What Happened This Year 1963

People Who Died in 1963

Theodore Roethke

Poet and Pulitzer Prize winner
Born
May 25th, 1908 116 years ago
Died
August 1st, 1963 61 years ago — 55 years old

Born in 1908, this American poet gained recognition for works that explored themes of nature, solitude, and the human experience. A significant figure in 20th-century American poetry, he wrote influential collections such as 'The Lost Son' and 'Words for the Wind'. His poetry often reflected his personal struggles, including mental health challenges. The poet received numerous accolades, including the Pulitzer Prize for Poetry in 1954 for 'The Far Field'. His writing style, characterized by rich imagery and emotional depth, left a lasting impact on contemporary poetry.

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Oliver La Farge

Anthropologist and author of 'Laughing Boy'
Born
December 19th, 1901 123 years ago
Died
August 2nd, 1963 61 years ago — 61 years old

An American anthropologist and author, contributed significantly to the understanding of Native American cultures. Won the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction in 1929 for the novel 'Laughing Boy', which depicted the life of a Navajo silversmith and his struggles with cultural assimilation. Advocated for Native American rights and heritage. Engaged in fieldwork among various indigenous peoples, enriching the academic discourse on anthropology. Authored several other works that explored the complexities of cultural identity.

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Ramon Vila Capdevila

Last of the Spanish Maquis leaders
Born
1908 117 years ago
Died
August 7th, 1963 61 years ago — 55 years old

Served as a leader in the Spanish Maquis, an anti-Franco guerrilla movement following the Spanish Civil War. Continued to resist the dictatorship in the mountainous regions of Spain well after the war had officially ended. Engaged in various military operations against the Spanish regime. Became a symbol of resistance against oppression. After years of struggle, Vila Capdevila was captured and assassinated by government forces.

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Patrick Bouvier Kennedy

Son of John F. Kennedy
Born
1963 62 years ago
Died
August 9th, 1963 61 years ago — 0 years old

Born in 1963, the individual was the second child of John F. Kennedy, the 35th President of the United States, and Jacqueline Kennedy. Born prematurely, health complications arose shortly after birth. The individual spent only a brief time in the hospital before passing away. His birth and subsequent death occurred during a period of significant public attention toward the Kennedy family.

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Ernst Wetter

Swiss lawyer and 48th President
Born
August 27th, 1877 147 years ago
Died
August 10th, 1963 61 years ago — 85 years old

A Swiss lawyer and politician served as the 48th President of the Swiss Confederation. Active in politics during the early to mid-20th century, contributed to various legal frameworks and participated in significant political discussions within the Swiss government. Prestigious position allowed for influence in legislative matters.

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Estes Kefauver

American politician and senator
Born
July 26th, 1903 121 years ago
Died
August 10th, 1963 61 years ago — 60 years old

Served as a U.S. Senator from Tennessee from 1949 to 1963. Gained national attention during the 1950s as the chair of the Senate Antitrust and Monopoly Subcommittee, leading high-profile investigations into organized crime. Ran for the Democratic presidential nomination in 1956 but was unsuccessful. Advocated for civil rights and health care reform during his political career, contributing to various legislative efforts.

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Otto Wahle

Swimmer and Olympic coach
Born
November 5th, 1879 145 years ago
Died
August 11th, 1963 61 years ago — 83 years old

Born in Austria, a swimmer relocated to the United States. Competed at the 1900 Summer Olympics in Paris, finishing fourth in the 200m freestyle. Later established a successful coaching career, mentoring numerous swimmers. Contributed to the growth of competitive swimming in America and developed training techniques for aspiring athletes.

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Louis Bastien

French cyclist and fencer
Born
October 26th, 1881 143 years ago
Died
August 13th, 1963 61 years ago — 81 years old

Accomplished in both cycling and fencing, contributions in these sports spanned multiple competitions. Competed prominently in cycling events during the early 20th century and represented France in various national and international fencing tournaments. Achieved recognition for skill and technique in both disciplines, earning respect within the sporting community.

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Clifford Odets

American playwright and screenwriter
Born
July 18th, 1906 118 years ago
Died
August 14th, 1963 61 years ago — 57 years old

A significant figure in American theater, achieved prominence during the 1930s. Played a key role in the development of the social and political themes in drama. Best known for the plays 'Waiting for Lefty' and 'Rocket to the Moon', which reflect the struggles of the working class. Also contributed to film as a screenwriter and director. Worked with prestigious studios, creating memorable works that combined social commentary with compelling storytelling.

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