What Happened This Year 1963

Historical Events from This Year 1963 (View all 123)

Military & Warfare

Viet Cong Achieves Victory at Ap Bac

January 2nd, 1963 62 years ago

The Battle of Ap Bac marked a significant triumph for the Viet Cong over the South Vietnamese army and American forces. Engaging on January 2, 1963, in the Mekong Delta region of Vietnam, the Viet Cong executed a well-planned ambush against government troops and their American advisors. Utilizing guerrilla tactics and knowledge of the terrain, they were able to inflict heavy casualties on the South Vietnamese forces, showcasing their growing effectiveness and morale at a time when many perceived the conflict in Vietnam as one-sided.

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Politics & Government

Assassination of President Sylvanus Olympio

January 13th, 1963 62 years ago

Sylvanus Olympio, the first President of Togo, was assassinated during a coup d'état led by a group of military officers. The coup was marked by violence and led to the death of Olympio, who had been in power since Togo's independence from France in 1960. His presidency was characterized by efforts to establish a strong national identity and resistance to foreign interests. The overthrow of Olympio sent shockwaves through the nation, leading to a period of instability and military rule.

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Transportation & Infrastructure

End of the Chicago North Shore Line Service

January 21st, 1963 62 years ago

The Chicago North Shore and Milwaukee Railroad ceased operations, marking the end of an era for interurban rail travel in the Midwest. This railroad, which connected Chicago to Milwaukee, had been in service for over 40 years and was known for its speed and efficiency. It provided an essential transport link for commuters and travelers in the region. The decision to terminate service was influenced by declining ridership and rising operational costs in an increasingly automobile-oriented society.

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Politics & Government

French-German Cooperation Treaty Signed

January 22nd, 1963 62 years ago

Charles de Gaulle and Konrad Adenauer signed the Élysée Treaty, cementing the relationship between France and West Germany. This treaty aimed to enhance bilateral cooperation in areas such as politics, defense, and cultural exchange. The signing took place at the Élysée Palace in Paris, representing a significant step towards reconciliation following World War II, and emphasizing a shift toward European integration.

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Military & Warfare

Guinea-Bissau War of Independence Begins

January 23rd, 1963 62 years ago

On January 23, 1963, PAIGC guerrilla fighters launched an attack against the Portuguese Army stationed in Tite. This marked the formal beginning of the Guinea-Bissau War of Independence, embodying the struggle for liberation from Portuguese colonial rule. The attack signaled the escalation of hostilities between the PAIGC (African Party for the Independence of Guinea and Cape Verde) and the Portuguese military, leading to a prolonged liberation struggle that would last for over a decade. The conflict was part of a broader wave of anti-colonial movements across Africa during the mid-20th century.

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Crime & Law

Landmark Ruling Establishes Direct Effect in EU Law

February 5th, 1963 62 years ago

In a significant case, the European Court of Justice ruled in favor of Van Gend en Loos, establishing the principle of direct effect of European Union law. This ruling determined that individuals could invoke EU law directly in their national courts, fundamentally changing the relationship between EU law and member states. The case arose when Van Gend en Loos, a Dutch transport company, contested the application of a customs duty imposed by the Netherlands. The Court's decision arose from a dispute over the interpretation of the Treaty of Rome.

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Born in 1963 (View all 624)

Jean-Marc Gounon

Racing driver with Le Mans success
Born
January 1st, 1963 62 years ago

A French racing driver participated in various motorsport events, gaining recognition for performance in endurance racing. Competed prominently in the 24 Hours of Le Mans, achieving notable success with a class victory. Also drove in the French Formula Renault and the FIA GT Championship during a career that spanned several years.

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Edgar Martínez

Baseball player and designated hitter
Born
January 2nd, 1963 62 years ago

A professional baseball player excelled as a designated hitter for the Seattle Mariners from 1987 to 2004. Initiated career in the Mariners' minor league system and made a significant impact in Major League Baseball (MLB). Renowned for batting prowess, accumulated a career batting average of .312 and recorded over 2,200 hits. Achieved two American League batting titles and contributed to the Mariners' success during the 1990s. Inducted into the National Baseball Hall of Fame in 2019, marking a significant recognition of contributions to the sport.

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David Cone

Baseball pitcher and sportscaster
Born
January 2nd, 1963 62 years ago

A prominent baseball pitcher played in Major League Baseball from 1986 to 2003. Teams included the Kansas City Royals, New York Mets, Toronto Blue Jays, New York Yankees, and Boston Red Sox. Achieved notable success with the Yankees, winning four World Series championships. Recorded a perfect game in 1999 while pitching for the Yankees, marking a significant milestone in baseball history. Transitioned to sports broadcasting, providing analysis and commentary for various networks.

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New Jack

Professional wrestler and performer
Born
January 3rd, 1963 62 years ago
Died
2021 4 years ago — 58 years old

Professional wrestling career spanned from the early 1990s until 2021. Gained prominence in Extreme Championship Wrestling (ECW), known for a no-holds-barred style and brutal matches. Developed a notorious reputation for hardcore wrestling, engaging in numerous extreme matches and stunts. Also appeared in various independent promotions, showcasing a unique persona that resonated with fans.

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Stewart Hosie

Scottish politician and business leader
Born
January 3rd, 1963 62 years ago

A prominent figure in Scottish politics, served as a Member of Parliament for various constituencies. Elected as Deputy Leader of the Scottish National Party and held significant roles within the party structure. Contributed to discussions and policies on economic and social issues. Involvement in business ventures provided a background that shaped opinions on public policy.

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Dave Foley

Canadian comedian and actor in Kids in the Hall
Born
January 4th, 1963 62 years ago

This individual began performing as a comedian in the early 1980s and gained prominence as a member of the sketch comedy troupe The Kids in the Hall. The show aired from 1988 to 1995 and received critical acclaim for its unique humor and innovative style. Foley also starred in the television series NewsRadio from 1995 to 1999, portraying the character Dave Nelson. Additionally, this person appeared in various films, including the animated feature A Bug's Life, voicing the character Flik. The career has included directing and producing projects in comedy, showcasing versatility across mediums.

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People Who Died in 1963 (View all 194)

Jack Carson

Hollywood actor from the 1940s
Born
October 27th, 1910 114 years ago
Died
January 2nd, 1963 62 years ago — 52 years old

An actor who gained prominence in the 1940s, mainly involved in comedy and drama films. Appeared in notable films such as 'A Voice in the Dark', 'The Time of Their Lives', and 'Mildred Pierce'. Carson's performances contributed to the popularity of these films during the Golden Age of Hollywood. He was recognized for his versatile roles, often portraying charming and affable characters alongside notable actors of the era.

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Dick Powell

Actor and director of '42nd Street'
Born
November 14th, 1904 120 years ago
Died
January 2nd, 1963 62 years ago — 58 years old

Initially starting as a singer, a transition to acting occurred in the early 1930s. Rose to prominence in musicals like '42nd Street' and 'Gold Diggers of 1933'. Later, transitioned to film noir, starring in 'Murder, My Sweet' and 'Pitfall'. Directed several films, including 'The Bad and the Beautiful'. Worked for Warner Bros. throughout the 1930s and 1940s, contributing significantly to the film industry during that era. Established a successful career in both acting and directing until passing in 1963.

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Rogers Hornsby

Baseball player and manager, 2-time MVP
Born
April 27th, 1896 128 years ago
Died
January 5th, 1963 62 years ago — 66 years old

A prominent figure in Major League Baseball, Rogers Hornsby excelled as a second baseman and later served as a manager and coach. Hornsby played primarily for the St. Louis Cardinals and is noted for his outstanding batting prowess. He won two Most Valuable Player (MVP) Awards during his career, showcasing exceptional offensive skills. His career batting average of .358 ranks among the highest in baseball history. Hornsby also contributed to the game as a manager, influencing players and strategies in the sport during his tenure.

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Arthur Edward Moore

Politician and Premier of Queensland
Born
February 9th, 1876 149 years ago
Died
January 7th, 1963 62 years ago — 86 years old

A farmer and politician, served as the 23rd Premier of Queensland from 1932 to 1936. Represented the Labor Party during his political career, focusing on agricultural development and workers' rights. Held various ministerial positions prior to becoming Premier, including Minister for Public Works. Worked to improve infrastructure and educational opportunities in Queensland.

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Kay Sage

American painter known for surrealist works
Born
June 25th, 1898 126 years ago
Died
January 8th, 1963 62 years ago — 64 years old

An American painter active in the 20th century, contributed to the surrealist movement. Studied at the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts and later moved to New York, where engagement with prominent artists shaped style. Worked alongside notable figures like Yves Tanguy and became associated with the New York School. Exhibited in major galleries, including the Museum of Modern Art. Her artworks often depict dreamlike landscapes and unusual juxtapositions, reflecting themes of isolation and psychological depth.

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Arthur Nock

Theologian and academic scholar
Born
February 21st, 1902 123 years ago
Died
January 11th, 1963 62 years ago — 60 years old

An academic specialized in the study of early Christianity and the history of religion. Contributed significantly through works that explored the relationship between religion and culture. Held a professorship at Harvard University, shaping the academic discourse on religious studies. Published numerous influential texts, including analyses of theological concepts and the development of Christianity. Engaged deeply with the intersection of faith and society.

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