What Happened This Year 1960

People Who Died in 1960

George Zucco

British actor known for horror films
Born
January 11th, 1886 139 years ago
Died
1960 65 years ago — 74 years old

Born in 1886, a British actor gained recognition for performances in the horror genre during the 1930s and 1940s. Appeared in significant films including 'The Cat and the Canary', 'The Mummy's Hand', and 'The Ghost of Frankenstein'. Delivered memorable portrayals that contributed to the success of numerous horror classics. His work often involved portraying sinister or villainous characters, establishing a reputation as a prominent figure in cinematic horror.

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Raoul Paoli

French boxer and rower champion
Born
November 24th, 1887 137 years ago
Died
1960 65 years ago — 73 years old

Competed in boxing and rowing, achieving notable success in both sports. Participated in multiple international competitions, representing France. Secured a bronze medal in lightweight boxing at the 1908 London Olympics. Excelled in rowing, winning titles and contributing to the sport's development in France during the early 20th century.

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Fausto Coppi

Italian cyclist and Tour de France winner
Born
September 15th, 1919 105 years ago
Died
1960 65 years ago — 41 years old

Cyclist and soldier from Italy. Achieved significant success in professional road cycling during the 1940s and 1950s. Earned victories in multiple prestigious races, including the Giro d'Italia and the Tour de France. Coppi also participated in World War II as a soldier, which interrupted his cycling career for several years. After the war, returned to competitive cycling, solidifying a legacy as one of the sport's legends.

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Eduard Pütsep

Wrestler and actor in Estonia
Born
October 21st, 1898 126 years ago
Died
1960 65 years ago — 62 years old

Pütsep achieved significant recognition as a wrestler, competing professionally and winning championships. He was a prominent figure in Estonian sports and contributed to the development of wrestling in the country. In addition to a successful wrestling career, he transitioned into acting, appearing in Estonian films. His contributions to both wrestling and cinema helped to shape the cultural landscape of Estonia during his time.

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Arthur Benjamin

Australian pianist and composer
Born
September 18th, 1893 131 years ago
Died
1960 65 years ago — 67 years old

Born in Australia, this pianist, composer, and conductor gained recognition for contributions to classical music. Studied at the Royal College of Music in London, eventually teaching at the New South Wales Conservatorium of Music. Developed a unique style blending traditional and contemporary elements. Served as a conductor for various orchestras, enhancing the performance of numerous works. Composed a range of pieces, including concertos, chamber music, and choral works.

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Yevgeny Ostashev

Russian test pilot and satellite pioneer
Born
March 22nd, 1924 100 years ago
Died
1960 65 years ago — 36 years old

Contributed significantly to the history of space exploration as a test pilot. Participated in the launch of Sputnik 1, the first artificial Earth satellite, which marked a seminal moment in the Space Race. This project laid the groundwork for further advancements in satellite technology and human spaceflight. Engaged in flight testing for various aircraft, showcasing expertise in aviation.

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Ya'akov Cohen

Israeli linguist, poet, and playwright
Born
June 26th, 1881 143 years ago
Died
1960 65 years ago — 79 years old

Contributed significantly to Hebrew linguistics, poetry, and theater. Worked extensively on the promotion and development of the Hebrew language, including linguistic studies that advanced its structure and use. Authored numerous poems that explore themes of identity and culture, often reflecting the experiences of the Jewish community. His plays contributed to the Israeli theatrical landscape, blending modern themes with traditional motifs, and often addressed social issues pertinent to the time.

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Amanullah Khan

Sovereign of the Kingdom of Afghanistan
Born
June 1st, 1892 132 years ago
Died
1960 65 years ago — 68 years old

Ruled the Kingdom of Afghanistan from 1919 to 1929. Implemented modernizations and reforms aiming to transform the country into a sovereign state. Led Afghanistan during the Third Anglo-Afghan War, successfully negotiating autonomy from British influence. Promoted education and women's rights, initiating changes in social customs and law.

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Salvatore Ferragamo

Italian shoe designer and founder
Born
June 5th, 1898 126 years ago
Died
1960 65 years ago — 62 years old

Born in 1898, a prominent Italian shoe designer founded a luxury footwear brand in Florence. Gained recognition for innovative designs, craftsmanship, and the use of unique materials. Specialized in creating shoes for Hollywood stars, enhancing the glamour of the film industry in the 1920s and 1930s. Established a boutique that attracted famous clientele, which solidified the brand's status in high fashion. Later expanded into a full luxury brand offering ready-to-wear collections and accessories. Played a crucial role in the development of the modern shoe industry.

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