What Happened This Year 1961

People Who Died in 1961

Margarito Bautista

Nahua-Mexican evangelizer and theologian
Born
June 10th, 1878 146 years ago
Died
August 4th, 1961 63 years ago — 83 years old

Born in 1878, Bautista played a significant role in the evangelization and religious instruction among the Nahua people in Mexico. Focused on the integration of indigenous culture with Christian teachings, contributed to the establishment of a religious community that respected Nahua traditions while promoting Catholicism. Participated in various theological discussions aimed at addressing the spiritual needs of indigenous people in Mexico. Engaged in writings that emphasized a vision of faith that was rooted in indigenous identity.

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Julia Peterkin

American author of Scarlet Sister Mary
Born
October 31st, 1880 144 years ago
Died
August 10th, 1961 63 years ago — 80 years old

An American author wrote about African American life in the rural South during the early 20th century. Scarlet Sister Mary, published in 1928, earned the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction in 1929. Her works often explored themes of culture, spirituality, and heritage. Peterkin's unique perspective contributed to the literary representation of Southern black communities. She published several other works, including children's books and poetry, reflecting her diverse interests and experiences in the South.

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Antanas Škėma

Lithuanian actor and theater director
Born
November 29th, 1910 114 years ago
Died
August 11th, 1961 63 years ago — 50 years old

Born in 1910, this individual emerged as a prominent figure in Lithuanian theater and cinema. After studying in various cultural institutions, the actor gained attention for performances in notable productions. Demonstrating a multifaceted talent, he also directed plays, contributing to the advancement of the theater scene in Lithuania. His work bridged folklore and modernist themes, influencing future generations of performers and directors. The individual faced challenges during the war and later emigrated, continuing to engage with the arts in exile, where they remained active in promoting Lithuanian culture.

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Abdul Haq

Pakistani linguist and scholar
Born
1870 155 years ago
Died
August 16th, 1961 63 years ago — 91 years old

This linguist and scholar contributed significantly to the study of the Urdu language and literature. His work included the editing and publication of various texts that elevated the standard of literary Urdu. He also engaged in research on the evolution of languages in South Asia, promoting understanding of linguistic diversity. Additionally, he held academic positions that allowed him to influence the development of language studies in Pakistan.

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Learned Hand

American jurist and legal thinker
Born
1872 153 years ago
Died
August 18th, 1961 63 years ago — 89 years old

A prominent American lawyer and jurist, Hand served as a judge on the United States Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit. Celebrated for his contributions to legal philosophy and constitutional law, he authored numerous influential opinions that shaped American jurisprudence. Hand’s beliefs about civil liberties and the importance of free speech influenced legal standards in the United States. As a notable scholar, he lectured extensively and engaged in discussions about the role of law in society. His efforts in the field of law encompassed a blend of practical judgment and deep philosophical inquiry.

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Percy Williams Bridgman

Physicist and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
April 21st, 1882 142 years ago
Died
August 20th, 1961 63 years ago — 79 years old

A prominent American physicist and academic, he contributed significantly to experimental physics and high-pressure research. Bridgman developed methods to achieve extreme pressures and studied their effects on various materials. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1946 for his work on the properties of matter under high pressures, he became a professor at Harvard University where he mentored future scientists. His research advanced the understanding of physical phenomena in solid state physics.

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Charles Coburn

American actor in classic films
Born
June 19th, 1877 147 years ago
Died
August 30th, 1961 63 years ago — 84 years old

An American actor gained prominence in the film industry during the 1930s and 1940s. Coburn frequently portrayed gruff but lovable characters, contributing to numerous successful films. He won an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor for his role in 'The More the Merrier.' Other notable works include performances in 'Heaven Can Wait' and 'The Devil and Daniel Webster.' Coburn's career spanned several decades, showcasing versatility across various genres.

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Robert E. Gross

Businessman and aviation pioneer
Born
May 11th, 1897 127 years ago
Died
September 3rd, 1961 63 years ago — 64 years old

Entered the aviation industry as a businessman and played a significant role in the development of several important companies. Served as the president of North American Aviation, which became a prominent aerospace manufacturer. Instrumental in the production of military and commercial aircraft during World War II and the post-war era. Contributed to advancements in aerospace technology and helped shape the landscape of modern aviation.

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Pieter Sjoerds Gerbrandy

Dutch politician and Prime Minister
Born
April 13th, 1885 139 years ago
Died
September 7th, 1961 63 years ago — 76 years old

Served as the Prime Minister of the Netherlands during World War II from 1940 to 1945. Advocated for the Dutch government-in-exile in London during the war. Played a significant role in post-war reconstruction efforts. Member of the People's Party for Freedom and Democracy and contributed to the rebuilding of Dutch democracy after the war.

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