What Happened This Year 1960

People Who Died in 1960

Francis Browne

Irish Jesuit priest and photographer
Born
January 3rd, 1880 145 years ago
Died
July 7th, 1960 64 years ago — 80 years old

A Jesuit priest and photographer, contributed significantly to photography with a particular focus on capturing life in early 20th century Ireland. Gained widespread recognition for an extensive collection of photographs documenting the RMS Titanic's final journey in 1912. Captured images provide important historical insights and depict both the ship and passengers. Engaged in various religious and educational activities throughout his life, including work in the Jesuit order and teaching.

Continue Reading

Sæbjørn Buttedahl

Norwegian actor and sculptor
Born
1876 149 years ago
Died
July 10th, 1960 64 years ago — 84 years old

An actor and sculptor, contributed to the Norwegian arts scene. Played significant roles in theatrical productions and had a notable impact in sculpture, blending traditional and modern styles. Also engaged in promoting the arts within Norway, enhancing the cultural landscape of the country.

Continue Reading

Joy Davidman

American poet and author of 'Letters to C.S. Lewis'
Born
April 18th, 1915 110 years ago
Died
July 13th, 1960 64 years ago — 45 years old

Born in Poland, later moved to the United States, and gained recognition as a poet and author. Davidman became associated with noted writer C.S. Lewis. Her literary contributions included poetry, essays, and novels, with a notable correspondence and eventual marriage to Lewis, which was both personal and professional. Works often reflected themes of faith, love, and morality, showcasing a distinctive voice in theological discussions. In addition to her poetry, she wrote the novel 'Weeping Bay' and various essays, which contributed to her literary legacy, ended shortly before her death in 1960.

Continue Reading

Set Persson

Swedish politician and public figure
Born
1897 128 years ago
Died
July 15th, 1960 64 years ago — 63 years old

A prominent figure in Swedish politics during the early to mid-20th century, contributed to various legislative efforts and political reforms. Engaged in social welfare issues and worked towards improving public services. Played an essential role in local governance and party organization, influencing policy direction within Sweden's political landscape. Served in multiple capacities that shaped the governance of the region during a transformative period in its history.

Continue Reading

Lawrence Tibbett

American actor and opera singer, 1938 Oscar
Born
November 16th, 1896 128 years ago
Died
July 15th, 1960 64 years ago — 63 years old

An American actor and opera singer, achieved prominence in the early 20th century. Gained acclaim for performances in operas such as 'La Bohème' and 'Tosca'. Transitioned to film, starring in numerous movies, including 'The Rogue Song' and 'The Great Waltz'. Won an Academy Award for Best Actor in 1938. Tibbett was known for contributions to both music and cinema, bridging the gap between opera and film.

Continue Reading

John P. Marquand

American author of 'Massy's Diary'
Born
November 10th, 1893 131 years ago
Died
July 16th, 1960 64 years ago — 66 years old

An American author, recognized for examining social and cultural themes in the early 20th century. Writings explored the complexities of American life, especially in post-World War II society. Gained acclaim through a unique blend of satire and realism, often revealing the intricacies of middle-class existence. The literary work 'Massy's Diary' highlighted personal experiences against a backdrop of broader societal changes. Also contributed to magazines and became a prominent voice in American literature during his career.

Continue Reading

Albert Kesselring

German field marshal during WWII
Born
1881 144 years ago
Died
July 16th, 1960 64 years ago — 79 years old

Served as a field marshal in the German Army during World War II. Held key commands in various theaters of the war, demonstrating strategic military capabilities. Played a significant role in the Mediterranean campaigns, particularly in the defense of Italy. After the war, Kesselring was tried at the Nuremberg Military Tribunal and sentenced to death, later commuted to life imprisonment. Released in 1952, he wrote memoirs reflecting on his military experiences and strategies.

Continue Reading

Maud Menten

Canadian physician and biochemist
Born
March 20th, 1879 146 years ago
Died
July 17th, 1960 64 years ago — 81 years old

Contributions to biochemistry included work on enzyme kinetics and histochemistry. Collaborated with Leonor Michaelis to describe the Michaelis-Menten equation, a foundational principle in enzyme kinetics. Menten's research also advanced understanding of enzyme reactions and tissue staining techniques. Held a faculty position at the University of Toronto and published many scientific papers throughout a career spanning several decades.

Continue Reading

Cedric Gibbons

Art Director, Academy Award Winner
Born
March 23rd, 1893 132 years ago
Died
July 26th, 1960 64 years ago — 67 years old

An influential Irish-American art director and production designer, Gibbons contributed significantly to the film industry, particularly during the Golden Age of Hollywood. His work includes designing sets for classic films such as 'The Wizard of Oz' and 'Ben-Hur'. Additionally, Gibbons served as the head of the art department at MGM for over three decades, shaping the visual style of countless productions. He won eleven Academy Awards for Best Art Direction, earning a reputation as a leading figure in production design.

Continue Reading