What Happened This Year 1963

People Who Died in 1963

Jack Hobbs

Cricketer and sports journalist
Born
December 16th, 1882 143 years ago
Died
December 21st, 1963 62 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 62 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 111 years ago
Died
December 26th, 1963 62 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 130 years ago
Died
December 28th, 1963 62 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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Theodore Payne

Gardener and botanist focused on California flora
Born
June 19th, 1872 153 years ago
Died
1963 63 years ago — 91 years old

A prominent gardener and botanist, studied California's native plants and their ecology. Founded the Theodore Payne Foundation for Wildflowers and Native Plants, promoting conservation and education. Contributed significantly to the understanding and appreciation of California's native flora through extensive fieldwork and nursery operations.

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Gustaf Gründgens

German actor and theater director
Born
December 22nd, 1899 126 years ago
Died
1963 63 years ago — 64 years old

An influential German actor and director, significant contributions were made to the theater scene in Germany during the mid-20th century. Worked with the Deutsches Theater in Berlin, where innovative productions were staged. Directed a famous adaptation of 'Faust' and starred in numerous productions, gaining recognition for powerful performances.

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Arthur Carr

English cricketer and captain, famous test matches
Born
May 21st, 1893 132 years ago
Died
1963 63 years ago — 70 years old

Played cricket for England from 1921 to 1933. Served as captain of the national team. Made significant contributions in Test matches. Played for Nottinghamshire County Cricket Club and had a notable first-class career. Achieved success as a batsman and occasionally bowled, contributing to both batting and bowling statistics. Retired from cricket in the mid-1930s.

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Ike Quebec

Saxophonist and pianist with Blue Note
Born
August 17th, 1918 107 years ago
Died
1963 63 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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Theodor Heuss

1st President of Germany
Born
January 31st, 1884 142 years ago
Died
1963 63 years ago — 79 years old

Served as the first President of the Federal Republic of Germany from 1949 to 1959. Played a significant role in establishing the principles of democracy in post-war Germany. Involved in journalism and politics before his presidency, contributing to various democratic initiatives. Represented the Free Democratic Party and was influential in the formation of the new political landscape in Germany after World War II.

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