What Happened This Year 1961

People Who Died in 1961

Cisco Houston

American folk singer-songwriter
Born
August 18th, 1918 106 years ago
Died
1961 64 years ago — 43 years old

A prominent figure in the American folk music revival, contributed to the genre through performances and recordings. Collaborated with notable artists, including Woody Guthrie and Pete Seeger, and played a significant role in the tradition of folk music during the 1940s and 1950s. Recorded for Folkways Records and released several albums that celebrated labor songs and regional folk traditions. Known for a rich vocal style and fingerstyle guitar playing, influencing subsequent generations of folk musicians.

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Carl Jung

Swiss psychiatrist and psychotherapist
Born
July 26th, 1875 149 years ago
Died
1961 64 years ago — 86 years old

A prominent figure in psychology, contributed significantly to the understanding of the human psyche. Developed the concepts of the collective unconscious and archetypes, shaping analytical psychology. Founded the Jungian school of psychology that emphasized the importance of spirituality and mythology in understanding personality. Influenced various fields, including literature, art, and religious studies.

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Sergio Osmeña

Filipino politician, 4th President
Born
September 9th, 1878 146 years ago
Died
1961 64 years ago — 83 years old

Served as the fourth President of the Philippines from 1944 to 1946. Prior to the presidency, played a significant role in Philippine politics, serving as the Vice President under Manuel L. Quezon. Contributed to the establishment of the Commonwealth government. Oversaw the nation during the final stages of World War II and the transition to independence from the United States. Advocated for post-war reconstruction and reforms to strengthen the new government.

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William Z. Foster

American union leader and politician
Born
February 25th, 1881 144 years ago
Died
1961 64 years ago — 80 years old

An influential union leader and politician, this individual played a significant role in the labor movement in the United States. Organized labor activities primarily focused on workers' rights and promoting socialism. Served as the national secretary of the Communist Party USA and contributed to the establishment of a strong labor presence within the party. Held various leadership positions and advocated for the rights of workers, participating in numerous strikes and labor actions throughout his career. Wrote extensively on labor issues, contributing to the understanding of union organization and socialism during the early to mid-20th century.

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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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Reinhold Rudenberg

Inventor and electron microscopy pioneer
Born
February 4th, 1883 142 years ago
Died
1961 64 years ago — 78 years old

Born in Germany, an inventor significantly contributed to the development of electron microscopy. This technology allowed scientists to view specimens at a much higher resolution than traditional optical microscopes. Rudenberg's work included advancements in electron optics and instrumentation. After moving to the United States, he continued research and development in this field, influencing future technologies and methodologies in microscopy. His efforts laid the groundwork for modern imaging techniques used in various scientific fields.

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Platt Adams

Jumper and American politician
Born
March 23rd, 1885 139 years ago
Died
1961 64 years ago — 76 years old

Competed in the Olympic Games as a long jumper. Secured a silver medal in the men's long jump at the 1908 London Olympics. Served in various political roles, contributing to local governance and infrastructure development. His athleticism and political career intertwined, reflecting a commitment to public service and sports.

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