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 128 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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M. Patanjali Sastri

Indian jurist and 2nd Chief Justice of India
Born
January 4th, 1889 136 years ago
Died
1963 62 years ago — 74 years old

Served as the 2nd Chief Justice of India from 1951 to 1954. Contributed to the development of legal education and jurisprudence in India. Participated in drafting the Indian Constitution and addressed various legal reforms post-independence. Held the position of Chief Justice of the Madras High Court prior to the elevation to the Supreme Court.

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Oleg Penkovsky

Russian military officer and spy
Born
April 23rd, 1919 105 years ago
Died
1963 62 years ago — 44 years old

A Soviet military officer worked as a double agent for the United States and United Kingdom during the Cold War. Provided crucial intelligence on Soviet missiles and military capabilities. Information contributed to the resolution of the Cuban Missile Crisis and improved Western understanding of Soviet intentions. Captured by Soviet authorities in 1962 and subsequently executed for espionage.

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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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Ike Quebec

Saxophonist and pianist with Blue Note
Born
August 17th, 1918 106 years ago
Died
1963 62 years ago — 45 years old

One of the prominent figures in jazz, this musician gained recognition as a tenor saxophonist and pianist. Active during the mid-20th century, the artist played a vital role in the development of hard bop and soulful jazz. Significant contributions to the genre include performances and recordings, often under the Blue Note label. Sessions during the 1960s showcased a passion for blues-infused jazz, characterized by a distinctive, rich tone. Collaborations with notable musicians further solidified a reputation within the jazz community.

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Duncan Gillis

Canadian discus and hammer thrower
Born
January 3rd, 1883 142 years ago
Died
1963 62 years ago — 80 years old

Competed in athletics specializing in the discus throw and hammer throw. Represented Canada in international competitions, contributing to the country’s presence in track and field events. Participated in the 1908 Summer Olympics held in London, competing in the discus throw and hammer throw events. Achieved notable successes at the national level, securing championships in both disciplines during his athletic career.

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