What Happened This Year 1961

Historical Events from This Year 1961 (View all 114)

Politics & Government

US Breaks Diplomatic Ties with Cuba

January 3rd, 1961 64 years ago

Following a series of economic retaliations, the United States severed its diplomatic relations with Cuba. The tensions escalated as Cuba, under Fidel Castro's leadership, expropriated American businesses and properties. In response, the U.S. implemented trade restrictions. This decisive action marked a turning point in U.S.-Cuban relations, signaling the beginning of a prolonged period of hostility.

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Accidents & Tragedies

SL-1 Nuclear Reactor Steam Explosion Incident

January 3rd, 1961 64 years ago

The SL-1 nuclear reactor experienced a catastrophic steam explosion, resulting in the immediate deaths of three operators. This incident, occurring in Idaho Falls, Idaho, was significant as it marked the only reactor accident in the United States that caused fatalities on site. The cause of the explosion was linked to a power excursion and operational errors that critically compromised reactor safety.

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Social Movements & Civil Rights

Baixa de Cassanje Workers Revolt Against Colonial Rule

January 3rd, 1961 64 years ago

Agricultural workers in Baixa de Cassanje, Portuguese Angola, staged a protest that escalated into a revolt, marking the beginning of the Angolan War of Independence. The unrest was fueled by grievances against exploitative labor practices and colonial oppression. As tensions mounted, the atmosphere turned violent, with workers taking arms against the Portuguese authorities. This uprising signaled the start of a prolonged struggle for independence in Angola, as various nationalist movements began to galvanize popular support in the face of colonial domination.

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Accidents & Tragedies

Aero Flight 311's Kvevlax Forest Crash

January 3rd, 1961 64 years ago

Aero Flight 311 crashed in a forest near Kvevlax, Finland, killing 25 people aboard. The aircraft was en route from Helsinki to the northern city of Oulu when it encountered severe weather conditions. The pilot attempted to navigate through the storm but lost control, leading to the tragic accident. The impact of the crash caused a significant loss of life and raised concerns regarding aviation safety in Finland during inclement weather.

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Politics & Government

Referendum Endorses De Gaulle's Algeria Policies

January 8th, 1961 64 years ago

A referendum held in France saw significant support for Charles de Gaulle's policies in Algeria. The vote was largely about granting self-determination to Algeria amidst the ongoing conflict. It represented a substantial political shift and aimed to address the complexities of Algeria's situation. The majority of voters expressed a desire to pursue a peace process, revealing the public's will for change in France's colonial approach.

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Crime & Law

Soviet Spy Ring Uncovered in London

January 9th, 1961 64 years ago

British authorities announced the discovery of the Soviet Portland spy ring operating in London, which conducted espionage activities primarily related to military intelligence. The investigation revealed that several suspects were gathering sensitive information for the Soviet Union. This surveillance intensified during the Cold War, aiming to undermine Western security. The British government took significant measures to combat such espionage operations and protect national interests.

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Born in 1961 (View all 577)

Craig James

American football player and sportscaster
Born
January 2nd, 1961 64 years ago

Played as a running back in the National Football League (NFL) for the New England Patriots, the Washington Redskins, and the New York Jets. Achieved significant success in college football at Southern Methodist University, becoming an All-American and winning the prestigious Cotton Bowl. Transitioned to sports broadcasting and served as an analyst and commentator, providing insights on college and professional football.

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Todd Haynes

Film director and screenwriter of 'Carol'
Born
January 2nd, 1961 64 years ago

A film director, screenwriter, and producer, this individual has created a significant body of work in American independent cinema. With a career spanning over three decades, films directed include 'Safe,' 'Far from Heaven,' and 'Carol.' 'Carol' received multiple Academy Award nominations, showcasing exceptional storytelling and character development. Focused on themes of identity, sexuality, and societal constraints, this director's films often explore complex human experiences.

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Robert Wexler

American politician and lawyer
Born
January 2nd, 1961 64 years ago

Served as a U.S. Representative from Florida, representing the 19th congressional district from 1997 to 2010. Advocated for issues such as education reform and environmental protection during tenure in Congress. Prior to entering politics, practiced law and played a significant role in local Democratic politics. After leaving Congress, became involved in various philanthropic and legal initiatives.

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Gabrielle Carteris

Actress best known for Beverly Hills, 90210
Born
January 2nd, 1961 64 years ago

Born in 1961, an American actress gained fame through the role of Andrea Zuckerman in the television series Beverly Hills, 90210. The series aired from 1990 to 2000 and focused on the lives of a group of teenagers living in the upscale, star-studded community of Beverly Hills, California. In addition to acting, served as the president of the Screen Actors Guild from 2016 to 2022, advocating for the rights of actors and performers. Carteris has also appeared in various television films and series after Beverly Hills, 90210, continuing a successful career in the entertainment industry.

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Graham McTavish

Scottish actor, known for Outlander
Born
January 4th, 1961 64 years ago

An actor and author, he gained recognition for his role as Dougal MacKenzie in the television series Outlander, based on Diana Gabaldon's book series. Also portrayed Dwalin in the film adaptations of J.R.R. Tolkien's The Hobbit. Apart from television and film, authored works that reflect personal experiences and insights. His career spans over three decades, with appearances in various stage productions, television shows, and films, showcasing a wide range of characters.

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Iris DeMent

Singer-songwriter with 'Infamous Angel'
Born
January 5th, 1961 64 years ago

Born in 1961, a singer-songwriter and guitarist from the United States, gained recognition for folk and country music. Released the album 'Infamous Angel' in 1992, which included the widely acclaimed track 'Our Town.' The music often features themes of family, love, and personal introspection, reflecting a blend of traditional and contemporary styles. Collaborated with various artists throughout the career and contributed to the folk community. Remains influential in Americana music.

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People Who Died in 1961 (View all 179)

Erwin Schrödinger

Physicist, Nobel Prize winner 1933
Born
August 12th, 1887 137 years ago
Died
January 4th, 1961 64 years ago — 73 years old

A physicist, contributions included formulating the wave equation that describes the wave function in quantum mechanics. Schrödinger's equation became fundamental in understanding the behavior of atomic and subatomic systems. He wrote the influential book 'What Is Life?', exploring the connections between physics and biology. His work laid the groundwork for the developments in quantum theory. In 1933, awarded the Nobel Prize in Physics for his work on wave mechanics and its application to atomic structure.

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Schoolboy Rowe

Baseball player and coach
Born
1910 115 years ago
Died
January 8th, 1961 64 years ago — 51 years old

An American baseball player and coach, Rowe played as a pitcher in Major League Baseball primarily for the Detroit Tigers from 1933 to 1941. Rowe made significant contributions to the game, highlighted by his selection to the All-Star team in 1934. After his playing career, he transitioned into coaching, sharing his expertise with younger players and contributing to the development of the sport.

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Emily Greene Balch

Economist, author, Nobel Prize laureate
Born
January 8th, 1867 158 years ago
Died
January 9th, 1961 64 years ago — 94 years old

An economist and author, contributions centered on social reform and peace advocacy. Balch served as a professor at Wellesley College, where teaching and writing on economic issues evolved. Active in various organizations promoting peace, she was involved with the Women's International League for Peace and Freedom. Balch's work emphasized the interconnection of economics and social justice. The efforts culminated in receiving the Nobel Peace Prize in 1946 for contributions to peace advocacy and humanitarian causes.

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Dashiell Hammett

Detective novelist and screenwriter
Born
May 27th, 1894 130 years ago
Died
January 10th, 1961 64 years ago — 66 years old

A prominent detective novelist and screenwriter, contributed significantly to the genre of detective fiction. Wrote classic novels such as 'The Maltese Falcon' and 'The Glass Key'. Worked as a screenwriter during the 1930s for major Hollywood studios, adapting some of his own works into screenplays. His writing style is characterized by sharp dialogue and a focus on realism.

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Elena Gerhardt

German soprano and actress with operatic acclaim
Born
1883 142 years ago
Died
January 11th, 1961 64 years ago — 78 years old

A prominent soprano and actress, this individual gained recognition in the early 20th century for performances in opera and concert. She studied under notable musicians and made her debut at the Berlin State Opera. Throughout her career, she performed in major European opera houses, becoming celebrated for her interpretations of Mozart and Wagner's works. In addition to operatic performances, she gained acclaim in concert and recital formats, showcasing her vocal prowess across diverse repertoire. Her influence reached audiences worldwide until her passing in 1961.

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Barry Fitzgerald

Irish actor in 'Going My Way'
Born
March 10th, 1888 137 years ago
Died
January 14th, 1961 64 years ago — 72 years old

An actor celebrated for roles in films during the 20th century. Achieved prominence in the film 'Going My Way' alongside Bing Crosby. Received an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor for this role. Also starred in the film 'The Quiet Man,' further solidifying a reputation in cinema. Worked primarily in the United States and Ireland, becoming a familiar face in the film industry during his career.

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