What Happened This Year 1960

People Who Died in 1960

Yevgeny Ostashev

Russian test pilot and satellite pioneer
Born
March 22nd, 1924 101 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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Salvatore Ferragamo

Italian shoe designer and founder
Born
June 5th, 1898 127 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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Lewis Bernstein Namier

Historian focused on British politics
Born
June 27th, 1888 136 years ago
Died
1960 65 years ago — 72 years old

A historian and academic, specialized in 18th and 19th century British political history. Contributed to the understanding of parliamentary politics and the role of key figures in shaping modern Britain. Authored several influential works, including 'The Structure of Politics at the Accession of George III' and 'England in the Age of the American Revolution'. Developed the concept of 'political history' that emphasized the importance of political context in historical studies.

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Earle S. MacPherson

Engineer, creator of MacPherson strut
Born
July 6th, 1891 133 years ago
Died
1960 65 years ago — 69 years old

An American engineer, contributed significantly to automotive suspension design. Developed the MacPherson strut, which became a standard in front suspension systems due to its efficiency and simplicity. The design enhanced vehicle handling, comfort, and manufacturing ease. Worked for the Nash-Kelvinator Corporation and was instrumental in the development of several automobile models. The MacPherson strut design is still widely used in various car brands.

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Otto Frederick Rohwedder

American engineer, invented sliced bread
Born
July 7th, 1880 144 years ago
Died
1960 65 years ago — 80 years old

An engineer developed the first bread-slicing machine in 1928, revolutionizing the way bread was sold and consumed. This invention allowed for uniform slices of bread, significantly increasing convenience for consumers and impacting the baking industry. The first loaves of pre-sliced bread were marketed in Iowa, leading to widespread popularity. Rohwedder's contribution is often summarized in the saying, 'the best thing since sliced bread.' The efficiency of his machine set a new standard in baking and food preparation.

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Harry Schell

Race car driver and Monaco GP competitor
Born
June 29th, 1921 103 years ago
Died
1960 65 years ago — 39 years old

Participated in Formula One racing during the 1950s. Competed in multiple Grand Prix events, primarily driving for teams such as Ferrari and BRM. Achieved notable performances in the Monaco Grand Prix, finishing on the podium multiple times. Also raced in other series, including sports cars and Formula 2. Continued to influence the sport through his legacy and connections in the racing community.

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Audrey Wurdemann

American poet and author, won a Pulitzer
Born
January 1st, 1911 114 years ago
Died
1960 65 years ago — 49 years old

Born in 1911, a poet and author gained recognition for lyrical works that explored themes of nature and human emotion. Published several collections of poetry, with 'The Long Night' being particularly influential. Received the Pulitzer Prize for Poetry in 1945 for the collection 'The World is a Beautiful Place'. The writings contributed significantly to American literature during the mid-20th century.

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Virginia Bolten

Argentine feminist trade unionist
Born
December 26th, 1870 154 years ago
Died
1960 65 years ago — 90 years old

A prominent figure in Argentina's labor movement, played a pivotal role in advocating for women's rights and social justice in the early 20th century. Actively engaged in organizing workers and promoting feminist ideologies, contributed significantly to the development of trade unionism among women. Bolten's efforts were pivotal during the general strikes of the time, where she was instrumental in rallying workers. Additionally, established connections with various social movements, enhancing solidarity among labor and feminist groups.

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