What Happened This Year 1964
People Who Died in 1964
Ólafur Thors
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.
Continue ReadingHenry Maitland Wilson
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.
Continue ReadingBilly Walker
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.
Continue ReadingJ. L. Wilkinson
A prominent figure in American baseball, played as a catcher and outfielder. Served as a manager for the Kansas City Monarchs in the Negro Leagues. Contributed to the growth and visibility of the league during its peak years. Established the Monarchs as one of the most successful teams in the league. Innovated strategies that helped improve team performances. His leadership and management skills became crucial during the 1920s and 1930s, allowing the team to compete effectively against various opponents.
Continue ReadingNorbert Wiener
Contributed significantly to the fields of mathematics and philosophy, establishing the foundation of cybernetics, which explores the connections between human and machine processes. Developed various theories relating to control systems and communication. Published several books, with 'Cybernetics: Or Control and Communication in the Animal and the Machine' being a pivotal work in introducing the concepts of feedback mechanisms and information theory. Held a professorship at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, influencing future generations of mathematicians and scientists.
Continue ReadingWilliam Rootes
1st Baron Rootes was an English businessman who founded the Rootes Group, a prominent automotive manufacturing company. Established in the 1930s, the company became known for producing vehicles under several well-known brands, including Humber, Hillman, and Sunbeam. The Rootes Group played a significant role in the British motor industry during its operations and contributed to the post-war economic growth in the United Kingdom. The company eventually merged with Chrysler in 1967, leading to significant changes within the automotive landscape. His leadership and vision influenced the direction of British automotive manufacturing during a transformative period.
Continue ReadingEdwin August
Born in 1883, an American actor and director played significant roles in various stage productions and films during the early 20th century. He achieved recognition for performances in the theater, notably in productions like 'The Tragedy of King Lear' where he portrayed Lear. In addition to acting, worked as a director, contributing to the growth of theatrical arts. Involved in multiple productions, showcasing talent in both performance and theater direction.
Continue ReadingDon Redman
A significant figure in early jazz, led influential big bands in the 1920s and 1930s. Contributed to the development of jazz by incorporating elements from popular music. Worked with notable musicians and performers of the era, merging musical styles and innovations. Composed and arranged many pieces that became jazz standards. His music style blended swing and blues, helping shape the sound of jazz in that period.
Continue ReadingJulius Raab
An engineer and politician, served as the 19th Chancellor of Austria from 1953 to 1961. Played a significant role in Austrian politics during the post-World War II era. Worked on the establishment of the Second Republic and contributed to various economic reforms after the war. Focused on the integration of Austria into the European community and supported social welfare initiatives. Engaged in international diplomacy, promoting Austria's neutrality.
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