What Happened This Year 1961

People Who Died in 1961

Wolfgang von Trips

Race car driver and Ferrari competitor
Born
1928 97 years ago
Died
September 10th, 1961 63 years ago — 33 years old

A prominent German race car driver who competed in Formula One during the late 1950s. Achieved success driving for Scuderia Ferrari, securing multiple podium finishes. In 1961, during the Italian Grand Prix at Monza, a tragic accident occurred, resulting in his death. His career included participation in 36 Formula One races, showcasing exceptional skill and determination on the track.

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Leo Carrillo

American actor and voice artist
Born
August 6th, 1881 143 years ago
Died
September 10th, 1961 63 years ago — 80 years old

Active in the early to mid-20th century, this actor gained prominence for roles in film and television. Appeared in the 1950s television series 'The Cisco Kid,' portraying the character Pancho. Worked in multiple genres, including Westerns, and lent his voice to animated projects, contributing to the cultural landscape of the era.

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Carl Hermann

Physicist and academic focused on spectroscopy
Born
June 17th, 1898 126 years ago
Died
September 12th, 1961 63 years ago — 63 years old

Contributed significantly to the field of physics, particularly in spectroscopy and crystal structure analysis. Conducted pioneering research that advanced the understanding of crystal growth and properties. Served as a professor at several universities, influencing generations of physicists through both teaching and research. Published numerous scientific papers and books that became essential references in the field of solid-state physics.

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Hasan Polatkan

Turkish politician, Minister of Finance
Born
1915 110 years ago
Died
September 16th, 1961 63 years ago — 46 years old

Served as the 15th Minister of Finance of Turkey from 1950 to 1961. During the tenure, focused on economic policies aimed at stabilizing the Turkish economy. Contributed to the implementation of various financial reforms and played a significant role in shaping fiscal policies during a period of national development. His efforts were integral to the modernization of Turkey's financial system in the early years of the Republic. Was part of the Democrat Party and held various governmental positions throughout his career.

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Fatin Rüştü Zorlu

Turkish diplomat and politician
Born
April 20th, 1910 114 years ago
Died
September 16th, 1961 63 years ago — 51 years old

Held significant roles in Turkish diplomacy during important historical periods. Served as the Turkish Ambassador to the United States from 1950 to 1952, navigating complex geopolitical landscapes of the Cold War era. Played a key part in international negotiations, particularly regarding Turkey's strategic alliances. Advocated for Turkey's position in global affairs and contributed to key treaties and alliances that shaped the region's diplomatic relations. Involved in politics throughout his career, impacting Turkey's foreign relations through various governmental and diplomatic capacities.

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Adnan Menderes

Turkish Prime Minister, 1950-1960
Born
1899 126 years ago
Died
September 17th, 1961 63 years ago — 62 years old

A lawyer and politician served as the 9th Prime Minister of Turkey from 1950 until 1960. His administration focused on economic development and liberalizing the economy. He introduced various reforms, including the expansion of infrastructure and education. Menderes' government faced increasing political opposition, leading to a military coup in 1960. Following the coup, he was imprisoned and later executed.

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Dag Hammarskjöld

Diplomat, UN Secretary-General, Nobel laureate
Born
July 29th, 1905 119 years ago
Died
September 18th, 1961 63 years ago — 56 years old

An economist and diplomat served as the second Secretary-General of the United Nations from 1953 until 1961. Under leadership, the UN expanded peacekeeping operations and addressed significant global conflicts. Instrumental in resolving disputes in the Middle East and Africa. Died in a plane crash while on a peace mission in 1961. Posthumously awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1961 for efforts in promoting international peace and cooperation.

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Ed Oliver

Professional golfer, US Open winner
Born
September 6th, 1915 109 years ago
Died
September 21st, 1961 63 years ago — 46 years old

Renowned golfer achieved significant success throughout career, particularly at the US Open. Claimed victory at the 1953 US Open, cementing a legacy in the sport. Competed professionally across various tournaments, showcasing skill and consistency over several decades. Engaged in popular competitions, contributing to the evolution of professional golf. Remains a prominent figure in golfing history.

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Marion Davies

Actress and comedian from silent films
Born
January 3rd, 1897 128 years ago
Died
September 22nd, 1961 63 years ago — 64 years old

An American actress and comedian, celebrated for contributions to the film industry during the silent and early sound eras. Gained prominence in the 1920s with successful comedies and dramas. Starred in several significant films, including 'Little Old New York' and 'The Patsy'. Established a notable partnership with producer William Randolph Hearst, which influenced both personal and professional trajectories. After transitioning into sound films, continued to perform in leading roles until the mid-1930s. Retired from acting but remained a prominent figure in Hollywood social circles until her death.

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