, establishing a reputation for speed and skill on the racetrack. Additionally, Teague participated in the Indianapolis 500, showcasing versatility beyond stock car racing. His career contributed to the growth and popularity of auto racing during a formative period for the sport.

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Max Nonne

German neurologist and academic
Born
January 13th, 1861 164 years ago
Died
1959 66 years ago — 98 years old

Contributed extensively to neurology and psychiatry. Developed theories related to the understanding of neurological disorders. Engaged in academic work as well as clinical practices, influencing future generations of neurologists. Published works that were referenced in the development of modern neurological practices.

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Ernst Fast

Swedish long-distance runner and Olympian
Born
January 21st, 1881 144 years ago
Died
1959 66 years ago — 78 years old

Competed in long-distance running events and made significant contributions to the sport in Sweden. Participated in the 1908 London Olympics, finishing in the marathon. Achieved notable success during early 20th century athletic competitions, representing Sweden in various national and international events. Held records in several long-distance races, showcasing exceptional stamina and technique.

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Arturo Labriola

Italian revolutionary syndicalist
Born
January 21st, 1873 152 years ago
Died
1959 66 years ago — 86 years old

Active in the early 20th century, contributed to the Italian syndicalist movement. Advocated for workers' rights and socialism through his writings and political activism. Played a significant role in the founding of the Italian Syndicalist Union and engaged with influential groups advocating for social change. His efforts were critical during times of worker unrest and revolutionary fervor in Italy.

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Irving Cummings

American actor and director of films
Born
October 9th, 1888 136 years ago
Died
1959 66 years ago — 71 years old

An actor and director, contributed to early cinema. Directed numerous films in the 1910s and 1920s, shaping the silent film era. Worked as an actor in productions like 'The Last of Mrs. Cheyney' and 'The Stolen Jools.' Produced and directed several popular films during the transition to sound. Collaborated with various studios, establishing a reputation for innovative storytelling techniques in filmmaking.

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Edith Clarke

Electrical engineer, inventor of the Clarke calculator
Born
February 10th, 1883 142 years ago
Died
1959 66 years ago — 76 years old

An American electrical engineer contributed significantly to the field of electrical engineering. Achieved a degree in electrical engineering from the University of Wisconsin-Madison, becoming one of the first women to hold such a degree. Worked at General Electric for over a decade where developed the Clarke calculator, a device used for solving power transmission problems. Clarke became the first woman to be elected a fellow of the American Institute of Electrical Engineers.

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Sax Rohmer

Author of the Fu Manchu series
Born
February 15th, 1883 142 years ago
Died
1959 66 years ago — 76 years old

An English-American author, contributed significantly to the suspense and thriller genres, notably through the creation of the character Dr. Fu Manchu. This character featured in a series of novels that began with 'The Mystery of Dr. Fu-Manchu' published in 1913. Rohmer's works often explored themes of Eastern mysticism and Western fears, gaining popularity during the early 20th century. In addition to novels, also wrote short stories and film scripts, expanding the Fu Manchu character into other media. Works were translated into several languages, achieving widespread readership and cultural impact.

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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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