What Happened This Year 1960

Historical Events from This Year 1960 (View all 137)

Politics & Government

Cameroon's Path to Independence

January 1st, 1960 65 years ago

Cameroon achieved independence from France and the United Kingdom, becoming a sovereign state. This transformation followed years of colonial rule and a push for self-determination, influenced by post-World War II decolonization trends. The smooth transition marked a significant milestone in African autonomy, with significant political figures advocating for independence. The independence was marked by a national celebration, symbolizing the unified aspirations of the Cameroonian people for self-governance and development.

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Accidents & Tragedies

Bombing of National Airlines Flight 2511

January 6th, 1960 65 years ago

National Airlines Flight 2511, traveling from New York to Miami, was destroyed in mid-air by a bomb, leading to the deaths of all passengers and crew on board. The incident occurred over the coastal waters near the Florida Keys. This tragic event marked one of the early instances of terrorism targeting commercial aviation, highlighting potential vulnerabilities at the time.

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Politics & Government

Iraq's Associations Law Legalizes Political Parties

January 6th, 1960 65 years ago

The Associations Law was enacted in Iraq, permitting the formation and registration of political parties. This legislative milestone aimed to enhance political representation and democratize the political landscape in Iraq, reflecting a growing trend toward political plurality in the region. With the establishment of a legal framework, political parties could now operate openly, leading to increased engagement in the governmental process and civil society.

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Transportation & Infrastructure

Gamal Abdel Nasser Initiates Aswan Dam Construction

January 9th, 1960 65 years ago

President Gamal Abdel Nasser of Egypt inaugurated the construction of the Aswan Dam by detonating ten tons of dynamite to dismantle twenty tons of granite on the east bank of the Nile. This monumental moment marked the beginning of a significant project aimed at modernizing Egypt’s infrastructure and boosting its economy. The dam was envisioned as a means to control flooding, provide water for irrigation, and generate hydroelectric power, crucial for the country's development and prosperity.

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Politics & Government

Establishment of the Reserve Bank of Australia

January 14th, 1960 65 years ago

The Reserve Bank of Australia was officially established as the nation's central bank and banknote issuing authority. This change, mandated by the 1959 Reserve Bank Act, was a significant transition from the Commonwealth Bank's dual function of banking and central banking. The establishment aimed to provide a more focused approach to monetary and financial policy, improving overall economic stability in Australia.

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Accidents & Tragedies

Capital Airlines Flight 20 crashes in Virginia

January 18th, 1960 65 years ago

Capital Airlines Flight 20, a Douglas DC-6, crashed into a farm in Charles City County, Virginia, killing all 50 passengers and crew aboard. The aircraft was on a scheduled flight from New York to Florida when it encountered severe weather conditions shortly before landing. The flight experienced difficulties as it approached its destination, ultimately losing altitude and crashing, highlighting the hazardous impact of weather on aviation during this period.

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Born in 1960 (View all 587)

Michael Stipe

Singer-songwriter and producer with R.E.M.
Born
January 4th, 1960 65 years ago

A prominent figure in alternative rock, contributions to music span decades, primarily as the lead vocalist of R.E.M. The band formed in 1980 and gained significant acclaim for its unique sound and innovative approach to songwriting. Numerous albums released achieved both commercial success and critical recognition, including 'Out of Time' and 'Automatic for the People.' Stipe's distinctive vocal style and enigmatic lyrics contributed to the band's identity and influence within the genre. After R.E.M. disbanded in 2011, involvement in various artistic projects continued, including collaborations and solo work.

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Glenn Strömberg

Footballer and sportscaster in Sweden
Born
January 5th, 1960 65 years ago

A footballer played as a midfielder, chiefly associated with the Swedish national team and clubs such as Örebro SK and IFK Göteborg. Achieved success in Italy with Atalanta, contributing to several prominent matches in Serie A during the late 1980s. Transitioned to a broadcast career after retirement, providing commentary and analysis on football events.

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Paul Azinger

Professional golfer and sportscaster
Born
January 6th, 1960 65 years ago

A professional golfer and sportscaster, played on the PGA Tour and is recognized for winning the 1993 PGA Championship. Served as the captain of the U.S. Ryder Cup team in 2008, leading the team to victory. Transitioned into broadcasting and provided commentary on golf events for various networks, including ESPN and ABC.

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Kari Jalonen

Ice hockey player and coach, World Champion
Born
January 6th, 1960 65 years ago

A Finnish ice hockey player and coach, contributed significantly to ice hockey. Played as a forward in various leagues, including Finland and the NHL. Transitioned to coaching after retirement from playing, taking various positions in both Finnish and international teams. Achieved success as head coach of the Finnish national team, leading the team to win a gold medal at the 2019 IIHF World Championship.

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Nigella Lawson

Celebrity chef and cookbook author
Born
January 6th, 1960 65 years ago

An English chef and author gained prominence through a series of successful cookbooks and television programs. Achieved recognition with books such as 'How to Eat' and 'Kitchen', which emphasize a relaxed and accessible approach to cooking. Hosted multiple cooking shows including 'Nigella Bites' and 'The Taste'. Expanded culinary influence through various media appearances and collaborations.

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Howie Long

American football player and commentator
Born
January 6th, 1960 65 years ago

Played defensive end for the Los Angeles Raiders from 1981 to 1993. Achieved three Pro Bowl selections and was part of the Raiders' Super Bowl XVIII championship team in 1984. After retiring, transitioned to a career in sports media, becoming a prominent commentator on 'FOX NFL Sunday', showcasing insights on NFL games and player performances. Inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2000, recognizing contributions to the sport and exemplary career.

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People Who Died in 1960 (View all 166)

Margaret Sullavan

American actress in classic films
Born
May 16th, 1909 115 years ago
Died
January 1st, 1960 65 years ago — 50 years old

Acclaimed American actress, notable for performances in the 1930s and 1940s. Starred in films such as "The Shop Around the Corner" and "Three Comrades." Also appeared in "The Moon's Our Home" and "The Good Fairy." Sullavan was recognized for her ability to convey deep emotion and connect with audiences. She received an Academy Award nomination for Best Actress for her role in "The Shop Around the Corner." Sullavan's career was marked by her work on Broadway, where her stage presence garnered attention.

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Albert Camus

French philosopher and Nobel laureate
Born
November 7th, 1913 111 years ago
Died
January 4th, 1960 65 years ago — 46 years old

A prominent novelist, philosopher, and journalist, this individual played a significant role in 20th-century literature and philosophy. Best known for works that explore themes of absurdism and existentialism, significant publications include 'The Stranger' and 'The Myth of Sisyphus'. Active during the French Resistance against Nazi occupation, contributions to political thought are also evident. Received the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1957 for writings marked by a deep concern for human rights and justice. This individual’s elaborate essays and novels inspired many intellectual circles.

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Dorothea Douglass Lambert Chambers

Tennis player and coach, Wimbledon champion
Born
September 3rd, 1878 146 years ago
Died
January 7th, 1960 65 years ago — 81 years old

A prominent tennis player and coach, achieved significant success in the early 20th century. Won the Women's Singles title at Wimbledon multiple times between 1903 and 1914. Contributed to the development of tennis as a sport, both as a competitor and as a coach empowering future players. Involved in the establishment of women's tennis competitions and helped to promote the sport during a period of considerable change and growth.

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Elsie J. Oxenham

Author of children's literature
Born
November 25th, 1880 144 years ago
Died
January 9th, 1960 65 years ago — 79 years old

An English author and educator, contributed significantly to children's literature in the early 20th century. Best recognized for a series of books featuring girls' schools, particularly the Abbey School series. Many stories revolved around themes of friendship, adventure, and growing up. The works often reflected values of camaraderie and resilience, appealing to young readers of the time. In addition to writing, also engaged in educational pursuits, promoting literacy and education among children.

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Jack Laviolette

Canadian ice hockey player and coach
Born
July 17th, 1879 145 years ago
Died
January 10th, 1960 65 years ago — 80 years old

Played as an ice hockey player and later transitioned to coaching and managing hockey teams. Contributed to various teams within the National Hockey League (NHL). Served as a head coach for multiple teams and was recognized for building competitive rosters. Development of strategies and training programs influenced player performance during the early years of the NHL.

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Nevil Shute

English engineer and author of novels
Born
January 17th, 1899 126 years ago
Died
January 12th, 1960 65 years ago — 60 years old

An English engineer and author, became notable for writing several bestselling novels that explored themes of human endurance and societal challenges. Wrote the acclaimed novel 'On the Beach', which depicted a post-apocalyptic world. Founded an aircraft company and worked on wartime engineering projects. Relocated to Australia later in life, where much of the literary work was produced.

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