What Happened This Year 1963

People Who Died in 1963

Jack Hobbs

Cricketer and sports journalist
Born
December 16th, 1882 142 years ago
Died
December 21st, 1963 61 years ago — 81 years old

Played cricket for England and Surrey during the early 20th century. Established a remarkable reputation as one of the greatest opening batsmen in cricket history. Accumulated over 61,000 first-class runs and 199 centuries. Contributed significantly to the sport both as a player and as a journalist, providing insights and commentary on cricket.

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Tristan Tzara

Dadaist poet and critic
Born
April 28th, 1896 129 years ago
Died
December 25th, 1963 61 years ago — 67 years old

Born in Romania and later moving to France, a leading figure in the Dada movement, which challenged established artistic norms. Contributed to the manifestos of Dada and developed concepts of chance and spontaneity in art and poetry. Also engaged in political activism and contributed to discussions around surrealism and modernism. The influence on avant-garde literature and visual arts remains significant.

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Gorgeous George

Professional wrestler and entertainer
Born
1915 110 years ago
Died
December 26th, 1963 61 years ago — 48 years old

A prominent figure in professional wrestling during the 1940s and 1950s, a wrestler cultivated an extravagant persona that included flashy robes and elaborate entrances. Pioneered the use of showmanship in wrestling, contributing to its growth as a mainstream entertainment sport. Became one of the first wrestlers to achieve celebrity status and significantly influenced the portrayal of wrestlers as larger-than-life characters. Helped popularize televised wrestling, leading to increased viewership and attendance at events.

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Paul Hindemith

German composer and violist
Born
November 16th, 1895 129 years ago
Died
December 28th, 1963 61 years ago — 68 years old

A German composer, violist, and conductor, this individual significantly contributed to 20th-century music. Early works featured expressionist tendencies, and later compositions focused on neoclassicism. His operas, such as 'Mathis der Maler,' showcase both lyrical and dramatic elements. Conducted numerous orchestras and taught at several institutions, influencing future generations of musicians. His works often incorporated folk music elements, merging traditional styles with contemporary forms.

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Erik Lundqvist

Javelin thrower, Olympic athlete
Born
June 29th, 1908 116 years ago
Died
1963 62 years ago — 55 years old

Competed in javelin throw during the 1932 and 1936 Summer Olympics. Achieved significant success at the national level in Sweden, including winning multiple Swedish Championships. Contributed to the sport through training and mentoring future athletes.

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Grace Darmond

Actress known for silent films
Born
November 20th, 1893 131 years ago
Died
1963 62 years ago — 70 years old

Born in Canada and later becoming a prominent figure in American cinema, an actress primarily associated with silent films. Gained recognition for performances in early 20th-century movies. Worked in productions that showcased talents during a significant transition in the film industry as it evolved into the talkies era. Contributed to various notable films in the silent era, establishing a legacy in cinematic history.

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Pierre Blanchar

Algerian-French actor and director
Born
June 30th, 1892 132 years ago
Died
1963 62 years ago — 71 years old

Born in Algeria, this actor and director became a prominent figure in French cinema during the early to mid-20th century. Appearing in over 50 films, he gained recognition for his roles in important French films including 'La Femme de nulle part' and 'Les Bas-fonds'. He not only showcased talent in front of the camera but also directed various plays and films, contributing to the theatrical and cinematic landscape in France. Through his extensive work, he achieved notable acclaim that solidified his status in the world of performing arts.

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Albertus Soegijapranata

Indonesian archbishop and religious leader
Born
November 25th, 1896 128 years ago
Died
1963 62 years ago — 67 years old

Born in Indonesia in 1896, became a prominent archbishop and played significant roles in the religious and societal development of the region. Played a crucial role in the establishment of the Catholic Church in Indonesia during a time of significant political and social change. Known for efforts in interfaith dialogue and promoting religious tolerance. Also contributed to the educational sector by influencing the establishment of several educational institutions.

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Yitzhak Ben-Zvi

Ukrainian-Israeli politician and historian
Born
November 24th, 1884 140 years ago
Died
1963 62 years ago — 79 years old

Born in Ukraine, a significant figure in the Zionist movement. Immigrated to Palestine in the early 20th century. Served as the second President of Israel from 1952 to 1963. Played a key role in the establishment of the Jewish state and contributed to its cultural and historical projects. Worked extensively in education and historical research during his political career, promoting knowledge of Jewish heritage.

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