What Happened This Year 1964

People Who Died in 1964

Henry Maitland Wilson

English Field Marshal and 1st Baron Wilson
Born
September 5th, 1881 143 years ago
Died
December 31st, 1964 60 years ago — 83 years old

Served as a British Army officer during World War I and World War II. Held prominent positions, including Commander of the British 8th Army during the Second Battle of El Alamein. Led Allied forces in the Mediterranean theater and contributed to significant military strategies. Became Chief of the Imperial General Staff in 1944, overseeing British military operations.

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Ólafur Thors

Icelandic lawyer and Prime Minister
Born
January 19th, 1892 133 years ago
Died
December 31st, 1964 60 years ago — 72 years old

A prominent figure in Icelandic politics, served as Prime Minister during two non-consecutive terms from 1954 to 1956 and from 1963 to 1965. Played a significant role in shaping post-war Icelandic society and governance. Additionally, held various ministerial positions throughout the political career, including Minister of Justice and Minister of Fisheries. Contributed to the development of Iceland’s legal framework and international relations.

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Billy Walker

Footballer for Nottingham Forest
Born
October 29th, 1897 127 years ago
Died
May 21st, 2006 18 years ago — 108 years old

Played as a forward in English football during the early to mid-20th century. Made significant contributions to Nottingham Forest, particularly in the FA Cup where the team reached the finals in both 1925 and 1950. Featured prominently in league matches and was recognized for exceptional goal-scoring abilities. His tenure with the team was marked by strong performances that helped solidify the club's reputation during that era. Later transitioned into management, bringing his experience as a player to coaching roles.

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Eugen Sänger

Czech-Austrian aerospace engineer
Born
September 22nd, 1905 119 years ago
Died
1964 61 years ago — 59 years old

An engineer specialized in rocketry and space travel concepts. Developed the concept of the Silbervogel, a suborbital spaceplane intended for long-distance bombing missions during World War II. Contributed to theoretical studies on rocket propulsion and atmospheric reentry. After the war, work included discussions on the implications of space exploration.

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Samuil Marshak

Russian author and children's poet
Born
November 3rd, 1887 137 years ago
Died
1964 61 years ago — 77 years old

An author and poet, contributed significantly to children's literature in Russia. Marshak wrote poems and stories that resonated with young audiences, establishing a legacy within the genre. He translated and adapted works from various international writers, enhancing the literary landscape for children. In addition, Marshak was involved in theatre, adding to his impact on Russian culture. Throughout his career, he received recognition for his literary contributions and served in roles that promoted literature and education.

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Josef Imbach

Swiss sprinter, Olympic competitor
Born
December 15th, 1894 130 years ago
Died
1964 61 years ago — 70 years old

Competed in athletics specializing in sprinting events. Participated in the men's 4x100 meters relay at the 1920 Summer Olympics. Achieved recognition in national championships and contributed to the development of sprinting in Switzerland.

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Plaek Phibunsongkhram

Thai military officer and 3rd Prime Minister
Born
July 14th, 1897 127 years ago
Died
1964 61 years ago — 67 years old

Served as the 3rd Prime Minister of Thailand from 1938 to 1944 and again from 1948 to 1957. Played a significant role in modernizing Thailand's infrastructure and adopting Western styles of governance and culture. Established a national identity focused on Thai nationalism and promoted the idea of Thai identity through policies and propaganda. Oversaw Thailand's involvement in World War II on the side of Japan. After the war, transitioned to a more democratic rule, but maintained a significant amount of authority through military influence.

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Joe Forshaw

American runner, competed in the Olympics
Born
May 13th, 1881 143 years ago
Died
1964 61 years ago — 83 years old

Competed in long-distance running events during the early 20th century. Participated in the 1908 Summer Olympics held in London, representing the United States. Specialized in the 10,000 meters and cross-country races, achieving notable rankings in national competitions. Contributed to the sport's development by inspiring future generations of athletes through participation in prestigious events.

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Franz Alexander

Psychoanalyst; developed psychosomatic theory
Born
June 22nd, 1891 133 years ago
Died
1964 61 years ago — 73 years old

Born in 1891, a Hungarian psychoanalyst and physician contributed significantly to the field of psychoanalysis and psychosomatic medicine. His work focused on the interaction between psychological and physical health. He played a crucial role in developing psychosomatic theory, which examined how emotional factors could lead to physical illness. He also engaged in the establishment of psychoanalytic organizations and introduced innovative concepts in therapy. A professor at various medical schools, he published numerous influential writings that shaped the study of psychology and medicine.

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