What Happened This Year 1964

People Who Died in 1964

Diana Wynyard

English actress in classic films
Born
January 16th, 1906 119 years ago
Died
1964 61 years ago — 58 years old

An accomplished English actress appeared in numerous films from the 1920s to the 1940s. Gained recognition for performances in 'The School for Scandal' and 'Noble Experiment'. Received an Academy Award nomination for Best Actress for 'The Old Dark House'. Worked in both theatre and film, achieving a notable stage career in addition to the cinematic roles. Contributed to the arts throughout her life, becoming a respected figure in British cinema.

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Heinie Miller

American football player and coach
Born
January 1st, 1893 132 years ago
Died
1964 61 years ago — 71 years old

A prominent figure in American football history, served as a player and a coach. Played for the University of Wisconsin-Madison during the early 1900s, contributing to the team's competitive success. Transitioned into coaching where leadership extended to guiding various collegiate teams. Notable for a strategic approach to player development and team management during a transformative period in the sport.

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Norbert Wiener

Mathematician and philosopher of cybernetics
Born
November 26th, 1894 130 years ago
Died
1964 61 years ago — 70 years old

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.

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William Rootes

Businessman and founder of Rootes Group
Born
August 17th, 1894 130 years ago
Died
1964 61 years ago — 70 years old

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.

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Edwin August

American actor and theater director
Born
November 20th, 1883 141 years ago
Died
1964 61 years ago — 81 years old

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.

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Joseph Schildkraut

Austrian-American actor known for The Life of Emile Zola
Born
March 22nd, 1896 128 years ago
Died
1964 61 years ago — 68 years old

Born in Austria, an actor gained prominence in American theater and film. Made notable contributions during the silent film era before transitioning to talkies. Gained acclaim for performances in various films, particularly in 'The Life of Emile Zola', which showcased dramatic storytelling. Received an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor for the role in 'The Life of Emile Zola'. Also starred in other significant works, including 'The Diary of Anne Frank' and appeared on Broadway, reflecting a successful career in both film and stage.

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Don Redman

American composer and bandleader
Born
July 29th, 1900 124 years ago
Died
1964 61 years ago — 64 years old

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.

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Edgar Barrier

American actor in classic films and TV
Born
March 4th, 1907 118 years ago
Died
1964 61 years ago — 57 years old

An American actor active in film and television during the mid-20th century. Appeared in a variety of genres, often taking on supporting roles. Gained recognition for roles in the classic films 'The Ten Commandments' and 'The Last Voyage'. Participated in popular television series like 'The Twilight Zone', showcasing versatility and skill in both dramatic and comedic roles. Made guest appearances in a number of prominent shows during the 1950s and 1960s.

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Leo Szilard

Physicist and Nuclear Chain Reaction Pioneer
Born
February 11th, 1898 127 years ago
Died
1964 61 years ago — 66 years old

Born in Hungary, a physicist contributed significantly to the development of nuclear physics and the concept of nuclear chain reactions. Emigrated to the United States due to rising anti-Semitism in Europe. Worked at Columbia University and collaborated with other prominent scientists. Instrumental in the Manhattan Project, which led to the development of atomic bomb technology during World War II. Advocated for the peaceful use of nuclear energy and warned against the potential dangers of nuclear weapons.

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