What Happened This Year 1961

People Who Died in 1961

Jessie Redmon Fauset

Author and poet emphasizing African American culture
Born
April 27th, 1882 143 years ago
Died
1961 64 years ago — 79 years old

Contributed significantly to the Harlem Renaissance through literature. Authored several novels and poetry collections that explored themes of race, identity, and culture within the African American community. Works include 'There Is Confusion', 'Plum Bun', and 'The Chinaberry Tree', which received critical acclaim during the early 20th century. Served as the literary editor for 'The Crisis', the official magazine of the NAACP, helping to promote new African American voices in literature. Fauset's writing demonstrated a sophisticated understanding of her characters' struggles and aspirations.

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Anita Stewart

American actress famous for silent films
Born
February 7th, 1895 130 years ago
Died
1961 64 years ago — 66 years old

A prominent figure in early American cinema, she specialized in silent films during the early 20th century. Stewart starred in numerous productions and became recognized as a leading actress in the industry. Her career spanned from the 1910s to the 1920s, during which time she collaborated with several notable filmmakers. Stewart's performances contributed to the popularity of the silent film era and left a lasting legacy in American film history.

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Stan Nichols

English cricketer, played for England
Born
October 6th, 1900 124 years ago
Died
1961 64 years ago — 61 years old

A prolific cricketer, represented England in international test matches. Gained recognition for impressive performances in first-class cricket, with a career spanning from the 1920s to the 1930s. Played as a right-handed batsman and occasional bowler. Contributed significantly to various regional teams, most notably Essex. Achieved considerable success in the domestic circuit.

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Harry DeBaecke

American Rower, Olympic Bronze Medalist
Born
June 9th, 1879 146 years ago
Died
1961 64 years ago — 82 years old

Competed in rowing events during the early 20th century. Achieved recognition as a member of the American rowing team at the 1904 Summer Olympics. Competed in the coxed four event, alongside his teammates, contributing to the team's overall performance.

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Augustus John

Welsh painter and illustrator of landscapes
Born
January 4th, 1878 147 years ago
Died
1961 64 years ago — 83 years old

Born in 1878, a prominent painter and illustrator emerged in the early 20th century in Wales. This individual studied at the Royal Academy Schools and became known for portraiture and depictions of the Welsh countryside. The artist's style combined elements of impressionism and symbolism, leading to a distinctive personal aesthetic. Numerous exhibitions showcased this individual's work, including those at the Leicester Galleries in London. Engagements in the art community included associations with the New English Art Club and contributions to various art publications. This artist's contributions extended to illustrations for literature, with notable works for the poetry of W.B. Yeats and the novels of Thomas Hardy. The artist's influence persisted in the promotion of Welsh culture through art.

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Maria of Yugoslavia

Queen of Yugoslavia, royal consort
Born
January 6th, 1900 125 years ago
Died
1961 64 years ago — 61 years old

Born into the royal family of Greece, served as Queen consort of Yugoslavia from 1922 until the monarchy's abolition in 1945. Engaged in charitable work and supported various cultural initiatives during her reign. After World War II, lived in exile, maintaining ties with her family and the Yugoslav diaspora.

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Konstantinos Logothetopoulos

Greek physician and Prime Minister
Born
August 1st, 1878 146 years ago
Died
1961 64 years ago — 83 years old

Born in Greece, a career spanned across medicine and politics. Led as Prime Minister during a tumultuous period in Greek history. Took office while facing significant challenges, including political instability and economic issues. Served as a member of the Greek Parliament and held various governmental positions, emphasizing health and education reform. The political career contributed to shaping health policies in the nation at a critical time.

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Maurice Merleau-Ponty

French philosopher, key work: Phenomenology
Born
March 14th, 1908 117 years ago
Died
1961 64 years ago — 53 years old

Contributed significantly to existentialism and phenomenology. Focused on the relationship between perception and being. Authored several influential texts, with 'Phenomenology of Perception' providing a foundation for contemporary philosophy of mind and cognitive science. Engaged in debates with other philosophers and expanded on the concepts of embodied experience. Held academic positions that facilitated the dissemination of existentialist thought.

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Enrique Larreta

Argentinian historian and author
Born
March 4th, 1875 150 years ago
Died
1961 64 years ago — 86 years old

An influential historian and author from Argentina, this individual contributed significantly to the study of Argentine literature and history. His most important work, 'Los Jardines de Córdoba', reflects a deep understanding of cultural history and aesthetics. Additionally, acted as the Argentine ambassador to France, promoting cultural exchanges and fostering relationships between the two nations. Engaged in literary circles and was a prominent member of the Argentine Academy of Letters.

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